TITLE 25

PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

ADMINISTRATION

Art. 1. Administration, 25-1-100.3 to 25-1-1511.

Art. 1.5. Powers and Duties of the Department of Public Health and Environment, 25-1.5-100.3 to 25-1.5-701.

VITAL STATISTICS

Art. 2. Vital Statistics, 25-2-101 to 25-2-122.

HOSPITALS

Art. 3. Hospitals, 25-3-100.5 to 25-3-705.

Art. 3.5. Emergency Medical and Trauma Services, 25-3.5-101 to 25-3.5-1307.

DISEASE CONTROL

Art. 4. Disease Control, 25-4-101 to 25-4-2605.

PRODUCTS CONTROL AND SAFETY

Art. 5. Products Control and Safety, 25-5-201 to 25-5-1603.

Art. 5.5. Dairy Products, Imitation Dairy Products, and Frozen Desserts, 25-5.5-101 to 25-5.5-312.

FAMILY PLANNING

Art. 6. Family Planning, 25-6-101 to 25-6-407.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

Art. 6.5. Environmental Control, 25-6.5-101 to 25-6.5-203.

Art. 6.6. Environmental Management System Permit Program (Repealed).

Art. 6.7. Environmental Leadership Act (Repealed).

Art. 7. Air Quality Control, 25-7-101 to 25-7-1604.

Art. 7.5. Clean Motor Vehicle Fleet Support, 25-7.5-101 to 25-7.5-103.

Art. 8. Water Quality Control, 25-8-101 to 25-8-1103.

Art. 8.5. Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority, 25-8.5-101 to 25-8.5-120.

Art. 9. Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility Operators, 25-9-101 to 25-9-110.

Art. 10. On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems Act, 25-10-101 to 25-10-113.

Art. 11. Radiation Control, 25-11-101 to 25-11-305.

Art. 12. Noise Abatement, 25-12-101 to 25-12-110.

Art. 13. Recreation Land Preservation, 25-13-101 to 25-13-114.

Art. 14. Control of Smoking, 25-14-103.5 to 25-14-301.

Art. 15. Hazardous Waste, 25-15-101 to 25-15-605.

Art. 16. Hazardous Waste Sites, 25-16-101 to 25-16-312.

Art. 16.5. Colorado Sustainability, 25-16.5-101 to 25-16.5-110.

Art. 17. Waste Diversion and Recycling, 25-17-101 to 25-17-1020.

Art. 18. Underground Storage Tanks (Repealed).

Art. 18.5. Illegal Drug Laboratories, 25-18.5-101 to 25-18.5-110.

Art. 18.7. Industrial Hemp Remediation Pilot Program (Repealed).

Art. 18.9. Disposable Wipes, 25-18.9-101 to 25-18.9-105.

ENVIRONMENT - SMALL COMMUNITIES

Art. 19. Small Community Environmental Flexibility Act, 25-19-101 to 25-19-108.

SAFETY - DISABLED PERSONS

Art. 20. Duties Owed Disabled Persons - Identification, 25-20-101 to 25-20-108.

PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, AND TREATMENT SERVICES

Art. 20.5. Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment Services for Children and Youth, 25-20.5-102 to 25-20.5-2307.

HEALTH CARE

Art. 21. Dental Care (Repealed).

Art. 21.5. Children's Dental Assistance and Fluoridation Program, 25-21.5-101 to 25-21.5-104.

Art. 22. State Loan Repayment Program (Repealed).

Art. 23. Dental Loan Repayment Program, 25-23-101 to 25-23-106.

Art. 25. Colorado Health Facilities Authority, 25-25-101 to 25-25-131.

Art. 26. Multiphasic Health Screening, 25-26-101 to 25-26-104.

Art. 27. Assisted Living Residences, 25-27-101 to 25-27-114.

Art. 27.5. Home Care Agencies, 25-27.5-101 to 25-27.5-110.

Art. 27.6. Behavioral Health Entities (Repealed).

Art. 28. Colorado Health Data Commission (Repealed).

Art. 29. Denver Health and Hospital Authority, 25-29-101 to 25-29-126.

Art. 30. Female Genital Mutilation Outreach (Repealed).

Art. 31. Colorado Nurse Home Visitor Program (Repealed).

Art. 32. Poison Control Act, 25-32-101 to 25-32-106.

Art. 33. Farmers' Market Nutrition Program Women, Infants, and Children (Repealed).

Art. 34. Colorado Stroke Advisory Board (Repealed).

Art. 34.1. Stroke Prevention and Treatment Cash Fund Transfer (Repealed).

Art. 35. Colorado Cancer Drug Repository Program (Repealed).

Art. 36. Short-term Grants for Innovative Health Programs (Repealed).

Art. 37. Contracts with Health-care Providers, 25-37-101 to 25-37-116.

Art. 38. Physician and Dentist Designation and Disclosure, 25-38-101 to 25-38-108.

Art. 39. Colorado Alzheimer's Coordinating Council (Repealed).

Art. 40. Umbilical Cord Blood Collection and Awareness, 25-40-101 to 25-40-104.

Art. 41. Restroom Access Act, 25-41-101.

Art. 42. Taxing Authority of Unit of Government Hospital Care Providers, 25-42-101 to 25-42-107.

Art. 43. Required Head Trauma Guidelines, 25-43-101 to 25-43-203.

Art. 44. Comprehensive Human Sexuality Education Grant Program, 25-44-101 to 25-44-104.

Art. 45. Access to Treatments for Terminally Ill Patients, 25-45-101 to 25-45-207.

Art. 46. Colorado Commission on Affordable Health Care (Repealed).

Art. 47. Use of Epinephrine Auto-injectors by Authorized Entities, 25-47-101 to 25-47-108.

Art. 48. End-of-life Options, 25-48-101 to 25-48-124.

Art. 49. Transparency in Health-care Prices, 25-49-101 to 25-49-106.

Art. 50. Cancer Cure Control (Repealed).

Art. 51. Communication and Resolution After an Adverse Health-care Incident, 25-51-101 to 25-51-106.

Art. 52. Maternal Mortality Prevention Act, 25-52-101 to 25-52-107.

Art. 53. Automated External Defibrillators, 25-53-101 to 25-53-202.

Art. 54. Statewide System for Advance Health-care Directives, 25-54-101 to 25-54-102.

Art. 55. Standardized Screening and Assessment Tool Training, 25-55-101.

Art. 56. Nondiscrimination Against Potential Organ Transplant Recipients, 25-56-101 to 25-56-106.

Art. 57. Donor-conceived Persons and Gamete Agencies, Gamete Banks, and Fertility Clinics, 25-57-101 to 25-57-113.

Art. 58. Patients' Right to Know, 25-58-101 to 25-58-107.

Art. 59. Living Organ Donation, 25-59-101 to 25-59-106.

Art. 60. Epilepsy-related Mortalities and Awareness, 25-60-101 to 25-60-105.

ADMINISTRATION

ARTICLE 1

Administration

PART 1
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

25-1-100.3. Definitions.

25-1-101. Construction of terms.

25-1-101.5. Authority of revisor of statutes to amend references to department - affected statutory provisions.

25-1-102. Department created - executive director - divisions.

25-1-103. State board of health created - membership.

25-1-104. State board - organization.

25-1-105. Executive director - chief medical officer - qualifications - salary - office - duties - crisis standards of care.

25-1-106. Division personnel.

25-1-107. Powers and duties of the department - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-107.5. Additional authority of department - rules - remedies against nursing facilities - criteria for recommending assessments for civil penalties - cooperation with department of health care policy and financing - nursing home penalty cash fund - nursing home innovations grant board - reports - transfer of contracts to the department.

25-1-108. Powers and duties of state board of health - rules - definitions.

25-1-108.5. Additional powers and duties of state board of health and department - programs that receive tobacco settlement moneys - definitions - monitoring - annual report. (Repealed)

25-1-108.7. Health care credentials uniform application act - legislative declaration - definitions - state board of health rules. (Repealed)

25-1-109. Powers and duties of division of administration.

25-1-110. Higher standards permissible.

25-1-111. Revenues of department. (Repealed)

25-1-112. Legal adviser - attorney general - actions.

25-1-113. Judicial review of decisions.

25-1-114. Unlawful acts - penalties.

25-1-114.1. Civil remedies and penalties.

25-1-114.5. Voluntary disclosure arising from self-evaluation - presumption against imposition of administrative or civil penalties.

25-1-114.6. Implementation of environmental self-audit law - pilot project - legislative declaration.

25-1-115. Treatment - religious belief.

25-1-116. Licensed healing systems not affected.

25-1-117. Acquisition of federal surplus property.

25-1-118. Rental properties - salvage - fund created - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-119. Disposition and expenditures of moneys from fund. (Repealed)

25-1-120. Nursing facilities - rights of patients.

25-1-121. Patient grievance mechanism - institution's obligations to patient.

25-1-122. Named reporting of certain diseases and conditions - access to medical records - confidentiality of reports and records.

25-1-122.5. Confidentiality of genetic testing records - "Uniform Parentage Act".

25-1-123. Restructure of health and human services - development of plan - participation of department required.

25-1-124. Health-care facilities - consumer information - reporting - release.

25-1-124.3. Dementia care services - information disclosure form - requirements - assisted living residence improvement cash fund - rules - definitions.

25-1-124.5. Nursing care facilities - employees - record check - adult protective services data system check - definition.

25-1-124.7. Health facilities - employees - adult protective services data system check.

25-1-125. Applications for licenses - authority to suspend licenses - rules.

25-1-126. County practitioner rural recruitment grant program - creation - legislative declaration - administration - report - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-127. Medical equipment for rural communities grant program - creation - legislative declaration - administration - report - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-128. Designation of caregiver - notice - instructions - definitions - rules.

25-1-129. Prescription drug monitoring program integration methods - health care provider report cards - report - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-130. Standing order - post-exposure prophylaxis - definition.

25-1-131. Firearms safe storage education campaign.

25-1-132. Two-year appropriation to the department - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-133. Environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses - selection of contractor - required components of analyses - selection of locations - requirements for contractors - definitions - report.

25-1-133.5. Office of environmental justice - created - powers and duties - definitions.

25-1-134. Environmental justice - ombudsperson - advisory board - grant program - annual report - definitions - repeal.

25-1-135. Health-care services reserve corps task force - created - powers and duties - report - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-136. Kidney disease prevention and education task force - created - powers and duties - report - selection of chair and vice-chair - sunset review - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1-137. Task force to reduce youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors - creation - membership - reporting - definitions.

25-1-138. Health facilities - on-site administered topical medication - use for continued treatment - definitions.

PART 2
ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE

25-1-201 to

25-1-217. (Repealed)

PART 3
ALCOHOLISM AND INTOXICATION TREATMENT

25-1-301 to

25-1-316. (Repealed)

PART 4
STATE CHEMIST

25-1-401. Office of state chemist created.

25-1-402. Employment of assistants.

25-1-403. Analyses of food and drugs.

25-1-404. Certificate presumptive evidence.

PART 5
PUBLIC HEALTH

SUBPART 1
GENERAL

25-1-501. Legislative declaration.

25-1-502. Definitions.

25-1-503. State board - public health duties.

SUBPART 2
PUBLIC HEALTH PLANS

25-1-504. Comprehensive public health plan - development - approval - reassessment - cash fund.

25-1-505. County and district public health plans - approval.

SUBPART 3
COUNTY OR DISTRICT PUBLIC HEALTH AGENCIES

25-1-506. County or district public health agency.

25-1-507. Municipal board of health.

25-1-508. County or district boards of public health - public health directors.

25-1-509. County and district public health directors.

25-1-510. County or district board unable or unwilling to act.

25-1-511. County treasurer - agency funds.

25-1-512. Allocation of moneys - public health services support fund - created.

25-1-513. Enlargement of or withdrawal from public health agency.

25-1-514. Legal adviser - county attorney - actions.

25-1-515. Judicial review of decisions.

25-1-516. Unlawful acts - penalties.

25-1-517. Mode of treatment inconsistent with religious creed or tenet.

25-1-518. Nuisances.

25-1-519. Existing intergovernmental agreements.

25-1-520. Clean syringe exchange programs - operation - approval - testing supplies.

25-1-521. State department - local public health agencies - address substance use disorders - appropriation - repeal. (Repealed)

PART 6
LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH

25-1-601 to

25-1-667. (Repealed)

PART 7
REGIONAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS

25-1-701 to

25-1-719. (Repealed)

PART 8
PATIENT RECORDS

25-1-800.3. Definitions.

25-1-801. Patient records in custody of health-care facility - definitions.

25-1-802. Patient records in custody of individual health-care providers - definitions.

25-1-803. Effect of this part 8 on similar rights of a patient.

PART 9
COMMISSION ON FAMILY MEDICINE

25-1-901 to

25-1-904. (Repealed)

PART 10
CHILD CARE PROGRAMS IN NURSING HOME FACILITIES

25-1-1001. Legislative declaration.

25-1-1002. Definitions.

25-1-1003. Grant program - requirements - use of medical assistance funds prohibited.

25-1-1004. Study of statutes and rules and regulations pertaining to nursing home facilities and day care centers.

PART 11
DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION, EDUCATION, AND TREATMENT

25-1-1100.2 to

25-1-1112. (Repealed)

PART 12
MEDICAL RECORD CONFIDENTIALITY

25-1-1201. Legislative declaration.

25-1-1202. Index of statutory sections regarding medical record confidentiality and health information.

25-1-1203. Electronic storage of medical records.

25-1-1204. Online exchange of advanced directives forms permitted.

PART 13
CLIMATE CHANGE MARKETS GRANT PROGRAM

25-1-1301 to

25-1-1303. (Repealed)

PART 14
HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

25-1-1401 to

25-1-1403. (Repealed)

PART 15
COLORADO RARE DISEASE ADVISORY COUNCIL

25-1-1501. Legislative declaration.

25-1-1502. Definitions.

25-1-1503. Colorado rare disease advisory council - creation.

25-1-1504. Council membership.

25-1-1505. Activities carried out by the council - duties.

25-1-1506. Department - fiscal agent.

25-1-1507. Council facilitator - duties.

25-1-1508. Council meetings - requirements - transparency - information.

25-1-1509. Reporting - recommendations.

25-1-1510. Funding - gifts, grants, or donations.

25-1-1511. Repeal of part - sunset review.

PART 1

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

25-1-100.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103 (1)(a).

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102 (1).

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2074, § 198, effective August 6.

25-1-101. Construction of terms.

(1) When any law of this state refers to the executive director of the state department of public health or of the department of health, said law shall be construed as referring to the executive director of the department of public health and environment.

(2) Whenever any law of this state refers to the state department of public health or to the department of health, said law shall be construed as referring to the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 68: p. 106, § 73. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 1095, § 9, effective July 1, 1994.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

ANNOTATION

This article is a legislative declaration of the prevailing policy of Colorado in connection with the practice of medicine and the operation of hospitals. Moon v. Mercy Hosp., 150 Colo. 430, 373 P.2d 944 (1962).

Overview of the state's three-tiered public health system and the responsibilities delegated under parts 5 and 6 of this article appears in Jefferson County Health Servs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

County board of health, not the board of county commissioners, is the "governing body" of a county health department for purposes of notice under the Governmental Immunity Act. Jefferson County Health Servs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

25-1-101.5. Authority of revisor of statutes to amend references to department - affected statutory provisions.

The revisor of statutes is hereby authorized to change all references in the Colorado Revised Statutes to the department of health from said reference to the department of public health and environment, as appropriate. In connection with such authority, the revisor of statutes is hereby authorized to amend or delete provisions of the Colorado Revised Statutes so as to make the statutes consistent with the renaming of the department to the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 1095, § 10, effective July 1, 1994.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

25-1-102. Department created - executive director - divisions.

(1) There is hereby created a department of public health and environment. The head of the department shall be the executive director of the department, which office is hereby created. The governor shall appoint said executive director, with the consent of the senate, and the executive director shall serve at the pleasure of the governor. The reappointment of an executive director after initial election of a governor shall be subject to the provisions of section 24-20-109. The executive director shall administer the department, subject to the authority of the state board of health, the air quality control commission, the water quality control commission, and the solid and hazardous waste commission.

(2) The department consists of the following divisions:

(a) The division of administration, and such sections and units established as provided by law. The division is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 93, p. 1095, § 11, effective July 1, 1994.)

Source: L. 47: p. 505, § 2. CSA: C. 78, § 21 (2). CRS 53: § 66-1-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-2. L. 68: p. 106, § 74. L. 70: p. 237, §§ 2, 4. L. 71: pp. 106, 657, §§ 16, 3. L. 79: (1) amended, p. 1058, § 4, effective June 20. L. 86: (1) amended, p. 888, § 18, effective May 23. L. 92: (1) amended, p. 1235, § 2, effective August 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 1095, § 11, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2003: (1) amended, p. 706, § 29, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1138, § 26, effective July 1. L. 2022: IP(2) and (2)(a) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3366, § 40, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2074, § 199, effective August 6.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

(2) For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1-103. State board of health created - membership.

(1) (a) There is created the state board of health. The board is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105. The board consists of the following members appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate:

(I) One member from each congressional district in the state; and

(II) Two members from the state at large.

(b) A vacancy on the board occurs whenever any member moves out of the congressional district from which the member was appointed. A member who moves out of such congressional district shall promptly notify the governor of the date of the member's move, but the notice is not required for the vacancy to occur. The governor shall fill any vacancy by appointment for the unexpired term.

(c) No more than a minimum majority of the members of the board may be affiliated with the same political party.

(d) The term of office for each appointed member is four years. In making appointments to the board, the governor shall ensure that no business or professional group constitutes a majority of the board. In making appointments to the board, the governor is encouraged to include representation by at least one member who is a person with a disability, as defined in section 24-34-301, a family member of a person with a disability, or a member of an advocacy group for persons with disabilities if the other requirements of this subsection (1) are met.

(2) There shall always be one county commissioner member on the board. Whenever a county commissioner ceases to hold the office of county commissioner, the commissioner ceases to hold a position as a member of the board. A county commissioner shall not vote on any matter coming before the board that affects the commissioner's county in a manner significantly different from the manner in which it affects other counties.

Source: L. 47: p. 505, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 21 (3). CRS 53: § 66-1-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-3. L. 68: p. 106, § 75. L. 72: p. 549, § 12. L. 77: Entire section amended, p. 1257, § 1, effective July 1. L. 82: (1) amended, p. 356, § 15, effective April 30. L. 2009: (1) amended, (HB 09-1281), ch. 399, p. 2154, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2018: (1) amended, (HB 18-1364), ch. 351, p. 2081, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 57, § 73, effective February 25; (1) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3366, § 41, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(d) amended, (HB 23-1296), ch. 269, p. 1600, § 7, effective May 25. L. 2025: IP(1)(a) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2075, § 200, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1) by SB 22-013 and SB 22-162 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1-104. State board - organization.

The board shall elect from its members a president, a vice-president, and such other board officers as it shall determine. The executive director of the department, in the discretion of the board, may serve as secretary of the board but shall not be eligible to appointment as a member. All board officers shall hold their offices at the pleasure of the board. Regular meetings of the board shall be held not less than once every three months at such times as may be fixed by resolution of the board. Special meetings may be called by the president, by the executive director of the department, or by a majority of the members of the board at any time on three days' prior notice by mail or, in case of emergency, on twenty-four hours' notice by telephone or other telecommunications device. The board shall adopt, and at any time may amend, bylaws in relation to its meetings and the transaction of its business. A majority shall constitute a quorum of the board. Members shall receive the same per diem compensation and reimbursement of expenses as those provided for members of boards and commissions in the division of professions and occupations pursuant to section 12-20-103 (6). All meetings of the board, in every suit and proceeding, shall be taken to have been duly called and regularly held, and all orders and proceedings of the board to have been authorized, unless the contrary is proved.

Source: L. 47: p. 505, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 21 (3). CRS 53: § 66-1-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-4. L. 81: Entire section amended, p. 1298, § 1, effective June 9. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1686, § 68, effective August 7. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1694, § 137, effective October 1.

25-1-105. Executive director - chief medical officer - qualifications - salary - office - duties - crisis standards of care.

(1) The executive director of the department shall:

(a) Have a degree of doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathy, be licensed to practice medicine in the state of Colorado, and have at least one of the following qualifications:

(I) One year of graduate study in a school of public health;

(II) Not less than two years' experience in an administrative capacity in a health-care organization;

(III) Four years of said experience when one year of graduate study in a school of public health has not been completed; or

(b) Have, at a minimum, experience or education in public administration and public or environmental health.

(2) (a) If the governor appoints an executive director who does not have the qualifications specified in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section, the executive director of the department shall, pursuant to the provisions of section 13 of article XII of the state constitution, upon consultation with the governor, and with the consent of a majority of the members of the senate, appoint a chief medical officer. The chief medical officer shall have the qualifications specified in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section and shall serve at the pleasure of the governor. The executive director shall initially appoint the chief medical officer no later than three months after the executive director's appointment has been confirmed by the senate.

(b) The chief medical officer shall provide independent medical judgment, guidance, and advice to the governor and to the executive director regarding medical and public health issues in all areas identified in article 1.5 of this title.

(c) The chief medical officer shall be afforded direct access to the governor and the governor's staff.

(3) The executive director shall receive such salary as may be fixed by the board subject to the state constitution and state laws and within the limits of funds made available to the department by appropriation of the general assembly or otherwise. The executive director shall be allowed traveling and subsistence expenses actually and necessarily incurred in the performance of the executive director's official duties when absent from his or her place of residence. The executive director shall be custodian of all property and records of the department.

(4) (a) In the event of a public health emergency, if the governor and the executive director and, if the executive director is not the chief medical officer, the chief medical officer agree that crisis standards of care are needed to respond to the public health emergency, the executive director or, if the executive director is not the chief medical officer, the chief medical officer shall:

(I) Assemble a group of subject matter experts to develop crisis standards of care for use by health-care providers and health-care facilities in responding to the public health emergency; and

(II) Activate all or portions of the crisis standards of care as needed during the public health emergency.

(b) Upon agreement of the governor and the executive director and, if the executive director is not the chief medical officer, the chief medical officer that the crisis standards of care are no longer needed to respond to the public health emergency, the executive director or, if the executive director is not the chief medical officer, the chief medical officer shall vacate the crisis standards of care.

Source: L. 47: p. 506, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 21 (4). CRS 53: § 66-1-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-5. L. 68: p. 106, § 76. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 999, § 1, effective May 25. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 785, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2003: (2)(b) amended, p. 706, § 30, effective July 1. L. 2025: (4) added, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 271, § 1, effective April 10.

25-1-106. Division personnel.

The executive director of the department shall appoint the director of the division of administration, pursuant to the provisions of section 13 of article XII of the state constitution. Each subdivision (and section) of the division of administration shall be under the management of a head, and such heads and all other subordinate personnel of the division shall be appointed by the director of the division, subject to the constitution and state personnel system laws of the state, and shall possess qualifications approved by the board. All personnel shall receive such compensation as fixed by the executive director with the approval of the board, subject to the constitution and state personnel system laws of the state and within the limits of funds made available to the department by appropriation of the general assembly or otherwise. With the approval of the executive director, employees shall also be allowed traveling and subsistence expenses actually and necessarily incurred in the performance of their official duties when absent from their places of residence.

Source: L. 47: p. 506, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 21(4). CRS 53: § 66-1-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-6. L. 71: p. 106, § 17.

Cross references: For the state personnel system, see article 50 of title 24.

25-1-107. Powers and duties of the department - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 47: p. 508, § 5. L. 49: p. 438, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 21 (5). L. 53: p. 341, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-1-7. L. 55: pp. 425, 426, §§ 1, 1. L. 57: p. 413, § 1. L. 59: pp. 467, 470, §§ 1, 1. L. 62: p. 171, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-7. L. 64: pp. 139, 478, §§ 67, 1. L. 65: p. 692, § 1. L. 67: p. 345, §§ 14, 16. L. 69: pp. 467, 468, §§ 1, 1. L. 71: p. 639, § 2. L. 73: pp. 893, 1405, §§ 2, 45. L. 75: (1)(l)(I) amended, p. 866, § 1, effective May 31; (1)(m) amended, p. 868, § 1, effective May 31; (1)(o) amended, p. 869, § 1, effective June 26. L. 77: (1)(e) and (2) amended and (1)(x) added, p. 1259, § 1, effective June 9; (1)(n) amended, p. 952, § 21, effective August 1. L. 78: (3) added, p. 408, § 1, effective April 27; (1)(l)(I) amended, p. 440, § 2, effective May 18. L. 80: (1)(y) added, p. 649, § 2, effective July 1. L. 83: (1)(z) added, p. 1026, § 1, effective May 3; (1)(aa) added, p. 1027, § 1, effective May 23; (1)(l)(I) amended, p. 1052, § 2, effective May 25; (1)(cc) added, p. 1028, § 1, effective June 10; (1)(q) amended, p. 1055, § 1, effective July 1; (1)(y) R&RE and (1)(bb), p. 1223, §§ 2, 3, effective July 1. L. 84: (1)(l)(I) amended, p. 337, § 3, effective April 25. L. 85: (1)(o) R&RE, p. 901, § 2, effective April 5; (1)(l)(I) amended, p. 927, § 6, effective July 1; (1)(l)(II.1) added, p. 683, § 12, effective July 1; (1)(dd) added, p. 877, § 1, effective July 1. L. 87: IP(1)(x)(V) and (1)(x)(VI) amended, p. 611, § 23, effective July 1. L. 88: (1)(x)(I) and (2) amended and (1)(x)(VIII) and (1)(x.5) added, p. 991, § 1, effective May 11; (1)(ee) added, p. 998, § 2, effective May 11. L. 91: (1)(ee)(II) amended, p. 1162, § 1, effective March 29; (1)(ee)(VI) amended, p. 929, § 1, effective April 1; (1)(bb) and (1)(ee)(IV) amended, pp. 720, 1856, §§ 2, 11, effective April 11; (1)(a), (1)(f), (1)(z), and (1)(dd) amended, p. 941, § 1, effective May 5; (3) amended, p. 974, § 3, effective May 6; (1)(ff) added, p. 442, § 9, effective May 29; (1)(x)(I) and (1)(x)(II)(A) amended, p. 961, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (1)(w) and (1)(ee) amended, pp. 1727, 1151, §§ 17, 8, effective July 1. L. 93: (1)(ee)(I)(B) amended, p. 1786, § 67, effective June 6; (1)(aa) amended, p. 1664, § 71, effective July 1; (1)(l)(II.5) added and (1)(u), IP(1)(ee)(I), (1)(ee)(I)(C), and (1)(ee)(II.5)(D) amended, pp. 1096, 1140, §§ 12, 13, 77, effective July 1, 1994. L. 94: (3)(c) amended, p. 695, § 1, effective April 19; (1)(ee)(II.5)(A) and (3)(c)(II) amended, p. 1638, § 55, effective May 31; (1)(n), (1)(l)(II.5), and (1)(ee)(II) amended and (4) added, pp. 2700, 2606, 2610, §§ 252, 7, 10, effective July 1; (1)(q) amended, p. 1665, § 1, effective July 1. L. 95: (1)(ee)(II.5)(H) and (1)(ee)(II.5)(I) amended and (1)(ee)(II)(J) added, p. 539, § 1, effective May 22; (1)(gg) added, p. 943, § 5, effective May 25; (1)(l)(I), (1)(l)(II), (1)(l)(II.1), and (1)(l)(III) amended and (1)(l)(II.2) added, p. 1021, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (1)(ee)(VI)(B) amended, p. 798, § 11, effective May 23; (1)(ee)(VII) repealed, p. 1253, § 138, effective August 7; (1)(ee)(II.5)(B) amended, p. 1695, § 37, effective January 1, 1997. L. 98: (1)(hh) added, p. 711, § 1, effective May 18; (1)(ee)(I.5), (1)(ee)(II.5)(I), (1)(ee)(III)(B), and (1)(ee)(VI) amended and (1)(ee)(I.6) added, p. 542, § 4, effective July 1; (1)(x)(II)(A) amended and (1)(x)(IX) added, p. 888, § 1, effective August 5. L. 99: (1)(y) amended, p.436, § 5, effective April 30; (1)(x)(VII) amended and (1)(x.2) added, p. 23, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1)(a.5) added, p. 87, § 5, effective March 15; IP(1)(x)(VII), (1)(x)(VII)(D), and (1)(x.2) amended and (1)(x)(VII)(E) added, p. 144, § 1, effective March 16; (1)(n) amended, p. 802, § 1, effective May 24; (1)(ii) added, p. 2002, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2001: (1)(jj) added, p. 473, § 2, effective April 27; (1)(kk) added, p. 928, § 4, effective June 4; (1)(n)(I) amended, p. 1274, § 36, effective June 5; (1)(a.5)(IV), (1)(a.5)(V), and (1)(a.5)(VI) added, p. 824, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2002: (1)(x)(VII)(C.5) amended, p. 1024, § 45, effective June 1; (1)(l)(I) and (4) amended, p. 1327, § 14, effective July 1; (1)(m) amended, p. 411, § 4, effective July 1; (1)(q) amended, p. 427, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1)(ll) added, p. 1035, § 7, effective April 17; (1)(ee)(II.5)(A) and (1)(ee)(II.5)(C) amended, p. 1997, § 45, effective May 22; entire section repealed, p. 676, § 1, effective July 1; IP(1)(a.5)(IV) amended, p. 1617, § 23, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This section was repealed, effective July 1, 2003, and relocated to article 1.5 of this title. Prior to its repeal, this section was amended by House Bill 03-1266, House Bill 03-1344, and House Bill 03-1100. Those amendments have been relocated and harmonized with article 1.5 of this title. Amendments to the introductory portion to subsection (1)(a.5)(IV) by House Bill 03-1266 were harmonized with Senate Bill 03-002 and relocated to the introductory portion to § 25-1.5-102 (1)(b)(IV). Amendments to subsections (1)(ee)(II.5)(A) and (1)(ee)(II.5)(C) by House Bill 03-1344 were harmonized with Senate Bill 03-002 and relocated to § 25-1.5-301 (2)(a) and (2)(b.5), respectively. Subsection (1)(ll) as enacted by House Bill 03-1100 was harmonized with Senate Bill 03-002 and relocated to § 25-1.5-101 (1)(y).

25-1-107.5. Additional authority of department - rules - remedies against nursing facilities - criteria for recommending assessments for civil penalties - cooperation with department of health care policy and financing - nursing home penalty cash fund - nursing home innovations grant board - reports - transfer of contracts to the department.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Benefit residents of nursing facilities" means that a grant has a direct impact on the residents of nursing facilities or has an indirect impact on the residents through education or training of nursing facility staff.

(b) "Board" means the nursing home innovations grant board, authorized by subsection (6) of this section.

(c) "Departments" means the department of public health and environment and the department of health care policy and financing.

(d) "Federal regulations for participation" means the regulations found in part 442 of title 42 of the code of federal regulations, as amended, for participation under Title XIX of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended.

(e) "Nursing facility" means any skilled or intermediate nursing care facility that receives federal and state funds under Title XIX of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended.

(2) The department, as the state agency responsible for certifying nursing facilities, is authorized to adopt rules necessary to establish a series of remedies in accordance with this section and the federal "Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987", Pub.L. 100-203, as amended, that may be imposed by the department of health care policy and financing when a nursing facility violates federal regulations for participation in the medicaid program. The remedies shall include any remedies required under federal law and the imposition of civil money penalties.

(3) (a) In accordance with rules promulgated under this section, the department is authorized to recommend to the department of health care policy and financing an appropriate civil money penalty based on the nature of the violation. Any penalties recommended shall not be less than one hundred dollars nor more than ten thousand dollars for each day the facility is found to be in violation of the federal regulations. Penalties assessed shall include interest at the statutory rate.

(b) The department shall adopt criteria for determining the amount of the penalty to be recommended for assessment. The criteria shall include, but need not be limited to, consideration of the following factors:

(I) The period during which the violation occurred;

(II) The frequency of the violation;

(III) The nursing facility's history concerning the type of violation for which the penalty is assessed;

(IV) The nursing facility's intent or reason for the violation;

(V) The effect, if any, of the violation on the health, safety, security, or welfare of the residents of the nursing facility;

(VI) The existence of other violations, in combination with the violation for which the penalty is assessed, that increase the threat to the health, safety, security, or welfare of the residents of the nursing facility;

(VII) The accuracy, thoroughness, and availability of records regarding the violation that the nursing facility is required to maintain; and

(VIII) The number of additional related violations occurring within the same period as the violation in question.

(c) (I) If the department finds that a violation is life threatening to one or more residents or creates a direct threat of serious adverse harm to the health, safety, security, rights, or welfare of one or more residents, the department of health care policy and financing shall impose a penalty for each day the deficiencies that constitute the violation are found to exist.

(II) Except as provided in subsection (3)(c)(I) of this section, the department of health care policy and financing shall not assess a penalty prior to the date a nursing facility receives written notice from the department of its recommendation to assess civil money penalties. The department shall provide the notice to the facility no later than ten days after the last day of the inspection or survey during which the deficiencies that constitute the violation were found. The notice shall:

(A) Set forth the deficiencies that are the basis for the recommendation to assess a penalty;

(B) Provide instructions for responding to the notice; and

(C) Require the nursing facility to submit a written plan of correction. The department shall adopt criteria for the submission of written plans of correction by nursing facilities and approval of the plans by the department. If the facility acts in a timely and diligent manner to correct the violation in accordance with an approved plan of correction, the department may recommend to the department of health care policy and financing that it suspend or reduce the penalty during the period of correction specified in the approved plan of correction.

(d) Except as provided in sub-subparagraph (C) of subparagraph (II) of paragraph (c) of this subsection (3), the department of health care policy and financing shall continue to assess any penalty recommended under this section until the department verifies to the department of health care policy and financing that the violation is corrected or until the nursing facility notifies the department that correction has occurred, whichever is earlier. If the penalty has been suspended or reduced pursuant to sub-subparagraph (C) of subparagraph (II) of paragraph (c) of this subsection (3) and the nursing facility has not corrected the violation, the department of health care policy and financing shall reinstate the penalty at an increased amount and shall retroactively assess the penalty to the date the penalty was suspended.

(4) (a) The department of health care policy and financing, after receiving a recommendation from the department, is authorized to assess, enforce, and collect the civil money penalty pursuant to section 25.5-6-205, C.R.S., for credit to the nursing home penalty cash fund, created pursuant to section 25.5-6-205 (3)(a), C.R.S.

(b) (I) The department and the department of health care policy and financing have joint authority for administering the nursing home penalty cash fund; except that final authority regarding the administration of money in the fund is in the department.

(II) (A) The authority of both departments includes establishing circumstances under which funds may be distributed in order to protect the health or property of individuals residing in nursing facilities that the department of health care policy and financing has found to be in violation of federal regulations for participation in the medicaid program.

(B) The departments shall collaborate at least annually, and more often as needed, to assess and review emergency funding needs and response plans for potential nursing facility closures. The departments shall jointly administer emergency funding.

(III) The state board of health may promulgate rules necessary to ensure proper administration of the nursing home penalty cash fund.

(c) The departments shall consider, as a basis for distribution from the nursing home penalty cash fund, the following:

(I) The need to pay costs to:

(A) Relocate residents to other facilities when a nursing facility closes;

(B) Maintain the operation of a nursing facility pending correction of violations;

(C) Close a nursing facility;

(D) Reimburse residents for personal funds lost;

(II) Grants to be approved for measures and projects that will benefit residents of nursing facilities by fostering innovation and improving the quality of life and care at the facilities, in accordance with priorities and allowable uses identified by the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services.

(d) (I) Repealed.

(II) The department, after receiving a recommendation from the board and approval from the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services, shall consider grants issued as sole source procurements that are not subject to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24.

(II.5) (A) The board shall make recommendations for the approval of grants, which recommendations must be consistent with the processes for grant cycles of, and priorities and allowable uses identified by, the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services.

(B) The department and the board shall develop processes for grant payments, which processes may allow grant payments to be made in advance of the delivery of goods and services to grantees. Grantees receiving advance payments shall report progress to the board.

(C) Any moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year may be held over and used by the board in the next fiscal year. Unexpended and unencumbered moneys from an appropriation in the annual general appropriation act to the departments for the purpose of carrying out the nursing home innovations grant program under this section remain available for expenditure by the departments in the next fiscal year without further appropriation. This sub-subparagraph (C) applies to appropriations made by the general assembly for fiscal years ending on and after June 30, 2014. On or before June 30, 2014, and on or before June 30 of each year thereafter, the departments shall notify the state controller of the amount of the appropriation from the annual general appropriation act for the current fiscal year the departments need to remain available for expenditure in the next fiscal year. The departments may not expend more than the amount stated in the notice under this sub-subparagraph (C).

(D) Other policies of the board must conform with practices of other granting organizations. The work product from grants funded through the nursing home penalty cash fund is the intellectual property of the department and must be made available without charge to all nursing homes in the state. The state board of health may adopt rules as necessary to govern the procedure for awarding grants under this section.

(II.7) The department shall adhere to all state and federal requirements for the encumbrance and payment of grants under this subsection (4)(d). In addition, the department shall:

(A) Document necessary federal permissions for the use of moneys from the nursing home penalty cash fund, created under section 25.5-6-205, C.R.S., prior to making any payment or encumbrance; and

(B) Adhere to the written determination of the board under subsection (6) of this section in releasing state moneys for payment to grantees under this section. The department's adherence to the written determination of the board is sufficient evidence to ensure that work was completed fully and adequately.

(III) The state board of health shall establish a minimum reserve amount to be maintained in the nursing home penalty cash fund to ensure that there is sufficient money for the departments to distribute in accordance with subsection (4)(b)(II) of this section, if needed. The departments shall not expend money from the fund for the purposes described in subsection (4)(c)(II) of this section if the expenditure would cause the fund balance to fall below the minimum reserve amount.

(IV) In determining how to allocate the money authorized to be distributed pursuant to this subsection (4)(d), the departments shall take into consideration the recommendations of the board made pursuant to subsection (6)(c) of this section. If the departments disagree with the recommendations of the board, they shall meet with the board to explain their rationale and shall seek to achieve a compromise with the board regarding the allocation of the money. If a compromise cannot be achieved with regard to all or a portion of the money to be distributed, the state board of health shall have the final authority regarding the distribution of money for which a compromise has not been reached.

(e) (I) The departments shall not utilize money from the nursing home penalty cash fund for costs of administration associated with any specific movement, association, or organization; except that the appropriation for administration of the grants authorized under this section shall not exceed ten percent of the appropriation for the disbursed grants. The department and the department of heath care policy and financing shall use any such appropriation for administration to administer the grant program described in this section and to improve nursing facility innovation and quality with the goal of reducing future penalties.

(II) For purposes of this section, the departments shall jointly develop an annual administrative budget utilizing money from the nursing home penalty cash fund for the purposes of administering the fund and supporting the board. These purposes may include, but are not limited to:

(A) All required state and federal reporting;

(B) Public website maintenance;

(C) Marketing the nursing home penalty cash fund and grantee recruitment;

(D) Grant development, monitoring, and payment processing;

(E) Outcome measurement utilizing state and federal data sources;

(F) Coordination with quality programs already in place by the departments;

(G) Grantee monitoring and support;

(H) Costs associated with emergency closures and payment auditing; and

(I) Maintenance of access to complete projects, including trainings, recordings, and project deliverables.

(5) Repealed.

(6) (a) The nursing home innovations grant board is created. On and after July 1, 2021, the board is transferred from the department of health care policy and financing to the department. The board is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department. The department, in consultation with stakeholders, shall determine the appropriate entity to administer the board. The board consists of ten members as follows:

(I) The state long-term care ombudsman or his or her designee;

(II) The executive director of the department of health care policy and financing or the executive director's designee;

(III) The executive director of the department of public health and environment or the executive director's designee;

(IV) Seven members appointed by the governor as follows:

(A) Four members currently employed in long-term care nursing facilities;

(B) One member who is or represents a consumer of long-term care;

(C) One member representing the disability community who is either a resident of a nursing facility or a family member of a nursing facility resident; and

(D) One member representing the business community.

(E) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2014.)

(b) The members of the board shall serve without compensation.

(c) The board shall review all grant projects, determine whether the grantees completed their grant projects and grant objectives, and shall provide written recommendations to the department to make or withhold payment to grantees.

(d) On or before January 1 of each year, the departments, with the assistance of the board, shall jointly submit a report to the governor and the health and human services committee of the senate and the health and human services committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, regarding the expenditure of money in the nursing home penalty cash fund for the purposes described in subsection (4)(c)(II) of this section. The report must detail the amount of money expended for such purposes, the recipients of the money, the effectiveness of the use of the money, and any other information deemed pertinent by the departments or requested by the governor or the committees. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11), the reporting requirement described in this subsection (6)(d) continues indefinitely.

(7) Repealed.

(8) On and after July 1, 2021, whenever the department of health care policy and financing is referred to or designated by any contract or other document in connection with the duties and functions under this section, such reference or designation shall be deemed to apply to the department. All contracts entered into by the departments prior to July 1, 2021, in connection with the duties and functions under this section are hereby validated, with the department succeeding to all rights and obligations under such contracts.

Source: L. 89, 1st Ex. Sess.: Entire section added, p. 24, § 1, effective July 11. L. 91: (3)(b) amended, p. 1856, § 12, effective April 11; (4) added, p. 687, § 53, effective April 20; entire section repealed, p. 687, § 53, effective July 1, 1993. L. 94: Entire section RC&RE, p. 1316, § 1, effective May 25; (2), (3)(a), (3)(c)(II)(C), (3)(d), (4)(a), and (4)(b) amended, p. 2617, § 29, effective July 1. L. 97: (5) repealed, p. 106, § 2, effective March 24. L. 2006: (4)(a) amended, p. 2012, § 80, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (HB 09-1196), ch. 428, p. 2383, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2014: (1)(a) repealed, (1)(b.5) and (1)(b.7) added, and (4)(c)(II), (4)(d), (4)(e), (6), and (7) amended, (SB 14-151), ch. 339, p. 1507, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2019: (4)(d)(I) and (7) repealed and (4)(d)(III) amended, (SB 19-254), ch. 336, p. 3090, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2021: IP(3)(c)(II), (4)(b), IP(4)(c)(II), (4)(c)(II)(C), (4)(c)(II)(D), (4)(d)(II), (4)(d)(II.5)(A), (4)(d)(II.5)(B), (4)(d)(II.5)(D), IP(4)(d)(II.7), (4)(d)(III), (4)(d)(IV), (4)(e), IP(6)(a), and (6)(b) amended and (4)(c)(II)(E) and (8) added, (SB 21-128), ch. 302, p. 1814, § 1, effective June 23. L. 2022: IP(6)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 58, § 74, effective February 25; IP(6)(a) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3367, § 42, effective August 10. L. 2026: (1), (4)(c)(II), (4)(d)(II.5)(A), (4)(d)(II.5)(B), and (6)(d) amended, (HB 26-1244), ch. 126, p. 546, § 1, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection IP(6)(a) by SB 22-013 and SB 22-162 were harmonized.

(2) Section 2(2) of chapter 126 (HB 26-1244), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to distributions from the nursing home penalty cash fund made on or after August 12, 2026.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (2), (3)(a), (3)(c)(II)(C), (3)(d), (4)(a), and (4)(b), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

(2) For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Section does not require recipient to exhaust all administrative remedies prior to filing a common law tort claim against provider. Reimbursement of amounts paid by or on behalf of the recipient was not available through the administrative process and therefore administrative process was not a prerequisite to filing claims. Salas v. Grancare, Inc., 22 P.3d 568 (Colo. App. 2001).

25-1-108. Powers and duties of state board of health - rules - definitions.

(1) In addition to all other powers and duties conferred and imposed upon the state board of health by this part 1, the board has the following specific powers and duties:

(a) To determine general policies to be followed by the division of administration in administering and enforcing the public health laws and the orders, standards, rules, and regulations of the board;

(b) To act in an advisory capacity to the executive director of the department on all matters pertaining to public health;

(c) (I) To issue from time to time such orders, to adopt such rules and regulations, and to establish such standards as the board may deem necessary or proper to carry out the provisions and purposes of this part 1 and to administer and enforce the public health laws of this state;

(II) To adopt rules and standards concerning building regulations for skilled and intermediate health-care facilities. The enforcement of these rules may be waived by the board for periods of time as recommended by the department if the rigid application of the rules would result in demonstrated financial hardship to a skilled or intermediate facility, but only if the waiver will not adversely affect the health and safety of patients.

(III) to (V) Repealed.

(VI) To adopt rules and to establish such standards as the board may deem necessary or proper to assure that hospitals; other acute care facilities; county, district, and municipal public health agencies; and trauma centers are prepared for an emergency epidemic, as defined in section 24-33.5-703 (4), that is declared to be a disaster emergency, including the immediate investigation of any case of a suspected emergency epidemic, the maintenance of an adequate stockpile of personal protective equipment for infection control, and staff proficiency in using the personal protective equipment;

(d) To hold hearings, administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, and take testimony in all matters relating to the exercise and performance of the powers and duties vested in or imposed upon the board. The board may designate an administrative law judge appointed pursuant to part 10 of article 30 of title 24, C.R.S., to conduct hearings for the board, pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., and to carry out such administrative and other duties of the board as the board may require in the conduct of its hearings.

(e) To establish and appoint, as the board may deem necessary or advisable, special advisory committees to advise and confer with the board concerning the public health aspects of any business, profession, or industry within the state of Colorado. Any committee established and appointed under the provisions of this section shall act only in an advisory capacity to the board and shall meet with the board at least once each year at such regular meeting of the board as may be designated by the board and at such other times as such committee may be called into meeting by the president of the board. Members of any special advisory committee shall serve without compensation but may, in the discretion of the board, be allowed actual and necessary traveling and subsistence expenses when in attendance at meetings away from their places of residence.

(f) to (h) Repealed.

(i) (I) Every three years, to review and amend, as necessary, the department's internal emergency response and recovery plan that addresses the public health response to acts of bioterrorism, pandemic influenza, and epidemics caused by novel and highly fatal infectious agents.

(II) As used in this subsection (1)(i):

(A) "Internal emergency response and recovery plan" means the portion of the state emergency operations plan prepared and updated by the department that specifies operations that will be implemented if there is an occurrence or imminent threat of an emergency epidemic.

(B) "State emergency operations plan" means the plan developed in accordance with section 24-33.5-705 (2) by the office of emergency management in the division of homeland security and emergency management in the department of public safety to address the preparation, prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery from emergencies and disasters.

(2) The board shall act only by resolution adopted at a duly called meeting of the board, and no individual member of the board shall exercise individually any administrative authority with respect to the department.

(3) In the exercise of its powers, the department shall not promulgate any rule or standard that limits or interferes with the ability of an individual to enter into a contract with a private pay facility concerning the programs or services provided at the private pay facility. For the purposes of this subsection (3), "private pay facility" means a skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility subject to the requirements of section 25-1-120 or an assisted living residence licensed pursuant to section 25-27-105 that is not publicly funded or is not certified to provide services that are reimbursed from state or federal assistance funds.

(4) and (5) Repealed.

(6) The board shall allow the Colorado youth advisory council, as established in section 2-2-1302, to present to the board twice a year on issues including the youth opioid epidemic and other health issues.

Source: L. 47: p. 511, § 6. CSA: C. 78, § 21(6). CRS 53: § 66-1-8. L. 55: p. 428, § 2. L. 59: p. 468, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-8. L. 67: p. 345, § 16. L. 68: pp. 107, 108, §§ 77, 81. L. 75: (1)(c)(II) R&RE, p. 871, § 1, effective July 14; (1)(d) amended, p. 872, § 1, effective July 14. L. 77: (1)(d) amended, p. 308, § 12, effective June 10. L. 87: (1)(d) amended, p. 967, § 76, effective March 13. L. 92: (1)(g) added, p. 1236, § 3, effective August 1. L. 94: (1)(c)(V) added, p. 32, § 5, effective March 9; (1)(h) added, p. 565, § 13, effective April 6; (3) added, p. 2610, § 11, effective July 1. L. 96: (1)(g) repealed, p. 1284, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2000: (1)(c)(VI) added, p. 88, § 6, effective March 15; (4) added, p. 545, § 23, effective July 1. L. 2002: (3) amended and (5) added, p. 1328, § 15, effective July 1. L. 2003: (5) amended, p. 2007, § 84, effective May 22. L. 2006: (1)(c)(V) repealed, p. 1127, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: (5) amended, p. 2040, § 62, effective June 1. L. 2008: (5) repealed, p. 662, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1)(c)(VI) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2089, § 83, effective August 11. L. 2013: (1)(c)(VI) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1686, § 69, effective August 7. L. 2019: IP(1) amended and (1)(f) repealed, (SB 19-082), ch. 15, p. 58, § 2, effective August 2; (1)(c)(II) amended and (1)(c)(III) and (1)(c)(IV) repealed, (HB 19-1060), ch. 10, p. 39, § 2, effective August 2; (1)(c)(VI) amended, (SB 19-080), ch. 22, p. 78, § 2, effective August 2; (1)(h) repealed, (HB 19-1068), ch. 63, p. 228, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2022: (1)(c)(VI) amended, (HB 22-1352), ch. 177, p. 1172, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2025: (1)(i) added, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 272, § 2, effective April 10; (6) added, (SB 25-164), ch. 168, p. 680, § 2, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (4)(d) provided for the repeal of subsection (4), effective November 31, 2000, but the date was changed on revision to November 30, 2000. (See L. 2000, p. 545.)

Cross references: (1) For the duty of the board to supervise registration of births and deaths, see article 2 of this title 25.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act adding subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 19-082, see section 1 of chapter 15, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1060, see section 1 of chapter 10, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. For the legislative declaration in SB 19-080, see section 1 of chapter 22, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1068, see section 1 of chapter 63, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ANNOTATION

Regulations held not unconstitutionally applied. Federal regulations adopted by the department of health were held not to be so vague that their application would deprive the regulated party of procedural due process. Geriatrics, Inc. v. State Dept. of Health, 650 P.2d 1288 (Colo. App. 1982), aff'd in part, rev'd in part on other grounds, 699 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1985).

State licensing standards which provided the basis for the revocation of a nursing facility's operating license were not in violation of the regulated party's due process rights for the regulations were detailed and specific and the final agency decision set out detailed findings concerning the revocation of the operating license. State Dept. of Health v. Geriatrics, 699 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1985).

Applied in Winkler v. State Dept. of Health, 193 Colo. 170, 564 P.2d 107 (1977).

25-1-108.5. Additional powers and duties of state board of health and department - programs that receive tobacco settlement moneys - definitions - monitoring - annual report. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 592, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2002: (5) amended, p. 778, § 2, effective May 30. L. 2003: (5) amended, p. 1665, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2007: IP(3)(a) amended, p. 2040, § 63, effective June 1. L. 2010: (1), IP(2), and (5) amended, (SB 10-073), ch. 386, p. 1807, § 2, effective June 30. L. 2013: (1)(a), (1)(c), and IP(2) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 589, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2015: Entire section repealed, (SB 15-189), ch. 104, p. 301, § 1, effective April 16.

25-1-108.7. Health care credentials uniform application act - legislative declaration - definitions - state board of health rules. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2004: Entire section added, p. 466, § 1, effective April 14. L. 2008: (2), (5), and (9) amended and (6)(h) added, pp. 688, 689, §§ 1, 2, effective July 1. L. 2010: (6)(c) amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1990, § 85, effective July 1. L. 2019: (6)(c) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1695, § 138, effective October 1. L. 2022: Entire section repealed, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1193, § 11, effective May 18; (3)(f) amended, (SB 22-219), ch. 381, p. 2726, § 37, effective January 1, 2023.

Editor's note: Subsection (3)(f) was amended in SB 22-219. Those amendments were superseded by the repeal of this section in SB 22-226.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1-109. Powers and duties of division of administration.

(1) In addition to the other powers and duties conferred and imposed in this part 1 upon the division of administration, the division, through the director or, upon the director's direction and under the director's supervision, through the other officers and employees of the division, has the following powers and duties:

(a) To administer and enforce the public health laws of the state of Colorado and the standards, orders, rules, and regulations established, issued, or adopted by the board;

(b) To exercise all powers and duties conferred and imposed upon the department not expressly delegated to the board by the provisions of this part 1;

(c) To hold hearings, administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, and take testimony in all matters relating to the exercise and performance of the powers and duties vested in or imposed upon the division of administration. The director may designate an administrative law judge appointed pursuant to part 10 of article 30 of title 24, C.R.S., to conduct hearings pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(d) Repealed.

(e) To supervise all subdivisions and boards of the department to determine that publications of the department and of any subdivisions thereof circulated in quantity outside the executive branch are issued in accordance with the provisions of section 24-1-136, C.R.S.;

(f) To appoint, pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the state constitution, a chief health inspector and such deputy inspectors as may be authorized. Such inspectors have the power to enter any workplace as provided in section 8-1-116, C.R.S. All expenses incurred by the division and its employees, pursuant to the provisions of this section, shall be paid from the funds appropriated for its use, upon approval of the director.

(g) Repealed.

(h) To administer and enforce the minimum general sanitary standards and regulations adopted pursuant to section 25-1.5-202.

Source: L. 47: p. 513, § 7. CSA: C. 78, § 21(7). CRS 53: § 66-1-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-9. L. 64: p. 140, § 68. L. 73: p. 917, § 1. L. 77: (1)(h) added, p. 1261, § 2, effective June 9; (1)(c) amended, p. 308, § 13, effective June 10. L. 80: (1)(f) amended and (1)(g) repealed, pp. 450, 451, §§ 5, 6, effective April 13. L. 83: (1)(d) and (1)(e) amended, p. 839, § 58, effective July 1. L. 87: (1)(c) amended, p. 967, § 77, effective March 13. L. 96: (1)(d) repealed, p. 1256, § 145, effective August 7. L. 2003: IP(1) and (1)(h) amended, p. 706, § 31, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

ANNOTATION

Subsection (1)(c) grants subject matter jurisdiction. Subsection (1)(c) gives the department of health subject matter jurisdiction to conduct hearings relating generally to health matters, such as nursing care services. Geriatrics, Inc. v. State Dept. of Health, 650 P.2d 1288 (Colo. App. 1982), aff'd in part, rev'd in part on other grounds, 699 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1985).

25-1-110. Higher standards permissible.

Nothing in this part 1 shall prevent any incorporated city, city and county, town, county, or other political subdivision of the state from imposing and enforcing higher standards than are imposed under this part 1.

Source: L. 47: p. 513, § 7A. CSA: C. 78, § 21(8). CRS 53: § 66-1-10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-10.

25-1-111. Revenues of department. (Repealed)

Source: L. 47: p. 514, § 9. CSA: C. 78, § 21(10). CRS 53: § 66-1-11. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-11. L. 87: (1) repealed, p. 1124, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2) repealed, (SB 19-082), ch. 15, p. 59, § 3, effective August 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-082, see section 1 of chapter 15, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-1-112. Legal adviser - attorney general - actions.

The attorney general is the legal adviser for the department and shall defend it in all actions and proceedings brought against it. The district attorney of the judicial district in which a cause of action arises shall bring any civil or criminal action requested by the executive director of the department to abate a condition that exists in violation of, or to restrain or enjoin any action that is in violation of, or to prosecute for the violation of or for the enforcement of, the public health laws and the standards, orders, and rules of the department established by or issued under the provisions of this part 1. If the district attorney fails to act, the executive director may bring any such action and shall be represented by the attorney general or by special counsel.

Source: L. 47: p. 514, § 10. CSA: C. 78, § 21(11). CRS 53: § 66-1-12. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-12. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (SB 19-021), ch. 3, p. 20, § 2, effective August 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-021, see section 1 of chapter 3, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-1-113. Judicial review of decisions.

(1) Any person aggrieved and affected by a decision of the board or the executive director of the department is entitled to judicial review by filing in the district court of the county of his residence, or of the city and county of Denver, within ninety days after the public announcement of the decision, an appropriate action requesting such review. The court may make any interested person a party to the action. The review shall be conducted by the court without a jury and shall be confined to the record, if a complete record is presented; except that, in cases of alleged irregularities in the record or in the procedure before the board or the division of administration, testimony may be taken in the court. The court may affirm the decision or may reverse or modify it if the substantial rights of the appellant have been prejudiced as a result of the findings and decisions of the board being: Contrary to constitutional rights or privileges; or in excess of the statutory authority or jurisdiction of the board or the executive director of the department; or affected by any error of law; or made or promulgated upon unlawful procedure; or unsupported by substantial evidence in view of the entire record as submitted; or arbitrary or capricious.

(2) Any party may have a review of the final judgment or decision of the district court by appellate review in accordance with law and the Colorado appellate rules.

Source: L. 47: p. 514, § 11. CSA: C. 78, § 21(12). CRS 53: § 66-1-13. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-13.

ANNOTATION

Claim of arbitrary refusal to grant license is cause of action. Petitioner states a cause of action under this section where he alleges that the state board of health has arbitrarily and capriciously refused to grant him a master plumber's license although he has complied with all the requirements for the license. Grimm v. State Bd. of Health, 121 Colo. 269, 215 P.2d 324 (1950).

Action not controlled by C.R.C.P. 106. An action under this section is a statutory action and is not controlled by C.R.C.P. 106. Grimm v. State Bd. of Health, 121 Colo. 269, 215 P.2d 324 (1950).

Court may enter own judgment. Under this section, the court may enter what is more or less its judgment because provision is made for the court to modify the decision of the board if it so concludes. Grimm v. State Bd. of Health, 121 Colo. 269, 215 P.2d 324 (1950).

No review of failure to act. This section does not provide for judicial review of the department's failure to act. Nat'l Wildlife Fed'n v. Cotter Corp., 665 P.2d 598 (Colo. 1983).

County is a "person aggrieved and affected" by decision of department of public health and environment concerning the issuance of a hazardous waste permit. Adams Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 218 P.3d 336 (Colo. 2009).

Applied in Stone Environmental Eng'r Servs., Inc. v. State Dept. of Health, 631 P.2d 1185 (Colo. App. 1981).

25-1-114. Unlawful acts - penalties.

(1) It is unlawful for any person, association, or corporation, and the officers thereof:

(a) To willfully violate, disobey, or disregard the provisions of the public health laws or the terms of any lawful notice, order, standard, rule, or regulation issued pursuant thereto; or

(b) To fail to make or file reports required by law or rule of the board relating to the existence of disease or other facts and statistics relating to the public health; or

(c) To conduct any business or activity over which the department possesses the power to license and regulate without such license or permit as required by the department; or

(d) To willfully and falsely make or alter any certificate or license or certified copy thereof issued pursuant to the public health laws; or

(e) To knowingly transport or accept for transportation, interment, or other disposition a dead body without an accompanying permit issued in accordance with the public health laws or the rules of the board; or

(f) To willfully fail to remove from private property under his control at his own expense, within forty-eight hours after being ordered so to do by the health authorities, any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness within the jurisdiction and control of the department, whether such person, association, or corporation is the owner, tenant, or occupant of such private property; except that, if such condition is due to an act of God, it shall be removed at public expense; or

(g) To pay, give, present, or otherwise convey to any officer or employee of the department any gift, remuneration, or other consideration, directly or indirectly, which such officer or employee is forbidden to receive by the provisions of this part 1; or

(h) To make, install, maintain, or permit any cross-connection between any water system supplying drinking water to the public and any pipe, plumbing fixture, or water system which contains water of a quality below the minimum general sanitary standards as to the quality of drinking water supplied to the public or to fail to remove such connection within ten days after being ordered in writing by the department to remove the same. For the purposes of this paragraph (h), "cross-connection" means any connection which would allow water to flow from any pipe, plumbing fixture, or water system into a water system supplying drinking water to the public.

(i) To sell or offer for sale any raw milk, milk product, or unsanitary dairy product, as defined in section 25-5.5-104, for other than human consumption unless it has first been treated with a dye approved by the department; or

(j) To violate section 25-3-122.

(2) It is unlawful for any officer or employee of the department or member of the board to accept any gift, remuneration, or other consideration, directly or indirectly, for an incorrect or improper performance of the duties imposed upon him by or on behalf of the department.

(3) It is unlawful:

(a) For any officer or employee of the department to perform any work, labor, or services other than the duties assigned to him by or on behalf of the department during the hours such officer or employee is regularly employed by the department, or to perform his duties as an officer or employee of the department under any condition or arrangement that involves a violation of this or any other law of the state of Colorado;

(b) For any officer or employee of the department other than members of the board to perform any work, labor, or services which consist of the private practice of medicine, veterinary surgery, sanitary engineering, nursing, or any other profession which is or may be of special benefit to any private person, association, or corporation as distinguished from the department or the public generally, and which is performed by such officer or employee, directly or indirectly, for remuneration, whether done in an active, advisory, or consultative capacity or performed within or without the hours such officer or employee is regularly employed by the department.

(4) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, who violates any provision of this section commits a class 2 misdemeanor and is also liable for any expense incurred by health authorities in removing any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness. Conviction under the penalty provisions of this part 1 or any other public health law shall not relieve any person from any civil action in damages that may exist for an injury resulting from any violation of the public health laws.

(5) (a) It is unlawful for any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, to tamper, attempt to tamper, or threaten to tamper with a public water system or with drinking water after its withdrawal for or treatment by a public water system. For purposes of this subsection (5), "tamper" means to introduce a contaminant into a public water system or into drinking water or to otherwise interfere with drinking water or the operation of a public water system with the intention of harming persons or the public water system. "Tamper" does not include the standardized and accepted treatment procedures performed by a supplier of water in preparing water for human consumption.

(b) (I) Any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, who tampers with a public water system or with drinking water after its withdrawal for or treatment by a public water system commits a class 3 felony and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-401, C.R.S.

(II) Any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, who attempts to tamper or threatens to tamper with a public water system or with drinking water after its withdrawal for or treatment by a public water system commits a class 5 felony and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-401, C.R.S.

(III) Conviction under this subsection (5) shall not relieve any person from a civil action initiated pursuant to section 25-1-114.1.

Source: L. 47: p. 515, § 12. CSA: C. 78, § 21(13). CRS 53: § 66-1-14. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-14. L. 64: p. 478, § 2. L. 75: (1)(i) added, p. 870, § 2, effective June 20. L. 86: (1)(i) amended, p. 1220, § 25, effective May 30. L. 87: (4) amended and (5) added, p. 610, § 21, effective July 1. L. 2002: (5)(b)(I) and (5)(b)(II) amended, p. 1536, § 262, effective October 1. L. 2019: (1)(j) added, (HB 19-1174), ch. 171, p. 1995, § 7, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2021: (4) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3232, § 441, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: (1) For the penalty for a class 2 misdemeanor, see § 18-1.3-501.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

25-1-114.1. Civil remedies and penalties.

(1) The division of administration of the department may institute a civil action or administrative action, as described in subsection (2.5) of this section, against any person who violates a final enforcement order of the department issued for a violation of any minimum general sanitary standard or regulation adopted pursuant to section 25-1.5-202. Such civil action shall be brought in the district court of the county in which the violation of the standard or regulation is alleged to have occurred.

(2) Upon finding that a final enforcement order of the department has been violated and that the violation of the standard or regulation described in the order in fact occurred, the court shall:

(a) Impose a civil penalty on the violator of not more than one thousand dollars per day for each day the violation of the standard or regulation occurred if the court determines the violation was willful; or

(b) Enter such order as the public health may require, taking into consideration, where appropriate, the cost and time necessary to comply; or

(c) Impose such civil penalty and enter such order.

(2.5) (a) Any person who violates any minimum general sanitary standard and regulation promulgated pursuant to section 25-1.5-202 or 25-1-114 (1)(h), or any final enforcement order issued by the department, shall be subject to an administrative penalty as follows:

(I) For systems that serve a population of more than ten thousand people, an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars per violation per day; or

(II) For systems that serve a population of ten thousand people or less, an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars per violation per day, but only in an amount, as determined by the division, that is necessary to ensure compliance.

(b) Penalties under this subsection (2.5) shall be determined by the executive director or the executive director's designee and may be collected by the division of administration by an action instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction for collection of such penalty. The final decision of the executive director or the executive director's designee may be appealed to the water quality control commission, created pursuant to section 25-8-201. A stay of any order of the division ending judicial review shall not relieve any person from any liability with respect to past or continuing violations of any minimum general sanitary standard or any regulation promulgated pursuant to section 25-1.5-202 or 25-1-114 (1)(h), but the reason for the request for judicial review shall be considered in the determination of the amount of the penalty. In the event that such an action is instituted for the collection of such penalty, the court may consider the appropriateness of the amount of the penalty, if such issue is raised by the party against whom the penalty was assessed. Any administrative penalty collected under this section shall be credited to the general fund.

(3) The department may request the attorney general to bring a suit for a temporary restraining order or a preliminary or permanent injunction to prevent or abate any violation of a minimum general sanitary standard or regulation adopted pursuant to section 25-1.5-202 or to prevent or abate any release or imminent release that causes or is likely to cause contamination resulting in liability under section 25-1.5-207, and the department, in such a suit, may collect, on behalf of political subdivisions or public water systems, the damages incurred by such political subdivisions or public water systems under section 25-1.5-207. The department shall pay to such political subdivisions or public water systems all damages collected on their behalf. The department is not required to issue an enforcement order prior to institution of such a suit. Upon a de novo finding by the court that such a violation has occurred, is occurring, or is about to occur or that such release or imminent release exists, the court may enjoin such violation, release, or imminent release and enter such order as the public health may require, taking into consideration, where appropriate, the cost and time necessary to comply. An enforcement settlement with the state under the provisions of this subsection (3) shall bar a separate action by a political subdivision or public water system under section 25-1.5-207 whenever notice and adequate opportunity to comment on the proposed settlement have been given to the political subdivision or public water system, damages have been collected on behalf of and paid to such political subdivision or public water system by the state, and the release or imminent release has been prevented or abated by means of the settlement.

(4) Suits brought pursuant to subsection (3) of this section shall be brought in the district court of the county in which the violation is alleged to have occurred. The institution of such a suit by the division of administration shall confer upon such court exclusive jurisdiction to determine finally the subject matter of the proceeding; except that the exclusive jurisdiction of the court shall apply only to such proceeding and shall not preclude assessment of any civil penalties or any other enforcement action or sanction authorized by this section.

(4.5) An action for civil penalties under this section may be joined with a civil action to recover the state's costs pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(5) The powers of the department established by this section shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, any powers of the department.

(6) (a) The attorney general, at the request of the department, or the district attorney of the county in which an affected public water system is located or the attorney of the supplier of water may institute a civil action against any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, who tampers, attempts to tamper, or threatens to tamper with a public water system or with drinking water after its withdrawal for or treatment by a public water system. Such action shall be brought in the district court of the county in which the violation is alleged to have occurred. As used in this subsection (6), "tamper" means to introduce a contaminant into a public water system or into drinking water or to otherwise interfere with drinking water or the operation of a public water system with the intention of harming persons or public water systems. "Tamper" does not include the standardized and accepted treatment procedures performed by a supplier of water in preparing water for human consumption.

(b) Upon finding that tampering, attempting to tamper, or threatening to tamper has occurred, the court shall have the authority to:

(I) Order appropriate injunctive relief;

(II) Impose a civil penalty on the violator of not more than fifty thousand dollars for each act of tampering or of not more than twenty thousand dollars for each act of attempting to tamper or threatening to tamper;

(III) Impose on the violator all costs incurred by the state and by the affected public water system in assessing and remedying all consequences of the tampering, attempting to tamper, or threatening to tamper; and

(IV) Impose on the violator all court costs associated with remedying consequences of the tampering, attempting to tamper, or threatening to tamper.

(7) Any person subject to an action brought pursuant to subsection (3) of this section or section 25-1.5-207 shall have an affirmative defense to such action if such person's potential liability results from a discharge of contaminants or substances authorized by and in substantial compliance with an existing federal or state permit which controls the quality of the release of the contaminant or substance.

Source: L. 77: Entire section added, p. 1262, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) and (2) amended and (3) and (5) added, p. 1029, § 1, effective July 1. L. 87: (6) added, p. 610, § 22, effective July 1. L. 88: (3) amended and (4.5) and (7) added, p. 996, § 3, effective May 11. L. 98: (1) amended and (2.5) added, p. 889, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2003: (1), IP(2.5)(a), (2.5)(b), (3), and (7) amended, p. 706, § 32, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2.5)(b) amended, p. 430, § 1, effective August 5.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part I, CERCLA", see 17 Colo. Law. 1997 (1988). For article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part II, RCRA", see 17 Colo. Law. 2159 (1988).

25-1-114.5. Voluntary disclosure arising from self-evaluation - presumption against imposition of administrative or civil penalties.

(1) For the purposes of this section, a disclosure of information by a person or entity to any division or agency within the department of public health and environment regarding any information related to an environmental law is voluntary if all of the following are true:

(a) The disclosure is made promptly after knowledge of the information disclosed is obtained by the person or entity;

(b) The disclosure arises out of a voluntary self-evaluation;

(c) The person or entity making the disclosure initiates the appropriate effort to achieve compliance, pursues compliance with due diligence, and corrects the noncompliance within two years after the completion of the voluntary self-evaluation. Where such evidence shows the noncompliance is the failure to obtain a permit, appropriate efforts to correct the noncompliance may be demonstrated by the submittal of a complete permit application within a reasonable time.

(d) The person or entity making the disclosure cooperates with the appropriate division or agency in the department of public health and environment regarding investigation of the issues identified in the disclosure.

(2) For the purposes of paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of this section, upon application to and at the discretion of the department of public health and environment, the time period within which the noncompliance is required to be corrected may be extended if it is not practicable to correct the noncompliance within the two-year period. A request for a de novo review of the decision of the department of public health and environment may be made to the appropriate district court or administrative law judge.

(3) If a person or entity is required to make a disclosure to a division or agency within the department of public health and environment under a specific permit condition or under an order issued by the division or agency, then the disclosure is not voluntary with respect to that division or agency.

(4) If any person or entity makes a voluntary disclosure of an environmental violation to a division or agency within the department of public health and environment, then there is a rebuttable presumption that the disclosure is voluntary and therefore the person or entity is immune from any administrative and civil penalties associated with the issues disclosed and is immune from any criminal penalties for negligent acts associated with the issues disclosed. The person or entity shall provide information supporting its claim that the disclosure is voluntary at the time that the disclosure is made to the division or agency.

(5) To rebut the presumption that a disclosure is voluntary, the appropriate division or agency shall show to the satisfaction of the respective commission in the department of public health and environment or the state board of health, if no respective commission exists, that the disclosure was not voluntary based upon the factors set forth in subsections (1), (2), and (3) of this section. A decision by the commission or the state board of health, whichever is appropriate, regarding the voluntary nature of a disclosure is final agency action. The division or agency may not include any administrative or civil penalty or fine or any criminal penalty or fine for negligent acts in a notice of violation or in a cease-and-desist order on any underlying environmental violation that is alleged absent a finding by the respective commission or the state board of health that the division or agency has rebutted the presumption of voluntariness of the disclosure. The burden to rebut the presumption of voluntariness is on the division or agency.

(6) The elimination of administrative, civil, or criminal penalties under this section does not apply if a person or entity has been found by a court or administrative law judge to have committed serious violations that constitute a pattern of continuous or repeated violations of environmental laws, rules, regulations, permit conditions, settlement agreements, or orders on consent and that were due to separate and distinct events giving rise to the violations, within the three-year period prior to the date of the disclosure. Such a pattern of continuous or repeated violations may also be demonstrated by multiple settlement agreements related to substantially the same alleged violations concerning serious instances of noncompliance with environmental laws that occurred within the three-year period immediately prior to the date of the voluntary disclosure.

(7) Except as specifically provided in this section, this section does not affect any authority the department of public health and environment has to require any action associated with the information disclosed in any voluntary disclosure of an environmental violation.

(8) Unless the context otherwise requires, the definitions contained in section 13-25-126.5 (2), C.R.S., apply to this section.

(9) This section applies to voluntary disclosures that are made and voluntary self-evaluations that are performed on or after June 1, 1994.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1870, § 3, effective June 1; IP(1), (1)(d), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (7) amended, p. 2618, § 30, effective July 1. L. 99: (9) amended, p. 301, § 3, effective April 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1) and subsections (1)(d), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (7), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment, "Colorado's Environmental Audit Privilege Statute: Striking the Appropriate Balance?", see 67 U. Colo. L. Rev. 443 (1996). For article, "Pilot Project Offers New Hope for Colorado's Environmental Self-Audit Law", see 30 Colo. Law. 71 (Feb. 2001).

25-1-114.6. Implementation of environmental self-audit law - pilot project - legislative declaration.

(1) (a) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that, in order to encourage the regulated community to utilize the environmental self-audit provisions contained in this section and sections 25-1-114.5, 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., a pilot project is established. The general assembly hereby declares that the purpose of the environmental self-audit provisions contained in this section and sections 25-1-114.5, 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., is to encourage the regulated community to voluntarily identify environmental concerns and to address them expeditiously without fear of enforcement action by regulatory agencies. The general assembly recognizes that, due to concerns with the environmental self-audit provisions, the United States environmental protection agency has, in the past, taken direct action against entities in the regulated community that have made disclosures under the environmental self-audit provisions. The general assembly further declares that the pilot project enacted by this section is intended to allow entities to proceed under the environmental self-audit provisions with assurance that, if any such entity complies with such environmental self-audit provisions, the United States environmental protection agency will forego any enforcement action based on the disclosures made and addressed under the environmental self-audit pilot project.

(b) The general assembly further recognizes that, under the pilot project enacted by this section, the department of public health and environment will have discretion to consider certain factors in assessing a regulated entity's eligibility for penalty immunity under the environmental laws. The general assembly intends that this additional flexibility to assess an entity's eligibility, along with the protection from federal overfiling that the pilot project provides, will encourage entities to participate in the project and allow the department of public health and environment to assess the effectiveness of the environmental self-audit provisions.

(c) The provisions of this section shall only apply to disclosures made under this section and sections 25-1-114.5, 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., after the department of public health and environment and the United States environmental protection agency have entered into a memorandum of agreement binding Colorado and the federal government to enforce environmental laws in a manner consistent with the provisions of this section.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 25-1-114.5 (4) and (5), 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., on and after May 30, 2000, the department of public health and environment may assess penalties for criminal negligence when available under federal environmental law.

(3) (a) In addition to the provisions of subsection (2) of this section, notwithstanding the provisions of sections 25-1-114.5 (4) and (5), 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., on and after May 30, 2000, in determining whether an entity is entitled to penalty immunity under the provisions of section 25-1-114.5, the department of public health and environment may consider:

(I) Whether the activities disclosed may create imminent and substantial endangerment of, or result in serious harm to, public health and the environment; and

(II) Whether the activities disclosed conferred an unfair or excessive economic benefit on the disclosing entity.

(b) Notwithstanding any provision of sections 25-1-114.5 (4) and (5), 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., the department of public health and environment has discretion to determine whether and to what degree the factors in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) apply given the particular circumstances of each situation.

(4) The pilot project created by this section applies to voluntary disclosures made under this section and sections 25-1-114.5, 13-25-126.5, and 13-90-107 (1)(j), C.R.S., on and after the effective dates of both this section (May 30, 2000) and the memorandum of agreement entered into under paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of this section.

(5) Pursuant to the procedures set forth in section 13-25-126.5, C.R.S., the department of public health and environment may obtain access to an environmental self-audit report where the department of public health and environment has independent evidence of any criminal violation of an environmental law. Evidence of a criminal violation constitutes "compelling circumstances" for purposes of section 13-25-126.5 (3)(c), C.R.S., where the department of public health and environment seeks access to an environmental self-audit report. When a self-audit report is obtained, reviewed, or used in a criminal proceeding under this subsection (5), the privilege provided in section 13-25-126.5, C.R.S., applicable to civil or administrative proceedings is not waived or eliminated.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 1377, § 1, effective May 30. L. 2008: (6) repealed, p. 1906, § 98, effective August 5.

25-1-115. Treatment - religious belief.

Nothing in this part 1 shall authorize the department to impose any mode of treatment inconsistent with the religious faith or belief of any person.

Source: L. 47: p. 517, § 15. CSA: C. 78, § 21(14). CRS 53: § 66-1-15. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-15.

25-1-116. Licensed healing systems not affected.

Nothing in this part 1 shall be construed or used to amend or restrict any statute in force pertaining to the scope of practice of any state licensed healing system.

Source: L. 47: p. 518, § 16. CSA: C. 78, § 21(15). CRS 53: § 66-1-16. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-16.

25-1-117. Acquisition of federal surplus property.

The governor of the state of Colorado is authorized, for and on behalf of the state of Colorado, to make application for and secure the transfer to the state of Colorado of federal surplus property for the purpose of establishing state public health facilities in the state of Colorado; and to do and perform any acts and things which may be necessary to carry out the above, including the preparing, making, and filing of plans, applications, reports, and other documents, and the execution, acceptance, delivery, and recordation of agreements, deeds, and other instruments pertaining to the transfer of said property. The governor is further authorized to expend available general revenue funds, or such other funds as may be made available by the general assembly, for the purpose of making the above application and securing the transfer of said property in accordance with federal laws and with rules and regulations and requirements of the United States department of health, education, and welfare.

Source: L. 59: p. 473, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-1-22. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-22.

Cross references: For changes relating to the structure of the United States department of health, education, and welfare, see Public Law 96-88, Title III, section 301, and Title V, section 509, Oct. 17, 1979, 93 Stat. 677, 695.

25-1-118. Rental properties - salvage - fund created - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 60: p. 145, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-1-23. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-23. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2701, § 253, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 1345, § 2, effective May 27.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 2008. (See L. 2008, p. 1345.)

25-1-119. Disposition and expenditures of moneys from fund. (Repealed)

Source: L. 60: p. 145, § 2. CRS 53: § 66-1-24. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-1-24. L. 94: (1)(a) amended, p. 2701, § 254, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section repealed, p. 1345, § 3, effective May 27.

25-1-120. Nursing facilities - rights of patients.

(1) The department shall require all skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities to adopt and make public a statement of the rights and responsibilities of the patients who are receiving treatment in such facilities and to treat their patients in accordance with the provisions of said statement. The statement shall ensure each patient the following:

(a) The right to civil and religious liberties, including knowledge of available choices and the right to independent personal decisions, which will not be infringed upon, and the right to encouragement and assistance from the staff of the facility in the fullest possible exercise of these rights;

(b) The right to have private and unrestricted communications with any person of the patient's choice, except as specified in section 25-3-125 (2) and (3);

(c) The right to present grievances on behalf of himself or others to the facility's staff or administrator, to governmental officials, or to any other person, without fear of reprisal, and to join with other patients or individuals within or outside of the facility to work for improvements in patient care;

(d) The right to manage his own financial affairs or to have a quarterly accounting of any financial transactions made in his behalf, should he delegate such responsibility to the facility for any period of time;

(e) The right to be fully informed, in writing, prior to or at the time of admission and during his stay, of services available in the facility and of related charges, including charges for services not covered under medicare or medicaid or not covered by the basic per diem rate;

(f) The right to be adequately informed of his medical condition and proposed treatment, unless otherwise indicated by his physician, and to participate in the planning of all medical treatment, including the right to refuse medication and treatment, unless otherwise indicated by his physician, and to know the consequences of such actions;

(g) The right to receive adequate and appropriate health care consistent with established and recognized practice standards within the community and with skilled and intermediate nursing care facility rules and regulations as promulgated by the department;

(h) The right to have privacy in treatment and in caring for personal needs, confidentiality in the treatment of personal and medical records, and security in storing and using personal possessions;

(i) The right to be treated courteously, fairly, and with the fullest measure of dignity and to receive a written statement of the services provided by the facility, including those required to be offered on an as-needed basis;

(j) The right to be free from mental and physical abuse and from physical and chemical restraints, except those restraints initiated through the judgment of the professional staff for a specified and limited period of time or on the written authorization of a physician;

(k) The right to be transferred or discharged only for medical reasons or his welfare, or that of other patients, or for nonpayment for his stay and the right to be given reasonable advance notice of any transfer or discharge, except in the case of an emergency as determined by the professional staff;

(l) The right to devolution of his or her rights and responsibilities upon a sponsor, guardian, or person exercising rights contained in a designated beneficiary agreement executed pursuant to article 22 of title 15, C.R.S., who shall see that he or she is provided with adequate, appropriate, and respectful medical treatment and care and all rights which he or she is capable of exercising should he or she be determined to be incompetent pursuant to law and not be restored to legal capacity;

(m) The right to freedom of choice in selecting a health-care facility;

(n) The right to copies of the facility's rules and regulations and an explanation of his responsibility to obey all reasonable rules and regulations of the facility and to respect the personal rights and private property of the other patients.

(1.5) If a facility requires a lease agreement with a provision requiring in excess of a month-to-month tenancy and the lease agreement results in or requires forfeiture of more than thirty days of rent if a patient moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of the lease agreement, then the lease agreement shall be deemed to be against public policy and shall be void; except that inclusion of such a provision shall not render the remainder of the contract or lease agreement void. A contract provision or lease agreement that requires forfeiture of rent for thirty days after the patient moves due to a medical condition or dies does not violate this section. The provisions regarding forfeiture of rent shall appear on the front page of the contract or lease agreement and shall be printed in no less than twelve-point bold-faced type. The provisions shall read as follows:

This lease agreement is for a month-to-month tenancy. The lessor shall not require the forfeiture of rent beyond a thirty-day period if the lessee moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of the lease.

​In circumstances in which the patient moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of a contract or lease agreement, the facility shall return that part of the rent paid in excess of thirty days' rent after a patient moves or dies to the patient or the patient's estate. The facility may assess daily rental charges for any days in which the former or deceased patient's personal possessions remain in the patient's room after the period for which the patient has paid rent and for the usual time to clean the room after the patient's personal possessions have been removed. The facility shall have forty-five days after the date the patient's personal possessions have been removed from the patient's room to reconcile the patient's accounts and to return any moneys owed. This subsection (1.5) applies to any facility, or a distinct part of a facility, that meets the state nursing home licensing standards set forth in section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(I) and the licensing requirements specified in section 25-3-101. For purposes of this section, "daily rental charges" means an amount not to exceed one-thirtieth of thirty days' rental amount plus reasonable expenses.

(2) Each skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility shall provide a copy of the statement required by subsection (1) of this section to each patient or his guardian at or before the patient's admission to a facility and to each staff member of a facility. Each such facility shall prepare a written plan and provide appropriate staff training to implement the provisions of this section.

(3) Each skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility shall prepare a written plan and provide appropriate facilities to ensure that the rights guaranteed by subsection (1) of this section are enforced by a grievance procedure which contains the following procedures and rights:

(a) A resident of any facility, the residents' advisory council, or the sibling, child, spouse, parent, or person exercising rights contained in a designated beneficiary agreement executed pursuant to article 22 of title 15, C.R.S., of any resident may formally complain in the manner described in this subsection (3) about any conditions, treatment, or violations of his or her rights by the facility or its staff or about any treatment, conditions, or violations of the rights of any other resident, regardless of the consent of the victim of the alleged improper treatment, condition, or violation of rights by the facility or its staff.

(b) Each facility shall designate one full-time staff member, referred to in this subsection (3) as the "designee", to receive all grievances when they are first made.

(c) Each facility shall establish a grievance committee consisting of the chief administrator of the facility or his designee, a resident selected by the resident population of the facility, and a third person to be agreed upon by the administrator and the resident representative.

(d) If anyone designated in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) wishes to complain about treatment, conditions, or violations of rights, he shall write or cause to be written his grievance or shall state it orally to the designee no later than fourteen days after the occurrence giving rise to the grievance. The designee shall confer with persons involved in the occurrence and with any other witnesses and, no later than three days after the grievance, give a written explanation of findings and proposed remedies, if any, to the complainant and to the aggrieved party, if someone other than the complainant. Where appropriate because of the mental or physical condition of the complainant or the aggrieved party, the written explanation shall be accompanied by an oral explanation.

(e) If the complainant or aggrieved party is dissatisfied with the findings and remedies or the implementation thereof, he may then make the same grievance orally or in writing, with any additional comments or information, to the grievance committee no later than ten days after the receipt of the explanation from the designee. Said committee shall confer with persons involved in the occurrence and with any other witnesses and, no later than ten days after the appeal from the designee, give a written explanation of its findings and proposed remedies, if any, to the complainant and to the aggrieved party, if someone other than the complainant. Where appropriate because of the mental or physical condition of the complainant or the aggrieved party, the written explanation shall be accompanied by an oral explanation.

(4) Each skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility shall also establish a residents' advisory council which shall consist of not less than five members selected by and from the resident population of the facility. The council shall meet at least once a month with the administrator of the facility and a representative of the staff to make recommendations concerning policies of the facility. The council may also present grievances to the grievance committee on behalf of a resident.

(5) If a complainant or aggrieved party is dissatisfied with the findings and remedies of the grievance committee or implementation thereof, except for grievances against a physician or his prescribed treatment, he may file the same grievance in writing with the executive director of the department. The department shall investigate the facts and circumstances of the grievance and make findings of fact, conclusions, and recommendations, copies of which shall be transmitted to the complainant and the nursing home administrator. If the complainant or the nursing home administrator is aggrieved by the findings and the recommendations of the department, the aggrieved party may request a hearing to be conducted by the department pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S. The board shall adopt rules and regulations to carry out the intent of this section.

(6) Implementation of this section shall be pursuant to section 25.5-6-204, C.R.S.

(7) Nothing in this section shall apply to any nursing institution conducted by or for the adherents of any well-recognized church or religious denomination for the purpose of providing facilities for the care and treatment of the sick who depend exclusively upon spiritual means through prayer for healing in the practice of the religion of such church or denomination.

(8) (a) A patient who is eligible to receive medicaid benefits pursuant to articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S., and who qualifies for nursing facility care shall have the right to select any nursing care facility recommended for certification by the department of public health and environment under Title XIX of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended, as a provider of medicaid services and licensed by the department pursuant to article 3 of this title where space is available, and the department of health care policy and financing shall reimburse the selected facility for services pursuant to section 25.5-6-204, C.R.S., unless such nursing care facility shall have been notified by the department of health care policy and financing that it may not qualify as a provider of medicaid services.

(b) A patient who is residing in such nursing care facility shall be assured the resident rights which are provided by section 4211 of Title IV of the federal "Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987", as amended, Pub.L. 100-203. Failure to protect and promote those rights shall subject the violating facility to sanctions imposed by the department.

(9) A patient who is eligible to receive benefits from a skilled or intermediate nursing care facility certified by the department under Title XVIII of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended, as a provider of medicare services shall be assured the same rights as provided in paragraph (a) of subsection (8) of this section.

Source: L. 75: Entire section added, p. 873, § 1, effective July 1. L. 76: (8) added, p. 640, § 1, effective May 26. L. 89: (3)(a) and (8) amended and (9) added, p. 1144, § 1, effective April 4. L. 91: (6) and (8)(a) amended, p. 1856, § 13, effective April 11. L. 94: (8)(a) amended, p. 2624, § 42, effective July 1. L. 2006: (6) and (8)(a) amended, p. 2012, § 81, effective July 1; (1.5) added, p. 253, § 1, effective January 1, 2007. L. 2009: (1)(l) and (3)(a) amended, (HB 09-1260), ch. 107, p. 448, § 18, effective July 1. L. 2022: (1)(b) amended, (SB 22-053), ch. 430, p. 3034, § 1, effective June 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (8)(a), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Advocating for Quality Nursing Home Care and Sufficient Staffing in Colorado", see 34 Colo. Law. 31 (Oct. 2005). For article, "Involuntary Discharge From Nursing Homes", see 34 Colo. Law. 37 (Oct. 2005).

Substantive and due process rights of nursing home patients are established by this section. Macleod v. Miller, 44 Colo. App. 313, 612 P.2d 1158 (1980).

Burden is on nursing facility to show that the transfer is in accordance with subsections (1)(k) and (8). Macleod v. Miller, 44 Colo. App. 313, 612 P.2d 1158 (1980).

25-1-121. Patient grievance mechanism - institution's obligations to patient.

(1) As used in this section, "institution" means every hospital or related facility or institution having in excess of fifty beds and required to be licensed under part 1 of article 3 of this title or required to be certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(II), except skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities which are subject to the provisions of section 25-1-120.

(2) The department shall require every institution to submit to the department a plan for a patient grievance mechanism and a policy statement with respect to the obligations of the institution to patients using the facilities of such institution. The plan and policy statement must meet with the approval of the department prior to certification of compliance or issuance or renewal of a license.

(3) A patient grievance mechanism plan shall include, but not be limited to:

(a) A provision for a patient representative to serve as a liaison between the patient and the institution;

(b) A description of the qualifications of the patient representative;

(c) An outline of the job description of the patient representative;

(d) A description of the amount of decision-making authority given to the patient representative;

(e) A method by which each patient will be made aware of the patient representative program and how the representative of the program may be contacted.

(4) The policy statement with respect to the obligations of the institution to patients using facilities of such an institution shall be posted conspicuously in a public place on its premises and made available to each patient upon admission. Such policy statement shall include, but need not be limited to, a clarification of a physician's duty to provide informed consent, admission procedures, staff identification, privacy, medical records, billing procedures, and the obligation of the physician to provide information regarding research, experimental, or educational projects relating to the patient's own case. Nothing in this section shall apply to any nursing institution conducted by or for the adherents of any well-recognized church or religious denomination for the purpose of providing facilities for the care and treatment of the sick who depend exclusively upon spiritual means through prayer for healing in the practice of the religion of such church or denomination.

Source: L. 76: Entire section added, p. 640, § 2, effective May 26. L. 2003: (1) amended, p. 708, § 33, effective July 1.

25-1-122. Named reporting of certain diseases and conditions - access to medical records - confidentiality of reports and records.

(1) With respect to investigations of epidemic and communicable diseases, morbidity and mortality, cancer in connection with the statewide cancer registry, environmental and chronic diseases, sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, and rabies and mammal bites, the board has the authority to require reporting, without patient consent, of occurrences of those diseases and conditions by any person having knowledge of such to the state department of public health and environment and county, district, and municipal public health agencies, within their respective jurisdictions. Any required reports must contain the name, address, age, sex, and diagnosis and other relevant information as the board determines is necessary to protect the public health. The board shall set the manner, time period, and form in which the reports are to be made. The board may limit reporting for a specific disease or condition to a particular region or community or for a limited period of time.

(2) When investigating diseases and conditions pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, authorized personnel of the state department of public health and environment and county, district, and municipal public health agencies, within their respective jurisdictions, may, without patient consent, inspect, have access to, and obtain information from pertinent patient medical, coroner, and laboratory records in the custody of all medical practitioners, veterinarians, coroners, institutions, hospitals, agencies, laboratories, and clinics, whether public or private, which are relevant and necessary to the investigation. Review and inspection of records shall be conducted at reasonable times and with such notice as is reasonable under the circumstances. Under no circumstances may personnel of the state department of public health and environment or county, district, or municipal public health agencies, within their local jurisdictions, have access pursuant to this section to any medical record that is not pertinent, relevant, or necessary to the public health investigation.

(3) Any report or disclosure made in good faith pursuant to subsection (1) or (2) of this section shall not constitute libel or slander or a violation of any right of privacy or privileged communication.

(4) Reports and records resulting from the investigation of epidemic and communicable diseases, environmental and chronic diseases, reports of morbidity and mortality, reports of cancer in connection with the statewide cancer registry, and reports and records resulting from the investigation of sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, and rabies and mammal bites held by the state department of public health and environment or county, district, or municipal public health agencies shall be strictly confidential. Such reports and records shall not be released, shared with any agency or institution, or made public, upon subpoena, search warrant, discovery proceedings, or otherwise, except under any of the following circumstances:

(a) Release may be made of medical and epidemiological information in a manner such that no individual person can be identified.

(b) Release may be made of medical and epidemiological information to the extent necessary for the treatment, control, investigation, and prevention of diseases and conditions dangerous to the public health; except that every effort shall be made to limit disclosure of personal identifying information to the minimal amount necessary to accomplish the public health purpose.

(c) Release may be made to the person who is the subject of a medical record or report with written authorization from such person.

(d) An officer or employee of the county, district, or municipal public health agency or the state department of public health and environment may make a report of child abuse to agencies responsible for receiving or investigating reports of child abuse or neglect in accordance with the applicable provisions of the "Child Protection Act of 1987" set forth in part 3 of article 3 of title 19, C.R.S. However, in the event a report is made by the state department of public health and environment, only the following information shall be included in the report:

(I) The name, address, and sex of the child;

(II) The name and address of the person responsible for the child;

(III) The name and address of the person who is alleged to be responsible for the suspected abuse or neglect, if known; and

(IV) The general nature of the child's injury.

(e) Medical and epidemiological information may be released to a peace officer as described in section 16-2.5-101, C.R.S., the federal bureau of investigation, a federal law enforcement agency as designated by the United States attorney for the district of Colorado, or any prosecutor to the extent necessary for any investigation or prosecution related to bioterrorism; except that reasonable efforts shall be made to limit disclosure of personal identifying information to the minimal amount necessary to accomplish the law enforcement purpose. For purposes of this paragraph (e), "bioterrorism" means the intentional use of, attempted use of, conspiracy to use, or solicitation to use microorganisms or toxins of biological origin or chemical or radiological agents to cause death or disease among humans or animals.

(5) No officer or employee or agent of the state department of public health and environment or county, district, or municipal public health agency shall be examined in any judicial, executive, legislative, or other proceeding as to the existence or content of any individual's report obtained by such department pursuant to subsection (1) or (2) of this section without that individual's consent. However, this provision shall not apply to individuals who are under isolation or quarantine, school exclusion, or other restrictive action taken pursuant to section 25-1.5-102 (1)(c) or part 4, 5, 6, or 9 of article 4 of this title.

(6) Any officer or employee or agent of the state department of public health and environment or a county, district, or municipal public health agency who violates this section by releasing or making public confidential public health reports or records or by otherwise breaching the confidentiality requirements of subsection (4) or (5) of this section commits a class 2 misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-501 (1).

(7) Nothing in subsections (4) to (6) of this section applies to records and reports held by the state or local department of health pursuant to part 4 of article 4 of this title.

(8) Pursuant to section 25-1-113, any person may seek judicial review of a decision of the board or of the department affecting such person under this section.

(9) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the department shall administer the provisions of this section regardless of an individual's race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

Source: L. 91: Entire section added, p. 943, § 2, effective May 6. L. 93: (4)(d) added, p. 1609, § 3, effective June 6. L. 94: (2), IP(4), IP(4)(d), (5), and (6) amended, p. 2741, § 378, effective July 1. L. 2002: (6) amended, p. 1536, § 263, effective October 1. L. 2003: (4)(e) added, p. 1020, § 1, effective April 17; (5) amended, p. 708, § 34, effective July 1. L. 2004: (4)(e) amended, p. 1201, § 65, effective August 4. L. 2006, 1st Ex. Sess.: (9) added, p. 25, § 1, effective July 31. L. 2009: (1) and IP(4) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 474, § 19, effective April 9. L. 2010: (1), (2), IP(4), IP(4)(d), (5), and (6) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2090, § 84, effective August 11. L. 2016: (1), (2), and (7) amended, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 921, § 20, effective July 1. L. 2021: (6) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3232, § 442, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), the introductory portions to subsections (4) and (4)(d), and subsections (5) and (6), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

25-1-122.5. Confidentiality of genetic testing records - "Uniform Parentage Act".

Notwithstanding any other law concerning public records, any records or information concerning the genetic testing of a person for purposes of the determination of parentage pursuant to article 4 of title 19, C.R.S., shall be confidential and shall not be disclosed except as otherwise provided in section 19-1-308, C.R.S.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1549, § 28, effective May 31. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 1175, § 14, effective January 1, 1997.

25-1-123. Restructure of health and human services - development of plan - participation of department required.

The department, in cooperation with the department of health care policy and financing and the department of human services, shall develop a plan for the restructuring of the health and human services delivery system in the state in accordance with article 1.7 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 1097, § 14, effective July 1, 1994.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

25-1-124. Health-care facilities - consumer information - reporting - release.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that an increasing number of people are faced with the difficult task of choosing a health-care facility for themselves and their family members. This task may be made less difficult by improved access to reliable, helpful, and unbiased information concerning the quality of care and the safety of the environment offered by each health-care facility. The general assembly further finds that it is appropriate that the department, in keeping with its role of protecting and improving the public health, solicit this information from health-care facilities and disseminate it to the public in a form that will assist people in making informed choices among health-care facilities.

(2) Each health-care facility licensed pursuant to section 25-3-101 or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(II) shall report to the department all of the following occurrences:

(a) Any occurrence that results in the death of a patient or resident of the facility and is required to be reported to the coroner pursuant to section 30-10-606, C.R.S., as arising from an unexplained cause or under suspicious circumstances;

(b) Any occurrence that results in any of the following serious injuries to a patient or resident:

(I) Brain or spinal cord injuries;

(II) Life-threatening complications of anesthesia or life-threatening transfusion errors or reactions;

(III) Second- or third-degree burns involving twenty percent or more of the body surface area of an adult patient or resident or fifteen percent or more of the body surface area of a child patient or resident;

(c) Any time that a resident or patient of the facility cannot be located following a search of the facility, the facility grounds, and the area surrounding the facility and there are circumstances that place the resident's health, safety, or welfare at risk or, regardless of whether such circumstances exist, the patient or resident has been missing for eight hours;

(d) Any occurrence involving physical, sexual, or verbal abuse of a patient or resident, as described in section 18-3-202, 18-3-203, 18-3-204, 18-3-206, 18-3-402, 18-3-403, as it existed prior to July 1, 2000, 18-3-404, or 18-3-405, C.R.S., by another patient or resident, an employee of the facility, or a visitor to the facility;

(e) Any occurrence involving caretaker neglect of a patient or resident, as described in section 26-3.1-101 (2.3), C.R.S.;

(f) Any occurrence involving misappropriation of a patient's or resident's property. For purposes of this paragraph (f), "misappropriation of a patient's or resident's property" means a pattern of or deliberately misplacing, exploiting, or wrongfully using, either temporarily or permanently, a patient's or resident's belongings or money without the patient's or resident's consent.

(g) Any occurrence in which drugs intended for use by patients or residents are diverted to use by other persons. If the diverted drugs are injectable, the health-care facility shall also report the full name and date of birth of any individual who diverted the injectable drugs, if known.

(h) Any occurrence involving the malfunction or intentional or accidental misuse of patient or resident care equipment that occurs during treatment or diagnosis of a patient or resident and that significantly adversely affects or if not averted would have significantly adversely affected a patient or resident of the facility.

(2.5) (a) In addition to the reports required by subsection (2) of this section, if the Colorado attorney general, the department of health care policy and financing, a case management agency, as defined in section 25.5-6-1702, an adult protection service, or a law enforcement agency makes a report of an occurrence as described in subsection (2) of this section involving a licensed long-term care facility, that report must be provided to the department and made available for inspection consistent with the provisions of subsection (6) of this section. Any reports concerning an adult protection service must be in compliance with the confidentiality requirements of section 26-3.1-102 (7).

(b) For purposes of this subsection (2.5), a "licensed long-term care facility" means a licensed community residential or group home, a licensed intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and a licensed facility for persons with developmental disabilities.

(3) The board by rule shall specify the manner, time period, and form in which the reports required pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall be made.

(4) Any report submitted pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall be strictly confidential; except that information in any such report may be transmitted to an appropriate regulatory agency having jurisdiction for disciplinary or license sanctions. The information in such reports shall not be made public upon subpoena, search warrant, discovery proceedings, or otherwise, except as provided in subsection (6) of this section.

(5) The department shall investigate each report submitted pursuant to subsection (2) of this section that it determines was appropriately submitted. For each report investigated, the department shall prepare a summary of its findings, including the department's conclusions and whether there was a violation of licensing standards or a deficiency or whether the facility acted appropriately in response to the occurrence. If the investigation is not conducted on site, the department shall specify in the summary how the investigation was conducted. Any investigation conducted pursuant to this subsection (5) shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any inspection required to be conducted pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a) with regard to licensing.

(6) (a) The department shall make the following information available to the public:

(I) Any investigation summaries prepared pursuant to subsection (5) of this section;

(II) Any complaints against a health-care facility that have been filed with the department and that the department has investigated, including the conclusions reached by the department and whether there was a violation of licensing standards or a deficiency or whether the facility acted appropriately in response to the subject of the complaint; and

(III) A listing of any deficiency citations issued against each health-care facility.

(b) The information released pursuant to this subsection (6) shall not identify the patient or resident or the health-care professional involved in the report.

(7) Prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to this section, the department may respond to any inquiry regarding a report received pursuant to subsection (2) of this section by confirming that it has received such report and that an investigation is pending.

(8) In addition to the report to the department for an occurrence described in paragraph (d) of subsection (2) of this section, the occurrence shall be reported to a law enforcement agency.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 504, § 1, effective April 24. L. 2000: (2)(d) amended, p. 708, § 37, effective July 1. L. 2003: IP(2) and (5) amended, p. 708, § 35, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2.5) and (8) added, p. 349, § 1, effective April 6. L. 2010: IP(2) and (2)(g) amended, (HB 10-1414), ch. 338, p. 1552, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2013: (2)(e) amended, (SB 13-111), ch. 233, p. 1127, § 14, effective May 16; (2.5)(b) amended, (SB 13-167), ch. 394, p. 2290, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2021: (2.5)(a) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 329, § 17, effective July 1, 2024.

Cross references: (1) For limitation on liability regarding transplants and transfusion of blood, see § 13-22-104.

(2) For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsection (2)(e), see section 1 of chapter 233, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

25-1-124.3. Dementia care services - information disclosure form - requirements - assisted living residence improvement cash fund - rules - definitions.

(1) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Dementia care facility" or "facility" means a facility that is licensed by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 and that offers on-site and residential services for individuals with dementia diseases and related disabilities.

(b) "Dementia diseases and related disabilities" or "dementia" has the meaning set forth in section 25-1-502 (2.5).

(c) "Form" means the dementia care services information form created by the department pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(d) "State long-term care ombudsman" means the state long-term care ombudsman established pursuant to article 11.5 of title 26 or the state long-term care ombudsman's designee.

(2) Dementia care services information form.

(a) By July 1, 2027, the department shall create a dementia care services information form for dementia care facilities to complete and distribute in accordance with subsection (3) of this section. The form must include fields for the disclosure of information regarding the dementia care facility's services. At a minimum, the form must include fields for each of the following elements:

(I) The facility's requirements for dementia training for the facility's staff that are in addition to the dementia training required pursuant to section 25-1.5-118;

(II) The facility's guidelines for using physical and chemical restraints in the course of providing care to residents living with dementia;

(III) The facility's security features and security procedures for addressing the needs of residents with dementia, including wandering and emergency response;

(IV) The criteria and processes the facility uses to determine the placement, transfer, or discharge of residents living with dementia;

(V) A description of how the facility involves family members in the activities and care of residents living with dementia;

(VI) A description of how and when a resident's authorized representative is notified of incidents or concerns, including medical concerns, safety concerns, and other concerns;

(VII) A description of the facility's on-site and on-call medical professionals;

(VIII) A statement identifying sources, including a link to the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services' "Care Compare" website, or any successor website, that an individual may consult to find information about:

(A) Past enforcement actions or complaints, if any, that resulted in the department issuing warnings or fines; and

(B) The health-care coverage payer sources that the facility accepts, including whether the facility accepts payment from private insurance plans, through medicaid, or through the United States department of veterans affairs; and

(IX) An explanation of the facility's fee model. The explanation must include details about when and how a resident and the resident's authorized representative will be notified of any change to the fees.

(b) The department shall create the form described in subsection (2)(a) of this section in consultation with the state long-term care ombudsman. The department may consult with any other state department or organization as the department deems necessary.

(c) The department may review and update the form to ensure that the form facilitates the disclosure of the information specified in subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(d) As soon as practicable after creating or updating the form pursuant to this subsection (2), the department shall provide the form or the most recently updated version of the form to every dementia care facility.

(e) The department may adopt rules as necessary to implement this section.

(f) The department may use money from the assisted living residence improvement cash fund, created in section 25-27-106 (2)(b)(IV), for the purposes of creating the form in accordance with this subsection (2) and adopting rules related to the form.

(2.5) The rules adopted by the department in accordance with this section shall not exceed applicable national standards.

(3) Duty to distribute dementia care information.

(a) A dementia care facility shall complete the dementia care services information form created or updated by the department pursuant to subsection (2) of this section with responsive, accurate, and complete information regarding the facility's dementia care services.

(b) Beginning October 1, 2027, a dementia care facility shall:

(I) Provide the facility's completed dementia care services information form to an individual who contacts the facility seeking dementia care services, whether the individual is seeking dementia care services for themself, for a family member, or for someone who is not a family member;

(II) Review the form when the facility's information changes, and no less than once every five years, to ensure that the information provided on the form is current, complete, and correct;

(III) Update the facility's information on the form as soon as practicable after a change to the information occurs;

(IV) Publish the current version of the completed form on the facility's public-facing website; and

(V) At all times, maintain on the facility's premises and have available for inspection a copy of the facility's completed form with the facility's most current information and produce the form upon request by the department during a survey or inspection of the facility.

(4) Regulatory oversight and enforcement.

(a) The department shall require a dementia care facility to maintain and have available for inspection a copy of the facility's current and completed form described in subsection (3)(b)(V) of this section.

(b) During each survey or inspection of a dementia care facility, the department shall require the facility to produce for inspection the facility's current form, completed and updated in accordance with subsection (3)(b)(V) of this section.

(c) If a facility violates subsection (3)(b)(V) of this section or does not produce the facility's current form upon a request made by the department pursuant to subsection (4)(b) of this section, the department shall issue a citation to the facility.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (HB 26-1107), ch. 92, p. 371, § 1, effective August 12.

25-1-124.5. Nursing care facilities - employees - record check - adult protective services data system check - definition.

(1) On and after September 1, 1996, prior to employing any person, a nursing care facility or the person seeking employment at a nursing care facility shall make an inquiry to the director of the Colorado bureau of investigation or to private criminal background check companies authorized to do business in the state of Colorado to ascertain whether the person has a criminal history, including arrest and conviction records. The Colorado bureau of investigation or private criminal background check companies are authorized to utilize fingerprints to ascertain from the federal bureau of investigation whether the person has a criminal history record. When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an applicant performed pursuant to this section reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the nursing care facility shall require that applicant to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d). The nursing care facility or the person seeking employment in a nursing care facility shall pay the costs of an inquiry or a name-based judicial record check performed pursuant to this section. The record check must be conducted not more than ninety days prior to the employment of the applicant. For purposes of this section, criminal background check companies must be approved by the state board of nursing. In approving the companies, approval must be based upon the provision of lawfully available, accurate, and thorough information pertaining to criminal histories, including arrest and conviction records.

(2) As used in this section, "nursing care facility" includes:

(a) A nursing facility as defined in section 25.5-4-103 (14), C.R.S.;

(b) An intermediate nursing facility for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities as defined in section 25.5-4-103 (9);

(c) An adult day care facility as defined in section 25.5-6-303 (1), C.R.S.;

(d) An alternative care facility as defined in section 25.5-6-303 (3), C.R.S.;

(e) Any business that provides temporary nursing care services or that provides personnel who provide such services.

(3) In addition to the background check required pursuant to this section, on and after January 1, 2024, prior to employment, a nursing care facility shall submit the name of a person who will be providing direct care, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (3.5), to an at-risk adult, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (1.5), and the name of a person who will be serving as a nursing home administrator, as defined in section 12-265-103 (2), as well as any other required identifying information, to the department of human services for a check of the Colorado adult protective services data system pursuant to section 26-3.1-111, to determine if the person is substantiated in a case of mistreatment of an at-risk adult.

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 1180, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2)(a) to (2)(d) amended, p. 2013, § 82, effective July 1. L. 2017: IP(2) and (2)(b) amended, (HB 17-1046), ch. 50, p. 159, § 12, effective March 16; (2)(b) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1322, § 181, effective May 25; (3) added, (HB 17-1284), ch. 272, p. 1504, § 8, effective May 31. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 552, § 35, effective April 18. L. 2022: (1) and (3) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 525, § 37, effective April 21. L. 2023: (3) amended, (SB 23-155), ch. 327, p. 1961, § 4, effective January 1, 2024.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-1-124.7. Health facilities - employees - adult protective services data system check.

On and after January 1, 2019, prior to employment, a health facility licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(I)(A), including health facilities wholly owned and operated by any governmental unit or agency, shall submit the name of a person who will be providing direct care, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (3.5), to an at-risk adult, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (1.5), as well as any other required identifying information, to the department of human services for a check of the Colorado adult protective services data system pursuant to section 26-3.1-111, to determine if the person is substantiated in a case of mistreatment of an at-risk adult.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (HB 17-1284), ch. 272, p. 1504, § 9, effective May 31.

25-1-125. Applications for licenses - authority to suspend licenses - rules.

(1) Every application by an individual for a license issued by the department or any authorized agent of the department shall require the applicant's name, address, and social security number.

(2) The department or any authorized agent of the department shall deny, suspend, or revoke any license pursuant to the provisions of section 26-13-126, C.R.S., and any rules promulgated in furtherance thereof, if the department or agent thereof receives a notice to deny, suspend, or revoke from the state child support enforcement agency because the licensee or applicant is out of compliance with a court or administrative order for current child support, child support debt, retroactive child support, child support arrearages, or child support when combined with maintenance or because the licensee or applicant has failed to comply with a properly issued subpoena or warrant relating to a paternity or child support proceeding. Any such denial, suspension, or revocation shall be in accordance with the procedures specified by rule of the department, rules promulgated by the state board of human services, and any memorandum of understanding entered into between the department or an authorized agent thereof and the state child support enforcement agency for the implementation of this section and section 26-13-126, C.R.S.

(3) (a) The department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the state child support enforcement agency, which memorandum shall identify the relative responsibilities of the department and the state child support enforcement agency in the department of human services with respect to the implementation of this section and section 26-13-126, C.R.S.

(b) The appropriate rule-making body of the department is authorized to promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this section.

(4) For purposes of this section, "license" means any recognition, authority, or permission that the department or any authorized agent of the department is authorized by law to issue for an individual to practice a profession or occupation or for an individual to participate in any recreational activity. "License" may include, but is not necessarily limited to, any license, certificate, certification, letter of authorization, or registration issued for an individual to practice a profession or occupation or for an individual to participate in any recreational activity.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1285, § 28, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1997 act enacting this section, see section 51 of chapter 236, Session Laws of Colorado 1997.

25-1-126. County practitioner rural recruitment grant program - creation - legislative declaration - administration - report - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 2093, § 3, effective July 1, 2008.

Editor's note: Subsection (6) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2010. (See L. 2007, p. 2093.)

25-1-127. Medical equipment for rural communities grant program - creation - legislative declaration - administration - report - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 2093, § 3, effective July 1, 2008.

Editor's note: Subsection (6) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2010. (See L. 2007, p. 2093.)

25-1-128. Designation of caregiver - notice - instructions - definitions - rules.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "Aftercare" means assistance provided by a caregiver to a patient in the patient's residence after the patient's discharge from a hospital, following an inpatient hospital stay, and may include: Assisting with basic activities of daily living; assisting with instrumental activities of daily living; and carrying out medical or nursing tasks such as managing wound care, assisting in administering medications, and operating medical equipment.

(b) "Caregiver" means a person eighteen years of age or older designated by a patient to provide aftercare to a patient living in his or her residence.

(c) "Hospital" means a facility currently licensed or certified by the department as a general hospital pursuant to the department's authority under sections 25-1.5-103 and 25-3-101.

(d) "Residence" means the patient's home. "Residence" does not include a rehabilitation facility, hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility, or licensed group home.

(2) (a) A hospital shall give each patient or the patient's legal guardian the opportunity to designate at least one caregiver no later than twenty-four hours after the patient's admission to the hospital and prior to the patient's release from the hospital or nonemergency transfer to another facility.

(b) If a patient is unconscious or incapacitated upon his or her admission to the hospital, the hospital shall give the patient or the patient's legal guardian the opportunity to designate a caregiver as soon as practicable after the patient's recovery of consciousness or capacity.

(c) A patient or patient's legal guardian is not obligated to designate a caregiver at any time.

(d) If the patient or the patient's legal guardian declines to designate a caregiver, the hospital shall document this in the patient's medical record.

(3) (a) If the patient or the patient's legal guardian designates a caregiver, the hospital shall request consent from the patient or the patient's legal guardian to release medical information to the caregiver.

(b) The hospital shall record the designation of the caregiver, the relationship of the caregiver to the patient, and the name, telephone number, and address of the caregiver in the patient's medical record.

(c) A patient or the patient's legal guardian may change the caregiver designation at any time. The hospital shall record the change in the patient's medical record within twenty-four hours of the change.

(d) This section does not obligate a person designated as a caregiver to perform aftercare tasks for a patient.

(4) If a patient or the patient's legal guardian designates a caregiver, the hospital shall notify the patient's caregiver of the patient's discharge or transfer to another facility as soon as practicable, which may be after the patient's physician issues a discharge order. If the hospital is unable to contact the caregiver, the lack of contact shall not interfere with, delay, or otherwise affect the medical care provided to the patient or the appropriate discharge of the patient. The hospital shall promptly document the attempt in the patient's medical record.

(5) (a) As soon as possible and prior to the patient's release from the hospital, the hospital shall consult with the patient or the patient's legal guardian and the caregiver and issue a discharge plan that describes the patient's aftercare needs. The discharge plan must include:

(I) The name and contact information of the caregiver, as provided by the caregiver;

(II) A description of the aftercare tasks necessary to maintain the patient's ability to reside in his or her residence; and

(III) Contact information for any health-care, community resources, and long-term services and support necessary to successfully carry out a patient's discharge plan.

(b) The hospital shall provide the caregiver with instructions concerning all aftercare tasks described in the discharge plan. The instructions shall include:

(I) A live demonstration of the aftercare tasks performed by a hospital employee or other authorized individual and provided in a culturally competent manner and in accordance with the hospital's requirements to provide language access services;

(II) An opportunity for the caregiver and the patient or the patient's legal guardian to ask questions about the aftercare tasks; and

(III) Answers to the caregiver's, patient's, and patient's legal guardian's questions in a culturally competent manner and in accordance with the hospital's requirements to provide language access services.

(c) The hospital shall document the instructions required in this subsection (5) in the patient's medical record, including the date, time, and contents of the instructions, and whether the caregiver accepted or refused the offer of instruction.

(6) Nothing in this section:

(a) Interferes with the rights of an agent acting under a valid health-care directive;

(b) Creates a private right of action against a hospital, a hospital employee, or a person with whom the hospital has a contractual relationship;

(c) Creates additional civil or regulatory liability for a hospital or hospital employee;

(d) Supersedes or replaces existing rights or remedies under any other law; or

(e) Affects a license issued to a hospital pursuant to section 25-3-102.

(7) The board of health may promulgate rules to ensure compliance with this section.

Source: L. 2015: Entire section added, (HB 15-1242), ch. 166, p. 507, § 1, effective May 8.

25-1-129. Prescription drug monitoring program integration methods - health care provider report cards - report - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-022), ch. 221, p. 1407, § 8, effective May 21.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2020. (See L. 2018, p. 1407.)

25-1-130. Standing order - post-exposure prophylaxis - definition.

(1) On or before August 1, 2020, and until a statewide drug therapy protocol is implemented pursuant to section 12-280-125.7, the department shall implement and maintain a standing order for post-exposure prophylaxis so that pharmacists may prescribe and dispense post-exposure prophylaxis pursuant to section 12-280-125.7.

(2) As used in this section, "post-exposure prophylaxis" has the same meaning as set forth in section 12-280-125.7.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1061), ch. 281, p. 1377, § 6, effective July 13.

25-1-131. Firearms safe storage education campaign.

(1) (a) The office of suicide prevention within the department shall include on a public page of the department's website information about the following:

(I) The unlawful storage of a firearm offense described in section 18-12-114 and the unlawful storage of a firearm in a vehicle offense described in section 18-12-114.5;

(II) The penalties for an offense related to providing a handgun to a juvenile or allowing a juvenile to possess a firearm in violation of section 18-12-108.7; and

(III) The requirement that a licensed gun dealer provide a locking device with each firearm transferred, as described in section 18-12-405 (1).

(b) Any information described in subsection (1)(a) of this section posted on the department's website must be in both English and Spanish.

(c) The office of suicide prevention shall include references to the offenses listed in subsection (1)(a) of this section and direction to the department's website for more information about those offenses in materials provided to the following:

(I) Licensed gun dealers, shooting ranges, and safety instructors; and

(II) Health-care providers, including facilities licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103.

(2) The department shall develop a notice intended to be displayed on the premises of a licensed gun dealer, and designed to be printed with each letter at a minimum of one inch in height, that informs firearms purchasers that unlawful storage of a firearm, including in a vehicle, may result in imprisonment or fine. The department shall make electronic copies of the notice publicly available for download from its website without charge.

(3) (a) Subject to available money, including appropriations or gifts, grants, or donations received pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, the department shall develop and implement a firearms safe storage education campaign, referred to in this section as the "education campaign", to educate firearms owners, firearms purchasers, licensed gun dealers, shooting ranges, and safety instructors about safe storage of firearms and state requirements related to firearms safety and storage. The department shall consult with the division of criminal justice in the department of public safety in developing and implementing the education campaign.

(b) As part of the education campaign, the department may:

(I) Develop and provide materials to local law enforcement agencies to assist those agencies with educating the public about safe storage of firearms and state requirements related to firearms safety and storage;

(II) Develop and provide materials to health-care providers to assist providers with educating the public about safe storage of firearms and state requirements related to firearms safety and storage; and

(III) Provide information about programs that assist firearms owners with the cost of purchasing firearms locking devices, gun safes, or other secure firearms storage containers, including programs that provide free or reduced-price locking devices.

(c) (I) As part of the education campaign, the department shall provide information on its website about community programs that allow firearms owners to voluntarily and temporarily store a firearm at a secure location outside of the home, including a firearms retailer, gun range, or law enforcement agency.

(II) The department may provide assistance to any local entity that facilitates a program described in this subsection (3)(c).

(d) In furtherance of the goals of the education campaign, the department may use television messaging, radio broadcasts, print media, digital strategies, or any other form of messaging deemed appropriate by the department.

(4) The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations, including in-kind donations, from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(5) In fiscal years 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23, the general assembly shall not appropriate money from the general fund for the purposes of this section. Notwithstanding any provision of section 24-75-1305, in fiscal year 2023-24 and any subsequent fiscal year, the general assembly may appropriate money from the general fund for the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1106), ch. 39, p. 149, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2024: (1)(a)(I) and (2) amended, (HB 24-1348), ch. 178, p. 971, § 6, effective January 1, 2025.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Child Safety Through Responsible Firearm Storage Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1106, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 39, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1-132. Two-year appropriation to the department - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-243), ch. 317, p. 1954, § 2, effective June 24.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2021, p. 1954.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 21-243, see section 1 of chapter 317, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1-133. Environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses - selection of contractor - required components of analyses - selection of locations - requirements for contractors - definitions - report.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Colorado EnviroScreen tool" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (5)(a)(II).

(b) "Contractor" means an academic institution or other party with which the department contracts to develop an EECIA.

(c) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(d) "Environmental equity and cumulative impact analysis" or "EECIA" means a cumulative impact analysis for a specific geographic area of the state developed in accordance with this section.

(e) "EPA's cumulative impact analysis recommendations" means the federal environmental protection agency's "Cumulative Impacts Research: Recommendations for EPA's Office of Research and Development", published on September 30, 2022.

(f) "Final report of the task force" means the "Final Report of Recommendations" published by the task force on November 14, 2022.

(g) "Local government" means a home rule or statutory city, town, city and county, or county.

(h) "Office of environmental justice" or "office" means the office of environmental justice created in section 25-1-133.5 (1)(a).

(i) "Task force" means the environmental justice action task force created by the general assembly in 2021 through the enactment of House Bill 21-1266.

(2) The department shall select one or more contractors to develop two or more environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses for the state. Each EECIA:

(a) Must cover a geographic area of the state that includes a group of mostly contiguous census block groups and other surrounding areas that meet the definition of disproportionately impacted communities;

(b) May be conducted for a community located on the Ute Mountain Ute or Southern Ute Indian reservation only if requested by the governing body of the affected tribe and following consultation with and approval by the governing body;

(c) Once developed, may be used by any state agency for the purpose of analyzing cumulative impacts;

(d) Must perform a scientifically rigorous analysis that includes most of the components recommended in the final report of the task force, as reflected on pages thirteen through fifteen of the final report of the task force;

(e) Should identify key problems and indicators of cumulative impacts and how those problems and indicators can be avoided, minimized, and mitigated, but should not recommend solutions to individual agencies; and

(f) Should empower agencies and local governments to score, evaluate, or compare alternative mitigation options proposed for future projects to ensure that the future projects are effective while considering potential unintended consequences.

(3) (a) The office of environmental justice shall select locations for the environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses and oversee the department's selection of a contractor pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(b) By a deadline determined by the office and posted conspicuously on the department's website, a local government, a group of local governments, an elected official, the governing body of an affected tribe for any request within the boundaries of the Ute Mountain Ute or Southern Ute Indian reservation, a nonprofit organization, or any other interested person may submit a formal written request to the office to select a location for an EECIA. In selecting the locations for the EECIAs, the office shall:

(I) Prioritize locations that:

(A) Are most impacted by environmental contaminants;

(B) Have the potential for widespread human exposure to the environmental contaminants; and

(C) Include a greater proportion of individuals with heightened vulnerability to the environmental contaminants;

(II) Use the Colorado EnviroScreen tool to help prioritize locations with disproportionate environmental health burdens; and

(III) Seek input from various groups of interested stakeholders in the selection process.

(c) In selecting the contractor for an EECIA location selected pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section, the office shall:

(I) Be transparent with regard to any selection criteria used in the selection process;

(II) Engage stakeholders for feedback on how to design the selection process; and

(III) For an EECIA studying any lands within the boundaries of the Ute Mountain Ute or Southern Ute Indian reservation, consult with the governing body of the affected tribe and select a contractor only with the governing body's consent.

(4) (a) In developing the environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses, a contractor selected pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall, with input from interested stakeholders, set timelines and milestones for completion of an EECIA and submit the proposed timelines and milestones to the office for review and approval.

(b) The office shall post in a conspicuous location on the department's public-facing website the approved timelines and milestones for each contractor to complete an EECIA and periodically post updates on whether each contractor has met the timelines and milestones.

(5) A contractor selected pursuant to subsection (3)(c) of this section shall:

(a) With oversight from the office, review existing cumulative impact analysis frameworks such as the EPA's cumulative impact analysis recommendations or frameworks from other states or jurisdictions;

(b) Establish a process for interested stakeholders to submit input regarding an EECIA and for the contractor to review any input submitted;

(c) Extensively engage interested stakeholders and the office throughout the EECIA development process; and

(d) Ensure that an EECIA is crafted to be comprehensible, easy to utilize, and accessible. As used in this subsection (5)(d), "accessible" includes ensuring that the data supporting an EECIA is transparent, translated from English into the two most prevalent other languages spoken in the relevant community, and made readily available to communities.

(6) (a) Except as provided in subsection (6)(b) of this section, the department may solicit, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources to help finance the development of environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses pursuant to this section.

(b) The department shall not accept gifts, grants, or donations from industry interests. As used in this subsection (6)(b), "industry interest" means an entity that currently holds or that applied to receive a permit or license from the division of administration or the hazardous materials and waste management division.

(7) (a) Within nine months after completing the first EECIA, the department shall prepare a report regarding the EECIA and submit the report to the house of representatives energy and environment committee and the senate transportation and energy committee, or their successor committees.

(b) The report must include:

(I) Recommendations for implementing the findings of the EECIA; and

(II) Identification of any resources or steps necessary for the department or other agencies to implement the findings of the EECIA once the EECIA is developed.

(c) In preparing the report, the department shall consult with:

(I) The Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101 (1);

(II) The department of natural resources created in section 24-1-124 (1);

(III) The department of agriculture created in section 35-1-103;

(IV) The public utilities commission created in section 40-2-101 (1)(a);

(V) The department of transportation created in section 24-1-128.7 (1); and

(VI) Representatives of disproportionately impacted communities.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2727, § 4, effective July 2. L. 2024: Entire section R&RE, (HB 24-1338), ch. 259, p. 1711, § 1, effective May 28.

Cross references: For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1-133.5. Office of environmental justice - created - powers and duties - definitions.

(1) (a) There is created in the department the office of environmental justice, the head of which is the director of the office, who shall be appointed by the executive director of the department and may employ staff as necessary to carry out the powers and duties of the office. The office is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department.

(b) In carrying out its powers and duties, the office may collaborate with the environmental justice ombudsperson appointed pursuant to section 25-1-134 (1)(b), the environmental justice advisory board created in section 25-1-134 (2)(a), disproportionately impacted communities, local governments, other state agencies, the federal government, and other interested parties.

(2) The office shall:

(a) Increase state government engagement with and responsiveness to disproportionately impacted communities;

(b) Develop and manage the department's environmental justice goals, metrics, and objectives;

(c) Work with the environmental divisions within the department, the environmental justice ombudsperson, and the environmental justice advisory board to implement statutory environmental justice mandates, including benchmarks and targets set forth in the "Environmental Justice Act", as enacted in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266;

(d) Work with the division of administration to implement part 10 of article 8 of this title 25 concerning mobile home water quality by leading community engagement efforts with mobile home park residents;

(e) Coordinate environmental justice work within the department and with other state agencies as well as federal, local, and tribal government partners;

(f) Advance the department's language justice goals by providing translation and interpretation services for the department's environmental divisions; and

(g) Identify disproportionately impacted communities based on the best-available data and spatial analysis technology, including the Colorado EnviroScreen tool.

(3) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Colorado EnviroScreen tool" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (5)(a)(II).

(b) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(c) "Office" means the office of environmental justice created in subsection (1)(a) of this section.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1338), ch. 259, p. 1715, § 2, effective May 28.

25-1-134. Environmental justice - ombudsperson - advisory board - grant program - annual report - definitions - repeal.

(1) Environmental justice ombudsperson.

(a) There is hereby created in the department the position of an environmental justice ombudsperson. The ombudsperson reports to the executive director of the department. The department shall provide administrative support for the ombudsperson. The ombudsperson otherwise functions independently in exercising its powers.

(b) The governor shall appoint the ombudsperson as soon as practicable but no later than February 1, 2022, and as necessary thereafter to fill a vacancy. Prior to an appointment, the governor or the governor's designee shall consult with, and may receive recommendations from, the advisory board, the general assembly, representatives of disproportionately impacted communities, and other relevant stakeholders regarding the selection of the ombudsperson.

(c) The ombudsperson must be qualified by training or experience in environmental justice, and should have been a resident of one or more disproportionately impacted communities or have worked to advance environmental justice within disproportionately impacted communities.

(d) The ombudsperson shall:

(I) Collaborate with the advisory board for the purpose of promoting environmental justice for the people of Colorado;

(II) Serve as an advocate for disproportionately impacted communities and as a liaison between disproportionately impacted communities and the department, including with respect to communications regarding the grant program to fund environmental mitigation projects;

(III) Work to improve the relationships and interactions between disproportionately impacted communities and the department;

(IV) Increase the flow of information between the department and disproportionately impacted communities concerning the environment and departmental programs using methods of outreach that include, at a minimum:

(A) Disseminating information through local schools, social media, local social and activity clubs, libraries, or other local services; and

(B) Prioritizing in-person meetings in communities with populations that are predominantly Black, Indigenous, Latino, or Asian American that have a median income below the state's average, or that are in rural locations;

(V) Identify ways to enable meaningful participation by disproportionately impacted communities in the decision-making processes of the department;

(VI) Coordinate with the office of health equity, created in section 25-4-2204;

(VII) Maintain a telephone number, website, email address, and mailing address for the receipt of complaints and inquiries for matters pertaining to environmental justice;

(VIII) Establish procedures to address complaints pertaining to environmental justice to the extent practicable;

(IX) Consult with the division of administration in reporting to the air quality control commission, created in section 25-7-104, on equitable progress toward the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals;

(X) Serve in an advisory capacity, as requested, to other state agencies conducting outreach to and engagement of disproportionately impacted communities in light of a proposed agency action; and

(XI) Advocate for and liaise with mobile home residents in matters of water quality and work with residents on solutions and funding to improve water quality in accordance with part 10 of article 8 of title 25.

(2) Environmental justice advisory board.

(a) There is hereby created in the department the environmental justice advisory board.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (2), the members of the advisory board are appointed by the governor. An appointing authority may remove a member of the advisory board for malfeasance in office, failure to regularly attend meetings, or any cause that renders the member unable or unfit to discharge the member's duties.

(c) The advisory board consists of the following fourteen members who, to the extent practicable, must reside in different geographic areas of the state, reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the state, and have experience with a range of environmental issues, including air pollution, water contamination, and public health impacts:

(I) (A) Five voting members appointed by the governor, who must be or have been residents of a disproportionately impacted community, one of whom is an individual who is fourteen years of age or older but less than twenty-two years of age at the time of appointment.

(B) Except as provided in subsection (2)(c)(I)(C) of this section, the youth voting member described in this subsection (2)(c)(I) is first appointed as a nonvoting member pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(III.5) of this section and, after serving one year of the member's term, becomes a voting member pursuant to this subsection (2)(c)(I) and subsection (2)(d)(III) of this section for the remainder of the member's term.

(C) Repealed.

(II) Three voting members appointed by the governor, one of whom must be from a nongovernmental organization that represents statewide interests to advance racial justice, one of whom must be from a nongovernmental organization that represents statewide interests to advance environmental justice, and one of whom must represent worker interests in disproportionately impacted communities;

(III) The executive director of the department, or the executive director's designee, as a nonvoting member;

(III.5) An individual who is fourteen years of age or older but less than twenty-two years of age at the time of appointment, as a youth nonvoting member appointed by the governor; and

(IV) Four voting members appointed by the executive director of the department, at least one of whom must be a midwife who is practicing in a freestanding birth center, in a rural area, or as a home birth provider.

(d) (I) Except as provided in subsections (2)(d)(II) and (2)(d)(III) of this section, each member's term of appointment is four years. Voting members may serve no more than two terms; except that a youth voting member who is fourteen years of age or older but less than twenty-two years of age at the time of appointment may serve only a single term. The governor shall fill any vacancies on the advisory board, including for the remainder of any unexpired term. A member appointed to fill a vacancy may serve the remainder of the unexpired term of the member whose vacancy is being filled, and this remainder counts as one term for that appointee.

(II) In order to ensure staggered terms of office, the initial term of two members appointed by the governor pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section, as specified by the governor, and two members appointed pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(IV) of this section, as specified by the executive director of the department, is two years.

(III) A youth member who is fourteen years of age or older but less than twenty-two years of age at the time of appointment and who is appointed as a youth nonvoting member pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(III.5) of this section serves a single two-year term. After serving one year of the member's two-year term, the member becomes a youth voting member pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I)(B) of this section for the remainder of the member's term.

(d.5) Repealed.

(e) (I) Each voting member of the advisory board appointed pursuant to subsection (2)(c) of this section is entitled to receive a per diem of two hundred dollars for attendance at regularly scheduled meetings of the board during the 2021-22 state fiscal year. For each state fiscal year thereafter, the per diem amount shall be annually adjusted for inflation based on the percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by all urban consumers, or its applicable successor index. Voting members of the board are also entitled to receive reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred while performing official duties.

(II) The nonvoting member of the advisory board may not receive a per diem, but may be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred while performing official duties.

(f) The advisory board shall elect a chair from among its members every year. The advisory board shall meet at least once every quarter. The chair may schedule all such additional meetings as are necessary for the advisory board to complete its duties.

(g) The advisory board shall:

(I) Serve in an advisory capacity to the ombudsperson in the performance of the duties of the ombudsperson;

(II) Hold a portion of advisory board meetings for the ombudsperson to jointly receive stakeholder input into the activities and priorities of the ombudsperson;

(III) Develop a public complaint process related to the performance of the ombudsperson;

(IV) Develop recommendations to address any other matters relating to adverse environmental effects on disproportionately impacted communities as referred to the advisory board by the governor or the executive director of the department;

(V) Develop policies as are necessary for the conduct of its affairs and its meetings and post all policies on its website, including a conflict of interest policy for its members, which must require the disclosure of any potential financial interest of any member or relative of any member in a proposed environmental mitigation project. A board member who has a personal or financial interest in an environmental mitigation project under consideration shall recuse the board member from any vote on that project.

(VI) Advise the department on matters to enable the department to interact with disproportionately impacted communities in the best manner possible;

(VII) Support the implementation of a grant program to fund environmental mitigation projects from the community impact cash fund created in section 25-7-129 in accordance with this subsection (2)(g)(VII) by performing the following duties:

(A) The advisory board shall develop guidelines for a grant program to fund environmental mitigation projects, with input from the department. The guidelines must include: Procedures for applicants to submit applications to the board, and for selection of environmental mitigation projects to fund; provisions to ensure that the applications are concise, straightforward, objective, inclusive, and accessible to all interested parties; a requirement that the applicant disclose any conflict of interest, such as a personal or financial relationship with any member of the advisory board; and identification of any information necessary to be included in an application to ensure the advisory board can prepare the report required by subsection (2)(g)(VII)(C) of this section.

(B) The advisory board shall review each application that it receives and may award grants, subject to appropriations and available funding, to applicants to fund environmental mitigation projects in disproportionately impacted communities.

(C) The advisory board shall compile an annual report that details information about the environmental mitigation projects that are awarded grants, including: Details about the disproportionately impacted community in which the project will take place, including information about pollution levels, health disparities, and demographics; the relationship between the community, the project, and any violations that gave rise to penalties paid into the community impact cash fund created in section 25-7-129; the status of the project, the engagement between the project and the community, and the reaction of the disproportionately impacted community to the project; and other details as the advisory board deems appropriate. The annual report shall be made publicly accessible, including on the advisory board's website.

(h) This subsection (2) is repealed, effective September 1, 2027. Before the repeal, the advisory board and its functions are scheduled for review in accordance with section 2-3-1203.

(3) Records and meetings. The advisory board and the ombudsperson are subject to all the applicable requirements of the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24, and the open meetings law contained in part 4 of article 6 of title 24.

(4) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Advisory board" means the environmental justice advisory board created in subsection (2) of this section.

(b) "Environmental mitigation project" means any project that avoids, minimizes, measures, or mitigates adverse environmental impacts in a disproportionately impacted community, including, without limitation, health effects, health disparities, and other environmental impacts or that promotes equitable participation in a rule-making proceeding that may affect a disproportionately impacted community.

(c) "Ombudsperson" means the environmental justice ombudsperson appointed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2736, § 12, effective July 2. L. 2023: (1)(d)(IX) and (1)(d)(X) amended and (1)(d)(XI) added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2257, § 5, effective June 5. L. 2024: (2)(c)(IV) amended, (HB 24-1262), ch. 393, p. 2711, § 4, effective June 4. L. 2025: (2)(b), IP(2)(c), (2)(c)(I), (2)(c)(III), and (2)(d)(I) amended and (2)(c)(III.5), (2)(d)(III), and (2)(d.5) added, (SB 25-055), ch. 215, p. 975, § 1, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsections (2)(c)(I)(C) and (2)(d.5)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (2)(c)(I)(C) and (2)(d.5), respectively, effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 975.)

Cross references: (1) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1262, see section 1 of chapter 393, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-1-135. Health-care services reserve corps task force - created - powers and duties - report - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1005), ch. 438, p. 2901, § 2, effective July 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (10) provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2901.)

25-1-136. Kidney disease prevention and education task force - created - powers and duties - report - selection of chair and vice-chair - sunset review - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1171), ch. 407, p. 2701, § 2, effective July 2. L. 2026: Entire section repealed, (HB 26-1277), ch. 70, p. 279, § 1, effective September 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (8) of this section and section 1 of chapter 70 (HB 26-1277), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 1, 2026. (See L. 2021, p. 2701.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1171, see section 1 of chapter 407, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1-137. Task force to reduce youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors - creation - membership - reporting - definitions.

(1) On or before December 31, 2023, the department shall convene a task force to establish shared goals, objectives, and guidelines for governmental agencies and community-based agencies to achieve maximum impact in reducing youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors for target communities with the highest rates of youth violence, suicide, or delinquency risk factors.

(2) The purpose of the task force is to bring together diverse groups and perspectives from governmental agencies and community-based organizations to:

(a) Identify three target communities in the state where disproportionately high levels of youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors exist. The target communities may include any zip code or contiguous zip codes with the top three to five rates of youth violence, suicide, or delinquency risk factors, including, but not limited to, school performance, average education level, income level, employment levels, crime statistics, and housing and food insecurity. The three target communities selected pursuant to this subsection (2)(a) must represent, to the extent practicable, geographic and urban and rural diversity.

(b) Beginning July 1, 2025, and for a minimum of three years thereafter, establish clear and shared goals, objectives, and guidelines to prioritize, align, and pool agency resources, including new and state grant money, to guide intervention, prevention, and tracking statistics to achieve the maximum impact on reducing youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors; and

(c) Beginning July 1, 2025, and for a minimum of three years thereafter, establish clear and shared goals, objectives, and guidelines to prioritize the distribution of new grant money across multiple governmental agencies to guide intervention, prevention, and tracking statistics to achieve the maximum impact on reducing youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors. This includes creating:

(I) A process for streamlining state grant applications across agencies that does not violate federal laws, rules, or guidelines for federal dollars as it pertains to state grant-making among agencies;

(II) A common application form to the extent possible without violating federal laws, rules, or guidelines and that is practical and accessible for grantees to use;

(III) A clearinghouse of resources for applicants; and

(IV) A job description for a full-time employee support for the five agencies of the task force to provide technical support and assistance to grant applicants who may lack the organizational capacity to complete competitive and complete applications.

(3) (a) The task force consists of the following members, at a minimum:

(I) Two representatives from the department of public health and environment. One representative must have experience in substance use and be appointed by the executive director. The other representative must be from the office of gun violence prevention and be appointed by the director of the office of gun violence prevention.

(II) A representative from the department of early childhood, appointed by the executive director of the department of early childhood;

(III) Two representatives from the office of children, youth, and families in the division of child welfare in the department of human services;

(IV) Three representatives from the department of education, one with expertise in workforce development, one with expertise in post-secondary pathways, and one who represents rural K-12 communities or has rural K-12 expertise, all appointed by the commissioner of education;

(V) Two representatives from the behavioral health administration in the department of human services and appointed by the behavioral health commissioner. One representative must have experience in substance use and drug prevention and one representative must have experience with mental health issues.

(VI) Two representatives from the division of criminal justice in the department of public safety, appointed by the executive director of the department of public safety; and

(VII) Five representatives from community-based organizations, as well as current agency grantees, working in the target communities, as identified by the task force pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section, and appointed by the task force. Two of the representatives from community-based organizations must be ones that focus on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or severe mental or behavioral health disorders.

(b) The task force must also either:

(I) Include a nonvoting member who is a person with experience in, or represents an organization with experience in, delivery of actionable data information and analysis and data readiness; or

(II) Allow for presentations on actionable data information and analysis and data readiness.

(4) For insights into grant alignment practices, the task force shall consult with the following agencies:

(a) The department of personnel and administration; and

(b) The department of higher education.

(5) After the task force identifies the target communities pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section, the task force shall consult with local governmental entities that include, but are not limited to, city and county government officials; local law enforcement and district attorneys; local education providers; local and regional public health administrators; and any local community-based organizations that have received state-level grants in the areas of youth suicide, violence prevention and intervention, and reducing youth risk factors.

(6) The task force must have an employee to support work of the task force.

(7) The members of the task force shall serve on a voluntary basis without compensation, except for the representatives from nongovernmental agencies, who may receive a per diem stipend. All members are entitled to compensation for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of the task force members' duties.

(8) (a) The task force shall present its preliminary findings, goals, objectives, and guidelines to the judiciary committees of the house of representatives and the senate and to the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives and the health and human services committee of the senate, or any successor committees, during the department's "SMART Act" hearings held in January 2024. The 2024 "SMART Act" report must include further descriptions of how the task force identified which target communities to prioritize, including whether or if certain factors were weighted or assessed. The task force shall report a timeline with specific deliverables, including when target communities will be defined, when data sources will be identified, and when data sharing agreements will be conformed.

(b) In January 2025, the task force shall present its final report that establishes clear and shared goals, objectives, and guidelines to prioritize, align, and pool agency resources, including new and existing grant money, that would guide intervention, prevention, and tracking statistics to achieve the maximum impact on reducing youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors in priority communities. The task force shall include in its report how it will display and track data towards the efficacy of the strategies and goals; how the task force will collect future data from streamlined grant applications, such as reflected in annual reports, as narrative or data tables; and how or if the task force will reassess factors and data on an ongoing basis. The task force shall make its presentation to the judiciary committees of the house of representatives and the senate and to the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives and the health and human services committee of the senate, or any successor committees, during the department's "SMART Act" hearings held in January 2025.

(9) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Community-based organization" means a person, private nonprofit agency, corporation, association, or other nongovernmental agency.

(b) "Governmental unit" means any county, city and county, city, town, district attorney's office, or school district.

(c) "Target communities" means the communities identified by the task force as part of the task force's duties pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(d) "Task force" means the task force created in subsection (1) of this section to establish shared goals, objectives, and guidelines for entities to utilize in prioritizing new and existing grant money to ensure achieving a maximum impact in reducing youth violence, suicide, and delinquency risk factors for target communities with the highest rates of youth violence, suicide, or delinquency risk factors.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (HB 23-1223), ch. 433, p. 2538, § 1, effective June 7.

Editor's note: The provisions of subsection (3) in HB 23-1223 were renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-1-138. Health facilities - on-site administered topical medication - use for continued treatment - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Facility-provided medication" or "medication" means a topical medication that a health facility has on hand or is retrieved from a dispensing system for a specified patient for use during a surgical procedure or a visit to a health facility.

(b) "Health facility" means a hospital licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 and an ambulatory surgical center licensed pursuant to article 3 of this title 25.

(2) (a) A health facility or hospital pharmacy may offer any unused portion of a facility-provided medication to a patient upon the patient's discharge from the health facility if the medication is required for continued treatment, the medication does not contain a controlled substance, and the medication was administered to the patient during the patient's visit to the health facility. A health facility shall document within the patient's medical record that the patient must continue the medication at home, including the patient's dosage and directions for use.

(b) A health facility or hospital pharmacy shall:

(I) Label a facility-provided medication with, at a minimum, the facility name, the prescribing health-care provider's name, the patient's name, the drug identification, and the directions for use if the instructions are not provided to the patient at the time of discharge from the facility; or

(II) If the facility-provided medication's container includes only the name and strength of the medication, include the facility name, the prescribing health-care provider's name, the patient's name, and the directions for use with education materials provided to the patient at the time of discharge from the facility.

(3) If a facility-provided medication is used for a patient in an operating room or emergency department setting or for a visit to a health facility and the facility-provided medication is provided to the patient for continuity of treatment, the health facility or hospital pharmacy, whichever provides the medication, is responsible for counseling the patient on the proper use of the medication, and a pharmacist's requirement to counsel the patient concerning the medication pursuant to section 12-280-138 is waived.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-087), ch. 120, p. 391, § 2, effective April 22.

PART 2

ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE

25-1-201 to 25-1-217. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire part repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: (1) This part 2 was numbered as article 36 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 2 prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) The provisions of this part 2 were relocated to article 80 of title 27 in 2010.

(3) Section 25-1-201 (4) was amended by House Bill 10-1422 and section 25-1-217 (3)(a) was amended by House Bill 10-1347. Said bills were harmonized with Senate Bill 10-175 and relocated to sections 27-80-101 and 27-80-117, respectively.

PART 3

ALCOHOLISM AND INTOXICATION TREATMENT

25-1-301 to 25-1-316. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire part repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: (1) This part 3 was numbered as article 45 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 3 prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) The provisions of this part 3 were relocated to article 81 of title 27 in 2010.

PART 4

STATE CHEMIST

25-1-401. Office of state chemist created.

The professor of food and drug chemistry in the department of chemistry at the university of Colorado is the state chemist of Colorado. The office and laboratory of the state chemist is in the department of chemistry at the university of Colorado. The office of state chemist is a section of the division of administration of the department of public health and environment. The office of state chemist is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

Source: L. 39: p. 550, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 25(1). CRS 53: § 66-16-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-16-1. L. 68: p. 107, § 78. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2742, § 380, effective July 1. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3367, § 43, effective August 10.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

(2) For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1-402. Employment of assistants.

The state chemist has the power to employ such assistants as are necessary for the carrying out of this part 4. The appropriations for the office of state chemist shall be determined by each general assembly in the general appropriation bill. The state chemist and his assistant shall also be reimbursed for all legitimate and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of the duties of the office of state chemist.

Source: L. 39: p. 550, § 2. CSA: C. 78, § 25(2). CRS 53: § 66-16-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-16-2.

25-1-403. Analyses of food and drugs.

It is the duty of the state chemist to make or cause to be made chemical analyses of all such samples of foods and drugs as may be collected for the purpose of analysis by the department of public health and environment. The state chemist shall make full and complete written reports, without unnecessary delay, of such analyses to the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 39: p. 550, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 25(3). CRS 53: § 66-16-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-16-3. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2742, § 381, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-1-404. Certificate presumptive evidence.

By the authority of this part 4, every certificate of analysis of foods or drugs duly signed by the state chemist shall be presumptive evidence of the facts therein stated.

Source: L. 39: p. 550, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 25(4). CRS 53: § 66-16-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-16-4.

PART 5

PUBLIC HEALTH

Editor's note: This part 5 was numbered as article 2 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. The substantive provisions of this part 5 were repealed and reenacted in 2008, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 5 prior to 2008, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 5, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

Cross references: For right to establish disposal districts in counties maintaining health departments, see part 2 of article 20 of title 30.

Law reviews: For article, "Using Local Police Powers to Protect the Environment", see 24 Colo. Law. 1063 (1995).

SUBPART 1

GENERAL

25-1-501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The public health system reduces health-care costs by preventing disease and injury, promoting healthy behavior, and reducing the incidents of chronic diseases and conditions. Thus, the public health system is a critical part of any health-care reform.

(b) Each community in Colorado should provide high-quality public health services regardless of its location. Thus, the state of Colorado and each local public health agency should have a comprehensive public health plan outlining how quality public health services will be provided.

(c) Each county should establish or be part of a local public health agency organized under a local board of health with a public health director and other staff necessary to provide public health services;

(d) A strong public health infrastructure is needed to provide essential public health services and is a shared responsibility among state and local public health agencies and their partners within the public health system; and

(e) Developing a strong public health infrastructure requires the coordinated efforts of state and local public health agencies and their public and private sector partners within the public health system to:

(I) Identify and provide leadership for the provision of essential public health services;

(II) Develop and support an information infrastructure that supports essential public health services and functions;

(III) Develop and provide effective education and training for members of the public health workforce;

(IV) Develop performance-management standards for the public health system that are tied to improvements in public health outcomes or other measures; and

(V) Develop a comprehensive plan and set priorities for providing essential public health services.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2030, § 1, effective July 1.

25-1-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Agency" means a county or district public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506.

(2) "Core public health" shall be defined by the state board and shall include, but need not be limited to, the assessment of health status and health risks, development of policies to protect and promote health, and assurance of the provision of the essential public health services.

(2.3) "County or district board" means a county or district board of health appointed pursuant to section 25-1-508.

(2.5) "Dementia diseases and related disabilities" is a condition where mental ability declines and is severe enough to interfere with an individual's ability to perform everyday tasks. Dementia diseases and related disabilities includes Alzheimer's disease, mixed dementia, Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and other types of dementia.

(3) "Essential public health services" means to:

(a) Monitor health status to identify and solve community health problems;

(b) Investigate and diagnose health problems and health hazards in the community;

(c) Inform, educate, and empower individuals about health issues;

(d) Mobilize public and private sector collaboration and action to identify and solve health problems;

(e) Develop policies, plans, and programs that support individual and community health efforts;

(f) Enforce laws and rules that protect health and promote safety;

(g) Link individuals to needed personal health services and ensure the provision of health care;

(h) Encourage a competent public health workforce;

(i) Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of personal and population-based public health services; and

(j) Contribute to research into insightful and innovative solutions to health problems.

(4) "Medical officer" means a volunteer or paid licensed physician who contracts with or is employed by a county or district public health agency to advise the public health director on medical decisions if the public health director is not a licensed physician.

(5) "Public health" means the prevention of injury, disease, and premature mortality; the promotion of health in the community; and the response to public and environmental health needs and emergencies and is accomplished through the provision of essential public health services.

(6) "Public health agency" means an organization operated by a federal, state, or local government or its designees that acts principally to protect or preserve the public's health. "Public health agency" includes a county public health agency or a district public health agency.

(7) "Public health director" means the administrative and executive head of each county or district public health agency.

(8) "Public health system" means state, county, and district public health agencies and other persons and organizations that provide public health services or promote public health.

(9) "State board" means the state board of health created pursuant to section 25-1-103.

(10) "State department" means the department of public health and environment created pursuant to section 25-1-102.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2031, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2018: (2.5) added, (HB 18-1091), ch. 74, p. 642, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2025: (2.3) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2075, § 202, effective August 6.

25-1-503. State board - public health duties.

(1) In addition to all other powers and duties conferred and imposed upon the state board, the state board has the following specific powers and duties:

(a) To establish, by rule, the core public health services that each county and district public health agency must provide or arrange for the provision of said services;

(b) To establish, by rule, the minimum quality standards for public health services;

(c) To establish, by rule, the minimum qualifications for county and district public health directors and medical officers;

(d) To ensure the development and implementation of a comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan;

(e) To review all county and district public health agency public health plans, which review shall be based on criteria established by rule by the state board and against which each county or district public health plan shall be evaluated; and

(f) To establish, by rule, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2009, if practicable, and for each fiscal year thereafter, a formula for allocating moneys to county or district public health agencies based on input from the state department and from county or district public health agencies.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2032, § 1, effective July 1.

SUBPART 2

PUBLIC HEALTH PLANS

25-1-504. Comprehensive public health plan - development - approval - reassessment - cash fund.

(1) On or before December 31, 2009, and at a minimum on or before December 31 every five years thereafter, the state department shall develop a comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan, referred to in this section as the "plan", that assesses and sets priorities for the public health system. The state board may appoint ad hoc or advisory committees as needed for the plan development process. The plan shall be developed in consultation with the state board and representatives from the state department, county or district public health agencies, and their partners within the public health system. The plan shall rely on existing or available data or other information acquired pursuant to this part 5, as well as national guidelines or recommendations concerning public health outcomes or improvements.

(2) (a) The plan shall assess and set priorities for the public health system and shall:

(I) Guide the public health system in targeting core public health services and functions through program development, implementation, and evaluation;

(II) Increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the public health system;

(III) Identify areas needing greater resource allocation to provide essential public health services;

(IV) Incorporate, to the extent possible, goals and priorities of public health plans developed by county or district public health agencies; and

(V) Consider available resources, including but not limited to state and local funding, and be subject to modification based on actual subsequent allocations.

(b) The plan shall include or address at a minimum the following elements:

(I) Core public health services and standards for county and district public health agencies;

(II) Recommendations for legislative or regulatory action, including but not limited to updating public health laws, eliminating obsolete statutory language, and establishing an effective and comprehensive state and local public health infrastructure;

(III) Identification and quantification of existing public health problems, disparities, or threats at the state and county levels;

(IV) Identification of existing public health resources at the state and local levels;

(V) Declaration of the goals of the plan;

(VI) Identification of specific recommendations for meeting these goals;

(VII) Development of public and environmental health infrastructure that supports core public health functions and essential public health services at the state and local levels;

(VIII) Explanation of the prioritization of one or more conditions of public health importance;

(IX) Detailed description of strategies to develop and promote culturally and linguistically appropriate services;

(X) Development, evaluation, and maintenance of, and improvements to, an information infrastructure that supports essential public health services;

(XI) Detailed description of the programs and activities that will be pursued to address existing public and environmental health problems, disparities, or threats;

(XII) Detailed description of how public health services will be integrated and public health resources shared to optimize efficiency and effectiveness of the public health system;

(XIII) Detailed description of how the plan will support county or district public health agencies in achieving the goals of their county or district public health plans;

(XIV) Estimation of costs of implementing the plan;

(XV) A timeline for implementing various elements of the plan;

(XVI) A strategy for coordinating service delivery within the public health system; and

(XVII) Measurable indicators of effectiveness and successes.

(c) The plan, including core public health services and standards, shall prospectively cover up to five years, subject to annual revisions and the implementation schedule established by the state board.

(3) The state department shall make the plan available to the governor, the general assembly, the state board, county and district public health agencies, and other partners.

(4) The state department is authorized to solicit and accept any gifts, grants, or donations to pay for the development of the plan. Any moneys received pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the comprehensive public health plan cash fund, which is hereby created and referred to in this subsection (4) as the "fund". Any interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or another fund. Moneys in the fund may be expended by the state department, subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, for the development of the plan described in this section.

(5) If the moneys received by the state department through gifts, grants, and donations are insufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs of complying with the provisions of section 25-1-503 and this section, the state department shall not be required to implement the provisions of said sections.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2033, § 1, effective July 1.

25-1-505. County and district public health plans - approval.

(1) As soon as practicable after the approval of each comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan pursuant to section 25-1-504, each county or district public health agency shall prepare a county or district public health plan, referred to in this section as the "local plan". Each local plan shall not be inconsistent with the comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan required under section 25-1-504.

(2) Each local plan shall, at a minimum:

(a) Examine data about health status and risk factors in the local community;

(b) Assess the capacity and performance of the county or district public health system;

(c) Identify goals and strategies for improving the health of the local community;

(d) Describe how representatives of the local community develop and implement the local plan;

(e) Address how county or district public health agencies coordinate with the state department and others within the public health system to accomplish goals and priorities identified in the comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan; and

(f) Identify financial resources available to meet identified public health needs and to meet requirements for the provision of core public health services.

(3) Subject to available appropriations, the state department shall encourage and provide technical assistance to county or district public health agencies that request such assistance and otherwise work with county or district public health agencies to generate their local plans.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2035, § 1, effective July 1.

SUBPART 3

COUNTY OR DISTRICT PUBLIC HEALTH AGENCIES

25-1-506. County or district public health agency.

(1) Each county, by resolution of its board of county commissioners, shall establish and maintain a county public health agency or shall participate in a district public health agency. Any two or more contiguous counties, by resolutions of the boards of county commissioners of the respective counties, may establish and maintain a district public health agency. An agency shall consist of a county or district board of health, a public health director, and all other personnel employed or retained under the provisions of this subpart 3.

(2) (a) (I) The jurisdiction of any agency shall extend over all unincorporated areas and over all municipal corporations within the territorial limits of the county or the counties comprising the district, but not over the territory of any municipal corporation that maintains its own public health agency. If the county has a county public health agency or a district board of health and if the county is within a district public health agency, any municipal corporation not otherwise within the jurisdiction of an agency, by agreement of its city council, board of trustees or other governing body, and the board of county commissioners of the county wherein the municipal corporation is situated may merge its department with the county or district public health agency.

(II) In the event of a merger between a health department of a municipal corporation with a county or district public health agency, the agreement of merger, among other things, shall provide that a member or members of the county or district board of health, as is specified in the agreement, shall be appointed by the city council or board of trustees of the municipal corporation rather than as provided in this section. The city council or board of trustees shall appoint the number of members specified in the agreement of merger, and the remaining members shall be appointed as provided in this section.

(III) The board of county commissioners, in order to give the municipal corporation representation on a county board of health previously established, may declare vacancies in the county board of health and permit the vacancies to be filled by the city council or board of trustees of the municipal corporation.

(b) All county or district boards of health existing within the county or district shall be dissolved upon the organization of a county or district public health agency under the provisions of this part 5 or upon the acceptance of a county into a district already established.

(c) In the event of the dissolution of any county or district public health agency, the withdrawal of a county from an established district, or the withdrawal of a municipal corporation that has voluntarily merged its health department or agency with a county or district public health agency, local boards of health shall be reestablished under the provisions of this part 5 and assume the powers and duties conferred upon such local boards.

(3) (a) Subject to available appropriations, an agency shall provide or arrange for the provisions of services necessary to carry out the public health laws and rules of the state board, the water quality control commission, the air quality control commission, and the solid and hazardous waste commission according to the specific needs and resources available within the community as determined by the county or district board of health or the board of county commissioners and as set out in both the comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan developed pursuant to section 25-1-504 and the county or district public health plan developed pursuant to section 25-1-505.

(b) In addition to other powers and duties, an agency has the following duties:

(I) To complete a community health assessment and to create the county or district public health plan at least every five years under the direction of the county or district board and to submit the plan to the county or district board and state board for review;

(II) To advise the county or district board on public policy issues necessary to protect public health and the environment;

(III) To provide or arrange for the provision of quality, core public health services deemed essential by the state board and the comprehensive, statewide public health improvement plan; except that the agency shall be deemed to have met this requirement if the agency can demonstrate to the county or district board that other providers offer core public health services that are sufficient to meet the local needs as determined by the plan;

(IV) To the extent authorized by the provisions of this title or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., to administer and enforce the laws pertaining to:

(A) Public health, air pollution, solid and hazardous waste, and water quality;

(B) Vital statistics; and

(C) The orders, rules, and standards of the state board and any other type 1 agency created pursuant to the provisions of this title;

(V) To investigate and control the causes of epidemic or communicable diseases and conditions affecting public health;

(VI) To establish, maintain, and enforce isolation and quarantine, and in pursuance thereof, and for this purpose only, to exercise physical control over property and over the persons of the people within the jurisdiction of the agency as the agency may find necessary for the protection of the public health;

(VII) To close schools and public places and to prohibit gatherings of people when necessary to protect public health;

(VIII) To investigate and abate nuisances when necessary in order to eliminate sources of epidemic or communicable diseases and conditions affecting public health;

(IX) To establish, maintain, or make available chemical, bacteriological, and biological laboratories, and to conduct such laboratory investigations and examinations as it may deem necessary or proper for the protection of the public health;

(X) To purchase and distribute to licensed physicians and veterinarians, with or without charge, as the county or district board may determine upon considerations of emergency or need, approved biological or therapeutic products necessary for the protection of public health;

(XI) To initiate and carry out health programs consistent with state law that are necessary or desirable by the county or district board to protect public health and the environment;

(XII) To collect, compile, and tabulate reports of marriages, dissolutions of marriage, and declarations of invalidity of marriage, births, deaths, and morbidity, and to require any person having information with regard to the same to make such reports and submit such information as is required by law or the rules of the state board;

(XIII) To make necessary sanitation and health investigations and inspections, on its own initiative or in cooperation with the state department, for matters affecting public health that are within the jurisdiction and control of the agency;

(XIV) To collaborate with the state department and the state board in all matters pertaining to public health, the water quality control commission in all matters pertaining to water quality, the air quality control commission and the division of administration of the state department in all matters pertaining to air pollution, and the solid and hazardous waste commission in all matters pertaining to solid and hazardous waste;

(XV) To establish or arrange for the establishment of, by January 1, 2015, and subject to available appropriations, a local or regional child fatality prevention review team pursuant to section 25-20.5-404; and

(XVI) In its discretion, to inspect or examine a facility that houses or detains individuals who are noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings.

(c) If a county or district board of health does not receive sufficient appropriations to fulfill all the duties described in paragraph (b) of this subsection (3), the county or district board shall set priorities for fulfilling the duties and shall include the list of priorities in its county or district public health plan submitted pursuant to section 25-1-505.

(4) Repealed.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2036, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (3)(b)(XIII) and (3)(b)(XIV) amended and (3)(b)(XV) added, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1028, § 1, effective May 14. L. 2026: IP(3)(b), (3)(b)(XIV), and (3)(b)(XV) amended and (3)(b)(XVI) added, (HB 26-1276), ch. 371, p. 2243, § 2, effective June 4.

Editor's note: (1) The provisions of this section are similar to provisions of several former sections as they existed prior to 2008. For a detailed comparison, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

(2) Subsection (4)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (4), effective July 1, 2009. (See L. 2008, p. 2036.)

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Synthetic Fuels — Policy and Regulation", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 465 (1980).

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-506 is similar to §§ 25-1-501 and 25-1-506 as they existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, relevant cases construing those provisions have been included in the annotations to this section.

Overview of the state's three-tiered public health system and the responsibilities delegated under parts 5 and 6 of this article appears in Jefferson County Health Servs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

County board of health, not the board of county commissioners, is the "governing body" of a county health department for purposes of notice under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act. Jefferson County Health Servs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

Applied in Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

25-1-507. Municipal board of health.

Except as otherwise provided by law, the mayor and council of each incorporated town or city, whether incorporated under general statutes or special charter in this state, may establish a municipal public health agency and appoint a municipal board of health. If appointed, the municipal board of health shall have all the powers and responsibilities and perform all the duties of a county or district board of health as provided in this part 5 within the limits of the respective city or town of which they are the officers.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2039, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-609 as it existed prior to 2008.

25-1-508. County or district boards of public health - public health directors.

(1) Within ninety days after the adoption of a resolution to establish and maintain a county public health agency or to participate in a district public health agency, the respective board of county commissioners shall proceed to organize the agency by the appointment of a county or district board of health.

(2) (a) (I) Each county board of health shall consist of at least five members to be appointed by the board of county commissioners for five-year terms; except that the board of county commissioners shall stagger the terms of the initial appointments. Thereafter, full-term appointments shall be for five years.

(II) Notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a), a county with a population of less than one hundred thousand people may have a county board of health that consists of at least three members to be appointed by the board of county commissioners for five-year terms; except that the board of county commissioners shall stagger the terms of the initial appointments. Thereafter, full-term appointments shall be for five years.

(b) Each member of the county board of health shall be a resident of the county in which the county agency is located. Appointments shall be made to the board so that no business or professional group or governmental entity shall constitute a majority of the board. Any vacancy on the board shall be filled in the same manner as full-term appointments by the appointment of a qualified person for the unexpired term.

(c) In a county with a population of less than one hundred thousand people that, as of July 1, 2008, does not have a board of health that is separate from the board of county commissioners, the board of county commissioners may designate itself as the county board of health as of July 1, 2008. The terms of the members of the county board of health shall coincide with their terms as commissioners. Such county boards shall assume all the duties of appointed county boards.

(d) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs (a) to (c) of this subsection (2), a county board of health in a home-rule county shall comply with the requirements of its home-rule charter.

(3) (a) Each district board of health shall consist of a minimum of five members. The membership of each district board of health shall include at least one representative from each county in the district. The members of the board shall be appointed by an appointments committee composed of one member of each of the boards of county commissioners of the counties comprising the district. The appointments committee for each district board shall designate the number of members of its district board and shall establish staggered terms for the initial appointments. Thereafter, full-term appointments shall be for five years.

(b) Each member of the district board shall be a resident of one of the counties comprising the district, and there shall be at least one member from each of the counties comprising the district. Appointments shall be made to the district board so that no business or professional group or governmental entity shall constitute a majority of the district board. The appointments committee shall fill any vacancy on the district board by the appointment of a qualified person for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(c) Upon establishment of a district board, all county boards previously existing within the county or district shall be dissolved. Upon the acceptance of a new county into an established district, the county or district board previously existing for the county being added shall be dissolved and the chair of the previous county or district board or the chair's designee shall represent the new county on the district board until a new member is appointed by the appointments committee.

(4) (a) A county or district board, at its organizational meeting, shall elect from its members a president and other officers as it shall determine. The public health director of the agency, at the discretion of the board, may serve as secretary but shall not be a member of the board. All officers and the public health director shall hold their positions at the pleasure of the board.

(b) (I) Regular meetings of a county or district board shall be held at least once every three months at such times as may be established by resolution of the board. Special meetings of a board may be called by the president, by the public health director, or by a majority of the members of the board at any time on three days' prior notice; except that, in case of emergency, twenty-four hours' notice shall be sufficient.

(II) A county or district board may adopt, and at any time may amend, bylaws in relation to its meetings and the transaction of its business. A majority of the board shall constitute a quorum. Members of the board shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary travel and subsistence expenses to attend meetings.

(5) In addition to all other powers and duties conferred and imposed upon a county board of health or a district board of health by the provisions of this subpart 3, a county board of health or a district board of health shall have and exercise the following specific powers and duties:

(a) To develop and promote the public policies needed to secure the conditions necessary for a healthy community;

(b) To approve the local public health plan completed by the county or district agency, and to submit the local plan to the state board for review;

(c) (I) To select a public health director to serve at the pleasure of the county or district board. The public health director shall possess such minimum qualifications as may be prescribed by the state board. A public health director may be a physician, physician assistant, public health nurse, or other qualified public health professional. A public health director may practice medicine, nursing, or his or her profession within his or her license and scope of practice, as necessary, to carry out the functions of the office of the public health director. The qualifications shall reflect the resources and needs of the county or counties covered by the agency. If the public health director is not a physician, the county or district board shall employ or contract with at least one medical officer to advise the public health director on medical decisions. The public health director shall maintain an office location designated by the county or district board and shall be the custodian of all property and records of the agency.

(II) A person employed or under contract to act as a medical officer pursuant to this paragraph (c) shall be covered by the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of title 24, C.R.S., for duties performed for the agency.

(d) (I) In the event of a vacancy in the position of public health director or medical officer, to either employ or contract with a person deemed qualified to fill the position or to request temporary assistance from a public health director or a medical officer from another county. The county or district board may also request that an employee of the state department, such as a qualified executive director or the chief medical officer, serve on an interim basis with all the powers and duties of the position.

(II) A person filling a temporary vacancy as public health director or medical officer shall be covered by the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of title 24, C.R.S., for duties performed for the agency.

(e) To provide, equip, and maintain suitable offices and all necessary facilities for the proper administration and provision of core public health services, as defined by the state board;

(f) To determine general policies to be followed by the public health director in administering and enforcing public health laws, orders, and rules of the county or district board, and orders, rules, and standards of the state board;

(g) To issue orders and to adopt rules not inconsistent with the public health laws of this state nor with the orders or rules of the state board as the county or district board may deem necessary for the proper exercise of the powers and duties vested in or imposed upon an agency or county or district board by this part 5;

(h) To act in an advisory capacity to the public health director on all matters pertaining to public health;

(i) To hold hearings, administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, and take testimony in all matters relating to the exercise and performance of the powers and duties vested in or imposed upon a county or district board;

(j) To provide environmental health services and to assess fees to offset the actual, direct cost of such services; except that no fee for a service shall be assessed against any person who has already paid a fee to the state or federal government for the service, and except that the only fee that shall be charged for annual retail food establishment inspections shall be the fee set forth in section 25-4-1607;

(k) To accept and, through the public health director, to use, disburse, and administer all federal aid, state aid, or other property, services, or moneys allotted to an agency for county or district public health functions or allotted without designation of a specific agency for purposes that are within the functions of an agency, and to prescribe, by rule consistent with the laws of this state, the conditions under which the property, services, or moneys shall be accepted and administered. The county or district board is empowered to make agreements that may be required to receive such moneys or other assistance.

(l) To approve, as provided for in section 25-1-520, a clean syringe exchange program proposed by an agency. A county board of health or district board of health shall not be required to approve a proposed program.

(6) Repealed.

(7) Members of a county board of health or a district board of health and the members of the state board of health shall attend both:

(a) Annual public health training provided by the state department and developed by the state department along with the Colorado school of public health; and

(b) Annual public health training developed and provided by the state department and the director of the office of emergency management created in section 24-33.5-705 concerning the role of a board of health in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from an emergency disaster.

(8) The state department shall provide guidance on recruiting persons who are eligible and willing to serve on county and district boards of health. The state department shall provide the guidance in an electronic format to any board of county commissioners, county board of health, or district board of health that requests it.

(9) Changes to this section made by House Bill 21-1115, enacted in 2021, take effect January 1, 2022.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2039, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2010: IP(5) and (5)(j) amended and (5)(l) added, (SB 10-189), ch. 272, p. 1252, § 2, effective August 11. L. 2016: (5)(c)(I) amended, (SB 16-158), ch. 204, p. 727, § 17, effective August 10. L. 2021: (7), (8), and (9) added, (HB 21-1115), ch. 239, p. 1254, § 1, effective September 7. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2075, § 203, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) The provisions of this section are similar to provisions of several former sections as they existed prior to 2008. For a detailed comparison, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

(2) Subsection (6)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (6), effective July 1, 2009. (See L. 2008, p. 2039.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 16-158, see section 1 of chapter 204, Session Laws of Colorado 2016.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "A Review of the 1959 Constitutional and Administrative Law Decisions", see 37 Dicta 81 (1960).

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-508 is similar to §§ 25-1-505, 25-1-507, 25-1-601, and 25-1-610 as they existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, relevant cases construing those provisions have been included in the annotations to this section.

This section is unlawful delegation of legislative power. Subsection (1)(d), delegating power to local boards of health to adopt rules and regulations, and § 25-1-514 (1)(a), providing that a violation of such rules and regulations shall be a misdemeanor, constitute an unlawful delegation of power to the executive department to define a crime in violation of Colo. Const. art. III. Casey v. People, 139 Colo. 89, 336 P.2d 308 (1959).

The general assembly cannot lawfully delegate its power of defining a crime to district or county health departments. Casey v. People, 139 Colo. 89, 336 P.2d 308 (1959).

County board's rules may not override statutory authority. County personnel rules, even though adopted by the county board of health, do not override the explicit statutory authority of the board to discharge a public health officer appointed by the board at any time without cause or formal procedure. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

A county board of health, as a political subdivision of the state, may not by rule or regulation abdicate the authority and responsibility delegated to it by the general assembly. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Overview of the state's three-tiered public health system and the responsibilities delegated under parts 5 and 6 of this article appears in Jefferson County Health Svcs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

County board of health, not the board of county commissioners, is the "governing body" of a county health department for purposes of notice under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act. Jefferson County Health Svcs. Ass'n v. Feeney, 974 P.2d 1001 (Colo. 1998).

Board may not discharge employee in retaliation for exercise of free speech rights. Even though a public health officer is subject to discharge at the pleasure of the board, this does not mean that the board's discretion is limitless. It is well established that even where a government employer may discharge an employee for no reason whatsoever, it nevertheless may not discharge that employee in retaliation for the exercise of his free speech rights. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Resignation prompted by threat of dismissal is equivalent of refusal to rehire. A resignation precipitated by the threat of dismissal is the substantive equivalent of a refusal to rehire by the board. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Appointed physician may substitute another physician's services. Even if the contract between a county and a physician to provide medical attention for the poor were one which called for personal services, it would be unreasonable to hold that the physician could not substitute another reputable physician in his stead during sickness or temporary absence. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Bedell, 13 Colo. App. 261, 57 P. 187 (1899).

25-1-509. County and district public health directors.

(1) (a) The director of each agency shall be the public health director.

(b) All other personnel required by an agency shall be selected by the public health director. All personnel shall perform duties as prescribed by the public health director.

(c) In the event of a public health emergency, the agency shall issue orders and adopt rules consistent with the laws and rules of the state as the public health director may deem necessary for the proper exercise of the powers and duties vested in or imposed upon the agency or county or district board.

(2) In addition to the other powers and duties conferred by this part 5 or by the agency, a public health director has the following powers and duties:

(a) To administer and enforce:

(I) The public health laws of the state and, as authorized by the provisions of this title or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., the public health orders, rules, and standards of the state department or the state board; and

(II) The orders and rules of the county or district board;

(b) To exercise all powers and duties conferred and imposed upon agencies not expressly delegated by the provisions of this part 5 to a county or district board;

(c) To hold hearings, administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, and take testimony in all matters relating to the exercise and performance of his or her powers and duties;

(d) To act as the local registrar of vital statistics or to contract out the responsibility of registrar in the area over which the agency has jurisdiction;

(e) To direct the resources needed to carry out the county or district public health plan developed pursuant to section 25-1-505; and

(f) If requested by the county or district board, to serve as secretary to the board responsible for maintaining all records required by part 2 of article 72 of title 24, C.R.S., and ensuring public notice of all meetings in accordance with part 4 of article 6 of title 24, C.R.S. The director shall be the custodian of all properties and records for the agency.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2043, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-1-505 (3) and 25-1-508 as they existed prior to 2008.

ANNOTATION

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-509 is similar to §§ 25-1-505 and 25-1-508 as they existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, a relevant case construing those provisions has been included in the annotations to this section.

County personnel rules do not override statutory authority. County personnel rules, even though adopted by the county board of health, do not override the explicit statutory authority of the board to discharge a public health officer appointed by the board at any time without cause or formal procedure. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

A county board of health, as a political subdivision of the state, may not by rule or regulation abdicate the authority and responsibility delegated to it by the general assembly. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Board may not discharge employee in retaliation for exercise of free speech rights. Even though a public health officer is subject to discharge at the pleasure of the board, this does not mean that the board's discretion is limitless. It is well established that even where a government employer may discharge an employee for no reason whatsoever, it nevertheless may not discharge that employee in retaliation for the exercise of his free speech rights. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Even with the enhanced potential for negative impact which the public statements of a policymaking employee may bear on the efficiency of governmental functions, the policymaking employee may nonetheless demonstrate that the interest in allowing free commentary on a matter of public concern overrides any governmental interest. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Resignation prompted by threat of dismissal is equivalent of refusal to rehire. A resignation precipitated by the threat of dismissal is the substantive equivalent of a refusal to rehire by the board. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

25-1-510. County or district board unable or unwilling to act.

(1) If the county or district board is unable or unwilling to efficiently or promptly abate a nuisance or prevent the introduction or spread of a contagious or infectious disease, the county or district board or agency shall notify the state department and request assistance to take measures that will abate the nuisance or prevent the introduction or spread of disease.

(2) Upon receipt of the notice and request described in subsection (1) of this section, or upon determination that the county or district board is unable or unwilling to act, the state department has full power to take measures to ensure the abatement of the nuisance or prevent the introduction or spread of disease. The state department, for this purpose, may assume all powers conferred by law on the county or district board.

(3) The state department may reallocate state moneys from an agency that is not able to provide core public health services or standards to another entity to deliver services in that agency's jurisdiction.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2044, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-602 as it existed prior to 2008.

25-1-511. County treasurer - agency funds.

(1) (a) In the case of a county public health agency, the county treasurer, as a part of his or her official duties as county treasurer, shall serve as treasurer of the agency, and the treasurer's official bond as county treasurer shall extend to and cover his or her duties as treasurer of the agency. In the case of a district public health agency, the county treasurer of the county in the district having the largest population as determined by the most recent federal census, as a part of his or her official duties as county treasurer, shall serve as treasurer of the district agency, and the treasurer's official bond as county treasurer shall extend to and cover his or her duties as treasurer of the district agency.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection (1), in a district where the combined population of the counties is four thousand or fewer, the boards of the county commissioners of the counties may, by consent of all counties in the district, select the county whose treasurer shall serve as treasurer of the district.

(2) The treasurer of an agency, upon organization of the agency, shall create a county or district public health agency fund, to which shall be credited:

(a) Any moneys appropriated from a county general fund; and

(b) Any moneys received from state or federal appropriations or any other gifts, grants, donations, or fees for local public health purposes.

(3) Any moneys credited to a fund created pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall be expended only for the purposes of this part 5, and claims or demands against the fund shall be allowed only if certified by the public health director and the president of the county or district board or any other member of the county or district board designated by the president for such purpose.

(4) On or before September 1, 2008, and on or before September 1 of each year thereafter, a county board of health shall estimate the total cost of maintaining the county public health agency for the ensuing fiscal year, and the amount of moneys that may be available from unexpended surpluses or from state or federal funds or other grants or donations. On or before September 1 of each year, the estimates shall be submitted in the form of a budget to the board of county commissioners. The board of county commissioners is authorized to provide any moneys necessary, over estimated moneys from surpluses, grants, and donations, to cover the total cost of maintaining the agency for the ensuing fiscal year by an appropriation from the county general fund.

(5) (a) On or before September 1, 2008, and on or before September 1 of each year thereafter, a district board of health shall estimate the total cost of maintaining the district public health agency for the ensuing fiscal year, and the amount of moneys that may be available from unexpended surpluses or from state or federal funds or other grants or donations. On or before September 1 of each year, the estimates shall be submitted in the form of a budget to a committee composed of the chairs of the boards of county commissioners of all counties comprising the district. The cost for maintaining the agency, over estimated moneys from surpluses, grants, or donations, shall be apportioned by the committee among the counties comprising the district in the proportion that the population of each county in the district bears to the total population of all counties in the district, population figures to be based on the most recent federal census. The boards of county commissioners of the respective counties are authorized to provide any moneys necessary to cover the proportionate shares of their counties by an appropriation from the county general fund.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection (5), in a district where the combined population of the counties is four thousand or fewer, the boards of the county commissioners of the counties may apportion the costs for each county maintaining the agency by consent of all the counties in the district.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2044, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1) and (5) amended, (SB 16-094), ch. 67, p. 171, § 1, effective August 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-1-505 (2) and 25-1-509 as they existed prior to 2008.

ANNOTATION

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-511 is similar to §§ 25-1-505 as it existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, a relevant case construing that provision has been included in the annotations to this section.

County personnel rules do not override statutory authority. County personnel rules, even though adopted by the county board of health, do not override the explicit statutory authority of the board to discharge a public health officer appointed by the board at any time without cause or formal procedure. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

A county board of health, as a political subdivision of the state, may not by rule or regulation abdicate the authority and responsibility delegated to it by the general assembly. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Board may not discharge employee in retaliation for exercise of free speech rights. Even though a public health officer is subject to discharge at the pleasure of the board, this does not mean that the board's discretion is limitless. It is well established that even where a government employer may discharge an employee for no reason whatsoever, it nevertheless may not discharge that employee in retaliation for the exercise of his free speech rights. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

Resignation prompted by threat of dismissal is equivalent of refusal to rehire. A resignation precipitated by the threat of dismissal is the substantive equivalent of a refusal to rehire by the board. Johnson v. Jefferson County Bd. of Health, 662 P.2d 463 (Colo. 1983).

25-1-512. Allocation of moneys - public health services support fund - created.

(1) (a) The state department shall allocate any moneys that the general assembly may appropriate for distribution to county or district public health agencies organized pursuant to this part 5 for the provision of local health services. The state board shall determine the basis for the allocation of moneys to the agencies. In determining the allocation of moneys, the state board shall take into account the population served by each agency, the additional costs involved in operating small or rural agencies, and the scope of services provided by each agency.

(b) (I) In order to qualify for state assistance, each county and city and county shall contribute a minimum of one dollar and fifty cents per capita for its local health services and may contribute additional amounts as it may determine to be necessary to meet its local health needs.

(II) Notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b), for a district public health agency, the counties or cities and counties of the district in total shall contribute a minimum of one dollar and fifty cents per capita for local health services within the district.

(c) Federally funded and state-funded special projects and demonstrations shall be in addition to the allotments specified in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1).

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2045, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1969, § 82, effective August 5. L. 2011: (2) amended, (SB 11-225), ch. 189, p. 730, § 3, effective May 19. L. 2012: (2) amended, (HB 12-1247), ch. 53, p. 193, § 3, effective March 22. L. 2013: (2) amended, (HB 13-1181), ch. 74, p. 237, § 3, effective March 22. L. 2016: (2) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 466, § 12, effective May 4.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-516 as it existed prior to 2008.

(2) For the amendments in HB 16-1408 in effect from May 4, 2016, to July 1, 2016, see chapter 153, Session Laws of Colorado 2016. (See L. 2016, p. 466.)

(3) Subsection (2)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (2), effective July 1, 2016. (See L. 2016, p. 466.)

25-1-513. Enlargement of or withdrawal from public health agency.

(1) Any county contiguous to a district maintaining a district public health agency may become a part of the district by agreement between its board of county commissioners and the boards of county commissioners of the counties comprising the district. The county, upon being accepted into the district, shall thereupon become subject to the provisions of this part 5.

(2) Any county in a district maintaining a district public health agency may withdraw from the district by resolution of its board of county commissioners. A county may not withdraw from a district within the two-year period following the establishment of the district or the county becoming a part of the district. A county may only withdraw from a district after one year's written notice given to the agency. In the event of withdrawal of a county from a district, any moneys that had been appropriated by the county before withdrawal to cover its proportionate share of maintaining the district may be returned to the county. A county shall establish a county public health agency or join another district public health agency once the county withdraws from a district.

(3) A municipal corporation that has voluntarily merged its public health agency with a county or district public health agency under the authority of section 25-1-506 may withdraw from the county or district public health agency by resolution of its city council, board of trustees, or other governing body. A municipal corporation may not withdraw from an agency within the two-year period following the municipal corporation becoming a part of the agency. A county may only withdraw from a district ninety days after a written notice is given to the agency.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2046, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-511 as it existed prior to 2008.

25-1-514. Legal adviser - county attorney - actions.

The county attorney for the county or the district attorney of the judicial district in which a cause of action arises shall bring any civil or criminal action requested by a county or district public health director to abate a condition that exists in violation of, or to restrain or enjoin any action that is in violation of, or to prosecute for the violation of or for the enforcement of, the public health laws and the standards, orders, and rules of the state board or a county or district board of health. If the county attorney or the district attorney fails to act, the public health director may bring an action and be represented by special counsel employed by him or her with the approval of the county or district board. An agency, through its county or district board of health or through its public health director, may employ or retain and compensate an attorney to be the legal adviser of the agency and to defend the agency and the officers and employees of the agency against all actions and proceedings brought against them.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2047, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (SB 19-021), ch. 3, p. 20, § 3, effective August 2.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-512 as it existed prior to 2008.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-021, see section 1 of chapter 3, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-1-515. Judicial review of decisions.

(1) Any person aggrieved and affected by a decision of a county or district board of health or a public health director acting under the provisions of this part 5 shall be entitled to judicial review by filing, in the district court of any county over which the county or district board or public health director has jurisdiction, an appropriate action requesting the review within ninety days after the public announcement of the decision. The court may make any interested person a party to the action. The review shall be conducted by the court without a jury and shall be confined to the record, if a complete record is presented. In a case of alleged irregularities in the record or in the procedure before the county or district board or public health director, testimony may be taken in the court. The court may affirm the decision or may reverse or modify it if the substantial rights of the appellant have been prejudiced as a result of the findings and decision of the county or district board being:

(a) Contrary to constitutional rights or privileges;

(b) In excess of the statutory authority or jurisdiction of the county or district board or public health director;

(c) Affected by any error of law;

(d) Made or promulgated upon unlawful procedure;

(e) Unsupported by substantial evidence in view of the entire record as submitted; or

(f) Arbitrary or capricious.

(2) Any party may have a review of the final judgment or decision of the district court by appellate review in accordance with law and the Colorado appellate rules.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2047, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-513 as it existed prior to 2008.

ANNOTATION

Applied in C Bar H, Inc. v. Bd. of Health ex rel. Jefferson County, 56 P.3d 1189 (Colo. App. 2002) (decided under former § 25-1-513).

25-1-516. Unlawful acts - penalties.

(1) It is unlawful for any person, association, or corporation and the officers thereof to:

(a) Willfully violate, disobey, or disregard the provisions of the public health laws or the terms of any lawful notice, order, standard, or rule;

(b) Fail to make or file a report required by law or rule of the state board relating to the existence of disease or other facts and statistics relating to the public health;

(c) Willfully and falsely make or alter a certificate or certified copy of any certificate issued pursuant to the public health laws;

(d) Willfully fail to remove from private property under his or her control at his or her own expense, within forty-eight hours after being ordered to do so by the county or district public health agency, any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness within the jurisdiction and control of the agency whether the person, association, or corporation is the owner, tenant, or occupant of the private property; except that, when the condition is due to an act of God, it shall be removed at public expense; or

(e) Pay, give, present, or otherwise convey to any officer or employee of an agency any gift, remuneration, or other consideration, directly or indirectly, that the officer or employee is forbidden to receive by the provisions of this part 5.

(2) It is unlawful for any officer or employee of any agency or member of any county or district board of health to accept any gift, remuneration, or other consideration, directly or indirectly, for an incorrect or improper performance of the duties imposed upon him or her by or on behalf of the agency or by the provisions of this part 5.

(3) Any person, association, or corporation, or the officers thereof, who violates any provision of this section commits a class 2 misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished pursuant to the provisions of section 18-1.3-501. In addition to the fine or imprisonment, the person, association, or corporation shall be liable for any expense incurred by health authorities in removing any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness. Conviction under the penalty provisions of this part 5 or any other public health law shall not relieve any person from any civil action in damages that may exist for an injury resulting from any violation of the public health laws.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2048, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3232, § 443, effective March 1, 2022.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-514 as it existed prior to 2008.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "A Review of the 1959 Constitutional and Administrative Law Decisions", see 37 Dicta 81 (1960).

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-516 is similar to § 25-1-514 as it existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, a relevant case construing that provision has been included in the annotations to this section.

This section is unlawful delegation of legislative power to define crime. Section 25-1-507(1)(d), delegating power to local boards of health to adopt rules and regulations, and subsection (1)(a), providing that a violation of such rules and regulations shall be a misdemeanor, constitute an unlawful delegation of power to the executive department to define a crime in violation of art. III, Colo. Const. Casey v. People, 139 Colo. 89, 336 P.2d 308 (1959).

Only general assembly may declare an act to be a crime, and that precious power cannot be delegated to others not elected by or responsible to the people. Casey v. People, 139 Colo. 89, 336 P.2d 308 (1959).

25-1-517. Mode of treatment inconsistent with religious creed or tenet.

Nothing in this part 5 authorizes a county or district board of health to impose on any person any mode of treatment inconsistent with the creed or tenets of any religious denomination of which he or she is an adherent if the person complies with sanitary and quarantine laws and rules.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2049, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-515 as it existed prior to 2008.

25-1-518. Nuisances.

(1) Removal of nuisances. The county or district board of health shall examine all nuisances, sources of filth, and causes of sickness, which, in its opinion, may be injurious to the health of the inhabitants, within its town, city, county, city and county, or district, and it shall destroy, remove, or prevent the nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness, as the case may require.

(2) Unhealthy premises cleaned - structures removed. If any cellar, vault, lot, sewer, drain, place, or premises within any city is damp, unwholesome, offensive, or filthy, or is covered for any portion of the year with stagnant or impure water, or is in a condition as to produce unwholesome or offensive exhalations, the county or district board of health may cause the area to be drained, filled up, cleaned, amended, or purified; or may require the owner or occupant or person in charge of the lot, premises, or place to perform such duty; or may cause the removal to be done by the proper officers of the city.

(3) Expense for abating nuisance. If any person or company neglects to remove or abate any nuisance or to perform any requirement made by or in accordance with any ordinance or resolution of the county or district board of health for the protection of the health of the inhabitants and if any expense is incurred by the board in removing or abating the nuisance or in causing such duty or requirement to be performed, such expense may be recovered by the board in an action against such person or company. In all cases where the board incurs any expense for draining, filling, cleaning, or purifying any lot, place, or premises, or for removing or abating any nuisance found upon such lot or premises, the board, in addition to all other remedies, may provide for the recovery of such expense, charge the same or such part thereof as it deems proper to the lot or premises upon or on account of which such expense was incurred or from which such nuisance was removed or abated, and cause the same to be assessed upon such lot or premises and collected as a special assessment.

(4) Removal of nuisance on private property - penalty. Whenever any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness is found on private property, the county or district board of health shall order the owner or occupant or the person who has caused or permitted such nuisance, at his or her own expense, to remove the same within twenty-four hours. In default thereof, he or she shall forfeit a sum not to exceed one hundred dollars at the suit of the board of county commissioners of the proper county or the board of the proper city, town, or village for the use of the county or district board of health of the city or town where the nuisance is found.

(5) Board to remove - when. If the owner or occupant does not comply with an order of the county or district board of health, the board may cause the nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness to be removed, and all expense incurred thereby shall be paid by the owner or occupant or by such other person who has caused or permitted the nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness.

(6) Conviction - nuisance to be abated. Whenever any person is convicted of maintaining a nuisance that may be injurious to the public health, the court, in its discretion, may order the nuisance abated, removed, or destroyed at the expense of the defendant under the direction of the county or district board of health of the town, city, county, or district where the nuisance is found, and the form of the warrant to the sheriff or other officer may be varied accordingly.

(7) Stay warrant of conviction. The court, on the application of the defendant, may order a stay of a warrant issued pursuant to subsection (6) of this section for such time as may be necessary, not exceeding six months, to give the defendant an opportunity to remove the nuisance upon giving satisfactory security to do so within the time specified in the order.

(8) Expense of abating. The expense of abating and removing the nuisance pursuant to a warrant issued pursuant to subsection (6) of this section shall be collected by the officer in the same manner as damages and costs are collected upon execution; except that the materials of any buildings, fences, or other things that may be removed as a nuisance may be sold by the officer in like manner as goods are sold on execution for the payment of debts. The officer may apply the proceeds of the sale to defray the expenses of the removal and shall pay over the balance thereof, if any, to the defendant upon demand. If the proceeds of the sale are not sufficient to defray the expenses incurred pursuant to this subsection (8), the sheriff shall collect the residue thereof as provided in subsection (3) of this section.

(9) Refusal of admittance to premises.

(a) Whenever a county or district board of health finds it necessary for the preservation of the lives or health of the inhabitants to enter any building, car, or train of cars in its town, city, county, or district for the purpose of examining and abating, removing, or preventing any nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness and is refused entry, any member of the board may make complaint under oath to the county court of his or her county stating the facts of the case as far as he or she has knowledge thereof.

(b) The court may thereupon issue a warrant directed to the sheriff commanding him or her to take sufficient aid and, being accompanied by any two or more members of the county or district board of health, during daylight hours, to return to the place where the nuisance, source of filth, or cause of sickness complained of may be and destroy, remove, or prevent the nuisance, source of filth, cause of sickness, or danger to life or limb under the direction of the members of the board of health.

(10) Damages occasioned by nuisance - action. Any person injured either in his or her comfort or in the enjoyment of his or her estate by any nuisance may have an action for damages sustained thereby.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2049, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1970, § 83, effective August 5.

Editor's note: The provisions of this section are similar to provisions of several former sections as they existed prior to 2008. For a detailed comparison, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

ANNOTATION

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1-518 is similar to § 25-1-613 as it existed prior to the 2008 repeal and reenactment of this part 5, relevant cases construing that provision have been included in the annotations to this section.

Only nuisances per se may be removed or abated summarily. City of Denver v. Mullen, 7 Colo. 345, 3 P. 693 (1884).

Compensation required for property mistakenly destroyed as nuisance. If property is destroyed under a mistaken belief that it is a nuisance, when in fact it is not a nuisance, it is taken for a public use, and the loss to the owner should be made good. McMahon v. City of Telluride, 79 Colo. 281, 244 P. 1017 (1926).

25-1-519. Existing intergovernmental agreements.

Nothing in this part 5 shall void the terms of any intergovernmental agreement concerning public health entered into as of July 1, 2008, so long as all core and essential public health services continue to be provided.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 2051, § 1, effective July 1.

25-1-520. Clean syringe exchange programs - operation - approval - testing supplies.

(1) A county public health agency or district public health agency may request approval from its county board of health or district board of health, referred to in this section as the "board", for a clean syringe exchange program operated by the agency or by a nonprofit organization with which the agency contracts to operate the clean syringe exchange program. Prior to approving or disapproving any such optional program, the board shall consult with the agency and interested stakeholders concerning the establishment of the clean syringe exchange program. Interested stakeholders must include, but need not be limited to, local law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, substance use disorder treatment providers, persons with a substance use disorder in remission, nonprofit organizations, hepatitis C and HIV advocacy organizations, and members of the community. The board and interested stakeholders shall consider, at a minimum, the following issues:

(a) The scope of the problem being addressed and the population the program would serve;

(b) Concerns of the law enforcement community; and

(c) The parameters of the proposed program, including methods for identifying program workers and volunteers.

(2) Each proposed clean syringe exchange program must, at a minimum, have the ability to:

(a) Provide an injection drug user with the information and the means to protect himself or herself, his or her partner, and his or her family from exposure to blood-borne disease through access to education, sterile injection equipment, voluntary testing for blood-borne diseases, and counseling;

(b) Provide thorough referrals to facilitate entry into substance use disorder treatment programs, including opioid substitution therapy;

(c) Encourage usage of medical care and mental health services as well as social welfare and health promotion;

(d) Provide safety protocols and classes for the proper handling and disposal of injection materials;

(e) Plan and implement the clean syringe exchange program with the clear objective of reducing the transmission of blood-borne diseases within a specific geographic area;

(f) Develop a timeline for the proposed program and for the development of policies and procedures; and

(g) Develop an education program regarding the legal rights under this section and section 18-18-428 (1)(b), C.R.S., that encourages participants to always disclose their possession of hypodermic needles or syringes to peace officers or emergency medical technicians or other first responders prior to a search.

(2.3) A clean syringe exchange program operating pursuant to this section may purchase and distribute other supplies and tools intended to reduce health risks associated with the use of drugs, including, but not limited to, smoking materials.

(2.5) (a) A nonprofit organization with experience operating a clean syringe exchange program or a health facility licensed or certified by the state may operate a clean syringe exchange program without prior board approval.

(b) Prior to operating a clean syringe exchange program pursuant to this subsection (2.5), a nonprofit organization shall consult with interested stakeholders and discuss the issues described in subsection (1) of this section.

(c) Each nonprofit organization and health facility that operates a clean syringe exchange program pursuant to this subsection (2.5) shall annually report to the state department specifying the nonprofit organization's or health facility's number of syringe access episodes in the previous year and the number of used syringes collected by the nonprofit organization or health facility.

(3) The board may approve or disapprove the proposed clean syringe exchange program based on the results of the meetings held pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.

(4) If the board approves a clean syringe exchange program that is operated through a contract with a nonprofit organization, the contract shall be subject to annual review and shall be renewed only if the board approves the contract after consultation with the county or district public health agency and interested stakeholders as described in subsection (1) of this section.

(4.5) A clean syringe exchange program operating pursuant to this section may acquire and use supplies or devices intended for use in testing controlled substances or controlled substance analogs for potentially dangerous adulterants.

(5) One or more counties represented on a district board of health may at any time opt out of a clean syringe exchange program proposed or approved pursuant to this section.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 2010: Entire section added, (SB 10-189), ch. 272, p. 1253, § 3, effective August 11. L. 2015: (2)(e) and (2)(f) amended and (2)(g) added, (SB 15-116), ch. 76, p. 201, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2017: IP(1), IP(2), and (2)(b) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1322, § 182, effective May 25. L. 2019: (2.5) added, (SB 19-227), ch. 273, p. 2580, § 9, effective May 23. L. 2020: (2.5) amended, (HB 20-1065), ch. 287, p. 1420, § 7, effective September 14. L. 2024: (2.3) and (4.5) added, (HB 24-1037), ch. 458, p. 3165, § 7, effective June 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (6), effective July 1, 2014. (See L. 2010, p. 1253.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-1-521. State department - local public health agencies - address substance use disorders - appropriation - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (SB 19-228), ch. 276, p. 2603, § 7, effective May 23.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2020. (See L. 2019, p. 2603.)

PART 6

LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH

25-1-601 to 25-1-667. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire part repealed, p. 2051, § 3, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 6 was numbered as article 3 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 6 prior to its repeal in 2008, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this part 6 were relocated to part 5 of this article. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said part 5 and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

PART 7

REGIONAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS

25-1-701 to 25-1-719. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire part repealed, p. 2051, § 3, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 7 was numbered as article 37 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 7 prior to its repeal in 2008, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 8

PATIENT RECORDS

Law reviews: For article, "Rights to and Disclosure of Medical Information: HIPAA and Colorado Law", see 33 Colo. Law. 101 (Oct. 2004).

25-1-800.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "HIPAA-compliant" means in compliance with the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended.

(2) "Personal representative" has the meaning set forth in 45 CFR 164.502.

(3) (a) "Reasonable fees" means an amount not to exceed:

(I) Eighteen dollars and fifty-three cents for the first ten pages, eighty-five cents per page for the next thirty pages, and fifty-seven cents per page for each additional page; except that, if the medical records are stored on microfilm, one dollar and fifty cents per page;

(II) For radiographic studies, actual reproduction costs for each copy of a radiograph;

(III) If the authorized person requests certification of the medical records, a fee of ten dollars;

(IV) Actual postage and electronic media costs, if applicable; and

(V) Applicable taxes.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 8:

(I) If a patient record is requested by a third-party entity that is performing duties under the "Laura Hershey Disability Support Act", part 2 of article 88 of title 8, the third party may obtain one free copy of the record for the application process or for an appeal or reapplication when required by the disability benefit administrator;

(II) If maximum rates have already been established by statute or rule for a state or local government entity, those rates prevail over the rates set forth in this part 8; and

(III) This part 8 does not apply to coroners requesting medical records pursuant to section 30-10-606.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added with relocations, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2075, § 204, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-801 (5) as it existed prior to 2025.

25-1-801. Patient records in custody of health-care facility - definitions.

(1) (a) Every patient record in the custody of a health facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1) or article 3 of this title, or both, or any entity regulated under title 10, C.R.S., providing health-care services, as defined in section 10-16-102 (33), C.R.S., directly or indirectly through a managed care plan, as defined in section 10-16-102 (43), C.R.S., or otherwise, shall be available for inspection to the patient or the patient's personal representative through the attending health-care provider or the provider's designated representative at reasonable times and upon reasonable notice, except records withheld in accordance with 45 CFR 164.524 (a). A summary of records pertaining to a patient's mental health problems may, upon written request and signed and dated authorization, be made available to the patient or the patient's personal representative following termination of the treatment program.

(b) (I) (A) A health facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1) or article 3 of this title 25 or an entity regulated under title 10, providing health-care services, as defined in section 10-16-102, directly or indirectly through a managed care plan, as defined in section 10-16-102 or otherwise, must provide copies of a patient's medical records, including X rays, to the patient or the patient's personal representative upon request and payment of the fee a covered entity may impose in accordance with the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, and any rules promulgated pursuant to the act, or to a third person who requests the records upon submission of a HIPAA-compliant authorization, valid subpoena, or court order and upon the payment of the reasonable fees. For a request not exceeding six hundred sixty-four pages, the fees charged to a third person shall not exceed the reasonable fees.

(B) The health-care facility must deliver the medical records in electronic format if the person requests electronic format, the original medical records are stored in electronic format, and the medical records are readily producible in electronic format.

(II) In the event that a licensed health-care professional determines that a copy of any X ray, mammogram, CT SCAN, MRI, or other film is not sufficient for diagnostic or other treatment purposes, the health facility or entity shall make the original of any such film available to the patient or another health-care professional or facility as specifically directed by the patient pursuant to a written authorization-request for films and upon the payment of the reasonable costs for such film. If a health facility releases an original film pursuant to this subparagraph (II), it shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, or other consequences as a result of such release. Any original X ray, mammogram, CT SCAN, MRI, or other film made available pursuant to this subparagraph (II) shall be returned upon request to the lending facility within thirty days.

(III) The total sum of fees that a health-care facility may charge and collect for a record request made by an attorney who represents the patient or the attorney of the patient's personal representative, pursuant to a submission of an authorization in compliance with the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191; a valid subpoena; or a valid court order, if the requested record exceeds six hundred sixty-four pages, must not exceed four hundred dollars.

(IV) On January 1, 2028, and every January 1 every even-numbered year thereafter, the four-hundred-dollar limit set forth in subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section must be adjusted for inflation. The adjusted limit must be rounded to the nearest whole dollar. The secretary of state shall publish the adjusted limit on its website no later than October 1 of every year the limit is subject to an adjustment. The adjusted limit must not be decreased below four hundred dollars. As used in this subsection (1)(b)(IV), "inflation" means the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by all urban consumers, or its successor index.

(c) The hospital or related facility or institution shall post in conspicuous public places on the premises a statement of the requirements set forth in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection (1) and shall make available a copy of said statement to each patient upon admission.

(d) Nothing in this section requires a person responsible for the diagnosis or treatment of sexually transmitted infections, a substance use disorder, or the use of drugs in the case of minors pursuant to sections 13-22-102 and 25-4-409 to release patient records of such diagnosis or treatment to a parent, guardian, or person other than the minor or his or her designated representative.

(e) Subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section does not apply if a health-care facility is required to segregate, withhold, or redact protected health information from the requested record to comply with applicable law or within the scope or limitations detailed in subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section.

(f) (I) The health-care facility shall deliver the medical records in electronic format, upon request and payment of the fees detailed in this subsection (1), if:

(A) The individual or entity requests electronic format;

(B) The original medical records are stored in electronic format; and

(C) The medical records are readily producible in electronic format.

(II) An invoice for all records provided in response to a request for medical records must be provided to the requestor within thirty days of receiving a valid request, and the records must be provided upon payment of the invoice.

(III) If a health-care facility is unable to provide access to medical records within thirty days, as required by subsection (1)(f)(II) of this section, the health-care facility may extend the time frame for providing records by an additional thirty days, and the health-care facility must notify the requestor in writing of the extension within the initial thirty-day period.

(IV) A record not provided within thirty days or without written notification of a thirty-day extension must be provided to the requestor at no cost, absent an independent intervening force majeure that renders the requested records inaccessible, irretrievable, or undeliverable within the required time frame. If a health-care facility is unable to comply with a request for medical records within the time required pursuant to this subsection (1)(f)(IV) due to a force majeure event, the facility shall provide written notice to the requestor. The notice must be given as soon as reasonably practicable, but not later than five business days after the facility becomes aware of the force majeure event. For existing requests, or not later than five business days after receipt of a new request, the thirty-day time period to respond to a request for records commences upon resolution of the force majeure event. The entity shall notify the requestor within five business days after the force majeure event has been resolved. All notices required pursuant to this subsection (1)(f)(IV) must be delivered in the same format in which it was received. As used in this subsection (1)(f)(IV), "force majeure" means a factor outside the parties' control that means performance of the task is impossible or impracticable as a result of an event or effect that the parties could not have anticipated or controlled.

(g) Nothing in subsection (1)(b), (1)(e), or (1)(f) of this section requires a health-care facility to disclose information that is privileged, confidential, or protected from discovery or admission under state or federal law, including pursuant to sections 12-30-204 and 25-3-109 or 42 U.S.C. sec. 1320c-1.

(2) All requests by a patient or the patient's personal representative for inspection of the patient's medical records made under this section shall be noted with the time and date of the request and the time and date of inspection noted by the attending health-care provider or his or her designated representative. The patient or personal representative shall acknowledge the fact of the inspection by dating and signing the record file. A health-care facility shall not charge a fee for the inspection of medical records.

(3) Nothing in this section shall apply to any nursing institution conducted by or for the adherents of any well-recognized church or religious denomination for the purpose of providing facilities for the care and treatment of the sick who depend exclusively upon spiritual means through prayer for healing and the practice of the religion of such church or denomination.

(4) For the purposes of this section, medical information transmitted during the delivery of health care via telemedicine, as defined in section 12-240-104 (10), is part of the patient's medical record maintained by the health-care facility.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 76: Entire part added, p. 648, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1)(a) R&RE, p. 1040, § 1, effective May 20. L. 97: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 348, § 1, effective April 19. L. 2001: (4) added, p. 1163, § 10, effective January 1, 2002. L. 2003: (1)(a) and (1)(b)(I) amended, p. 708, § 36, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1)(d) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 475, § 20, effective April 9. L. 2013: (1)(a) and (1)(b)(I) amended, (HB 13-1266), ch. 217, p. 991, § 60, effective May 13. L. 2014: (1)(a), (1)(b)(I), and (2) amended and (5) added, (HB 14-1186), ch. 125, p. 445, § 2, effective April 18. L. 2016: (1)(d) amended, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 922, § 21, effective July 1; (5)(c)(II)(A) amended, (HB 16-1362), ch. 319, p. 1296, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2018: (1)(d) amended, (SB 18-091), ch. 35, p. 387, § 21, effective August 8. L. 2019: (4) amended, (SB 19-241), ch. 390, p. 3471, § 32, effective October 1; (4) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1695, § 139, effective October 1. L. 2024: (5)(c)(II)(A) amended, (HB 24-1360), ch. 324, p. 2167, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2025: (4) amended, (HB 25-1024), ch. 59, p. 249, § 5, effective August 6; (5) repealed, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2109, § 336, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1)(b)(I)(A) amended and (1)(b)(III), (1)(b)(IV), (1)(e), (1)(f), and (1)(g) added, (HB 26-1414), ch. 400, p. 2507, § 1, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Subsection (5) was relocated to § 25-1-800.3 in 2025.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2001 act enacting subsection (4), see section 1 of chapter 300, Session Laws of Colorado 2001. For the legislative declaration in HB 14-1186, see section 1 of chapter 125, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-091, see section 1 of chapter 35, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1360, see section 1 of chapter 324, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Authorization to Release Medical Information Form: Its Genesis and Usage", see 11 Colo. Law. 1179 (1982). For article, "Legislative Update", see 12 Colo. Law. 1251 (1983).

Exception to broad disclosure. This section can be read consistently with former § 27-10-116 (1)(a) as a specific exception to a general policy of broad disclosure and is not unconstitutional on its face as it operates with the short-term commitment procedure. Brown v. Jensen, 572 F. Supp. 193 (D. Colo. 1983).

The phrase "the reasonable costs" of providing copies of medical records, as used in subsection (1)(b), does not indicate that providers may only charge for the singular costs directly incurred in the physical act of copying. The term "costs" is not singular and is not limited to the costs of supplies and the labor of copying. Colo. Consumer Health Initiative v. Colo. Bd. of Health, 240 P.3d 525 (Colo. App. 2010).

"Reasonable costs" may include the costs inherent in record inspection. Colo. Consumer Health Initiative v. Colo. Bd. of Health, 240 P.3d 525 (Colo. App. 2010).

25-1-802. Patient records in custody of individual health-care providers - definitions.

(1) (a) Every patient record in the custody of a podiatrist, chiropractor, dentist, doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, nurse, certified midwife, optometrist, occupational therapist, audiologist, acupuncturist, direct-entry midwife, or physical therapist required to be licensed under title 12; a naturopathic doctor required to be registered pursuant to article 250 of title 12; or a person practicing psychotherapy under article 245 of title 12, except records withheld in accordance with 45 CFR 164.524 (a), must be available to the patient or the patient's personal representative upon submission of a valid authorization for inspection of records, dated and signed by the patient, at reasonable times and upon reasonable notice. A summary of records pertaining to a patient's mental health problems may, upon written request accompanied by a signed and dated authorization, be made available to the patient or the patient's personal representative following termination of the treatment program.

(b) (I) (A) A copy of the records, including radiographic studies, must be made available to the patient or the patient's personal representative, upon request and payment of the fee a covered entity may impose in accordance with the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, or to a third person who requests the medical records upon submission of a HIPAA-compliant authorization, a valid subpoena, or a court order, and payment of reasonable fees. For a request not exceeding six hundred sixty-four pages, the fees charged to a third person shall not exceed the reasonable fees.

(B) The health-care provider must provide the medical records in electronic format if the person requests electronic format, the original medical records are stored in electronic format, and the medical records are readily producible in electronic format.

(II) If a licensed health-care professional determines that a copy of a radiographic study, including an X ray, mammogram, CT scan, MRI, or other film, is not sufficient for diagnostic or other treatment purposes, the podiatrist, chiropractor, dentist, doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, nurse, certified midwife, optometrist, audiologist, acupuncturist, direct-entry midwife, or physical therapist required to be licensed under title 12, or, subject to the provisions of section 25-1-801 (1)(a) and subsection (1)(a) of this section, the person practicing psychotherapy under article 245 of title 12, shall make the original of any radiographic study available to the patient, the patient's personal representative, a person authorized by the patient, or another health-care professional or facility as specifically directed by the patient, personal representative, authorized person, or health-care professional or facility pursuant to a HIPAA-compliant authorization and upon the payment of the reasonable fees for the radiographic study. If a practitioner releases an original radiographic study pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II), the practitioner is not responsible for any loss, damage, or other consequences as a result of the release. Any original radiographic study made available pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II) must be returned upon request to the lending practitioner within thirty days.

(III) The total sum of fees that a health-care provider may charge and collect for a record request made by an attorney who represents the patient or the attorney of the patient's personal representative, pursuant to a submission of an authorization in compliance with the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191; a valid subpoena; or a valid court order, if the requested record exceeds six hundred sixty-four pages, must not exceed four hundred dollars.

(IV) On January 1, 2028, and every January 1 every even-numbered year thereafter, the four-hundred-dollar limit set forth in subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section must be adjusted for inflation. The adjusted limit must be rounded to the nearest whole dollar. The secretary of state shall publish the adjusted limit on its website no later than October 1 of every year the limit is subject to an adjustment. The adjusted limit must not be decreased below four hundred dollars. As used in this subsection (1)(b)(IV), "inflation" means the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by all urban consumers, or its successor index.

(c) Subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section does not apply if a health-care provider is required to segregate, withhold, or redact protected health information from the requested record to comply with applicable law or within the scope or limitations detailed in subsection (1)(b)(III) of this section.

(d) (I) The health-care provider shall deliver the medical records in electronic format, upon request and payment of the fees detailed in this subsection (1), if:

(A) The individual or entity requests electronic format;

(B) The original medical records are stored in electronic format; and

(C) The medical records are readily producible in electronic format.

(II) An invoice for all records provided in response to a request for medical records must be provided to the requestor within thirty days of receiving a valid request, and the records must be provided upon payment of the invoice.

(III) If a health-care provider is unable to provide access to medical records within thirty days, as required by subsection (1)(d)(II) of this section, the health-care provider may extend the time frame for providing records by an additional thirty days, and the health-care provider must notify the requestor in writing of the extension within the initial thirty-day period.

(IV) A record not provided within thirty days or without written notification of a thirty-day extension must be provided to the requestor at no cost, absent an independent intervening force majeure that renders the requested records inaccessible, irretrievable, or undeliverable within the required time frame. If a health-care facility is unable to comply with a request for medical records within the time required pursuant to this subsection (1)(d)(IV) due to a force majeure event, the facility shall provide written notice to the requestor. The notice must be given as soon as reasonably practicable, but not later than five business days after the facility becomes aware of the force majeure event. For existing requests, or not later than five business days after receipt of a new request, the thirty-day time period to respond to a request for records commences upon resolution of the force majeure event. The entity shall notify the requestor within five business days after the force majeure event has been resolved. All notices required pursuant to this subsection (1)(d)(IV) must be delivered in the same format in which it was received. As used in this subsection (1)(d)(IV), "force majeure" means a factor outside the parties' control that means performance of the task is impossible or impracticable as a result of an event or effect that the parties could not have anticipated or controlled.

(e) Nothing in subsection (1)(b), (1)(c), or (1)(d) of this section requires a health-care provider to disclose information that is privileged, confidential, or protected from discovery or admission under state or federal law, including pursuant to sections 12-30-204 and 25-3-109 or 42 U.S.C. sec. 1320c.

(2) Nothing in this section requires a person responsible for the diagnosis or treatment of sexually transmitted infections, substance use disorders, or the use of drugs in the case of minors pursuant to sections 13-22-102 and 25-4-409 to release patient records of such diagnosis or treatment to a parent, guardian, or person other than the minor or his or her designated representative.

(3) As used in this section, "patient record" does not include a doctor's office notes.

(4) All requests by a patient or the patient's personal representative for inspection of his or her medical records made under this section shall be noted with the time and date of the request and the time and date of inspection noted by the health-care provider or his or her designated representative. The patient or the patient's personal representative shall acknowledge the inspection by dating and signing the record file. A health-care provider shall not charge a fee for the inspection of medical records.

(5) For the purposes of this section, medical information transmitted during the delivery of health care via telemedicine, as defined in section 12-240-104 (10), is part of the patient's medical record maintained by a health-care provider.

Source: L. 76: Entire part added, p. 649, § 1, effective July 1. L. 97: (1) amended, p. 349, § 2, effective April 19; (1)(a) amended, p. 1032, § 69, effective August 6. L. 2001: (5) added, p. 1163, § 11, effective January 1, 2002. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 475, § 21, effective April 9. L. 2014: (1) and (4) amended, (HB 14-1186), ch. 125, p. 446, § 3, effective April 18. L. 2016: (2) amended, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 922, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2018: (2) amended, (SB 18-091), ch. 35, p. 387, § 22, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1)(a), (1)(b)(II), and (5) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1695, § 140, effective October 1; (5) amended, (SB 19-241), ch. 390, p. 3471, § 34, effective October 1. L. 2023: (1)(a) and (1)(b)(II) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1547, § 55, effective May 25. L. 2025: (5) amended, (HB 25-1024), ch. 59, p. 249, § 6, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1)(b)(I)(A) amended and (1)(b)(III), (1)(b)(IV), (1)(e), (1)(f), and (1)(g) added, (HB 26-1414), ch. 400, p. 2509, § 2, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (1)(b)(I)(A) by HB 26-1414 contained language from § 25-1-801 (1)(b)(I)(A) and were harmonized with § 25-1-802 (1)(b)(I)(A).

(2) Subsections (1)(c), (1)(d), and (1)(e) were numbered as (1)(e), (1)(f), and (1)(g), respectively, in HB 26-1414 but were renumbered on revision for ease of location.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2001 act enacting subsection (5), see section 1 of chapter 300, Session Laws of Colorado 2001. For the legislative declaration in HB 14-1186, see section 1 of chapter 125, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-091, see section 1 of chapter 35, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

ANNOTATION

The phrase "mental health problems" means psychiatric or psychological problems. The phrase does not include general professional counseling, addressing life skill building, decision making, and problem solving, unrelated to psychiatric or psychological problems. Therefore, such records are available to the patient under this section. Dauwe v. Musante, 122 P.3d 15 (Colo. App. 2004).

The phrase "the reasonable costs" of providing copies of medical records, as used in subsection (1)(b), does not indicate that providers may only charge for the singular costs directly incurred in the physical act of copying. The term "costs" is not singular and is not limited to the costs of supplies and the labor of copying. Colo. Consumer Health Initiative v. Colo. Bd. of Health, 240 P.3d 525 (Colo. App. 2010).

"Reasonable costs" may include the costs inherent in record inspection. Colo. Consumer Health Initiative v. Colo. Bd. of Health, 240 P.3d 525 (Colo. App. 2010).

25-1-803. Effect of this part 8 on similar rights of a patient.

(1) Nothing in this part 8:

(a) Limits the right of a patient, the patient's personal representative, or a person who requests the medical records upon submission of a HIPAA-compliant authorization, a valid subpoena, or a court order to inspect the patient's medical or mental health data pursuant to section 24-72-204 (3)(a)(I), C.R.S.; or

(b) Limits or expands a right to inspect the patient's records that is otherwise granted by state statute to the patient, the patient's personal representative, or a person who requests the medical records upon submission of a HIPAA-compliant authorization, a valid subpoena, or a court order.

Source: L. 76: Entire part added, p. 650, § 1, effective July 1. L. 97: (1)(a) amended, p. 350, § 3, effective April 19. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1186), ch. 125, p. 448, § 4, effective April 18.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 14-1186, see section 1 of chapter 125, Session Laws of Colorado 2014.

PART 9

COMMISSION ON FAMILY MEDICINE

25-1-901 to 25-1-904. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2017: Entire part repealed, (HB 17-1024), ch. 7, p. 22, § 4, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This part 9 was added in 1977. For amendments to this part 9 prior to its repeal in 2017, consult the 2016 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. This part 9 was relocated to part 6 of article 1 of title 25.5. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections.

PART 10

CHILD CARE PROGRAMS IN NURSING HOME FACILITIES

25-1-1001. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby finds that the operation of child care centers in nursing home facilities is desirable because the benefit to nursing home facility employees in having on-location child care will improve the quality of care in nursing home facilities by stabilizing the nursing home work force and because the general public, especially in rural areas, will benefit from the increased availability of day care centers in their communities. The general assembly also finds that the operation of child care centers in nursing home facilities is desirable because the intergenerational contact has been proven to be beneficial to the health and well-being of elderly persons and, therefore, will improve the quality of life of elderly residents in nursing home facilities and because the intergenerational contact will be beneficial to the children as well. The general assembly, therefore, declares that the intent of this part 10 is to encourage the development of child care centers in nursing home facilities by encouraging the creation of private grants to provide funds to start such centers and by requiring the state agencies which license nursing home facilities and child care centers to study and recommend statutory and regulatory changes to facilitate and encourage the development of child care centers in nursing home facilities.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1003, § 1, effective April 28.

25-1-1002. Definitions.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Nursing home facility" means a facility which provides skilled nursing home services or intermediate care nursing home services.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1004, § 1, effective April 28.

25-1-1003. Grant program - requirements - use of medical assistance funds prohibited.

(1) The department of public health and environment may encourage the development of a private grant program to provide start-up funds to nursing home facilities for the purpose of establishing child care centers located in such nursing home facilities.

(2) The state board of health, after consultation with the division in the department of human services involved in licensing child care centers and if the committee formed in section 25-1-1004 recommends the establishment of child care facilities in nursing homes, shall promulgate reasonable rules and regulations establishing any necessary requirements for operating a day care center in a nursing home facility. Such rules and regulations shall include, but need not be limited to, the following:

(a) Requirements for the operation of a safe and good-quality child care operation in the nursing home facility or upon the nursing home facility's grounds, which shall include:

(I) Precautions required to be taken to ensure that all staff and residents who will participate in the intergenerational programs have not been involved in incidents of sexual abuse or child abuse;

(II) Requirements relating to the ability to properly care for the children;

(III) Child care ratios of staff to children;

(IV) Requirements relating to the constant supervision of the children by staff members and not by nursing home residents;

(V) Life safety and fire regulations;

(b) Requirements on the amount and type of liability insurance necessary to insure the risks associated with the child care operation;

(c) Requirements on the ways in which the nursing home residents may be involved in the child care center and the requirement that the participation of nursing home residents in intergenerational activities with the children in the child care operation shall be on a voluntary basis;

(d) Requirements that any fees assessed to the employees of the nursing home facility whose children participate in the child care program will be based on a sliding scale;

(e) Requirements that the participation of employees of the nursing home facility in the enrollment of their children in the intergenerational day care program of the nursing home facility shall be on a voluntary basis.

(3) No medical assistance funds under the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S., shall be used to subsidize the cost of operating a day care center or day care program in a nursing home facility.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1004, § 1, effective April 28. L. 94: (1) and IP(2) amended, pp. 2746, 2702, §§ 395, 255, effective July 1. L. 2006: (3) amended, p. 2014, § 85, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1) and the introductory portion to subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-1-1004. Study of statutes and rules and regulations pertaining to nursing home facilities and day care centers.

(1) The department of public health and environment and the department of human services, in conjunction with representatives of the nursing home industry, child care operators, and experts on child care programs in nursing home facilities, shall examine and study the existing statutes and rules and regulations concerning the licensing of child care centers and of nursing home facilities to determine what statutory or regulatory changes or both would make it easier for a nursing home facility to operate a child care center. The study shall also include an examination of the advantages and disadvantages of operating such intergenerational programs and the most appropriate and practical ways to design such intergenerational child care programs which are beneficial both to the children and to the elderly persons.

(2) The study conducted by the department of public health and environment and the department of human services shall include, but need not be limited to, consideration of the following:

(a) The establishment of new rules and regulations by the department of public health and environment and the department of human services which would allow nursing home facilities to operate a child care operation in the nursing home facilities;

(b) A coordinated licensure program to license a child care operation in a nursing home facility which would be based on rules and regulations designed specifically for the operation of a child care center in a nursing home facility.

(3) Repealed.

(4) The department of public health and environment and the department of human services shall comply with the requirements of this part 10 within the current appropriation established for each department. No request for appropriations shall be made to the general assembly for the implementation of this part 10.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1005, § 1, effective April 28. L. 94: (1), IP(2), (2)(a), (3), and (4) amended, p. 2747, § 396, effective July 1. L. 96: (3) repealed, p. 1257, § 147, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), the introductory portion to subsection (2), and subsections (2)(a), (3), and (4), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

PART 11

DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION, EDUCATION, AND TREATMENT

25-1-1100.2 to 25-1-1112. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire part repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: (1) This part 11 was added in 1991. For amendments to this part 11 prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) The provisions of this part 11 were relocated to article 82 of title 27 in 2010.

PART 12

MEDICAL RECORD CONFIDENTIALITY

25-1-1201. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that maintaining the confidentiality of medical records is of the utmost importance to the state and of critical importance to patient privacy for high quality medical care. Most people in the United States consider confidentiality of health information important and worry that the increased computerization of health records may result in inappropriate disclosure of such records. Patients have a strong interest in preserving the privacy of their personal health information, but they also have an interest in medical research and other efforts by health-care organizations to improve the medical care they receive. How best to preserve confidentiality within a state health information infrastructure is an important discussion that is affected by recent regulations promulgated by the federal department of health and human services related to the electronic storage of health information. The purpose of this part 12 is to index the provisions that govern medical record confidentiality to facilitate locating the law concerning the confidentiality of medical records and health information. It is not intended to expand, narrow, or clarify existing provisions.

Source: L. 2001: Entire part added, p. 828, § 5, effective August 8.

25-1-1202. Index of statutory sections regarding medical record confidentiality and health information.

(1) Statutory provisions concerning policies, procedures, and references to the release, sharing, and use of medical records and health information include the following:

(a) Section 10-16-1003, C.R.S., concerning use of information by health-care cooperatives;

(b) Section 8-43-404, C.R.S., concerning examinations by a physician or chiropractor for the purposes of workers' compensation;

(c) Section 8-43-501, C.R.S., concerning utilization review related to workers' compensation;

(d) Section 8-73-108, C.R.S., concerning the award of benefits for unemployment compensation benefits;

(e) Section 10-3-1104.7, C.R.S., concerning the confidentiality and use of genetic testing information;

(f) Section 10-16-113, C.R.S., concerning the procedures related to the denial of health benefits by an insurer;

(g) Section 10-16-113.5, C.R.S., concerning the use of independent external review when health benefits have been denied;

(h) Section 10-16-423, C.R.S., concerning the confidentiality of medical information in the custody of a health maintenance organization;

(i) Section 12-290-113, concerning disciplinary actions against podiatrists;

(j) Section 12-215-126, concerning confidential communications between a licensed chiropractor and a patient;

(k) Section 12-220-201, concerning disciplinary actions against dentists, dental therapists, and dental hygienists;

(l) Section 12-240-125, concerning disciplinary actions against physicians;

(m) Section 12-240-139 (1), concerning reporting requirements for physicians pertaining to certain injuries;

(n) Section 12-30-204, concerning professional review committees for health-care providers specified in part 2 of article 30 of title 12;

(o) Section 12-30-205, concerning hospital professional review committees;

(p) Section 13-22-704, concerning reporting requirements by physicians related to abortions for minors;

(q) Section 12-255-119, concerning disciplinary proceedings against a practical nurse, a professional nurse, a certified midwife, or a psychiatric technician;

(r) Section 12-245-220, concerning the disclosure of confidential communications by a mental health professional;

(s) Section 12-245-226 (4), concerning disciplinary proceedings against a mental health professional;

(t) Section 13-21-110, C.R.S., concerning confidentiality of information, data, reports, or records of a utilization review committee of a hospital or other health-care facility;

(u) Section 13-21-117, concerning civil liability of a mental health professional, mental health hospital, or behavioral health safety net provider related to a duty to warn or protect;

(v) Sections 13-22-101 to 13-22-106, C.R.S., concerning the age of competence for certain medical procedures;

(w) Section 13-64-502, C.R.S., concerning civil liability related to genetic counseling and screening and prenatal care, or arising from or during the course of labor and delivery, or the period of postnatal care in a health institution;

(x) Repealed.

(y) Section 13-90-107 (1)(d), C.R.S., concerning when a physician, surgeon, or registered professional nurse may testify related to the care and treatment of a person;

(z) Section 14-10-124, C.R.S., concerning the best interests of a child for the purposes of a separation or dissolution of marriage;

(aa) Section 14-10-127, C.R.S., concerning the allocation of parental responsibilities with respect to a child;

(bb) Repealed.

(cc) Section 18-3-203, concerning assault in the second degree and the availability of medical testing for certain circumstances;

(dd) Section 18-4-412, C.R.S., concerning theft of medical records or medical information;

(ee) Repealed.

(ee.5) Section 18-18-406.3, C.R.S., concerning medical marijuana patient records;

(ff) Section 18-18-503, C.R.S., concerning cooperative agreements to control substance abuse;

(gg) Section 19-3-304, C.R.S., concerning persons required to report child abuse or neglect;

(hh) Section 19-3-305, C.R.S., concerning postmortem investigation related to the death of a child;

(ii) Section 19-3-306, C.R.S., concerning evidence of abuse or neglect of a child;

(jj) Section 19-5-103 (2), C.R.S., concerning relinquishment of rights concerning a child;

(kk) Section 19-5-305, C.R.S., concerning access to adoption records;

(ll) Section 22-1-123 (5), C.R.S., concerning the protection of student data;

(mm) Sections 22-32-109.1 (6) and 22-32-109.3 (2), C.R.S., concerning specific powers and duties of the state board of education;

(nn) Repealed.

(oo) Section 24-51-213, C.R.S., concerning confidentiality of records maintained by the public employees' retirement association;

(pp) Section 24-72-204 (3), C.R.S., concerning public records not open to public inspection;

(qq) Section 25-1-122, concerning reporting of certain diseases and conditions for investigation of epidemic and communicable diseases, morbidity and mortality, cancer in connection with the statewide cancer registry, environmental and chronic diseases, sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, and rabies and mammal bites by the department of public health and environment;

(rr) Section 25-1-124 (2), concerning health-care facilities and reporting requirements;

(ss) Sections 27-81-110 and 27-81-113, C.R.S., concerning the treatment of intoxicated persons;

(tt) Section 25-1-801, concerning patient records in the care of a health-care facility;

(uu) Section 25-1-802, concerning patient records in the care of individual health-care providers;

(vv) Sections 27-81-109 and 27-81-113, concerning the treatment of persons with substance use disorders;

(vv.5) Section 25-1.5-106, concerning the medical marijuana program;

(ww) Section 25-2-120, concerning reports of electroconvulsive treatment;

(xx) Section 25-3-109, concerning quality management functions of health-care facilities licensed by the department of public health and environment;

(yy) Section 25-3.5-501, concerning records maintained by ambulance services and emergency medical service providers;

(zz) Section 25-3.5-704 (2)(d) and (2)(f), concerning the designation of emergency medical facilities and the statewide trauma system;

(aaa) Sections 25-4-406 and 25-4-409, concerning the reporting of sexually transmitted infections;

(bbb) Section 25-4-1003, concerning newborn screening programs and genetic counseling;

(ccc) Repealed.

(ddd) Section 25-4-1705, concerning immunization information;

(eee) Section 25-4-1905, concerning records collected related to gulf war syndrome;

(fff) Section 25-32-106, concerning the release of medical information to a poison control service provider;

(ggg) Section 26-3.1-102 (2), C.R.S., concerning reporting requirements related to at-risk adults;

(hhh) Section 26-11.5-108, C.R.S., concerning the long-term ombudsman program and access to medical records;

(iii) Section 27-65-103 (2), C.R.S., concerning voluntary applications for mental health services;

(jjj) Sections 27-65-121 (2) and 27-65-122, C.R.S., concerning records related to mental health services for minor children;

(kkk) Section 30-10-606 (6), C.R.S., concerning postmortem investigations and records;

(lll) Section 35-9-109, C.R.S., concerning confidentiality of information released to the commissioner of agriculture related to human exposure to pesticide applications;

(mmm) Section 42-2-112, C.R.S., concerning information supplied to the department of revenue for the purpose of renewing or obtaining a license to operate a motor vehicle; and

(nnn) Section 12-280-406, concerning information entered into the prescription drug monitoring program database.

Source: L. 2001: Entire part added, p. 829, § 5, effective August 8. L. 2002: (1)(fff) amended, p. 428, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1)(ii) amended, p. 1997, § 46, effective May 22. L. 2004: (1)(k) amended, p. 857, § 3, effective July 1; (1)(a) amended, p. 1010, § 21, effective August 4. L. 2009: (1)(qq) and (1)(aaa) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 475, § 22, effective April 9. L. 2010: (1)(ss), (1)(vv), (1)(iii), and (1)(jjj) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 797, § 57, effective April 29; (1)(vv.5) added, (SB 10-109), ch. 356, p. 1696, § 2, effective June 7. L. 2011: (1)(ee.5) added, (HB 11-1043), ch. 266, p. 1215, § 29, effective July 1; (1)(nnn) added, (SB 11-192), ch. 230, p. 987, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(yy) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1437, § 18, effective July 1; (1)(nnn) amended, (HB 12-1311), ch. 281, p. 1627, § 69, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1)(ee) repealed, (HB 13-1154), ch. 372, p. 2192, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1)(aaa) amended and (1)(ccc) repealed, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, pp. 922, 914, §§ 23, 3, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1)(vv) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1323, § 183, effective May 25. L. 2018: (1)(p) amended, (SB 18-032), ch. 8, p. 150, § 2, effective October 1. L. 2019: (1)(j) and (1)(cc) amended and (1)(nn) repealed, (SB 19-241), ch. 390, p. 3471, § 35, effective August 2; (1)(i), (1)(j), (1)(k), (1)(l), (1)(m), (1)(n), (1)(o), (1)(q), (1)(r), (1)(s), and (1)(nnn) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1696, § 141, effective October 1. L. 2020: (1)(cc) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1052, § 49, effective June 30; (1)(vv) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1415, § 48, effective July 13; (1)(k) amended, (HB 20-1056), ch. 64, p. 263, § 7, effective September 14. L. 2021: (1)(x) repealed, (SB 21-073), ch. 28, p. 120, § 2, effective January 1, 2022. L. 2022: (1)(k) amended, (SB 22-219), ch. 381, p. 2726, § 38, effective January 1, 2023; (1)(u) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1591, § 225, effective July 1, 2024. L. 2023: (1)(n) and (1)(q) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1548, § 56, effective May 25; (1)(bb) repealed, (HB 23-1268), ch. 233, p. 1225, § 2, effective August 7.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1)(j) by SB 19-241 and HB 19-1172 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act repealing subsection (1)(ee), see section 1 of chapter 372, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in SB 22-219, see section 1 of chapter 381, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1-1203. Electronic storage of medical records.

Health plans, health-care clearinghouses, and health-care providers shall develop policies, procedures, and systems to comply with federal regulations promulgated by the federal department of health and human services related to electronic storage and maintenance of medical record information pursuant to federal law.

Source: L. 2001: Entire part added, p. 833, § 5, effective August 8.

25-1-1204. Online exchange of advanced directives forms permitted.

A public or private entity, including a nonprofit organization, that facilitates the exchange of health information among emergency medical service providers, doctors, hospitals, nursing homes, pharmacies, home health agencies, health plans, and local health information agencies through the use of health information technology may facilitate the voluntary, secure, and confidential exchange of forms containing advanced directives regarding a person's acceptance or rejection of life-sustaining medical or surgical treatment.

Source: L. 2010: Entire section added, (HB 10-1050), ch. 80, p. 271, § 1, effective August 11. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1437, § 19, effective July 1.

PART 13

CLIMATE CHANGE MARKETS GRANT PROGRAM

25-1-1301 to 25-1-1303. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2025: Entire part repealed, (SB 25-202), ch. 325, p. 1703, § 1, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This part 13 was added in 2006 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2025. For the text of this part 13 prior to 2025, consult the 2024 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 14

HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

25-1-1401 to 25-1-1403. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This part 14 was added in 2007 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2012. For the text of this part 14 prior to 2012, consult the 2011 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-1-1403 provided for the repeal of this part 14, effective July 1, 2012. (See L. 2007, p. 1182.)

PART 15

COLORADO RARE DISEASE ADVISORY COUNCIL

25-1-1501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) A rare disease, sometimes called an "orphan" disease, is a disease that affects fewer than two hundred thousand people in the United States;

(b) There are seven thousand known rare diseases affecting approximately thirty million adults and children in the United States;

(c) While the exact cause for many rare diseases remains unknown, many rare diseases are genetic in origin and can be linked to mutations in a single gene or in multiple genes, which can be passed down from generation to generation;

(d) People with rare diseases face many challenges, including delays in obtaining a diagnosis, misdiagnosis, shortages of medical specialists who can provide treatment, and lack of affordable access to therapies and medication used to treat rare diseases; and

(e) A Colorado rare disease advisory council composed of qualified professionals and people living with rare diseases could educate medical professionals, government agencies, legislators, and the public about rare diseases as an important public health issue and encourage research for the development of new treatments for rare diseases.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3534, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1502. Definitions.

As used in this part 15, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Council" means the Colorado rare disease advisory council created in section 25-1-1503.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Facilitator" means the person selected by the council to facilitate the work of the council as described in section 25-1-1507.

(4) "Rare disease" means a disease that affects fewer than two hundred thousand people in the United States.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3535, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1503. Colorado rare disease advisory council - creation.

There is created in the department the Colorado rare disease advisory council. The purpose of the council is to study and make findings and recommendations to the general assembly, state agencies, and others, as appropriate, concerning the needs of individuals living in Colorado with rare diseases.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3535, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1504. Council membership.

(1) The appointing authorities shall conduct the appointment process in a transparent manner to provide interested individuals an opportunity to apply for membership on the council. All members of the council must be full-time residents of Colorado.

(2) (a) The council consists of twelve voting members appointed as follows:

(I) The president of the senate shall appoint three members, including:

(A) One representative from academic research in the state who receives grant funding for rare disease research;

(B) One geneticist practicing in Colorado; and

(C) One physician licensed and practicing in Colorado with experience treating rare diseases;

(II) The minority leader of the senate shall appoint three members, including:

(A) One registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse licensed and practicing in Colorado with experience treating rare diseases;

(B) One pharmacist with experience dispensing drugs used to treat rare diseases; and

(C) One person who has a rare disease;

(III) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint three members, including:

(A) One representative of a rare disease patient organization operating in Colorado that is not affiliated with the facilitator;

(B) One representative of the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry; and

(C) One representative of a health insurer; and

(IV) The minority leader of the house of representatives shall appoint three members, including:

(A) One person who has a rare disease;

(B) One parent whose child or children have been diagnosed with a rare disease; and

(C) One caregiver of a person with a rare disease.

(b) The director of the office of health equity, created in section 25-4-2204, or the director's designee, shall serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the council.

(3) (a) The appointing authorities shall make their initial appointments to the council by October 1, 2022. In making appointments, to the extent practicable, the appointing authorities shall consider gender, ethnicity, geographic diversity, and other considerations that will result in a diverse and inclusive council.

(b) Each member who is appointed pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section serves at the pleasure of the official who appointed the member. Any vacancy in membership is filled by the appointing authority.

(c) Members shall serve three-year terms; except that, in order to provide continuity and knowledge transfer among council members, during the initial appointments to the council and for any members appointed in the first five years after the council is established, members may serve initial terms of up to four years.

(4) (a) Members of the council serve without compensation and without reimbursement for expenses incurred by the members in serving on the council or participating in council activities.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (4)(a) of this section, a council member may be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses relating to the council's duties to the extent that the council receives gifts, grants, or donations to cover the cost of reimbursement.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3535, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1505. Activities carried out by the council - duties.

(1) The council shall conduct the following activities to benefit rare disease patients in Colorado:

(a) Convene public meetings, make inquiries, and solicit comments from Coloradans to assist the council with a survey of the needs of rare disease patients, caregivers, and providers in the state, to be completed within eighteen months after the council is established;

(b) Consult with experts on rare diseases to develop policy recommendations to improve patient access to and quality of rare disease specialists, affordable and comprehensive health-care coverage, better access to clinical trials, relevant diagnostics, and timely treatment;

(c) Educate and make recommendations to state agencies and to health insurers providing health benefit plans to persons with rare diseases on the impact of imposing prior authorization, cost sharing, tiering, or other utilization management procedures on the provision of treatment and care for patients;

(d) Research and identify best practices to ensure continuity of care for rare disease patients transitioning from pediatric care to adult care;

(e) Establish a Colorado rare disease council web page or website, housed on its own website or as part of a host website, and publish a list of existing, publicly accessible resources on research, diagnosis, treatment, and educational materials for health-care providers and patients relating to rare diseases; and

(f) Prepare and submit a report annually to the governor and to specified committees of the general assembly pursuant to section 25-1-1509.

(2) Prior to publishing any final recommendations of the council, the council shall provide an opportunity for public comment on draft recommendations.

(3) In addition to any other council activities, the council may:

(a) Adopt rules of procedure for the council that it deems necessary to facilitate the orderly conduct of its business;

(b) Establish task forces or committees of its members and nonmembers to assist in the performance of the council's duties;

(c) Accept written or oral input from the public or any relevant source;

(d) Publicize its findings and recommendations concerning the needs of individuals with rare diseases living in Colorado and advocate on behalf of the council for its recommended actions;

(e) Seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, and donations for purposes of carrying out the duties of the council; and

(f) Offer input to the Colorado prescription drug affordability review board, as described in section 10-16-1406 (2)(e) and (4)(h)(III).

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3537, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (3)(d) and (3)(e) amended and (3)(f) added, (SB 24-203), ch. 454, p. 3151, § 2, effective August 7.

25-1-1506. Department - fiscal agent.

(1) The department may, as necessary:

(a) Act as fiscal agent for the council;

(b) Receive gifts, grants, or donations from the council or facilitator for use by the council;

(c) Host the council's web page or website; and

(d) Provide meeting space and other administrative supports to the council.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3538, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1507. Council facilitator - duties.

(1) Unless the council determines that an administrator is not needed, the council shall contract for the services of a facilitator to provide assistance to the council, as determined by the council, in an annual amount not to exceed fifty thousand dollars. The facilitator's assistance to the council may include:

(a) Scheduling and conducting meetings, preparing meeting minutes, and managing the council's online content;

(b) Organizing the work of the council;

(c) Conducting research and providing information to the council concerning issues addressed by the council;

(d) Conducting public outreach and soliciting public feedback, as well as publicizing the findings and recommendations of the council;

(e) Inviting and coordinating interested persons and experts to provide information to the council;

(f) Soliciting gifts, grants, and donations, including in-kind donations, for the council;

(g) Securing and managing the council's money and facilitating council expenditures; and

(h) Any other duties in support of the council's activities.

(2) The facilitator must be a nonprofit entity in Colorado with experience organizing and advocating for the needs of persons with respect to all rare diseases.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3538, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1508. Council meetings - requirements - transparency - information.

(1) At its first meeting, the council shall select a chair and vice-chair from among its membership by majority vote. Unless otherwise determined by the council, the chair and vice-chair serve two-year terms. The chair and vice-chair may be reappointed without limit.

(2) (a) The council shall hold its first meeting within forty-five days after the final council member is appointed pursuant to section 25-1-1504.

(b) During the first twelve months after the council is established, the council shall meet at least once per month. Thereafter, the council shall meet at least once per quarter. Council meetings may be conducted in person or via an online platform.

(3) In conducting meetings, the council shall:

(a) Schedule meetings in advance with meaningful notice to affected persons and stakeholders and the public; and

(b) Provide opportunities for interested persons to hear updates and provide input on the council's work, including through online testimony, if feasible.

(4) The council is subject to the open meetings law, part 4 of article 6 of title 24, and the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.

(5) The council shall create and maintain, or provide content for, a public website where meeting notices and minutes are posted and public comments may be offered.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3539, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1509. Reporting - recommendations.

(1) Within twelve months after the establishment of the council, the council shall submit a report to the governor, the public and behavioral health and human services committee and the health and insurance committee of the house of representatives, and the health and human services committee of the senate, or their successor committees, concerning:

(a) The council's activities, including progress on the activities described in section 25-1-1505;

(b) The status of council funding, including:

(I) The balance of any appropriations made to the council and any gifts, grants, or donations that were sought, accepted, or received, including in-kind donations; and

(II) The use of money appropriated to or received by the council; and

(c) Recommendations to the governor and the general assembly to address the needs of people living with rare diseases in Colorado.

(2) (a) After the initial report, the council shall report annually to the governor and to committees of the general assembly, as specified in subsection (1) of this section.

(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the reporting requirements set forth in subsection (2)(a) of this section continue until the repeal of this part 15 pursuant to section 25-1-1511.

(3) The council shall make annual reports public and available on the council's website described in section 25-1-1505.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3539, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1510. Funding - gifts, grants, or donations.

(1) The general assembly may appropriate money from the general fund to the department for allocation to the council to carry out council activities and to contract for the services of a facilitator.

(2) Members of the council and any facilitator may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this part 15.

(3) The council shall deposit any money collected through gifts, grants, or donations in an insured account at a Colorado financial institution and otherwise exercise fiduciary responsibilities over council money.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3540, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1-1511. Repeal of part - sunset review.

This part 15 is repealed, effective September 1, 2032. Before the repeal, this part 15 is scheduled for review in accordance with section 2-3-1203.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-186), ch. 488, p. 3540, § 1, effective August 10.

25-1.5 ARTICLE 1.5

Powers and Duties of the Department of Public Health and Environment

PART 1
GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES

25-1.5-100.3. Definitions.

25-1.5-101. Powers and duties of department - laboratory cash fund - office of suicide prevention - suicide prevention coordination cash fund - immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund - dispensation of payments under contracts with grantees - report - rules - definitions.

25-1.5-102. Epidemic and communicable diseases - powers and duties of department - rules - definitions.

25-1.5-103. Health facilities - powers and duties of department - rules - limitations on rules - definitions - repeal.

25-1.5-104. Regulation of standards relating to food - powers and duties of department.

25-1.5-105. Detection of diseases - powers and duties of department.

25-1.5-106. Medical marijuana program - powers and duties of state health agency - rules - enforcement - fees - medical marijuana program cash fund - subaccount - "Ethan's Law" - definitions - repeal.

25-1.5-106.1. Medical marijuana use in health facilities - short title - definitions.

25-1.5-106.5. Medical marijuana health research grant program.

25-1.5-107. Pandemic influenza - purchase of antiviral therapy - definitions.

25-1.5-108. Regulation of dialysis treatment clinics - training for hemodialysis technicians - state board of health rules - definitions - repeal.

25-1.5-108.5. Regulation of recovery residences - definition - rules. (Repealed)

25-1.5-109. Food allergies and anaphylaxis form for schools - powers and duties of department.

25-1.5-110. Monitor health effects of marijuana - report.

25-1.5-111. Suicide prevention commission - created - responsibilities - gifts, grants, or donations - reimbursement for expenses - definition - repeal.

25-1.5-112. Colorado suicide prevention plan - established - goals - responsibilities - funding - definition.

25-1.5-113. Crisis and suicide prevention training grant program - creation - process - reporting requirements - fund - definitions.

25-1.5-113.5. Behavioral health first aid training program - creation - appropriation - report - rules - definitions - repeal.

25-1.5-114. Freestanding emergency departments - licensure - requirements - rules - definitions.

25-1.5-114.5. Critical access hospitals - licensure - rules - definitions.

25-1.5-115. Opioid antagonist bulk purchase fund - creation - rules - report - appropriation - definitions.

25-1.5-115.1. Opioid antagonist distribution - eligible entity list - standing order - annual youth overdose prevention report.

25-1.5-115.3. Non-laboratory synthetic opioid detection tests - appropriation - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1.5-115.5. Fentanyl prevention and education campaign - website.

25-1.5-116. Costs associated with living organ donation - definitions. (Repealed)

25-1.5-117. Hospitals - standardized health benefit plan - participation - penalties.

25-1.5-118. Training for staff providing direct-care services to residents with dementia - rules - definitions.

25-1.5-119. Drug repository task force - creation - report - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

25-1.5-120. Natural medicine testing and standards - rules.

25-1.5-120.5. Natural medicine health effects - data collection - pilot data collection study - report - rules - definitions - repeal.

25-1.5-121. Arie P. Taylor sickle cell disease outreach program - contracts - administration - report - legislative declaration - definition - repeal.

25-1.5-122. Pharmacy labels - prescription accessibility grant program - repeal.

25-1.5-123. Colorado offender identification program.

PART 2
POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT WITH RESPECT TO WATER

25-1.5-201. Definitions.

25-1.5-202. Water - minimum general sanitary standards.

25-1.5-203. Water - powers and duties of department - rules.

25-1.5-204. Inspection for violations of minimum general sanitary standards relating to quality of drinking water.

25-1.5-205. Advice to other entities.

25-1.5-206. Applicability.

25-1.5-207. Damages and injunctive relief to prevent or abate release of contaminants in water.

25-1.5-208. Grant program for public water systems and domestic wastewater treatment works - small communities water and wastewater grant fund - rules - repeal.

25-1.5-209. Drinking water fee - drinking water cash fund.

25-1.5-210. Best practices for residential rooftop precipitation collection.

PART 3
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS

25-1.5-301. Definitions.

25-1.5-302. Administration of medications - powers and duties of department - record checks - rules.

25-1.5-303. Medication reminder boxes or systems - medication cash fund - repeal.

25-1.5-304. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

PART 4
PRIMARY CARE OFFICE

25-1.5-401. Legislative declaration.

25-1.5-402. Definitions.

25-1.5-403. Primary care office - creation.

25-1.5-404. Primary care office - powers and duties - rules.

25-1.5-405. Visa waiver program fund.

25-1.5-406. School nurse grant program - creation - eligibility - award of grants - rules - report - legislative declaration - definitions.

25-1.5-407. Practice-based health education grant program - creation - primary care office to administer.

PART 5
STATE HEALTH-CARE PROFESSIONAL LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM

25-1.5-501. Legislative declaration.

25-1.5-502. Definitions.

25-1.5-503. Colorado health service corps - program - creation - conditions.

25-1.5-503.5. Scholarship program for addiction counselors - creation - eligibility - conditions.

25-1.5-504. Colorado health service corps advisory council - creation - membership - duties.

25-1.5-505. Advisory council - report.

25-1.5-506. Colorado health service corps fund - created - acceptance of grants and donations - annual appropriation from marijuana tax cash fund.

PART 6
UNIFORM EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER HEALTH PRACTITIONERS ACT

25-1.5-601. Short title.

25-1.5-602. Definitions.

25-1.5-603. Applicability to volunteer health practitioners.

25-1.5-604. Regulation of services during emergency.

25-1.5-605. Volunteer health practitioner registration systems.

25-1.5-606. Recognition of volunteer health practitioners licensed in other states.

25-1.5-607. No effect on credentialing and privileging.

25-1.5-608. Provision of volunteer health or veterinary services - administrative sanctions.

25-1.5-609. Relation to other laws.

25-1.5-610. Rules.

25-1.5-611. Civil liability for volunteer health practitioners - vicarious liability.

25-1.5-612. Workers' compensation coverage. (Reserved)

25-1.5-613. Uniformity of application and construction.

PART 7
HEALTH SURVEY FOR BIRTHING PARENTS

25-1.5-701. Health survey of birthing parents.

PART 1

GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES

25-1.5-100.3. Definitions.

As used in this article 1.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102 (1).

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2075, § 201, effective August 6.

25-1.5-101. Powers and duties of department - laboratory cash fund - office of suicide prevention - suicide prevention coordination cash fund - immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund - dispensation of payments under contracts with grantees - report - rules - definitions.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) To close theaters, schools, and other public places, and to forbid gatherings of people when necessary to protect the public health;

(b) (I) To establish and enforce minimum general sanitary standards as to the quality of wastes discharged upon land and the quality of fertilizer derived from excreta of human beings or from the sludge of sewage disposal plants.

(II) The phrase "minimum general sanitary standards" as used in this section means the minimum standards reasonably consistent with assuring adequate protection of the public health. The word "standards" as used in this section means standards reasonably designed to promote and protect the public health.

(c) (I) To collect, compile, and tabulate reports of marriages, dissolution of marriages, declaration of invalidity of marriages, births, deaths, and morbidity and to require any person having information with regard to the same to make such reports and submit such information as the board shall by rule or regulation provide.

(II) For the purposes of this paragraph (c), the board is authorized to require reporting of morbidity and mortality in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122.

(d) To regulate the disposal, transportation, interment, and disinterment of the dead;

(e) (I) To establish, maintain, and approve chemical, bacteriological, and biological laboratories, and to conduct such laboratory investigations and examinations as it may deem necessary or proper for the protection of the public health.

(II) The department shall transmit all fees received by the department in connection with the laboratories established pursuant to this paragraph (e), with the exception of fees received pursuant to part 10 of article 4 of this title that are credited to the newborn screening and genetic counseling cash funds created in section 25-4-1006 (1), to the state treasurer, who shall deposit them in the laboratory cash fund, which is hereby created in the state treasury. The state treasurer shall credit all interest earned from the revenues in the fund to the fund. At the end of each fiscal year, the unencumbered balance of the fund remains in the fund. The revenues in the fund are subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department to carry out its duties under this paragraph (e).

(f) To make, approve, and establish standards for diagnostic tests by chemical, bacteriological, and biological laboratories, and to require such laboratories to conform thereto; and to prepare, distribute, and require the completion of forms or certificates with respect thereto;

(g) To purchase, and to distribute to licensed physicians and veterinarians, with or without charge, as the board may determine upon considerations of emergency or need, such vaccines, serums, toxoids, and other approved biological or therapeutic products as may be necessary for the protection of the public health;

(h) To establish and enforce sanitary standards for the operation and maintenance of orphanages, day care nurseries, foster homes, family care homes, summer camps for children, lodging houses, outdoor nature-based preschool programs, guest child care facilities and public services short-term child care facilities as defined in section 26.5-5-303, hotels, public conveyances and stations, schools, factories, workshops, industrial and labor camps, recreational resorts and camps, swimming pools, public baths, mobile home parks, and other buildings, centers, and places used for public gatherings;

(i) (I) (A) To establish sanitary standards and make sanitary, sewerage, and health inspections and examinations for charitable, penal, and other public institutions.

(B) As used in this subsection (1)(i), "penal institution" means any local detention center, correctional facility, holding facility, secure residential treatment center, prison, camp, or other facility in which persons are or may be lawfully held in custody, including any public or private facility in Colorado that houses or detains noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings, including any facility that houses or detains minors, on behalf of the federal office of refugee resettlement or the United States immigration and customs enforcement agency.

(C) With respect to the state institutions under the department of human services specified in section 27-90-104 or under the department of corrections specified in section 17-1-104.3 (1)(b), such inspections and examinations must be made at least once each year and additional unannounced inspections may be conducted after the annual inspection. Reports on such inspections of institutions under control of the department of human services or the department of corrections must be made to the executive director of the appropriate department for appropriate action, if any.

(D) With respect to a facility that houses or detains individuals who are noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings, the inspections and examinations must be made annually, and additional unannounced inspections and examinations must be conducted after the annual inspection. Unannounced inspections and examinations must be made at least one time every three months, and may be made more frequently, and the facility shall pay for the inspections and examinations. The inspections and examinations made pursuant to this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) must include a review of the following: Adherence to food safety standards and drinking water quality standards, confinement conditions, and standards of care provided to individuals who are detained in the facility. The facility shall provide to a department representative who is conducting an inspection or examination pursuant to this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D), or an investigation related to an epidemic or communicable disease, all access necessary to perform the inspection or investigation, including access to people who are detained, records, facility officials, and facility personnel. If a facility refuses to allow an inspection or examination pursuant to this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) or investigation related to an epidemic or communicable disease, the facility is liable for a civil penalty of not more than fifty thousand dollars for each refusal. The attorney general may bring an action to enforce this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D), including an action seeking a civil penalty. Any civil penalty money collected pursuant to this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) must be transferred to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the immigration legal defense fund established pursuant to section 8-3.8-101. The department may adopt rules it determines are necessary for purposes of this subsection (1)(i)(I)(D). This subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) applies to a local, county, or private facility that houses or detains individuals who are noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings, including a facility that is operated on behalf of or pursuant to a contract with federal immigration authorities. This subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) does not apply to detention facilities operated directly by the federal government.

(E) Repealed.

(II) Notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (i), the standards adopted pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (i) with regard to space requirements, furnishing requirements, required special use areas or special management housing, and environmental condition requirements, including but not limited to standards pertaining to light, ventilation, temperature, and noise level, shall not apply to any penal institution operated by or under contract with a county or municipality if the penal institution begins operations on or after August 30, 1999, and if the governing body of the jurisdiction operating the penal institution has adopted standards pertaining to such issues for the penal institution pursuant to section 30-11-104 (1), C.R.S., or section 31-15-711.5, C.R.S., whichever is applicable.

(j) (I) To:

(A) Collect, compile, and tabulate public health information from data sources and data provided to the department, to the extent permissible under applicable federal and state data privacy laws, rules, and regulations and federal contracts, including information concerning race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity; except that nothing in this section requires any individual to provide information relating to the individual's race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity;

(B) Establish a process for, and provide technical assistance relating to, the collection, compilation, and tabulation of public health information described in subsection (1)(j)(I)(A) of this section; and

(C) Disseminate public health information;

(II) To provide poison control services, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2002, and fiscal years thereafter, on a statewide basis and to provide for the dissemination of information concerning the care and treatment of individuals exposed to poisonous substances pursuant to article 32 of this title;

(k) To establish and enforce standards for exposure to toxic materials in the gaseous, liquid, or solid phase that may be deemed necessary for the protection of public health;

(l) To establish and enforce standards for exposure to environmental conditions, including radiation, that may be deemed necessary for the protection of the public health;

(m) (I) To accept and expend on behalf of and in the name of the state, gifts, donations, and grants for any purpose connected with the work and programs of the department.

(II) Any such property so given shall be held by the state treasurer, but the department shall have the power to direct the disposition of any property so given for any purpose consistent with the terms and conditions under which such gift was created.

(n) To carry out the policies of the state as set forth in part 1 of article 6 of this title with respect to family planning;

(o) To carry out the policies of this state relating to the "Colorado Health Care Coverage Act" as set forth in parts 1 and 4 of article 16 of title 10, C.R.S.;

(p) To compile and maintain current information necessary to enable the department to answer any inquiry concerning the proper action to take to counteract, eliminate, or minimize the public health hazards of a hazardous substance incident involving any specific kind of hazardous substance. To make such information available and to facilitate the reporting of hazardous substance incidents, the department shall establish, maintain, and publicize an environmental emergency telephone service that shall be available to the public twenty-four hours each day. With respect to the powers and duties specified in this paragraph (p), the department shall have no rule-making authority and shall avail itself of all available private resources. As used in this paragraph (p), the terms "hazardous substance" and "hazardous substance incident" shall have the meanings ascribed to them in section 29-22-101, C.R.S. The department shall coordinate its activities pursuant to this section with the Colorado state patrol.

(q) (I) To establish and maintain a statewide cancer registry providing for compilation and analysis of appropriate information regarding incidence, diagnosis, treatment, and end results and any other data designed to provide more effective cancer control for the citizens of Colorado.

(II) For the purposes of this paragraph (q), the board is authorized to require reports relating to cancer in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122 and to have access to medical records relating to cancer in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122.

(r) To operate and maintain a program for children with disabilities to provide and expedite provision of health-care services to children who have congenital birth defects or who are the victims of burns or trauma or children who have acquired disabilities;

(s) To annually enter into an agreement with a qualified person to perform necessary hazardous substance incident response actions when such actions are beyond the ability of the local and state response capabilities. Such response actions may include, but are not limited to, containment, clean-up, and disposal of a hazardous substance. Nothing in this article shall prevent the attorney general's office from pursuing cost recovery against responsible persons.

(t) To operate special health programs for migrant and seasonal farm workers and their dependent family members and to accept and employ federal and other moneys appropriated to implement such programs;

(u) To carry out the duties prescribed in article 11.5 of title 16, C.R.S., relating to substance abuse in the criminal justice system;

(v) To establish and maintain a statewide gulf war syndrome registry pursuant to part 19 of article 4 of this title providing for compilation and analysis of information regarding incidence, diagnosis, treatment, and treatment outcomes of veterans or family members of veterans suffering from gulf war syndrome;

(w) (I) To operate the office of suicide prevention, which is established in the division of prevention services in the department. The office of suicide prevention serves as the coordinator for crisis and suicide prevention programs throughout the state, including the Colorado suicide prevention plan established in section 25-1.5-112 and the crisis and suicide prevention training grant program established in section 25-1.5-113. For the purposes of this subsection (1)(w), the term "comprehensive suicide prevention" or "suicide prevention" includes the following components:

(A) Strategies or approaches that seek to prevent the onset of suicidal despair, commonly known as "suicide prevention";

(B) Public health intervention supports, including community training, workforce development, quality improvement and provision of technical assistance to support the adoption of best suicide attempt behavior intervention and postvention practices and policies; and

(C) Postvention responses to and support for individuals and communities affected by the aftermath of a suicide attempt.

(II) The department is authorized to accept gifts, grants, and donations on behalf of the office of suicide prevention. The department shall transmit all such gifts, grants, and donations to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the suicide prevention coordination cash fund, which fund is hereby created. The fund also consists of any money appropriated or transferred to the fund by the general assembly for the purposes of implementing section 25-1.5-112. Any money remaining in the suicide prevention coordination cash fund at the end of any fiscal year must remain in the fund and must not be transferred or credited to the general fund. The general assembly shall make appropriations from the suicide prevention coordination cash fund for expenditures incurred by the department or the office of suicide prevention in the performance of its duties pursuant to this subsection (1)(w) and section 25-1.5-112.

(III) (A) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), as part of the duties of the office of suicide prevention, on or before each November 1, the office of suicide prevention shall submit to the chairs of the senate health and human services committee and the house of representatives health and human services committee, or their successor committees, and to the members of the joint budget committee, a report listing all crisis and suicide prevention programs in the state and describing the effectiveness of the office of suicide prevention in acting as the coordinator for crisis and suicide prevention programs. For the report submitted in 2013 and each year thereafter, the office of suicide prevention shall include any findings and recommendations it has to improve crisis and suicide prevention in the state. For the report submitted in 2024 and each year thereafter, the office of suicide prevention shall include a summary of the report pursuant to section 25-1.5-113.5 (5)(b).

(B) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2012.)

(IV) The department and the office of suicide prevention may collaborate with the school safety resource center and with each facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 in order to coordinate services related to crisis and suicide prevention, as that term is defined in this subsection (1)(w), including relevant training and other services as part of the Colorado suicide prevention plan established in section 25-1.5-112. When a facility treats a person who has attempted suicide or exhibits a suicidal gesture, the facility may provide oral and written information or educational materials to the person or, in the case of a minor, to parents, relatives, or other responsible persons to whom the minor will be released, prior to the person's release, regarding warning signs of depression, risk factors of suicide, methods of preventing suicide, available resources for comprehensive suicide prevention, and any other information concerning suicide awareness, and prevention. The facility shall also provide oral and written information or educational materials to the person or, in the case of a minor, to parents, relatives, or other responsible persons to whom the minor will be released, prior to the person's release, concerning the after-effects of a suicide attempt. The department and the office of suicide prevention may work with facilities and the Colorado suicide prevention plan to determine whether and where gaps exist in comprehensive suicide prevention programs and services, including gaps that may be present in:

(A) The comprehensive suicide prevention information and materials being used and distributed in facilities throughout the state;

(B) Comprehensive suicide prevention resources available to persons who attempt suicide or exhibit a suicidal gesture and, when the person is a minor, to parents, relatives, and other responsible persons to whom a minor is released; and

(C) The process for referring persons who attempt suicide or exhibit a suicidal gesture to comprehensive suicide prevention services and programs or other appropriate health-care providers for treatment.

(V) The department and the office of suicide prevention shall prepare written information for primary care offices and providers throughout the state. The information must be region-specific concerning how to recognize and respond to a suicidal patient and include separate written information for providers and information that may be shared with patients.

(x) To implement the state dental loan repayment program created in article 23 of this title;

(y) To coordinate with the United States secretary of the interior and the United States secretary of agriculture to develop resource management plans consistent with this article for federal lands pursuant to 16 U.S.C. sec. 530, 16 U.S.C. sec. 1604, and 43 U.S.C. sec. 1712;

(z) To perform the duties specified in part 6 of article 10 of title 30, C.R.S., relating to the Colorado coroners standards and training board;

(aa) To determine if there is a shortage of drugs critical to the public safety of the people of Colorado and declare an emergency for the purpose of preventing the practice of unfair drug pricing as prohibited by section 6-1-714, C.R.S.;

(bb) To include on its public website home page a link to forms containing advanced directives regarding a person's acceptance or rejection of life-sustaining medical or surgical treatment, which forms are available to be downloaded electronically;

(cc) To carry out the health survey for birthing parents and reporting requirements set forth in part 7 of this article 1.5;

(dd) (I) With respect to a facility that houses or detains individuals who are noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings, the power to require the facility to:

(A) Provide to the department a yearly report detailing the following: The outcomes of pregnant individuals in the facility, outcomes of individuals with chronic health conditions, outcomes of individuals with disabilities, access to food for individuals with dietary restrictions, average temperature within the facility, highest and lowest temperatures recorded within the facility, individuals' access to an attorney, and individuals' access to spaces of worship or silent reflection;

(B) Prohibit the housing or detention of a minor in the same room as a nonfamilial adult; and

(C) On the facility's site and at all times, staff the facility with medical professionals and mental health professionals who are accessible to individuals who are noncitizens and detained for purposes of civil immigration proceedings.

(II) (A) If a facility fails to comply with a requirement imposed by the department pursuant to this subsection (1)(dd), the facility is liable for a civil penalty of not more than fifty thousand dollars for each violation.

(B) The attorney general may bring an action to enforce this subsection (1)(dd), including an action seeking a civil penalty.

(C) Any civil penalty money collected pursuant to this subsection (1)(dd) must be transferred to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the immigration legal defense fund established pursuant to section 8-3.8-101.

(III) On or before January 15, 2027, and on or before January 15 each year thereafter, the department shall submit a report to the attorney general regarding facilities' compliance with this subsection (1)(dd) and information collected pursuant to subsection (1)(dd)(I)(A) of this section. The department shall make the report available on a public-facing page on the department's website.

(IV) This subsection (1)(dd) applies to local, county, or private detention facilities that house or detain individuals who are noncitizens for purposes of civil immigration proceedings, including any facility that is operated on behalf of or pursuant to a contract with federal immigration authorities. This subsection (1)(dd) does not apply to detention facilities operated directly by the federal government.

(V) (A) The department may adopt rules it determines are necessary for purposes of this subsection (1)(dd).

(B) The department shall set fees for inspections and examinations pursuant to subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) of this section.

(VI) (A) The immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund is created in the state treasury. The immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund consists of payments made by the facility to the department for unannounced inspections and examinations, as required pursuant to subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) of this section. The department shall transfer all payments collected pursuant to subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) of this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the payments to the immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund.

(B) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund to the immigration facility inspection and detention cash fund.

(C) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department may expend money from the fund for the purpose of conducting unannounced inspections and examinations, as required pursuant to subsection (1)(i)(I)(D) of this section.

(VII) As used in this subsection (1)(dd), unless the context otherwise requires:

(A) "Medical professional" means an advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to section 12-255-111, a physician assistant licensed pursuant to section 12-240-113, or a medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12.

(B) "Mental health professional" means a mental health professional licensed or certified pursuant to article 245 of title 12, an advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to section 12-255-111 with training in substance use disorders or mental health, or a physician assistant licensed pursuant to section 12-240-113 with training in substance use disorders or mental health. "Mental health professional" does not mean an unlicensed psychotherapist as defined in section 12-245-202.

(2) (a) Notwithstanding any provision of this title 25, in contracting with any grantee for the provision of any service for the purposes of this title 25, the department may dispense up to twenty-five percent of the total value of the payments under the contract to the grantee immediately upon the execution or renewal of the contract.

(b) As used in this subsection (2), "grantee" means a person that:

(I) Is awarded a grant pursuant to a grant program that is managed or overseen by the department;

(II) Pursuant to the conditions of the awarded grant, is a party to a contract with the department;

(III) Is classified as a nonprofit organization or a charitable organization by the federal internal revenue service and has submitted written proof of such classification to the department; and

(IV) Satisfies any criteria established by the department for the purpose of implementing this subsection (2).

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 676, § 2, effective July 1; (1)(y) added, p. 1035, § 7, effective April 17; (1)(z) added, p. 1830, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2005: (1)(aa) added, p. 372, § 1, effective April 22. L. 2007: (1)(h) amended, p. 866, § 4, effective May 14. L. 2010: (1)(i)(I) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 798, § 58, effective April 29; (1)(bb) added, (HB 10-1050), ch. 80, p. 271, § 2, effective August 11. L. 2011: (1)(e) amended, (SB 11-161), ch. 12, p. 34, § 1, effective March 9. L. 2012: (1)(w)(III) amended and (1)(w)(IV) added, (HB 12-1140), ch. 173, p. 619, § 1, effective May 11. L. 2015: (1)(m)(I) amended, (SB 15-247), ch. 165, p. 505, § 3, effective May 8. L. 2016: (1)(h) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 769, § 58, effective June 6; (1)(w)(I), (1)(w)(II), and IP(1)(w)(IV) amended, (SB 16-147), ch. 364, p. 1521, § 3, effective June 10. L. 2017: (1)(w)(III)(A) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 92, § 1, effective March 16. L. 2018: (1)(w)(I), (1)(w)(II), (1)(w)(III)(A), and IP(1)(w)(IV) amended, (SB 18-272), ch. 333, p. 2005, § 4, effective August 8. L. 2020: (1)(i)(I) amended, (HB 20-1409), ch. 275, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 11. L. 2021: (1)(w)(I) and (1)(w)(IV) amended and (1)(w)(V) added, (HB 21-1119), ch. 49, p. 207, § 4, effective September 7; (2) added, (HB 21-1247), ch. 219, p. 1154, § 1, effective September 7. L. 2022: (1)(j)(I) amended, (HB 22-1157), ch. 321, p. 2271, § 1, effective June 2; (1)(cc) added, (HB 22-1289), ch. 399, p. 2837, § 7, effective June 7; (1)(h) amended, (HB 22-1295), ch. 123, p. 845, § 68, effective July 1. L. 2024: (1)(w)(III)(A) amended, (SB 24-007), ch. 401, p. 2761, § 3, effective June 5; (1)(h) amended, (SB 24-078), ch. 441, p. 3087, § 4, effective August 7. L. 2026: (1)(i)(I)(D) amended and (1)(dd) added, (HB 26-1276), ch. 371, p. 2244, § 3, effective June 4.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(c), (1)(e), (1)(f), (1)(g), (1)(h), (1)(i), (1)(j), (1)(m), (1)(n), (1)(q), (1)(s), (1)(t), (1)(u), (1)(v), (1)(w), (1)(y), (1)(z), (1)(aa), (1)(bb), (1)(cc), (1)(ff), (1)(hh), (1)(ii), and (1)(kk) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (1)(i)(I)(E) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(i)(I)(E), effective July 1, 2021. (See L. 2020, p. 1349.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2003 act enacting (1)(y), see section 1 of chapter 145, Session Laws of Colorado 2003. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-272, see section 1 of chapter 333, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1119, see section 1 of chapter 49, Session Laws of Colorado 2021. For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1289, see section 1 of chapter 399, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. For the legislative declaration in SB 24-007, see section 1 of chapter 401, Session Laws of Colorado 2024. For the legislative declaration in SB 24-078, see section 1 of chapter 441, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Highlights of the 1955 Colorado Legislative Session — Water", see 28 Rocky Mt. L. Rev. 58 (1955). For note, "Water Pollution Control in Colorado", see 36 U. Colo. L. Rev. 413 (1964). For note, "Rural Poverty and the Law in Southern Colorado", see 47 Den. L.J. 82 (1970). For article, "A Critical Evaluation of the Federal Role in Nursing Home Quality Enforcement", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 607 (1980). For article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part I, CERCLA", see 17 Colo. Law. 1997 (1988). For article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part II, RCRA", see 17 Colo. Law. 2159 (1988). For article, "The Legal Risks of AIDS: Moving Beyond Discrimination", see 18 Colo. Law. 606 (1989).

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1.5-101 is similar to § 25-1-107 as it existed prior to its 2003 repeal and relocation to this article 1.5, a relevant case construing that provision has been included in the annotations to this section.

Constitutionality of subsection (1)(m). Subsection (1)(m) does not unconstitutionally delegate any power or duty to the department of health, nor does it abdicate the legislative prerogative of making or defining a law. People ex rel. Dunbar v. Giordano, 173 Colo. 567, 481 P.2d 415 (1971).

The scope of authority and guidelines to be followed by the department of health in adopting sanitary standards are to be those which are reasonably designed to promote and protect the public health. People ex rel. Dunbar v. Giordano, 173 Colo. 567, 481 P.2d 415 (1971).

25-1.5-102. Epidemic and communicable diseases - powers and duties of department - rules - definitions.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) (I) To investigate and control the causes of epidemic and communicable diseases affecting the public health.

(II) For the purposes of this paragraph (a), the board shall determine, by rule and regulation, those epidemic and communicable diseases and conditions that are dangerous to the public health. The board is authorized to require reports relating to such designated diseases in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122 and to have access to medical records relating to such designated diseases in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122.

(III) For the purposes of this paragraph (a), "epidemic diseases" means cases of an illness or condition, communicable or noncommunicable, in excess of normal expectancy, compared to the usual frequency of the illness or condition in the same area, among the specified population, at the same season of the year. A single case of a disease long absent from a population may require immediate investigation.

(IV) For the purposes of this paragraph (a), "communicable diseases" means an illness due to a specific infectious agent or its toxic products that arises through transmission of that agent or its products from an infected person, animal, or reservoir to a susceptible host, either directly or indirectly through an intermediate plant or animal host, vector, or the inanimate environment.

(b) (I) To investigate and monitor the spread of disease that is considered part of an emergency epidemic, as defined in section 24-33.5-703 (4), to determine the extent of environmental contamination resulting from the emergency epidemic, and to rapidly provide epidemiological and environmental information to the state board of health.

(II) Except as otherwise directed by executive order of the governor, the department shall exercise its powers and duties to control epidemic and communicable diseases and protect the public health as set out in this section.

(III) The department may accept and expend federal funds, gifts, grants, and donations for the purposes of an emergency epidemic or preparation for an emergency epidemic.

(IV) When a public safety worker, emergency medical service provider, peace officer, or staff member of a detention facility has been exposed to blood or other bodily fluid which there is a reason to believe may be infectious with hepatitis C, the state department and county, district, and municipal public health agencies within their respective jurisdictions shall assist in evaluation and treatment of any involved persons by:

(A) Accessing information on the incident and any persons involved to determine whether a potential exposure to hepatitis C occurred;

(B) Examining and testing such involved persons to determine hepatitis C infection when the fact of an exposure has been established by the state department or county, district, or municipal public health agency;

(C) Communicating relevant information and laboratory test results on the involved persons to such persons' attending physicians or directly to the involved persons if the confidentiality of such information and test results is acknowledged by the recipients and adequately protected, as determined by the state department or county, district, or municipal public health agency; and

(D) Providing counseling to the involved persons on the potential health risks resulting from exposure and the available methods of treatment.

(V) The employer of an exposed person shall ensure that relevant information and laboratory test results on the involved person are kept confidential. Such information and laboratory results are considered medical information and protected from unauthorized disclosure.

(VI) For purposes of this paragraph (b), "public safety worker" includes, but is not limited to, law enforcement officers, peace officers, and firefighters.

(c) To establish, maintain, and enforce isolation and quarantine, and, in pursuance thereof and for this purpose only, to exercise such physical control over property and the persons of the people within this state as the department may find necessary for the protection of the public health;

(d) To abate nuisances when necessary for the purpose of eliminating sources of epidemic and communicable diseases affecting the public health.

(e) Repealed.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the department shall administer the provisions of this section regardless of an individual's race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 680, § 2, effective July 1; IP(1)(b)(IV) amended, p. 1617, § 23, effective August 6. L. 2006, 1st Ex. Sess.: (2) added, p. 25, § 2, effective July 31. L. 2010: IP(1)(b)(IV), (1)(b)(IV)(B), and (1)(b)(IV)(C) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2091, § 86, effective August 11. L. 2013: (1)(b)(I) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1687, § 72, effective August 7. L. 2018: (1)(b)(I) amended, (HB 18-1394), ch. 234, p. 1473, § 20, effective August 8. L. 2022: (1)(e) added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1192, § 10, effective May 18. L. 2023: (1)(e) amended, (HB 23-1246), ch. 199, p. 1019, § 7, effective May 16. L. 2024: (1)(e) amended, (HB 24-1465), ch. 257, p. 1684, § 7, effective May 24; (1)(e) amended, (HB 24-1466), ch. 429, p. 2941, § 27, effective June 5. L. 2025: (1)(b)(I) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 274, § 9, effective April 10; (1)(e) repealed, (SB 25-312), ch. 301, p. 1538, § 19, effective May 30.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(a), (1)(a.5), (1)(b), and (1)(d) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Amendments to subsection (1)(b)(IV) by House Bill 03-1266 and Senate Bill 03-002 were harmonized.

(3) Amendments to subsection (1)(e) by HB 24-1465 and HB 24-1466 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1246, see section 1 of chapter 199, Session Laws of Colorado 2023. For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1466, see section 1 of chapter 429, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

25-1.5-103. Health facilities - powers and duties of department - rules - limitations on rules - definitions - repeal.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) (I) (A) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a)(I)(A) is effective until July 1, 2028.] To annually license and to establish and enforce standards for the operation of general hospitals, hospital units as defined in section 25-3-101 (2), freestanding emergency departments as defined in section 25-1.5-114, critical access hospitals as defined in section 25-1.5-114.5, psychiatric hospitals, community clinics, rehabilitation hospitals, convalescent centers, facilities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, nursing care facilities, hospice care, assisted living residences, dialysis treatment clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, birthing centers, home care agencies, and other facilities of a like nature, except those wholly owned and operated by a governmental unit or agency.

(a) (I) (A) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a)(I)(A) is effective July 1, 2028.] To license and to establish and enforce standards for the operation of general hospitals, hospital units as defined in section 25-3-101 (2)(b), freestanding emergency departments as defined in section 25-1.5-114 (5)(b)(I), critical access hospitals as defined in section 25-1.5-114.5 (1)(b), psychiatric hospitals, community clinics, rehabilitation hospitals, convalescent centers, facilities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, nursing care facilities, hospice care, assisted living residences, dialysis treatment clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, birthing centers, home care agencies, and other facilities of a like nature, except those wholly owned and operated by a governmental unit or agency.

(A.5) Repealed.

(B) In establishing and enforcing such standards and in addition to the required announced inspections, the department shall, within available appropriations, make additional inspections without prior notice to the health facility, subject to sub-subparagraph (C) of this subparagraph (I). Such inspections shall be made only during the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

(C) The department shall extend the survey cycle or conduct a tiered inspection or survey of a health facility licensed for at least three years and against which no enforcement activity has been taken, no patterns of deficient practices exist, as documented in the inspection and survey reports issued by the department, and no substantiated complaint resulting in the discovery of significant deficiencies that may negatively affect the life, health, or safety of consumers of the health facility has been received within the three years prior to the date of the inspection. The department may expand the scope of the inspection or survey to an extended or full survey if the department finds deficient practice during the tiered inspection or survey. The department, by rule, shall establish a schedule for an extended survey cycle or a tiered inspection or survey system designed, at a minimum, to: Reduce the time needed for and costs of licensure inspections for both the department and the licensed health facility; reduce the number, frequency, and duration of on-site inspections; reduce the scope of data and information that health facilities are required to submit or provide to the department in connection with the licensure inspection; reduce the amount and scope of duplicative data, reports, and information required to complete the licensure inspection; and be based on a sample of the facility size. Nothing in this subsection (1)(a)(I)(C) limits the ability of the department to conduct a periodic inspection or survey that is required to meet its obligations as a state survey agency on behalf of the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services or the department of health care policy and financing to assure that the health facility meets the requirements for participation in the medicare and medicaid programs or limits the ability of the department to enter, survey, and investigate hospitals pursuant to section 25-3-128.

(D) In connection with the renewal of licenses issued pursuant to this subparagraph (I), the department shall institute a performance incentive system pursuant to section 25-3-105 (1)(a)(I)(C).

(E) The department shall not cite as a deficiency in a report resulting from a survey or inspection of a licensed health facility any deficiency from an isolated event identified by the department that can be effectively remedied during the survey or inspection of the health facility, unless the deficiency caused harm or a potential for harm, created a life- or limb-threatening emergency, or was due to abuse or neglect.

(F) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a)(I)(F) is effective until July 1, 2028.] Sections 24-4-104, C.R.S., and 25-3-102 govern the issuance, suspension, renewal, revocation, annulment, or modification of licenses. All licenses issued by the department must contain the date of issue and cover a twelve-month period. Nothing contained in this paragraph (a) prevents the department from adopting and enforcing, with respect to projects for which federal assistance has been obtained or is requested, higher standards as may be required by applicable federal laws or regulations of federal agencies responsible for the administration of applicable federal laws.

(F) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a)(I)(F) is effective July 1, 2028.] Sections 24-4-104 and 25-3-102 govern the issuance, suspension, renewal, revocation, annulment, or modification of licenses. All licenses issued by the department must contain the date of issue. Nothing contained in this subsection (1)(a) prevents the department from adopting and enforcing, with respect to projects for which federal assistance has been obtained or is requested, higher standards as may be required by applicable federal laws or regulations of federal agencies responsible for the administration of applicable federal laws.

(II) To establish and enforce standards for the operation and maintenance of the health facilities named in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a), wholly owned and operated by the state or any of its political subdivisions, and no such facility shall be operated or maintained without an annual certificate of compliance;

(b) To suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew any license issued to a health facility pursuant to subparagraph (I) or (II) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) if such health facility has committed abuse of health insurance pursuant to section 18-13-119, C.R.S., or if such health facility has advertised through newspapers, magazines, circulars, direct mail, directories, radio, television, or otherwise that it will perform any act prohibited by section 18-13-119 (3), C.R.S., unless the health facility is exempted from section 18-13-119 (5), C.R.S.;

(c) Repealed.

(d) (I) To ensure that each hospital that provides nonemergent perinatal care services is complying with the requirements specified in section 25-52-106.5, including participating in at least one maternal or infant health quality improvement initiative and submitting outcome data to the perinatal quality collaborative defined in section 25-52-103 (3).

(II) This subsection (1)(d) is repealed, effective September 1, 2029.

(e) To establish and enforce standards for the operation and maintenance of remote psychiatric inpatient locations of general hospitals, as defined in section 25-3-101 (2)(d).

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) and (a.3) Repealed.

(a.5) "Community clinic" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25-3-101 and does not include:

(I) A federally qualified health center, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4);

(II) A rural health clinic as defined in section 1861 (aa)(2) of the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(2); or

(III) A freestanding emergency department, as defined in and required to be licensed under section 25-1.5-114.

(b) Repealed.

(b.5) "Enforcement activity" means the imposition of remedies such as civil money penalties; appointment of a receiver or temporary manager; conditional licensure; suspension or revocation of a license; a directed plan of correction; intermediate restrictions or conditions, including retaining a consultant, department monitoring, or providing additional training to employees, owners, or operators; or any other remedy provided by state or federal law or as authorized by federal survey, certification, and enforcement regulations and agreements for violations of federal or state law.

(c) "Facility for persons with developmental disabilities" means a facility specially designed for the active treatment and habilitation of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities or a community residential home, as defined in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S., which is licensed and certified pursuant to section 25.5-10-214, C.R.S.

(d) "Hospice care" means an entity that administers services to a terminally ill person utilizing palliative care or treatment.

(3) (a) In the exercise of its powers pursuant to this section, the department shall not promulgate any rule, regulation, or standard relating to nursing personnel for rural nursing care facilities, rural intermediate care facilities, and other rural facilities of a like nature more stringent than the applicable federal standards and regulations.

(b) As used in this subsection (3), "rural" means:

(I) A county of less than fifteen thousand population; or

(II) A municipality of less than fifteen thousand population which is located ten miles or more from a municipality of over fifteen thousand population; or

(III) The unincorporated part of a county ten miles or more from a municipality of fifteen thousand population or more.

(c) A nursing care facility which is not rural as defined in paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) shall meet the licensing requirements of the department for nursing care facilities. However, if a registered nurse hired pursuant to department regulations is temporarily unavailable, a nursing care facility may use a licensed practical nurse in place of a registered nurse if such licensed practical nurse is a current employee of the nursing care facility.

(3.5) Repealed.

(4) In the exercise of its powers, the department shall not promulgate any rule, regulation, or standard that limits or interferes with the ability of an individual to enter into a contract with a private pay facility concerning the programs or services provided at the private pay facility. For the purposes of this subsection (4), "private pay facility" means a skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility subject to the requirements of section 25-1-120 or an assisted living residence licensed pursuant to section 25-27-105 that is not publicly funded or is not certified to provide services that are reimbursed from state or federal assistance funds.

(5) (a) This subsection (5) applies to construction, including substantial renovation, and ongoing compliance with article 33.5 of title 24, C.R.S., of a health-care facility building or structure on or after July 1, 2013. All health facility buildings and structures shall be constructed in conformity with the standards adopted by the director of the division of fire prevention and control in the department of public safety.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection (5) but notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the department shall not issue or renew any license under this article unless the department has received a certificate of compliance from the division of fire prevention and control certifying that the building or structure of the health facility is in conformity with the standards adopted by the director of the division of fire prevention and control.

(c) The department has no authority to establish or enforce standards relating to building or fire codes. All functions, personnel, and property of the department as of June 30, 2013, that are principally directed to the administration, inspection, and enforcement of any building or fire codes or standards shall be transferred to the health facility construction and inspection section of the division of fire prevention and control pursuant to section 24-33.5-1201 (5), C.R.S.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, all health facilities seeking certification pursuant to the federal insurance or assistance provided by Title XIX of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended and commonly known as "medicaid", or the federal insurance or assistance provided by Title XVIII of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended and commonly known as "medicare", or any successor code adopted or promulgated by the appropriate federal authorities, shall continue to meet such certification requirements.

(e) Nothing in this subsection (5) divests the department of the authority to perform health survey work or prevents the department from accessing related funds.

(6) (a) The department shall collaborate with the department of education, the department of health care policy and financing, and the department of human services to develop an interagency resource guide pursuant to section 22-2-410 to assist facilities to become licensed or authorized as approved facility schools and to recommend changes related to the interagency resource guide to the department's statute, rule, or administrative procedures.

(b) The department shall prominently post the interagency resource guide created pursuant to subsection (6)(a) of this section on the department's website.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 682, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1)(a)(I), (1)(c)(I), (2), and (2)(b) amended, pp. 1389, 1404, §§ 21, 63, effective August 7. L. 2008: (3.5) added, p. 1947, § 1, effective June 2; (1)(a)(I) amended, p. 2232, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2010: (3.5)(a)(I) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 798, § 59, effective April 29. L. 2011: (2)(a.5) added, (HB 11-1101), ch. 94, p. 277, § 1, effective April 8; (2)(a.5) amended, (HB 11-1323), ch. 265, p. 1198, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2012: (1)(a)(I), (1)(c), and IP(2)(a.5) amended and (2)(b.5) added, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1251, § 2, effective June 4; (5) added, (HB 12-1268), ch. 234, p. 1024, § 1, effective July 1, 2013. L. 2013: (5)(a) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1687, § 73, effective August 7; (1)(a)(I)(A) and (2)(c) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1806, § 37, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2017: (2)(b) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1323, § 184, effective May 25. L. 2019: (1)(a)(I)(A) and (2)(a.5)(II) amended and (2)(a.5)(III) added, (HB 19-1010), ch. 324, p. 2997, § 2, effective August 2; (3.5) amended, (HB 19-1060), ch. 10, p. 40, § 3, effective August 2; (1)(a)(I)(A) and (1)(c) amended and (2)(a.3) added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3639, § 8, effective July 1, 2021. L. 2020: (2)(a.5)(I) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 287, § 21, effective September 14. L. 2022: (1)(a)(I)(C) amended, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1180, § 2, effective May 18; (1)(a)(I)(A.5) added and (3.5) repealed, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, pp. 1583, 1506, §§ 211, 52, effective July 1; IP(2) and (2)(a.3)(I) amended, (HB 22-1295), ch. 123, p. 845, § 69, effective July 1; (1)(a)(I)(A) amended (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1591, § 226, effective July 1, 2024; (2)(a)(II), (2)(a.3)(II), and (2)(b)(II) added by revision, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, pp. 1591, 1605, §§ 226, 263(1)(b). L. 2023: (6) added, (SB 23-219), ch. 88, p. 333, § 12, effective April 20; (1)(a)(I)(A.5), (2)(a.3)(II), and (2)(b)(II) amended and (1)(c)(III) added, (HB 23-1236), ch. 206, p. 1052, § 7, effective May 16. L. 2024: (1)(d) added, (SB 24-175), ch. 433, p. 3035, § 2, effective June 5; (1)(a)(I)(A) amended, (SB 24-121), ch. 439, p. 3065, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2026: (1)(e) added, (HB 26-1305), ch. 103, p. 410, § 1, effective May 4; (1)(a)(I)(A) and (1)(a)(I)(F) amended, (SB 26-138), ch. 308, p. 1774, § 18, effective July 1, 2028.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(l), (3), and (4) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Amendments to subsection (2) in sections 21 and 63 of House Bill 06-1277 were harmonized. As a result of the harmonization, subsection (2)(a) in section 63 of House Bill 06-1277 was renumbered as subsection (2)(b).

(3) Amendments to subsection (1)(a)(I)(A) by HB 19-1010 and HB 19-1237 were harmonized, effective July 1, 2021.

(4) Subsection (2)(a.3)(I) was amended in HB 22-1295. Those amendments were superseded by the repeal of subsection (2.3)(a) in SB 22-1278, effective July 1, 2024.

(5) Subsection (2)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(a), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 1591, 1605.)

(6) Subsections (1)(a)(I)(A.5), (1)(c)(III), (2)(a.3)(II), and (2)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (1)(a)(I)(A.5), (1)(c), (2)(a.3), and (2)(b), respectively, effective January 1, 2025. (See L. 2023, p. 1052.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsections (1)(a)(I) and (1)(c) and the introductory portion to subsection (2)(a.5) and adding subsection (2)(b.5), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1060, see section 1 of chapter 10, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020. For the legislative declaration in SB 26-138, see section 1 of chapter 308, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ANNOTATION

Annotator's note. Since § 25-1.5-103 is similar to § 25-1-107 as it existed prior to its 2003 repeal and relocation to this article 1.5, a relevant case construing that provision has been included in the annotations to this section.

This section is not a licensing statute, but rather one specifying the powers of the state department of public health. Adams v. Poudre Valley Hosp. Dist., 173 Colo. 98, 476 P.2d 565 (1970).

Thus, subsection (1)(l)(II), "certificate of compliance", is not a license. Adams v. Poudre Valley Hosp. Dist., 173 Colo. 98, 476 P.2d 565 (1970).

25-1.5-104. Regulation of standards relating to food - powers and duties of department.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) To impound any vegetables and other edible crops and meat and animal products intended for and unfit for human consumption, and, upon five days' notice and after affording reasonable opportunity for a hearing to the interested parties, to condemn and destroy the same if deemed necessary for the protection of the public health;

(b) (I) To promulgate and enforce rules, regulations, and standards for the grading, labeling, classification, and composition of milk, milk products, and dairy products, including imitation dairy products; to establish minimum general sanitary standards of quality of all milk, milk products, dairy products, and imitation dairy products sold for human consumption in this state; to inspect and supervise, in dairy plants or dairy farms and in other establishments handling any milk, milk products, dairy products, or imitation dairy products, the sanitation of production, processing, and distribution of all milk, milk products, dairy products, and imitation dairy products sold for human consumption in this state and, to this end, to take samples of milk, milk products, dairy products, and imitation dairy products for bacteriological, chemical, and other analyses; and to enforce the standards for milk, milk products, dairy products, and imitation dairy products in processing plants, dairy farms, and other facilities and establishments handling, transporting, or selling such products; to certify persons licensed by the department under the provisions of section 25-5.5-107 as duly qualified persons for the purpose of collecting raw milk samples for official analyses in accordance with minimum qualifications established by the department; to issue, for the fees established by law, licenses and temporary permits to operate milk plants, dairy plants, receiving stations, dairy farms, and other facilities manufacturing any milk, milk products, dairy products, or imitation dairy products for human consumption.

(II) The phrase "minimum general sanitary standards" as used in this section means the minimum standards reasonably consistent with assuring adequate protection of the public health. The word "standards" as used in this section means standards reasonably designed to promote and protect the public health.

(c) To promulgate and enforce rules and regulations for the labeling and sale of oleomargarine and for the governing of milk- or cream-weighing-and-testing operations;

(d) To approve all oils used in reading tests of samples of cream and milk;

(e) To examine and license persons to sample or test milk, cream, or other dairy products for the purpose of determining the value of such products or to instruct other persons in the sampling and testing of such products and to cancel licenses issued by the department on account of incompetency or any violation of the provisions of the dairy laws or the rules and regulations promulgated by the board;

(f) To license manufacturers of oleomargarine;

(g) To establish and enforce sanitary standards for the operation of slaughtering, packing, canning, and rendering establishments and stores, shops, and vehicles wherein meat and animal products intended for human consumption may be offered for sale or transported, but this shall not be construed to authorize any state officer or employee to interfere with regulations or inspections made by anyone acting under the laws of the United States.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 684, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1.5-107 (1)(k), (1)(o), and (1)(p) as they existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-105. Detection of diseases - powers and duties of department.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) To establish and operate programs which the department determines are important in promoting, protecting, and maintaining the public's health by preventing, delaying, or detecting the onset of environmental and chronic diseases;

(b) To develop and maintain a system for detecting and monitoring environmental and chronic diseases within the state and to investigate and determine the epidemiology of those conditions which contribute to preventable or premature sickness and to death and disability;

(c) To establish programs of community and professional education relevant to the detection, prevention, and control of environmental and chronic diseases.

(2) For purposes of this section, "chronic disease" means impairment or deviation from the normal functioning of the human body which:

(a) Is permanent;

(b) Leaves residual disability;

(c) Is caused by nonreversible pathological alterations;

(d) Requires special patient education and instruction for rehabilitation; or

(e) May require a long period of supervision, observation, and care.

(3) For the purposes of this section, "environmental disease" means an impairment or deviation from the normal functioning of the human body which:

(a) May be either temporary or permanent;

(b) May leave residual disability;

(c) May result in birth defects, damage to tissues and organs, and chronic illness; and

(d) Is caused by exposure to hazardous chemical or radiological materials present in the environment.

(4) For the purposes of this section, the board shall determine, by rule and regulation, those environmental and chronic diseases that are dangerous to the public health. The board is authorized to require reports relating to such designated diseases in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122 and to have access to medical records relating to such designated diseases in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 685, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(dd) as it existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-106. Medical marijuana program - powers and duties of state health agency - rules - enforcement - fees - medical marijuana program cash fund - subaccount - "Ethan's Law" - definitions - repeal.

(1) Legislative declaration.

(a) The general assembly hereby declares that it is necessary to implement rules to ensure that patients suffering from legitimate debilitating medical conditions are able to safely gain access to medical marijuana and to ensure that these patients:

(I) Are not subject to criminal prosecution for their use of medical marijuana in accordance with section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, and the rules of the state health agency; and

(II) Are able to establish an affirmative defense to their use of medical marijuana in accordance with section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, and the rules of the state health agency.

(b) The general assembly hereby declares that it is necessary to implement rules to prevent persons who do not suffer from legitimate debilitating medical conditions from using section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution as a means to sell, acquire, possess, produce, use, or transport marijuana in violation of state and federal laws.

(c) The general assembly hereby declares that it is necessary to implement rules to provide guidance for caregivers as defined in section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution.

(d) The general assembly hereby declares that it is imperative to prevent the diversion of medical marijuana to other states. In order to do this the general assembly needs to provide clear guidance for law enforcement.

(2) Definitions. In addition to the definitions set forth in section 14 (1) of article XVIII of the state constitution, as used in this section and in section 25-1.5-106.1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Authorized employees of the state health agency" includes independent contractors or other agencies with whom the state health agency contracts or is working under an intergovernmental agreement to provide services related to the administration of the medical marijuana program registry. These independent contractors are not state employees for the purposes of state employee benefits, including public employees' retirement association benefits.

(a.5) "Bona fide physician-patient relationship", for purposes of the medical marijuana program, means:

(I) A physician and a patient have a treatment or counseling relationship, in the course of which the physician has completed the in-person full assessment of the patient's medical history, including an assessment of the patient's medical and mental health history to determine whether the patient has a medical or mental health issue that could be exacerbated by the use of medical marijuana and reviewing a previous diagnosis for a debilitating or disabling medical condition, and current medical condition, including an appropriate personal physical examination. If the recommending physician is not the patient's primary care physician, the recommending physician shall review the existing records of the diagnosing physician or a licensed mental health provider. This subsection (2)(a.5)(I) does not require a mental health examination prior to making a recommendation.

(II) The physician has consulted with the patient, and if the patient is a minor, with the patient's parents, with respect to the patient's debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition and has explained the possible risks and benefits of use of medical marijuana to the patient, and the patient's parents if the patient is a minor, before the patient applies for a registry identification card; and

(III) The physician is available to or offers to provide follow-up care and treatment to the patient, including patient examinations, to determine the efficacy of the use of medical marijuana as a treatment of the patient's debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition.

(a.7) "Disabling medical condition" means:

(I) Post-traumatic stress disorder as diagnosed by a licensed mental health provider or physician;

(II) An autism spectrum disorder as diagnosed by a primary care physician, physician with experience in autism spectrum disorder, or licensed mental health provider acting within his or her scope of practice; or

(III) A condition for which a physician could prescribe an opioid.

(b) "Executive director" means the executive director of the state health agency.

(c) "In good standing", with respect to a physician's or dentist or advanced practice practitioner license, means:

(I) The physician holds a doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from an accredited medical school, or the dentist or advanced practice practitioner holds a degree in a medical field within his or her scope of practice;

(II) The physician holds a valid license to practice medicine, or the dentist or advanced practice practitioner holds a valid license to practice within his or her scope of practice, in Colorado that does not contain a restriction or condition that prohibits the recommendation of medical marijuana or for a license issued prior to July 1, 2011, a valid, unrestricted and unconditioned license; and

(III) The physician or dentist or advanced practice practitioner has a valid and unrestricted United States department of justice federal drug enforcement administration controlled substances registration.

(d) "Medical marijuana program" means the program established by section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution and this section.

(d.3) "Patient" means a person who has a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition.

(d.4) "Physician", when making medical marijuana recommendations for a disabling medical condition, includes a dentist or advanced practice practitioner with prescriptive authority acting within the scope of his or her practice.

(d.5) "Primary caregiver" means a natural person, other than the patient or the patient's physician, who is eighteen years of age or older and has significant responsibility for managing the well-being of a patient who has a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition. A primary caregiver may have one or more of the following relationships:

(I) A parent of a child as described by subsection (6)(e) of section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution or a parent of a child with a disabling medical condition and anyone who assists that parent with caregiver responsibilities, including cultivation and transportation;

(II) An advising caregiver who advises a patient on which medical marijuana products to use and how to dose them and does not possess, provide, cultivate, or transport marijuana on behalf of the patient;

(III) A transporting caregiver who purchases and transports marijuana to a patient who is homebound; or

(IV) A cultivating caregiver who grows marijuana for a patient.

(e) "Registry identification card" means the nontransferable confidential registry identification card issued by the state health agency to patients and primary caregivers pursuant to this section.

(e.3) "Residential property" means a single unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. "Residential property" also includes the real property surrounding a structure, owned in common with the structure, that includes one or more single units providing complete independent living facilities.

(e.5) "Significant responsibility for managing the well-being of a patient" means that the caregiver is involved in basic or instrumental activities of daily living. Cultivating or transporting marijuana and the act of advising a patient on which medical marijuana products to use and how to dose them constitutes a "significant responsibility".

(f) "State health agency" means the public health-related entity of state government designated by the governor by executive order pursuant to section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution.

(2.5) (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsections (2.5)(h) and (2.5)(i) of this section and section 18-18-406.3, a patient with a disabling medical condition or his or her primary caregiver charged with a violation of the state's criminal laws related to the patient's medical use of marijuana will be deemed to have established an affirmative defense to such allegation where:

(I) The patient was previously diagnosed by a physician as having a disabling medical condition;

(II) The patient was advised by his or her physician, in the context of a bona fide physician-patient relationship, that the patient might benefit from the medical use of marijuana in connection with a disabling medical condition; and

(III) The patient and his or her primary caregiver were collectively in possession of amounts of marijuana only as permitted under this section.

(b) The affirmative defense in subsection (2.5)(a) of this section does not exclude the assertion of any other defense where a patient or primary caregiver is charged with a violation of state law related to the patient's medical use of marijuana.

(c) It is an exception from the state's criminal laws for any patient with a disabling medical condition or his or her primary caregiver in lawful possession of a registry identification card to engage or assist in the medical use of marijuana, except as otherwise provided in subsection (2.5)(h) of this section or section 18-18-406.3.

(d) It is an exception from the state's criminal laws for any physician to:

(I) Advise a patient whom the physician has diagnosed as having a disabling medical condition about the risks and benefits of the medical use of marijuana or that he or she might benefit from the medical use of marijuana, provided that such advice is based upon the physician's contemporaneous assessment of the patient's medical history and current medical condition and a bona fide physician-patient relationship; or

(II) Provide a patient with written documentation, based upon the physician's contemporaneous assessment of the patient's medical history and current medical condition and a bona fide physician-patient relationship, stating that the patient has a disabling medical condition and might benefit from the medical use of marijuana. No physician shall be denied any rights or privileges for the acts authorized by this section.

(e) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, no person, including a patient with a disabling medical condition or his or her primary caregiver, is entitled to the protection of this section for his or her acquisition, possession, manufacture, production, use, sale, distribution, dispensing, or transportation of marijuana for any use other than medical use.

(f) Any property interest that is possessed, owned, or used by a patient with a disabling medical condition or his or her primary caregiver in connection with the medical use of marijuana or acts incidental to such use shall not be harmed, neglected, injured, or destroyed while in the possession of state or local law enforcement officials where such property has been seized in connection with the claimed medical use of marijuana. Any such property interest shall not be forfeited under any provision of state law providing for the forfeiture of property other than as a sentence imposed after conviction of a criminal offense or entry of a plea of guilty to such offense.

(g) (I) A patient with a disabling medical condition may engage in the medical use of marijuana, with no more marijuana than is medically necessary to address a disabling medical condition. The medical use of marijuana by a patient with a disabling medical condition is lawful within the following limits:

(A) No more than two ounces of a usable form of marijuana; and

(B) No more than six marijuana plants, with three or fewer being mature, flowering plants that are producing a usable form of marijuana.

(II) For quantities of marijuana in excess of these amounts, a patient or his or her primary caregiver may raise as an affirmative defense to charges of violation of state law that such greater amounts were medically necessary to address the patient's disabling medical condition.

(h) (I) No patient with a disabling medical condition shall:

(A) Engage in the medical use of marijuana in a way that endangers the health or well-being of any person; or

(B) Engage in the medical use of marijuana in plain view of, or in a place open to, the general public.

(II) In addition to any other penalties provided by law, the state health agency shall revoke for a period of one year the registry identification card of any patient found to have willfully violated the provisions of this section.

(i) Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection (2.5), no patient with a disabling medical condition who is under eighteen years of age shall engage in the medical use of marijuana unless:

(I) Two physicians have diagnosed the patient as having a disabling medical condition. If the recommending physician is not the patient's primary care physician, the recommending physician shall review the records of a diagnosing physician or a licensed mental health provider acting within their scope of practice.

(II) One of the physicians referred to in subsection (2.5)(i)(I) of this section has explained the possible risks and benefits of the medical use of marijuana to the patient and each of the patient's parents residing in Colorado;

(III) The physician referred to in subsection (2.5)(i)(II) of this section has provided the patient with the written documentation specifying that the patient has been diagnosed with a disabling medical condition and the physician has concluded that the patient might benefit from the medical use of marijuana;

(IV) Each of the patient's parents residing in Colorado consent in writing to the state health agency to permit the patient to engage in the medical use of marijuana;

(V) A parent residing in Colorado consents in writing to serve as the patient's primary caregiver;

(VI) A parent serving as a primary caregiver completes and submits an application for a registry identification card and the written consents referred to in subsections (2.5)(i)(IV) and (2.5)(i)(V) of this section to the state health agency;

(VII) The state health agency approves the patient's application and transmits the patient's registry identification card to the parent designated as a primary caregiver;

(VIII) The patient and primary caregiver collectively possess amounts of marijuana no greater than those specified in subsection (2.5)(g) of this section; and

(IX) The primary caregiver controls the acquisition of such marijuana and the dosage and frequency of its use by the patient with a disabling medical condition.

(j) A patient with a disabling medical condition who is under eighteen years of age shall use medical marijuana only in a nonsmokeable form when using medical marijuana upon the grounds of the preschool or primary or secondary school in which the student is enrolled, or upon a school bus or at a school-sponsored event.

(3) Rule-making.

(a) The state health agency shall, pursuant to section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, promulgate rules of administration concerning the implementation of the medical marijuana program that specifically govern the following:

(I) The establishment and maintenance of a confidential registry of patients who have applied for and are entitled to receive a registry identification card. The confidential registry of patients may be used to determine whether a physician should be referred to the Colorado medical board for a suspected violation of section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, subsection (5)(a), (5)(b), or (5)(c) of this section, or the rules promulgated by the state health agency pursuant to this subsection (3).

(II) The development by the state health agency of an application form and the process for making the form available to residents of this state seeking to be listed on the confidential registry of patients who are entitled to receive a registry identification card;

(III) The verification by the state health agency of medical information concerning patients who have applied for a registry identification card or for renewal of a registry identification card;

(IV) The development by the state health agency of a form that constitutes "written documentation" as defined and used in section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, which form a physician shall use when making a medical marijuana recommendation for a patient;

(V) The conditions for issuance and renewal, and the form, of the registry identification cards issued to patients, including but not limited to standards for ensuring that the state health agency issues a registry identification card to a patient only if he or she has a bona fide physician-patient relationship with a physician in good standing and licensed to practice medicine in the state of Colorado;

(VI) Communications with law enforcement officials about registry identification cards that have been suspended when a patient is no longer diagnosed as having a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition;

(VII) The manner in which the state health agency may consider adding debilitating medical conditions to the list of debilitating medical conditions contained in section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution;

(VIII) A waiver process to allow a homebound patient who is on the registry to have a primary caregiver transport the patient's medical marijuana from a licensed medical marijuana center to the patient; and

(IX) Guidelines for primary caregivers to give informed consent to patients that the products they cultivate or produce may contain contaminants and that the cannabinoid levels may not be verified.

(b) The state health agency may promulgate rules regarding the following:

(I) Repealed.

(II) The development of a form for a primary caregiver to use in applying to the registry, which form shall require, at a minimum, that the applicant provide his or her full name, home address, date of birth, and an attestation that the applicant has a significant responsibility for managing the well-being of the patient for whom he or she is designated as the primary caregiver and that he or she understands and will abide by section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, and the rules promulgated by the state health agency pursuant to this section; and

(III) Repealed.

(IV) The grounds and procedure for a patient to change his or her designated primary caregiver.

(c) Repealed.

(d) The state health agency shall promulgate rules related to the length of time a registry identification card issued to a patient with a disabling medical condition is valid.

(3.5) Marijuana laboratory testing reference library.

(a) The state health agency shall develop and maintain a marijuana laboratory testing reference library. Laboratories licensed by the department of revenue shall be required to provide materials for the reference library; except that no licensee shall be required to provide testing protocols.

(b) The reference library must contain a library of methodologies for marijuana testing in the areas of potency, homogeneity, contaminants, and solvents consistent with the laboratory requirements set by the department of revenue pursuant to article 10 of title 44.

(c) The state health agency may also include in the reference library standard sample attainment procedures and standards related to sample preparation for laboratory analysis.

(d) The state health agency shall make reference library materials, including the methodologies, publicly available and may continuously update the reference library as new materials become available.

(3.7) Repealed.

(3.8) (a) The state health agency or an organization with whom the state health agency contracts shall be responsible for proficiency testing and remediating problems with laboratories licensed pursuant to article 10 of title 44.

(b) Repealed.

(4) Notwithstanding any other requirements to the contrary, notice issued by the state health agency for a rule-making hearing pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., for rules concerning the medical marijuana program shall be sufficient if the state health agency provides the notice no later than forty-five days in advance of the rule-making hearing in at least one publication in a newspaper of general distribution in the state and posts the notice on the state health agency's website; except that emergency rules pursuant to section 24-4-103 (6), C.R.S., shall not require advance notice.

(5) Physicians. A physician who certifies a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition for an applicant to the medical marijuana program shall comply with all of the following requirements:

(a) The physician has a valid and active license to practice medicine, which license is in good standing, or the dentist or advanced practice practitioner holds a valid license to practice within his or her scope of practice, which license is in good standing.

(b) (I) After a physician, who has a bona fide physician-patient relationship with the patient applying for the medical marijuana program, determines, for the purposes of making a recommendation, that the patient has a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition and that the patient may benefit from the use of medical marijuana, the physician shall certify to the state health agency that the patient has a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition and that the patient may benefit from the use of medical marijuana. If the physician certifies that the patient would benefit from the use of medical marijuana based on a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or disabling medical condition, the physician shall specify the chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or disabling medical condition and, if known, the cause or source of the chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or disabling medical condition. A physician's authorization for medical marijuana must be in compliance with the provisions of this section, any rules promulgated pursuant to this section, the physician's respective practice act, article 220 of title 12 and any rules promulgated pursuant to that article for a dentist, article 240 of title 12 and any rules promulgated pursuant to that article, and article 255 of title 12 and any rules promulgated pursuant to that article for an advanced practice registered nurse.

(II) The certification must include the following:

(A) The date of issue and the effective date of the recommendation;

(B) The patient's name and address;

(C) The authorizing physician's name, address, and federal drug enforcement agency number;

(D) The maximum THC potency level of medical marijuana being recommended;

(E) The recommended product, if any;

(F) The patient's daily authorized quantity, if such quantity exceeds the maximum statutorily allowed amount for the patient's age;

(G) Directions for use; and

(H) The authorizing physician's signature.

(III) The authorizing physician shall provide the patient with a copy of the certification.

(c) The physician shall maintain a record-keeping system, including a copy of the certification, for all patients for whom the physician has authorized the medical use of marijuana, and, pursuant to an investigation initiated pursuant to section 12-240-125, the physician shall produce such medical records to the Colorado medical board after redacting any patient or primary caregiver identifying information. The physician shall maintain the medical records of the patient's visit and the physician shall respond to a treating physician's request for medical records to treat the patient with the certification with the patient's permission.

(d) A physician shall not:

(I) Accept, solicit, or offer any form of pecuniary remuneration from or to a primary caregiver, distributor, or any other provider of medical marijuana;

(II) Offer a discount or any other thing of value to a patient who uses or agrees to use a particular primary caregiver, distributor, or other provider of medical marijuana to procure medical marijuana;

(III) Examine a patient for purposes of diagnosing a debilitating medical condition or a disabling medical condition at a location where medical marijuana is sold or distributed;

(IV) Hold an economic interest in an enterprise that provides or distributes medical marijuana if the physician certifies the debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition of a patient for participation in the medical marijuana program; or

(V) Charge a patient an additional fee to recommend an extended plant count or for a recommendation that is an exception to any requirement in this section or article 10 of title 44.

(e) Only a physician can make a medical marijuana recommendation; except that, when making a medical marijuana recommendation for a patient with a disabling medical condition, the recommendation may be made by a medical doctor, dentist, or advanced practice practitioner with prescriptive authority acting within the scope of his or her practice.

(f) A physician who makes medical marijuana recommendations shall take a medical continuing education course regarding medical marijuana that is at least five hours every two years.

(g) The department shall report on or before January 31 of each year the number of physicians who made medical marijuana recommendations in the previous year and without identifying the physician the number of recommendations each physician made and the aggregate number of homebound patients ages eighteen to twenty in the registry.

(5.5) Patients eighteen to twenty years of age.

(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, a patient with a debilitating or disabling medical condition who is eighteen to twenty years of age is not eligible for the medical marijuana program unless:

(I) Two physicians from separate medical practices have diagnosed the patient as having a debilitating or disabling medical condition after an in-person consultation. If one of the recommending physicians is not the patient's primary care physician, the recommending physician shall review the records of a diagnosing physician or a licensed mental health provider acting within the physician's or provider's scope of practice. The requirement that the two physicians be from separate medical practices does not apply if the patient is homebound or if the patient had a medical marijuana registration card before age eighteen.

(II) One of the physicians referred to in subsection (5.5)(a)(I) of this section has explained the possible risks and benefits of the medical use of marijuana to the patient;

(III) The physician referred to in subsection (5.5)(a)(II) of this section has provided the patient with the written documentation specifying that the patient has been diagnosed with a debilitating or disabling medical condition and the physician has concluded that the patient might benefit from the medical use of marijuana; and

(IV) The patient attends follow-up appointments every six months after the initial appointment with one of the physicians referred to in subsection (5.5)(a)(I) of this section; except that this subsection (5.5)(a)(IV) does not apply to a homebound patient.

(b) This subsection (5.5) does not apply to a patient eighteen to twenty years of age if the patient had a registry identification card prior to eighteen years of age.

(6) Enforcement.

(a) If the state health agency has reasonable cause to believe that a physician has violated section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, subsection (5) of this section, or the rules promulgated by the state health agency pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, the state health agency may refer the matter to the Colorado medical board created in section 12-240-105 for an investigation and determination.

(b) If the state health agency has reasonable cause to believe that a physician has violated paragraph (d) of subsection (5) of this section, the state health agency shall conduct a hearing pursuant to section 24-4-104, C.R.S., to determine whether a violation has occurred.

(c) Upon a finding of unprofessional conduct pursuant to section 12-240-121 (1)(dd) by the Colorado medical board or a finding of a violation of subsection (5)(d) of this section by the state health agency, the state health agency shall restrict a physician's authority to recommend the use of medical marijuana, which restrictions may include the revocation or suspension of a physician's privilege to recommend medical marijuana. The restriction shall be in addition to any sanction imposed by the Colorado medical board.

(d) When the state health agency has objective and reasonable grounds to believe and finds, upon a full investigation, that a physician has deliberately and willfully violated section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution or this section and that the public health, safety, or welfare imperatively requires emergency action, and the state health agency incorporates those findings into an order, the state health agency may summarily suspend the physician's authority to recommend the use of medical marijuana pending the proceedings set forth in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection (6). A hearing on the order of summary suspension shall be held no later than thirty days after the issuance of the order of summary suspension, unless a longer time is agreed to by the parties, and an initial decision in accordance with section 24-4-105 (14), C.R.S., shall be rendered no later than thirty days after the conclusion of the hearing concerning the order of summary suspension.

(7) Primary caregivers.

(a) A primary caregiver may not delegate to any other person his or her authority to provide medical marijuana to a patient; nor may a primary caregiver engage others to assist in providing medical marijuana to a patient; except that a parent primary caregiver may use the services of an assistant for advisement, cultivation, or transportation.

(b) Two or more primary caregivers shall not join together for the purpose of cultivating medical marijuana.

(c) Only a medical marijuana center with an optional premises cultivation license, a medical marijuana-infused products manufacturing operation with an optional premises cultivation license, or a primary caregiver for his or her patients or a patient for himself or herself may cultivate or provide medical marijuana.

(d) A primary caregiver shall provide to a law enforcement agency, upon inquiry, the registry identification card number of each of his or her patients. The state health agency shall maintain a registry of this information and make it available twenty-four hours per day and seven days a week to law enforcement for verification purposes. Upon inquiry by a law enforcement officer as to an individual's status as a patient or primary caregiver, the state health agency shall check the registry. If the individual is not registered as a patient or primary caregiver, the state health agency may provide that response to law enforcement. If the person is a registered patient or primary caregiver for a patient with a debilitating medical condition or a disabling medical condition, the state health agency may not release information unless consistent with section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution. The state health agency may promulgate rules to provide for the efficient administration of this subsection (7)(d).

(e) (I) (A) In order to be a primary caregiver who cultivates medical marijuana for his or her patients or transports medical marijuana for his or her patients, he or she shall also register with the state licensing authority and comply with all local laws, regulations, and zoning and use restrictions. A person may not register as a primary caregiver if he or she is licensed as a medical marijuana business or a retail marijuana business as described in part 4 of article 10 of title 44. An employee, contractor, or other support staff employed by a licensed entity or working in or having access to a restricted area of a licensed premises pursuant to article 10 of title 44 may be a primary caregiver.

(B) A cultivating primary caregiver, when registering, shall provide the cultivation operation location, the registration number of each patient, and any extended plant count numbers and their corresponding patient registry numbers.

(C) A transporting primary caregiver, when registering, shall provide the registration number of each homebound patient, the total number of plants and ounces that the caregiver is authorized to transport, if applicable, and the location of each patient's registered medical marijuana center or cultivating primary caregiver, as applicable. A transporting caregiver shall have on his or her person a receipt from the medical marijuana center or primary caregiver when transporting medical marijuana that shows the quantity of medical marijuana purchased by or provided to the transporting caregiver.

(D) The state licensing authority may verify patient registration numbers and extended plant count numbers with the state health agency to confirm that a patient does not have more than one primary caregiver, or does not have both a designated caregiver and medical marijuana center, cultivating medical marijuana on his or her behalf at any given time.

(E) If a peace officer makes a law enforcement contact with a primary caregiver who does not have proper documentation showing registration with the state licensing authority, the peace officer may report that individual to the state licensing authority or may take appropriate law enforcement action. The person may be subject to any chargeable criminal offenses.

(II) The state licensing authority shall share the minimum necessary information in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, such as patient and caregiver identification numbers, to verify that a patient has only one entity cultivating medical marijuana on his or her behalf at any given time.

(III) The information provided to the state licensing authority pursuant to this paragraph (e) shall not be provided to the public and is confidential. The state licensing authority shall verify the location of a primary caregiver cultivation operation to a local government or law enforcement agency upon receiving an address-specific request for verification. The location of the cultivation operation must comply with all applicable local laws, rules, or regulations.

(f) A cultivating primary caregiver shall only cultivate plants at the registered cultivation location as required pursuant to paragraph (e) of this subsection (7) and as permitted pursuant to subparagraphs (I) and (II)(B) of paragraph (a) of subsection (8.6) of this section. Nothing in this paragraph (f) shall be construed to limit the ability of the caregiver or person twenty-one years of age or older who makes permanent residence at the registered cultivation location from cultivating or possessing up to six plants pursuant to article XVIII, section 16, of the Colorado constitution. Notwithstanding these provisions, additional cultivation is not lawful at the premises registered by a caregiver to cultivate on behalf of patients.

(8) Patient - primary caregiver relationship.

(a) (I) A person shall be listed as a cultivating or transporting primary caregiver for no more than five patients on the medical marijuana program registry at any given time; except that the state health agency may allow a primary caregiver to serve more than five patients in exceptional circumstances. In determining whether exceptional circumstances exist, the state health agency may consider the proximity of medical marijuana centers to the patient, as well as other factors.

(II) A cultivating or transporting primary caregiver shall maintain a list of his or her patients, including the registry identification card number of each patient and a recommended total plant count, at all times.

(b) (I) A patient may have only one primary caregiver at any given time; except that, on or after December 1, 2020, a patient who is under eighteen years of age may have each parent or guardian to act as a primary caregiver or, if the patient is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, the judge presiding over the case may determine who is the primary caregiver.

(II) The short title of this subsection (8)(b) is "Ethan's Law".

(c) A patient who has designated a primary caregiver for himself or herself may not be designated as a primary caregiver for another patient.

(d) A primary caregiver may not charge a patient more than the cost of cultivating or purchasing the medical marijuana, but may charge for caregiver services.

(e) (I) The state health agency shall maintain a secure and confidential registry of available primary caregivers for those patients who are unable to secure the services of a primary caregiver.

(II) An existing primary caregiver may indicate at the time of registration whether he or she would be willing to handle additional patients and waive confidentiality to allow release of his or her contact information to physicians or registered patients only.

(III) An individual who is not registered but is willing to provide primary caregiving services may submit his or her contact information to be placed on the primary caregiver registry.

(IV) A patient-primary caregiver arrangement secured pursuant to this paragraph (e) shall be strictly between the patient and the potential primary caregiver. The state health agency, by providing the information required by this paragraph (e), shall not endorse or vouch for a primary caregiver.

(V) The state health agency may make an exception, based on a request from a patient, to paragraph (a) of this subsection (8) limiting primary caregivers to five patients. If the state health agency makes an exception to the limit, the state health agency shall note the exception on the primary caregiver's record in the registry.

(f) At the time a patient applies for inclusion on the confidential registry, the patient shall indicate whether the patient intends to cultivate his or her own medical marijuana, both cultivate his or her own medical marijuana and obtain it from either a primary caregiver or licensed medical marijuana center, or obtain it from either a primary caregiver or a licensed medical marijuana center. If the patient elects to use a licensed medical marijuana center, the patient shall register the primary center he or she intends to use.

(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a primary caregiver shall not grow, sell, or process marijuana for any person unless:

(I) The person is a patient holding a current and valid registry identification card; and

(II) The primary caregiver is currently identified on the medical marijuana registry as that patient's primary caregiver.

(8.5) Encourage patient voluntary registration - plant limits.

(a) (I) All patients cultivating more than six medical marijuana plants for their own medical use are encouraged to register with the state licensing authority's registry created pursuant to subsection (7) of this section. A patient who chooses to register shall update his or her registration information upon renewal of his or her medical marijuana registry card.

(II) A patient who chooses to register shall register the following information with the state licensing authority: The location of his or her cultivation operation; his or her patient registration identification; and the total number of plants that the patient is authorized to cultivate.

(a.5) (I) Unless otherwise expressly authorized by local law, it is unlawful for a patient to possess at or cultivate on a residential property more than twelve marijuana plants regardless of the number of persons residing, either temporarily or permanently, at the property; except that it is unlawful for a patient to possess at or cultivate on or in a residential property more than twenty-four marijuana plants regardless of the number of persons residing, either temporarily or permanently, at the property if a patient:

(A) Lives in a county, municipality, or city and county that does not limit the number of marijuana plants that may be grown on or in a residential property;

(B) Registers pursuant to this subsection (8.5) with the state licensing authority's registry; and

(C) Provides notice to the applicable county, municipality, or city and county of his or her residential cultivation operation if required by the jurisdiction. A local jurisdiction shall not provide the information provided to it pursuant to this subsection (8.5)(a.5)(I)(C) to the public, and the information is confidential.

(II) A patient who cultivates more marijuana plants than permitted in subsection (8.5)(a.5)(I) of this section shall locate his or her cultivation operation on a property, other than a residential property, where marijuana cultivation is allowed by local law and shall comply with any applicable local law requiring disclosure about the cultivation operation. Cultivation operations conducted in a location other than a residential property are subject to any county and municipal building and public health inspection required by local law. A person who violates this subsection (8.5)(a.5) is subject to the offenses and penalties described in section 18-18-406.

(b) A patient shall not cultivate more than ninety-nine plants. Only a medical marijuana business licensed and properly authorized pursuant to article 10 of title 44 may cultivate more than ninety-nine plants.

(b.5) A patient who cultivates his or her own medical marijuana plants shall comply with all local laws, regulations, and zoning and use restrictions.

(c) The information provided to the state licensing authority pursuant to this subsection (8.5) shall not be provided to the public and is confidential. The state licensing authority shall verify the location of a medical marijuana cultivation site for patient cultivation operations to a local government or law enforcement agency upon receiving a request for verification. The location of the cultivation operation shall comply with all applicable local laws, rules, or regulations.

(d) The state licensing authority shall provide cultivation information for patients who choose to register to state and local law enforcement through the Colorado crime information center. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall include proper use of medical marijuana information in audits of state and local law enforcement agencies.

(8.6) Primary caregivers plant limits - exceptional circumstances.

(a) (I) A primary caregiver shall not cultivate, transport, or possess more than thirty-six plants unless the primary caregiver has one or more patients who, based on medical necessity, have an extended plant count.

(I.5) Unless otherwise expressly authorized by local law, it is unlawful for a primary caregiver to possess at or cultivate on a residential property more than twelve marijuana plants regardless of the number of persons residing, either temporarily or permanently, at the property; except that it is unlawful for a primary caregiver to possess at or cultivate on or in a residential property more than twenty-four marijuana plants regardless of the number of persons residing, either temporarily or permanently, at the property if a primary caregiver:

(A) Lives in a county, municipality, or city and county that does not limit the number of marijuana plants that may be grown on or in a residential property;

(B) Is registered pursuant to this subsection (8.6) with the state licensing authority's registry; and

(C) Provides notice to the applicable county, municipality, or city and county of his or her residential cultivation operation if required by the jurisdiction. A local jurisdiction shall not provide the information provided to it pursuant to this subsection (8.6)(a)(I.5) to the public, and the information is confidential.

(I.6) Any primary caregiver who cultivates more marijuana plants than permitted in subsection (8.6)(a)(I.5) of this section shall locate his or her cultivation operation on a property, other than a residential property, where marijuana cultivation is allowed by local law and shall comply with any applicable local law requiring disclosure about the cultivation operation. Cultivation operations conducted in a location other than a residential property are subject to any county and municipal building and public health inspection required by local law. A person who violates subsection (8.6)(a)(I) of this section is subject to the offenses and penalties described in section 18-18-406.

(II) (A) A primary caregiver who cultivates more than thirty-six plants shall register the information required in sub-subparagraph (B) of this subparagraph (II) with the state licensing authority's registry created pursuant to paragraph (e) of subsection (7) of this section. A primary caregiver shall update his or her registration information upon renewal of his or her primary caregiver registration.

(B) A primary caregiver subject to the registry in this subparagraph (II) shall register the following information with the state licensing authority: The location of his or her cultivation operation; the patient registration identification number for each of the primary caregiver's patients; and any extended plant count numbers and their corresponding patient registry numbers.

(b) A primary caregiver shall not cultivate more than ninety-nine plants. Only a medical marijuana business licensed and properly authorized pursuant to article 10 of title 44 may cultivate more than ninety-nine plants. The primary caregiver is not allowed to grow additional plants until he or she is licensed by the state licensing authority.

(c) The information provided to the state licensing authority pursuant to this subsection (8.6) shall not be provided to the public and is confidential. The state licensing authority shall verify the location of extended plant counts for primary caregiver cultivation operations and homebound patient registration for transporting caregivers to a local government or law enforcement agency upon receiving a request for verification. The location of the cultivation operation shall comply with all applicable local laws, rules, or regulations.

(d) The state licensing authority shall provide cultivation information for cultivating caregivers and transporting caregivers to state and local law enforcement through the Colorado crime information center. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall include proper use of medical marijuana information in audits of state and local law enforcement agencies.

(9) Registry identification card required - denial - revocation - renewal.

(a) A person with a disabling medical condition may apply to the state health agency for a registry identification card. To be considered in compliance with the provisions of section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, and the rules of the state health agency, a patient or primary caregiver shall have his or her registry identification card in his or her possession at all times that he or she is in possession of any form of medical marijuana and produce the same upon request of a law enforcement officer to demonstrate that the patient or primary caregiver is not in violation of the law; except that, if more than thirty-five days have passed since the date the patient or primary caregiver filed his or her medical marijuana program application and the state health agency has not yet issued or denied a registry identification card, a copy of the patient's or primary caregiver's application along with proof of the date of submission shall be in the patient's or primary caregiver's possession at all times that he or she is in possession of any form of medical marijuana until the state health agency issues or denies the registry identification card. A person who violates section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, or the rules promulgated by the state health agency may be subject to criminal prosecution for violations of section 18-18-406.

(b) The state health agency may deny a patient's or primary caregiver's application for a registry identification card or revoke the card if the state health agency, in accordance with article 4 of title 24, determines that the physician who diagnosed the patient's debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition, the patient, or the primary caregiver violated section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, or the rules promulgated by the state health agency pursuant to this section; except that, when a physician's violation is the basis for adverse action, the state health agency may only deny or revoke a patient's application or registry identification card when the physician's violation is related to the issuance of a medical marijuana recommendation.

(c) A patient or primary caregiver registry identification card is valid for one year unless the state health agency changes the length of validity pursuant to its authority in subsection (3)(d) of this section and must contain a unique identification number. It is the responsibility of the patient or primary caregiver to apply to renew his or her registry identification card prior to the date on which the card expires. The state health agency shall develop a form for a patient or primary caregiver to use in renewing his or her registry identification card.

(d) If the state health agency grants a patient a waiver to allow a primary caregiver to transport the patient's medical marijuana from a medical marijuana center to the patient, the state health agency shall designate the waiver on the patient's registry identification card.

(e) A homebound patient who receives a waiver from the state health agency to allow a primary caregiver to transport the patient's medical marijuana to the patient from a medical marijuana center shall provide the primary caregiver with the patient's registry identification card, which the primary caregiver shall carry when the primary caregiver is transporting the medical marijuana. A medical marijuana center may provide the medical marijuana to the primary caregiver for transport to the patient if the primary caregiver produces the patient's registry identification card.

(10) Renewal of patient identification card upon criminal conviction. Any patient who is convicted of a criminal offense under article 18 of title 18, who is sentenced or ordered by a court to treatment for a substance use disorder, or sentenced to the division of youth services, is subject to immediate revocation of his or her patient registry identification card, and the patient may apply for the renewal based upon a recommendation from a physician with whom the patient has a bona fide physician-patient relationship.

(11) A parent who submits a medical marijuana registry application for his or her child shall have his or her signature notarized on the application.

(12) Use of medical marijuana.

(a) The use of medical marijuana is allowed under state law to the extent that it is carried out in accordance with the provisions of section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, this section, and the rules of the state health agency.

(b) A patient or primary caregiver shall not:

(I) Engage in the medical use of marijuana in a way that endangers the health and well-being of a person;

(II) Engage in the medical use of marijuana in plain view of or in a place open to the general public;

(III) Undertake any task while under the influence of medical marijuana, when doing so would constitute negligence or professional malpractice;

(IV) Possess medical marijuana or otherwise engage in the use of medical marijuana in or on the grounds of a school, in a school bus, or at a school-sponsored event except when the possession or use occurs pursuant to section 22-1-119.3, C.R.S.;

(V) Engage in the use of medical marijuana while:

(A) In a correctional facility or a community corrections facility;

(B) Subject to a sentence to incarceration; or

(C) In a vehicle, aircraft, or motorboat;

(VI) Operate, navigate, or be in actual physical control of any vehicle, aircraft, or motorboat while under the influence of medical marijuana; or

(VII) Use medical marijuana if the person does not have a debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition as diagnosed by the person's physician in the course of a bona fide physician-patient relationship and for which the physician has recommended the use of medical marijuana.

(c) A person shall not establish a business to permit patients to congregate and smoke or otherwise consume medical marijuana.

(13) Repealed.

(13.5) Nothing herein shall reduce or eliminate the existing power of a statutory municipality or county through the "Local Government Land Use Control Enabling Act of 1974", article 20 of title 29, C.R.S., to regulate the growing of marijuana, commercially or otherwise.

(14) Affirmative defense. If a patient or primary caregiver raises an affirmative defense as provided in section 14 (4)(b) of article XVIII of the state constitution or subsection (2.5)(g)(II) of this section, the patient's physician shall certify the specific amounts in excess of two ounces that are necessary to address the patient's debilitating medical condition or disabling medical condition and why such amounts are necessary. A patient who asserts this affirmative defense shall waive confidentiality privileges related to the condition or conditions that were the basis for the recommendation. If a patient, primary caregiver, or physician raises an exception to the state criminal laws as provided in section 14 (2)(b) or (2)(c) of article XVIII of the state constitution or subsection (2.5)(c) or (2.5)(d) of this section, the patient, primary caregiver, or physician waives the confidentiality of his or her records related to the condition or conditions that were the basis for the recommendation maintained by the state health agency for the medical marijuana program. Upon request of a law enforcement agency for such records, the state health agency shall only provide records pertaining to the individual raising the exception, and shall redact all other patient, primary caregiver, or physician identifying information.

(15) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (15), the state health agency shall establish a basic fee that shall be paid at the time of service of any subpoena upon the state health agency, plus a fee for meals and a fee for mileage at the rate prescribed for state officers and employees in section 24-9-104, C.R.S., for each mile actually and necessarily traveled in going to and returning from the place named in the subpoena. If the person named in the subpoena is required to attend the place named in the subpoena for more than one day, there shall be paid, in advance, a sum to be established by the state health agency for each day of attendance to cover the expenses of the person named in the subpoena.

(b) The subpoena fee established pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (15) shall not be applicable to any federal, state, or local governmental agency.

(16) Fees.

(a) The state health agency may collect fees from patients who, pursuant to section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution or subsection (9) of this section, apply to the medical marijuana program for a registry identification card for the purpose of offsetting the state health agency's direct and indirect costs of administering the program. The amount of the fees shall be set by rule of the state health agency. The amount of the fees set pursuant to this section shall reflect the actual direct and indirect costs of the state licensing authority in the administration and enforcement of this article 1.5 so that the fees avoid exceeding the statutory limit on uncommitted reserves in administrative agency cash funds as set forth in section 24-75-402 (3). The state health agency shall not assess a medical marijuana registry application fee to an applicant who demonstrates, pursuant to a copy of the applicant's state tax return certified by the department of revenue or a copy of the applicant's federal tax return received from the internal revenue service, that the applicant's income does not exceed one hundred eighty-five percent of the federal poverty line, adjusted for family size. All fees collected by the state health agency through the medical marijuana program shall be transferred to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the medical marijuana program cash fund, which fund is hereby created.

(b) Repealed.

(17) Cash fund.

(a) The medical marijuana program cash fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the state health agency for the purpose of establishing, operating, and maintaining the medical marijuana program. All moneys credited to the medical marijuana program cash fund and all interest derived from the deposit of such moneys that are not expended during the fiscal year shall be retained in the fund for future use and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1284), ch. 355, p. 1677, § 2, effective July 1, 2010.)

(b.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2014.)

(c) and (d) Repealed.

(e) Notwithstanding any provision of paragraph (a) of this subsection (17) to the contrary, on July 1, 2014, and each July 1 through 2018, the state treasurer shall transfer two hundred thousand dollars from ten million dollars available for transfer pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection (17) in the medical marijuana program cash fund to the subaccount to be used for administrative purposes to administer the medical marijuana health research grant program created pursuant to section 25-1.5-106.5.

(f) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (17)(e) of this section to the contrary, one hundred thousand dollars from the subaccount may be used for administrative purposes to administer the medical marijuana research grant program created pursuant to section 25-1.5-106.5 for each of the fiscal years 2019-20, 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24.

(18) (a) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2028.

(b) Prior to the repeal of this section, the department of regulatory agencies shall conduct a sunset review as described in section 24-34-104 (5), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 686, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2009: (3) amended, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 624, § 20, effective April 20. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (SB 10-109), ch. 356, p. 1691, § 1, effective June 7; (17)(b.5) added, (HB 10-1388), ch. 362, p. 1716, § 1, effective June 7; entire section amended, (HB 10-1284), ch. 355, p. 1677, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2011: (2)(c)(II), (5)(a), and (16)(a) amended and (7)(e) added, (HB 11-1043), ch. 266, pp. 1211, 1212, §§ 19, 20, 22, 21, effective July 1. L. 2014: (2)(a) amended and (2)(a.5) and (8)(g) added, (HB 14-1396), ch. 382, p. 1862, § 1, effective June 6; (17) amended, (SB 14-155), ch. 237, p. 873, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2015: (1)(c), (1)(d), (2)(e.5), (3)(a)(IX), (3.7), and (13.5) added, (2)(d.5), (3)(a)(VII), (3)(a)(VIII), (8)(a), (12)(b)(IV), and (18) amended, and (3)(b)(I) and (13) repealed, (SB 15-014), ch. 199, pp. 682, 688, §§ 3, 8, effective May 18; (3.5) and (3.8) added, (HB 15-1283), ch. 307, p. 1255, § 1, effective June 5; (17)(d)(II) amended, (HB 15-1261), ch. 322, p. 1314, § 7, effective June 5; (18) amended, (SB 15-115), ch. 283, p. 1164, § 15, effective June 5; (7)(a), (7)(c), and (7)(e) amended and (7)(f), (8.5), and (8.6) added, (SB 15-014), ch. 199, p. 682, § 3, effective January 1, 2017. L. 2016: (18)(b) amended, (HB 16-1192), ch. 83, p. 234, § 19, effective April 14; (12)(b)(IV) amended, (HB 16-1373), ch. 232, p. 937, § 2, effective June 6. L. 2017: (10) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1323, § 185, effective May 25; (2)(a.5), IP(2)(d.5), (3)(a)(VI), IP(5), (5)(b), (5)(d)(III), (5)(d)(IV), (9)(a), (9)(b), (12)(b)(VII), (14), and (16)(a) amended and (2)(a.7), (2)(d.3), and (2.5) added, (SB 17-017), ch. 347, p. 1824, § 1, effective June 5; (10) amended, (HB 17-1329), ch. 381, p. 1982, § 56, effective June 6; (2)(e.3), (8.5)(a.5), (8.5)(b.5), (8.6)(a)(I.5), and (8.6)(a)(I.6) added and (7)(e)(I)(A) amended, (HB 17-1220), ch. 402, p. 2096, § 3, effective January 1, 2018. L. 2018: (17)(d) amended and (17)(f) added, (SB 18-271), ch. 329, p. 1972, § 5, effective May 30; (3.5)(b), (3.7), (3.8)(a), (7)(e)(I)(A), (8.5)(b), and (8.6)(b) amended, (HB 18-1023), ch. 55, p. 588, § 18, effective October 1. L. 2019: (2)(a.7) and (2.5)(i)(I) amended, (HB 19-1028), ch. 71, p. 255, § 1, effective April 2; (2)(a.5)(II), (2)(a.7), (2)(c), (2)(d.5)(I), (3)(b)(II), (3.5)(d), (5)(a), (5)(c), (6)(a), (6)(c), (7)(d), (9)(c), (10), and (18)(a) amended, (2)(d.4), (3)(d), and (5)(e) added, and (3)(b)(III), (3.7), and (3.8)(b) repealed, (SB 19-218), ch. 343, pp. 3184, 3188, §§ 1, 4, effective August 2; (2)(a.7) and (2.5)(i)(I) amended and (2.5)(j) added, (SB 19-013), ch. 282, pp. 2640, 2641, §§ 1, 2, effective August 2; (3)(a)(I), (5)(c), (6)(a), and (6)(c) amended, (SB 19-241), ch. 390, p. 3472, § 36, effective August 2; (8)(b) amended, (HB 19-1031), ch. 278, p. 2618, § 1, effective August 2; (5)(c), (6)(a), and (6)(c) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1697, § 142, effective October 1; (3.5)(b), (3.7), (3.8)(a), (7)(e)(I)(A), (8.5)(b), and (8.6)(b) amended, (SB 19-224), ch. 315, p. 2939, § 23, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2020: (5)(e) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1052, § 50, effective June 30. L. 2021: (2)(a.5)(I), (5)(b), (5)(c), (5)(d)(III), (5)(d)(IV), and (6)(a) amended and (5)(d)(V), (5)(f), (5)(g), and (5.5) added, (HB 21-1317), ch. 313, p. 1911, § 2, effective January 1, 2022. L. 2022: (17)(d)(II), (17)(d)(III), and (17)(f) amended, (SB 22-155), ch. 489, p. 3542, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2025: (16)(a) amended, (HB 25-1296), ch. 202, p. 911, § 2, effective May 16. L. 2026: IP(2) amended, (SB 26-007), ch. 29, p. 133, § 2, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(jj) as it existed prior to 2003.

(2) Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 10-109 and House Bill 10-1284 were harmonized.

(3) Subsection (17)(b.5) was added as subsection (3)(c) by House Bill 10-1388. That provision was harmonized with Senate Bill 10-109 and House Bill 10-1284 resulting in its relocation.

(4) Subsection (3)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (3)(c), effective July 1, 2011. (See L. 2010, p. 1677.) Subsections (16)(b)(II) and (17)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (16)(b) and (17)(c), respectively, effective July 1, 2012. (See L. 2010, p. 1691.)

(5) Subsection (3.8) was originally numbered as (3.7) in HB 15-1283 but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(6) Amendments to subsection (10) by SB 17-242 and HB 17-1329 were harmonized.

(7) Subsection (2.5)(i)(I) was amended in HB 19-1028. Those amendments were superseded by the amendment of this section in SB 19-013, effective August 2, 2019. For the amendments to subsection (2.5)(i)(I) in HB 19-1028 in effect from April 2, 2019, to August 2, 2019, see chapter 71, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. (L. 2019, p. 255.)

(8) Subsection (3.7) was amended in SB 19-224, effective January 1, 2020. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of subsection (3.7) by SB 19-218, effective August 2, 2019.

(9) Amendments to subsection (2)(a.7) by HB 19-1028 and SB 19-013 were harmonized.

(10) Amendments to subsections (5)(c), (6)(a), and (6)(c) by SB 19-218, SB 19-241, and HB 19-1172 were harmonized.

(11) Subsection (17)(d)(III) provided for the repeal of subsection (17)(d), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, p. 3542.)

Cross references: (1) For the state licensing authority, see § 44-10-201.

(2) For the legislative declaration in SB 14-155, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in SB 15-014, see section 1 of chapter 199, Session Laws of Colorado 2015. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in HB 17-1220, see section 1 of chapter 402, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in HB 25-1296, see section 1 of chapter 202, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-1.5-106.1. Medical marijuana use in health facilities - short title - definitions.

(1) Short title. The short title of this section is "Ryan's Law".

(2) Definitions.

(a) In addition to the definitions set forth in section 14 (1) of article XVIII of the state constitution and in section 25-1.5-106 (2), as used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(I) "Health facility" means a facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1) or article 3 of this title 25.

(II) "Terminally ill" or "terminal illness" has the meaning set forth in section 25-45-103 (3).

(b) Definitions in section 25-1.5-106 (2) apply to terms as they are used in this section.

(3) When a patient who is registered with the medical marijuana program, pursuant to section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, has a terminal illness and is checked in to or residing at a health facility, the health facility may allow the patient to use medical marijuana in a manner that:

(a) Does not involve smoking or vaping;

(b) Is in accordance with the patient's prescription or physician recommendation made pursuant to section 25-1.5-106 (5); and

(c) Is in accordance with section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution.

(4) A health facility that allows a patient to use medical marijuana pursuant to subsection (3) of this section shall:

(a) Require the patient or the patient's caregiver to provide a copy of the patient's valid registry identification card;

(b) Document the patient's medical marijuana program registration and medical marijuana usage in the patient's medical records;

(c) Develop and disseminate written guidelines for the possession, use, administration, and storage of medical marijuana within the health facility; and

(d) Reasonably restrict the manner in which a patient may possess, use, administer, and store medical marijuana, including requiring medical marijuana to be stored in a locked container, to ensure:

(I) The safety of the health facility's other patients, guests, and employees;

(II) The safe operations of the health facility; and

(III) Compliance with other state laws.

(5) A health facility is not required to store, secure, inventory, dispense, label, document, or otherwise handle medical marijuana for a patient.

(6) (a) A health facility and its employees are not liable for conduct performed in compliance with this section, section 14 of article XVIII of the state constitution, and the health facility's guidelines unless such conduct is performed negligently or recklessly.

(b) A health facility, its employees, and its agents are not subject to civil, criminal, administrative, or employment liability for prohibiting or restricting the possession, use, administration, or storage of medical marijuana in accordance with the written guidelines developed by the health facility pursuant to subsection (4)(c) of this section.

(7) The department shall not require compliance with this section as a condition to obtain, retain, or renew a license or certification that is required for a health facility to operate pursuant to section 25-1.5-103.

(8) (a) A health facility may suspend compliance with this section if a federal regulatory agency, the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services, or the United States department of justice:

(I) Initiates an enforcement action against the health facility related to the health facility's compliance with the medical marijuana program;

(II) Issues a regulation or otherwise provides notification to the health facility that expressly prohibits the use of medical marijuana in health facilities; or

(III) Affirmatively prohibits compliance with the medical marijuana program.

(b) A health facility that has suspended compliance with this section pursuant to subsection (8)(a) of this section shall resume compliance with this section upon notification that it may do so from the federal entity that caused the suspension.

(9) The department shall not require a health facility to comply with this section if such compliance would result in:

(a) A violation of state law;

(b) The loss of federal funding to the state or to the health facility;

(c) Noncompliance by the health facility with conditions of participation in the federal medicare or medicaid programs; or

(d) Noncompliance by the health facility with any accreditation or licensing requirements.

(10) This section does not require a health facility to permit the possession, use, administration, or storage of medical marijuana on the premises of the health facility.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (SB 26-007), ch. 29, p. 131, § 1, effective August 12.

25-1.5-106.5. Medical marijuana health research grant program.

(1) Legislative intent. There is a need for objective scientific research regarding the efficacy of marijuana and its component parts as part of medical treatment. It is the intent of the general assembly that the department gather objective scientific research regarding the efficacy of administering marijuana and its component parts as part of medical treatment.

(2) Medical marijuana research grant program - rules.

(a) (I) The department shall be responsible for the administration of the Colorado medical marijuana research grant program created within the department and referred to in this section as the "grant program".

(II) The department shall coordinate the grant program to fund research intended to ascertain the general medical efficacy and appropriate administration of marijuana and its component parts. The grant program shall be limited to providing for objective scientific research to ascertain the efficacy of marijuana and its component parts as part of medical treatment and should not be construed as encouraging or sanctioning the social or recreational use of marijuana. The grant program shall fund observational trials and clinical trials.

(b) The state board of health shall promulgate rules for the administration of the grant program, including:

(I) The procedures and timelines by which an entity may apply for program grants;

(II) Grant application contents, including:

(A) Descriptions of key personnel, including clinicians, scientists, or epidemiologists and support personnel, demonstrating they are adequately trained to conduct this research;

(B) Procedures for outreach to patients with various medical conditions who may be suitable participants in research on marijuana and its component parts;

(C) Protocols suitable for research on marijuana and its component parts as medical treatment;

(D) For any research studies, demonstration that appropriate protocols for adequate patient consent and follow-up procedures are in place; and

(E) A process for a grant research proposal approved by the grant program to be reviewed and approved by an institutional review board that is able to approve, monitor, and review biomedical and behavioral research involving human subjects;

(III) Criteria for selecting entities to receive grants and determining the amount and duration of the grants, which shall include the following:

(A) The scientific merit of the research plan, including whether the research design and experimental procedures are potentially biased for or against a particular outcome; and

(B) The researchers' expertise in the scientific substance and methods of the proposed research and their lack of bias or conflict of interest regarding the topic of, and the approach taken in, the proposed research; and

(IV) Reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this section.

(c) Program grants will be paid from the health research subaccount in the medical marijuana program cash fund created in section 25-1.5-106 (17).

(d) In order to maximize the scope and size of the marijuana studies:

(I) The grant program may solicit, apply for, and accept moneys from foundations, private individuals, and all other funding sources that can be used to expand the scope or time frame of the marijuana studies that are authorized under this section; except that the program shall not accept any moneys that are offered with any conditions other than that the moneys be used to study the efficacy of marijuana and its component parts as part of medical treatment; and

(II) All donors shall be advised that moneys given for purposes of this section will be used to study both the possible medical benefits and detriments of marijuana and its component parts and that he or she will have no control over the use of these moneys.

(3) Review of applications.

(a) Scientific advisory council.

(I) In order to ensure objectivity in evaluating research proposals, the grant program shall establish a scientific advisory council, referred to in this section as the "council", to provide a peer review process that guards against funding research that is biased in favor of or against particular outcomes. The executive director of the department shall appoint at least six members and no more than thirteen members to the council to provide policy guidance in the creation and implementation of the grant program and in scientific oversight and review. The chief medical officer of the department, or his or her designee, is also a member of the council and is chair of the council. Except for the representative specified in sub-subparagraph (L) of this subparagraph (I), the executive director shall choose members on the basis of their expertise in the scientific substance and methods of the proposed research and for their lack of bias or conflict of interest regarding the applicants or the topic of an approach taken in the proposed research and may choose members from around the country. Members of the council must include the following types of experts:

(A) At least one epidemiologist with expertise in designing and conducting large, observational studies and clinical trials;

(B) At least one clinician with expertise in designing and conducting clinical trials;

(C) A clinician familiar with the prescription, dosage, and administration of medical marijuana under current state laws;

(D) A medical toxicologist;

(E) A neurologist;

(F) A pediatrician;

(G) A psychiatrist;

(H) An internal medicine physician or other specialist in adult medicine;

(I) A preventive medicine specialist or public health professional;

(J) A substance abuse specialist;

(K) An alternative medicine specialist with expertise in herbal or alternative medicine;

(L) A person who represents medical marijuana patient interests; and

(M) An ad hoc member with clinical expertise in the medical condition under study.

(II) Members of the council, other than the chief medical officer or his or her designee, shall serve on a voluntary basis for a two-year term and may be reappointed. Members shall be reimbursed for their travel expenses incurred in the course of their participation.

(III) Members of the council shall evaluate research proposals and submit recommendations to the department and the state board of health for recommended grant recipients, grant amounts, and grant duration.

(b) Grant approval.

(I) The council shall submit recommendations for grants to the state board of health. The state board of health shall approve or disapprove of grants submitted by the council. The state board of health is encouraged to prioritize grants to gather objective scientific research regarding the efficacy and the safety of administering medical marijuana for ovarian cancer; dementia; pediatric conditions, including but not limited to autism spectrum disorder; and other conditions that the state board deems suitable. If the state board of health disapproves a recommendation, the council may submit a replacement recommendation within thirty days.

(II) The state board of health shall award grants to the selected entities, specifying the amount and duration of the award. A grant awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed three years without renewal. The size, scope, and number of studies funded shall be commensurate with the amount of appropriated and available grant program funding.

(4) Reporting.

(a) Repealed.

(b) The grant program shall issue a report to the state board of health by January 1 of each year detailing the progress of the medical marijuana studies. The interim reports required pursuant to this subsection (4)(b) must include data on all of the following:

(I) The names and number of diseases or conditions under study;

(II) The number of patients enrolled in each study by disease; and

(III) Any scientifically valid preliminary findings.

(5) Sources of marijuana.

(a) The attorney general shall seek authority from the federal government to permit Colorado institutions of higher education to contract with the national institute of drug abuse to cultivate marijuana and its component parts for use in research studies funded pursuant to this section.

(b) Repealed.

(6) Definition. As used in this section, "marijuana" means "usable form of marijuana" as that term is defined in section 14 (1)(i) of article XVIII of the Colorado constitution and also includes "industrial hemp" as that term is defined in section 16 (2)(d) of article XVIII of the Colorado constitution.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (SB 14-155), ch. 237, p. 874, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2017: (5) amended, (HB 17-1367), ch. 406, p. 2121, § 6, effective January 1, 2018. L. 2018: (3)(b)(I) amended, (SB 18-271), ch. 329, p. 1972, § 6, effective May 30. L. 2019: (3)(b)(I) amended, (HB 19-1028), ch. 71, p. 256, § 2, effective April 2; (5)(b) repealed, (SB 19-224), ch. 315, p. 2940, § 24, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2026: (4)(a) repealed and IP(4)(b) amended, (HB 26-1295), ch. 121, p. 523, § 18, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 14-155, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 2014.

25-1.5-107. Pandemic influenza - purchase of antiviral therapy - definitions.

(1) The department may enter into partnerships with one or more authorized purchasers to purchase antiviral therapy in order to acquire a ready supply or stockpile of antiviral drugs in the event of an epidemic emergency, including pandemic influenza. If an entity wishes to purchase antiviral therapy through the department, the entity shall notify the department of its intent and shall demonstrate to the department, in a form and manner determined by the department, that the entity satisfies the criteria of an authorized purchaser. Upon a determination that an entity is an authorized purchaser, the department shall seek approval from the United States department of health and human services for the purchase of antiviral therapy by the authorized purchaser. Any purchase of antiviral therapy shall be approved by the United States department of health and human services, and antiviral therapy shall be stored and used in accordance with state and federal requirements.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Authorized purchaser" means an entity licensed by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a), a local public health agency, or a health maintenance organization, as defined in section 10-16-102 (35), C.R.S., authorized to operate in this state pursuant to part 4 of article 16 of title 10, C.R.S., that:

(I) Is part of the state pandemic preparedness and response plan;

(II) Will purchase antiviral therapy with its own funds; and

(III) Agrees to stockpile the antiviral therapy for use in an epidemic emergency declared a disaster emergency pursuant to section 24-33.5-704, C.R.S., and to use the antiviral therapy only in accordance with state and federal requirements and for no other purpose.

(b) "Bioterrorism" means the intentional use of microorganisms or toxins of biological origin to cause death or disease among humans or animals.

(c) "Emergency epidemic" means cases of an illness or condition, communicable or noncommunicable, caused by bioterrorism, pandemic influenza, or novel and highly fatal infectious agents or biological toxins.

(d) "Pandemic influenza" means a widespread epidemic of influenza caused by a highly virulent strain of the influenza virus.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added with relocations, p. 1290, § 2, effective May 25. L. 2013: IP(2)(a) amended, (HB 13-1266), ch. 217, p. 992, § 61, effective May 13; (2)(a)(III) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1688, § 74, effective August 7.

25-1.5-108. Regulation of dialysis treatment clinics - training for hemodialysis technicians - state board of health rules - definitions - repeal.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Dialysis treatment clinic" means a health facility or a department or unit of a licensed hospital that is planned, organized, operated, and maintained to provide outpatient hemodialysis treatment or hemodialysis training for home use of hemodialysis equipment.

(b) "End-stage renal disease" means the stage of renal impairment that appears irreversible and permanent and that requires a regular course of dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life.

(c) "Hemodialysis technician" means a person who is not a physician or a licensed professional nurse and who provides dialysis care.

(d) "National credentialing program" means any national program for credentialing or determining the competency of hemodialysis technicians that is recognized by the national association of nephrology technicians/technologists (NANT), or a successor association.

(2) The state board of health shall adopt rules to establish a process to verify that persons performing the duties and functions of a hemodialysis technician at or for a dialysis treatment clinic have been credentialed by a national credentialing program. The verification process shall be part of the department's licensing of dialysis treatment clinics and part of each routine survey of licensed dialysis clinics conducted by the department. As part of the rules adopted pursuant to this section, the state board shall establish fees consistent with section 25-3-105 to be assessed by the department against dialysis treatment clinics to cover the department's administrative costs in implementing this section.

(3) (a) A person shall not act as, or perform the duties and functions of, a hemodialysis technician unless the person has been credentialed by a national credentialing program and is under the supervision of a licensed physician or licensed professional nurse experienced or trained in dialysis treatment.

(b) A dialysis treatment clinic licensed by the department shall not allow a person to perform the duties and functions of a hemodialysis technician at or for the dialysis treatment clinic if the person has not been credentialed by a national credentialing program.

(c) Nothing in this subsection (3) prohibits:

(I) A person from providing dialysis care to himself or herself or in-home, gratuitous dialysis care provided to a person by a friend or family member who does not represent himself or herself to be a hemodialysis technician;

(II) A person participating in a hemodialysis technician training program from performing the duties and functions of a hemodialysis technician if:

(A) The person is under the direct supervision of a physician, or a licensed professional nurse experienced or trained in dialysis treatment, who is on the premises and available for prompt consultation or treatment; and

(B) The person receives his or her credentials from a national credentialing program within eighteen months after the date the person enrolled in the training program.

(4) In connection with its regulation of dialysis treatment clinics pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(I) and 25-3-101 (1) and rules adopted by the state board of health pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, on and after January 1, 2009, the department shall verify that a dialysis treatment clinic only employs hemodialysis technicians who have been credentialed by a national credentialing program. Compliance by a dialysis treatment clinic with this section shall be a condition of licensure by the department.

(5) Each dialysis treatment clinic licensed by the department and operating in this state shall post a clear and unambiguous notice in a public location in the clinic specifying that the clinic is licensed, regulated, and subject to inspection by the Colorado department of public health and environment. The dialysis treatment clinic shall also inform consumers, either in the public notice required by this subsection (5) or in written materials provided to consumers, about the ability to provide feedback to the clinic and to the department, including the method by which consumers can provide feedback. The state board may adopt rules, as necessary, to specify the contents of the notice or written materials required by this subsection (5).

(5.5) A dialysis treatment clinic shall not provide outpatient hemodialysis treatment to a non-end-stage renal disease patient without a referral for treatment from a board-certified or board-eligible nephrologist licensed as a physician in Colorado. When making the referral, the nephrologist and other licensed physicians who cared for the patient in the hospital shall use their professional judgment to determine when the patient no longer requires hospitalization and may receive outpatient dialysis.

(6) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2037. Before the repeal, this section is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added with relocations, p. 1623, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: (2), (3)(a), and (6) amended, (HB 12-1204), ch. 103, p. 348, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1)(a) amended and (5.5) added, (SB 13-046), ch. 53, p. 178, § 1, effective March 22. L. 2019: (1)(c), (2), (3)(a), (3)(b), IP(3)(c), (3)(c)(II)(A), and (6) amended, (SB 19-145), ch. 218, p. 2241, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2026: (6) amended, (HB 26-1280), ch. 362, p. 2176, § 2, effective August 12.

25-1.5-108.5. Regulation of recovery residences - definition - rules. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1009), ch. 274, p. 2587, § 2, effective May 23. L. 2020: (2) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1390, § 4, effective July 13. L. 2022: (1)(b)(III), (3)(a), (4), and (5)(a)(III) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1507, § 53, effective July 1. L. 2023: Entire section repealed, (HB 23-1204), ch. 145, p. 623, § 6, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section was relocated to § 27-80-129 in 2023.

25-1.5-109. Food allergies and anaphylaxis form for schools - powers and duties of department.

The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the duty to develop, maintain, and make available to school districts and institute charter schools a standard form to be used by school districts and institute charter schools to gather information from physicians and parents and guardians of students concerning students' risks of food allergies and anaphylaxis and the treatment thereof. The standard form shall include, at a minimum, fields for gathering the information described in section 22-2-135 (3)(b), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added with relocations, (SB 09-226), ch. 245, p. 1106, § 6, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2009 act adding this section, see section 1 of chapter 245, Session Laws of Colorado 2009.

25-1.5-110. Monitor health effects of marijuana - report.

(1) The department shall monitor changes in drug use patterns, broken down by county or region, as determined by the department, and race and ethnicity, and the emerging science and medical information relevant to the health effects associated with marijuana use.

(2) (a) The department shall appoint a panel of health-care professionals with expertise in, but not limited to, neuroscience, epidemiology, toxicology, cannabis physiology, and cannabis quality control to further direct policy. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the panel shall provide a report by January 31, 2015, and every two years thereafter to the state board of health, the department of revenue, and the general assembly. The department shall make the report available on its website. The panel shall establish criteria for studies to be reviewed, reviewing studies and other data, and making recommendations, as appropriate, for policies intended to protect consumers of marijuana or marijuana products and the general public.

(b) In order to allow the public to evaluate any conflict of interest among the panel, each panelist shall disclose all financial interests the panelist has related to the health-care industry and the regulated marijuana industry. The disclosures must be included in the report required pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(3) The department may collect Colorado-specific data that involves health outcomes associated with cannabis from, but not limited to, all-payer claims data, hospital discharge data, and available peer-reviewed research studies.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1894, § 10, effective May 28. L. 2016: Entire section amended, (SB 16-090), ch. 45, p. 107, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2017: (2) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 92, § 2, effective February 1, 2018. L. 2019: (2) and (3) amended, (SB 19-218), ch. 343, p. 3187, § 2, effective August 2.

Editor's note: This section was numbered as § 25-1.5-111 in Senate Bill 13-283 but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-1.5-111. Suicide prevention commission - created - responsibilities - gifts, grants, or donations - reimbursement for expenses - definition - repeal.

(1) The suicide prevention commission, referred to in this section as the "commission", is created for the purpose of:

(a) Providing public and private leadership for comprehensive suicide prevention, as that term is defined in subsection (7) of this section, in Colorado;

(b) Setting statewide, data-driven, evidence-based, and clinically informed priorities for comprehensive suicide prevention in Colorado;

(c) Serving as an advisor to the office of suicide prevention;

(d) Establishing and leading subgroups to set strategy and implementation plans for each statewide comprehensive suicide prevention priority for the office of suicide prevention;

(e) Providing a forum for government agencies, community members, business leaders, and lawmakers to examine the current status of comprehensive suicide prevention policies; analyze the system's near-term opportunities and challenges; and make recommendations to the office of suicide prevention, the governor's office, and the general assembly regarding improvements and innovations in policies and programs to reduce the preventable occurrence of suicide in Colorado as well as the after-effects of suicide and suicide attempts in Colorado;

(f) Expanding local and national partnerships and resources for statewide comprehensive suicide prevention activities;

(g) Promoting cooperation and coordination among comprehensive suicide prevention programs and strategies across Colorado;

(h) Evaluating the distribution of state resources for comprehensive suicide prevention;

(i) Ensuring that comprehensive suicide prevention remains a state priority;

(j) Encouraging the development of comprehensive suicide prevention plans at the local level;

(k) Advising on comprehensive education and training on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention for providers and responders;

(l) Assisting the office of suicide prevention in the department in creating a uniform statewide K-12 suicide postvention component to include in the Colorado suicide prevention plan established pursuant to section 25-1.5-112; and

(m) Developing a plan for follow-up care for suicide attempt survivors who were treated in an emergency department.

(2) (a) The executive director of the department shall appoint to the commission no more than twenty- two members, including:

(I) A representative from the office of suicide prevention in the department, which office shall serve as the administrator and coordinator of the commission;

(II) A representative from the behavioral health administration in the department of human services;

(III) A representative from law enforcement;

(IV) A representative from higher education;

(V) A representative from K-12 education;

(VI) A representative from an employee assistance program or human resources in the private sector;

(VII) A representative of the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Colorado or a representative of the suicide prevention nonprofit community;

(VIII) A licensed mental health professional;

(IX) Repealed.

(X) An active member or veteran of the United States military who has been affected by suicide;

(XI) A representative from the Colorado youth advisory council;

(XII) A family member of a person who died by suicide;

(XIII) A person who has attempted suicide, recovered, and is now thriving;

(XIV) A person representing a philanthropic foundation;

(XV) A representative of medical providers or first responders;

(XVI) A representative from a hospital with an on-site emergency department;

(XVII) A representative of the agricultural and ranching industry from a rural area;

(XVIII) A representative from the oil and gas industry from a rural area;

(XIX) A representative of the Colorado business community from a rural area;

(XX) and (XXI) Repealed.

(XXII) A representative of the faith community;

(XXIII) A representative from the school safety resource center with experience in bullying, including cyberbullying; and

(XXIV) A representative from the department of health care policy and financing.

(b) When appointing the commission members, the executive director of the department shall ensure that persons of various racial and ethnic backgrounds and identities are represented and that the regions of the state with high suicide rates, including rural areas, are represented and that the commission includes members with familiarity with, knowledge of, and leadership of groups associated with high suicide rates and suicide attempts, including: Persons with disabilities; working-age men; senior adults; veterans and active-duty military personnel; lesbian, gay, bisexual, nonbinary, two-spirit, and transgender youth and adults; and Coloradans of disproportionately affected diversities and gender expressions.

(c) Members of the commission may seek reimbursement for travel expenses to and from meetings of the commission.

(d) The executive director shall appoint one commission member who represents the public sector and one commission member who represents the private sector to serve as co-chairs of the commission.

(3) The department shall provide to the commission support that includes the coordination of all commission activities, including: Meeting logistics, agenda development, and follow-up; organizing and orienting commission members; working closely with the co-chairpersons to set priorities, recruit members, oversee all commission initiatives, coordinate activities, and implement any commission-directed initiatives; and any other duties assigned by the co-chairpersons. The commissioner of the behavioral health administration in the department of human services, a representative from the university of Colorado depression center, and a representative of the suicide prevention coalition of Colorado may also provide support to the commission.

(4) The office of suicide prevention shall include the recommendations of the commission in the report submitted annually to the general assembly pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 and shall present the recommendations as part of its annual presentation to the general assembly pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" as enacted by House Bill 10-1119 in 2010.

(5) The department may accept gifts, grants, and donations from public and private sources for the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation and duties associated with the commission. The department shall transmit any gifts, grants, and donations it receives to the state treasurer, who shall credit the moneys to the suicide prevention coordination cash fund created in section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w)(II). The fund also consists of any moneys appropriated or transferred to the fund by the general assembly for the purposes of this section. The moneys in the fund are subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly.

(6) (a) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2034.

(b) Prior to the repeal, the department of regulatory agencies shall review the commission pursuant to section 2-3-1203, C.R.S.

(7) As used in this section, the term "comprehensive suicide prevention" or "suicide prevention" includes the following components:

(a) Strategies or approaches that seek to prevent the onset of suicidal despair, commonly known as "suicide prevention";

(b) Public health intervention supports, including community training, workforce development, quality improvement and provision of technical assistance to support the adoption of best suicide attempt behavior intervention and postvention practices and policies; and

(c) Postvention responses to and support for individuals and communities affected by the aftermath of a suicide attempt.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (SB 14-088), ch. 279, p. 1130, § 2, effective May 29. L. 2018: (2)(a)(IX) repealed, (SB 18-161), ch. 123, p. 830, § 3, effective September 1. L. 2021: (1) and IP(2)(a) amended and (7) added, (HB 21-1119), ch. 49, p. 209, § 5, effective September 7. L. 2022: (2)(a)(II) and (3) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1507, § 54, effective July 1. L. 2023: (2)(c) amended, (SB 23-210), ch. 251, p. 1430, § 4, effective May 24. L. 2024: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(VII), (2)(a)(XVII), (2)(a)(XIX), (2)(a)(XXII), (2)(b), and (6)(a) amended and (2)(a)(XX) and (2)(a)(XXI) repealed, (HB 24-1252), ch. 315, p. 2117, § 2, effective August 7.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration in SB 14-088, see section 1 of chapter 279, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1119, see section 1 of chapter 49, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(2) For the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", see part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

25-1.5-112. Colorado suicide prevention plan - established - goals - responsibilities - funding - definition.

(1) The Colorado suicide prevention plan, referred to in this section as the "Colorado plan", is created in the office of suicide prevention within the department. The goal and purpose of the Colorado plan is to reduce suicide rates and numbers in Colorado through system-level implementation of the Colorado plan in criminal justice and health-care systems, including mental and behavioral health systems, and to mitigate the after-effects of suicide attempts and suicide deaths.

(2) The suicide prevention commission, together with the office of suicide prevention, the behavioral health administration in the department of human services, the department, and the department of health care policy and financing, is strongly encouraged to collaborate with criminal justice and health-care systems, mental and behavioral health systems, primary care providers, physical and mental health clinics in educational institutions, behavioral health safety net providers, advocacy groups, emergency medical services professionals and responders, public and private insurers, hospital chaplains, and faith-based organizations to develop and implement:

(a) A plan to improve training to identify indicators of suicidal thoughts and behavior across criminal justice and health-care systems;

(b) A plan to improve training on:

(I) The provisions of the emergency procedures for a seventy-two-hour mental health hold pursuant to section 27-65-105, C.R.S.;

(I.5) Comprehensive suicide prevention, as that term is defined in subsection (7) of this section, for first and last responders, health-care providers, K-12 educators and students, and follow-up care for suicide attempt survivors treated in emergency departments;

(II) The provisions of the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended; and

(III) Other relevant patient privacy procedures; and

(c) Professional development resources and training opportunities regarding indicators of suicidal thoughts and behavior, risk assessment, management, and the after-effects of suicide attempts and suicide deaths, as developed in collaboration with the department of regulatory agencies, the department of corrections, and health-care and mental health professional boards and associations.

(3) As a demonstration of their commitment to patient safety, criminal justice and health-care systems, including mental and behavioral health systems, primary care providers, and hospitals throughout the state, are encouraged to contribute to and implement the Colorado plan.

(4) The following systems and organizations are encouraged to contribute to and implement the Colorado plan on or before July 1, 2019:

(a) Community mental health centers;

(b) Hospitals;

(c) The state crisis services system;

(d) Emergency medical services professionals and responders;

(e) Regional health and behavioral health systems;

(f) Substance use disorder treatment systems;

(g) Physical and mental health clinics in educational institutions;

(h) Criminal justice systems; and

(i) Advocacy groups, hospital chaplains, and faith-based organizations.

(5) The office of suicide prevention shall include a summary of the Colorado plan in a report submitted to the behavioral health administration in the department of human services, as well as the report submitted annually to the general assembly pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w)(III)(A) and as part of its annual presentation to the general assembly pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

(6) The department may accept gifts, grants, and donations from public and private sources for the direct and indirect costs associated with the development and implementation of the Colorado plan. The department shall transmit any gifts, grants, and donations it receives to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the suicide prevention coordination cash fund created in section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w)(II).

(7) As used in this section, the term "comprehensive suicide prevention" or "suicide prevention" includes the following components:

(a) Strategies or approaches that seek to prevent the onset of suicidal despair, commonly known as "suicide prevention";

(b) Public health intervention supports, including community training, workforce development, quality improvement and provision of technical assistance to support the adoption of best suicide attempt behavior intervention and postvention practices and policies; and

(c) Postvention responses to and support for individuals and communities affected by the aftermath of suicide attempts and suicide deaths.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (SB 16-147), ch. 364, p. 1519, § 2, effective June 10. L. 2017: (4)(f) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1323, § 186, effective May 25. L. 2021: (1) and (2)(c) amended and (2)(b)(I.5) and (7) added, (HB 21-1119), ch. 49, p. 210, § 6, effective September 7. L. 2022: IP(2) and (5) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1508, § 55, effective July 1; IP(2) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1592, § 227, effective July 1, 2024.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1119, see section 1 of chapter 49, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-113. Crisis and suicide prevention training grant program - creation - process - reporting requirements - fund - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created and existing pursuant to section 25-1-102.

(b) "Fund" means the crisis and suicide prevention training grant program fund established in subsection (5) of this section.

(c) "Grant program" means the crisis and suicide prevention training grant program created in subsection (2) of this section.

(d) "Office of suicide prevention" means the office of suicide prevention in the department, established pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w).

(e) "Public school" means a school of a school district, a district charter school, or an institute charter school.

(f) "School district" means any public school district existing pursuant to law.

(g) "School safety resource center" means the school safety resource center in the office of school safety in the office of the executive director in the department of public safety, established pursuant to section 24-33.5-1803.

(h) "Suicide prevention" or "comprehensive suicide prevention" includes the following components:

(I) Strategies or approaches that seek to prevent the onset of suicidal despair, commonly known as "suicide prevention";

(II) Public health intervention supports, including community training, workforce development, quality improvement and provision of technical assistance to support the adoption of best suicide attempt behavior intervention and postvention practices and policies; and

(III) Postvention responses to and support for individuals and communities affected by the aftermath of suicide attempts and suicide deaths.

(2) (a) There is created in the department the crisis and suicide prevention training grant program. The purpose of the grant program is to provide financial assistance for the provision of comprehensive crisis and suicide prevention training annually, if grant funding is available, for all teachers and staff at public schools and school districts in Colorado who work directly or indirectly with students. Priority for grant awards is for public schools and school districts with educators and staff who have not yet received such training. The grant program may authorize up to four hundred thousand dollars in grants per year in varying amounts based on the size and need of the public school or school district.

(b) On and after January 1, 2019, a public school or a school district may apply to the department for a grant pursuant to the guidelines adopted in subsection (3) of this section to provide crisis and comprehensive suicide prevention training in the public school or school district.

(c) The department shall administer the grant program in consultation with the office of suicide prevention and the school safety resource center.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the department is not required to implement the provisions of this section until sufficient money has been transferred or appropriated to the fund.

(3) (a) On or before November 1, 2018, the office of suicide prevention and the school safety resource center shall make recommendations to the department for the administration of the grant program, and the department shall adopt formal training guidelines for the grant program. The guidelines must include:

(I) Application procedures by which public schools and school districts may apply for a grant pursuant to this section;

(II) Criteria to utilize in selecting public schools and school districts to receive grants and in determining the amount of grant money to be awarded to each grant recipient. The criteria, at a minimum, must include:

(A) That first priority for grant awards is to provide crisis and comprehensive suicide prevention training to public schools and school districts that have not previously received such training;

(B) An emphasis on providing such training to all staff at the public school or school district, not just educators;

(C) A requirement that each application, at a minimum, must describe how the applicant public school or school district will use a grant award to provide comprehensive crisis and suicide prevention training to all educators and staff who have not yet received such training or provide a train-the-trainer program to interested individuals who have not yet received such training; or

(D) An emphasis on providing a train-the-trainer program for employees at the public school or school district that are designed to prepare the program attendees to teach a teen behavioral and mental health training course, as well as improve overall school climate and promote teen behavioral and mental health. For the purposes of this subsection (3)(a)(II)(D), a "teen behavioral and mental health training course" is a course that trains students in high school to identify, understand, and respond to signs of behavioral and mental health disorders among their friends and peers.

(b) If there is money remaining in the fund after grants are made to all public schools or school districts that applied for a grant and that had not previously received crisis and comprehensive suicide prevention training, the department may award grants to a public school or school district that had previously received such training.

(c) The office of suicide prevention and school safety resource center shall assist the department with reviewing grant applications, making recommendations to the department on which public schools and school districts that applied must receive a grant from the grant program and the amount of each grant, and acting as a resource for grantees.

(4) (a) Each grant recipient shall submit a written report to the department not later than six months after the expiration of the term of its grant. The report must include a summary of activities made possible by the grant money.

(b) The department shall include in the report required pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w)(III)(A) the following information regarding the administration of the grant program during the preceding year:

(I) The number of public schools and school districts that received a grant from the grant program;

(II) The amount of each grant award by recipient;

(III) The number of pupils who are enrolled at each public school or school district of each grant recipient;

(IV) The number of school staff and educators who were provided training as a result of a grant; and

(V) A copy of the grant recipients' crisis and comprehensive suicide prevention plans.

(5) (a) There is established in the state treasury the crisis and suicide prevention training grant program fund. The fund consists of money transferred or appropriated to it and any other money that may be made available by the general assembly. The money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department for the direct and indirect costs associated with implementing the grant program. Any money not provided as grants may be invested by the state treasurer as provided in section 24-36-113. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of money in the fund must be credited to the fund. Any amount remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year must remain in the fund and not be credited or transferred to the general fund or to any other fund.

(b) No more than three percent of the money annually expended from the fund may be used for the expenses incurred by the department in administering the grant program.

(c) The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, and donations from public and private sources to implement this section; except that the department shall not accept a gift, grant, or donation that is subject to conditions that are inconsistent with the provisions of this section or any other law of the state. The department shall transfer all private and public money received through gifts, grants, and donations to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the fund.

(d) Nothing in this section requires the department to solicit money for the purposes of implementing the grant program.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-272), ch. 333, p. 2002, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2021: (1)(h) added and (2)(b), (3)(a)(II), (3)(b), and (4)(b)(V) amended, (HB 21-1119), ch. 49, p. 211, § 7, effective September 7. L. 2023: (1)(g) amended, (SB 23-241), ch. 120, p. 449, § 15, effective April 27.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-272, see section 1 of chapter 333, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1119, see section 1 of chapter 49, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-113.5. Behavioral health first aid training program - creation - appropriation - report - rules - definitions - repeal.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Behavioral health first aid training program" means the behavioral health first aid training program created in subsection (2) of this section.

(b) "Candidate" means an individual who attends the behavioral health first aid training program to teach courses to adults and teens. Candidates may include, but are not limited to, educators and school staff; employees of community-based, youth-focused, or nonprofit organizations; employees of organizations that serve underserved populations; faith-based community members; law enforcement officers; first responders; and active duty or retired military personnel.

(c) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created and existing pursuant to section 25-1-102.

(d) "Local education provider" means a school district, a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22, a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of title 22, a board of cooperative services created and operating pursuant to article 5 of title 22 that operates one or more public schools, or the Colorado school for the deaf and the blind.

(e) "Office of suicide prevention" or "office" means the office of suicide prevention in the department, established pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w).

(f) "Organization" means an organization that applies to participate in the behavioral health first aid training program. Organizations may include local education providers, local public health agencies, community-based organizations, nonprofit organizations, organizations that serve underserved populations, faith-based organizations, law enforcement agencies, first responder organizations, and military forces.

(g) "Third-party entity" means a Colorado-based nonprofit organization that has experience implementing evidence-based behavioral health first aid training programs statewide.

(2) (a) The behavioral health first aid training program is created in the office of suicide prevention within the department. The purpose of the behavioral health first aid training program is to:

(I) Improve overall community climate and promote adult, teen, and youth behavioral health, mental health, and mental well-being;

(II) Train candidates to recognize the warning signs and symptoms of mental illness and substance use among adults, teens, and youth;

(III) Train candidates on how to respond to an adult, teen, or youth who is experiencing mental health or substance use challenges;

(IV) Train candidates on crisis intervention strategies and best practices;

(V) Prepare candidates to teach adults and teens how to recognize warning signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges;

(VI) Prepare candidates to teach teens how to find a responsible and trusted adult for assistance when a peer is struggling with mental health or substance use challenges; and

(VII) Prepare candidates to teach adults how to respond to a teen or youth struggling with a mental health or substance use challenge or crisis.

(b) The behavioral health first aid training program must include train-the-trainer programs and associated curriculum to prepare candidates to teach certification training courses to:

(I) Teens who are fifteen years of age or older but under nineteen years of age on how to identify the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, have conversations regarding mental health and substance use challenges, and seek the help of a responsible and trusted adult;

(II) Adults who regularly interact with youth who are twelve years of age or older but under nineteen years of age on how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in youth who are twelve years of age or older but under nineteen years of age; and

(III) Adults on how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adults.

(3) The office shall contract with a third-party entity to administer and offer the behavioral health first aid training program to organizations.

(4) (a) The office shall promulgate rules for the behavioral health first aid training program, including criteria for establishing an application process for organizations to apply to the behavioral health first aid training program.

(b) The third-party entity shall create an application process and establish guidelines to administer the application process based on the rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(c) In selecting organizations to participate in the behavioral health first aid training program, the third-party entity shall prioritize the organization's:

(I) Geographic diversity;

(II) Existing resources and infrastructure; and

(III) Plan to implement the behavioral health first aid training program and associated curriculum.

(d) Subject to available appropriations, the third-party entity shall offer the behavioral health first aid training program at no cost to selected organizations.

(e) The office and the third-party entity may collaborate with the department of education to offer mental health resources to local education providers.

(5) (a) The office shall use pre- and post-course surveys developed by a national mental and behavioral health organization to evaluate the effectiveness of the behavioral health first aid training program. The third-party entity shall administer the pre- and post-course surveys to collect evaluation data from organizations that participate in the behavioral health first aid training program. The third-party entity shall submit a report to the office summarizing the evaluation data and recommendations, if necessary, to improve the behavioral health first aid training program.

(b) The office shall summarize the report described in subsection (5)(a) of this section in the office's annual report to the general assembly pursuant to section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w)(III)(A).

(6) The office shall use at least fifty percent of the funds appropriated pursuant to subsection (7) of this section for behavioral health first aid trainings focused on youth, teens, and young adults.

(7) On July 1, 2024, and each July 1 thereafter, the general assembly shall appropriate two hundred fifty thousand dollars from the general fund to the department for the administration of this section. The department may pay costs related to the administration of this section from the appropriation made pursuant to this subsection (7).

(8) The office may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(9) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2033. Before the repeal, this section is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-007), ch. 401, p. 2758, § 2, effective June 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 24-007, see section 1 of chapter 401, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-1.5-114. Freestanding emergency departments - licensure - requirements - rules - definitions.

(1) On or after December 1, 2021, a person that wishes to operate a freestanding emergency department must submit to the department on an annual basis a completed application for licensure as a freestanding emergency department. On or after July 1, 2022, a person shall not operate a freestanding emergency department that is required to be licensed pursuant to this section without a license issued by the department.

(2) The department may grant a waiver of the licensure requirements set forth in this section and in rules adopted by the board for either a licensed community clinic or community clinic seeking licensure that is serving an underserved population in the state.

(3) (a) The board shall adopt rules establishing the requirements for licensure of, waiver from the requirement for licensure of, safety and care standards for, and fees for licensing and inspecting freestanding emergency departments. The board must set the fees in accordance with section 25-3-105.

(b) The rules adopted by the board shall include a requirement that each individual seeking treatment at the freestanding emergency department receive a medical screening examination and a prohibition against delaying a medical screening examination in order to inquire about the individual's ability to pay or insurance status.

(c) The rules adopted by the board must take effect by July 1, 2021, and thereafter the board shall amend the rules as necessary.

(4) A freestanding emergency department licensed pursuant to this section is subject to the requirements in section 25-3-119.

(5) As used in this section:

(a) "Board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(b) (I) "Freestanding emergency department" means a health facility that offers emergency care, that may offer primary and urgent care services, and that is either:

(A) Owned or operated by, or affiliated with, a hospital or hospital system and located more than two hundred fifty yards from the main campus of the hospital; or

(B) Independent from and not operated by or affiliated with a hospital or hospital system and not attached to or situated within two hundred fifty yards of, or contained within, a hospital.

(II) "Freestanding emergency department" does not include a health facility described in subsection (5)(b)(I) of this section that was licensed by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 as a community clinic prior to July 1, 2010, if the facility is serving a rural community or a ski area, as defined in board rules.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1010), ch. 324, p. 2996, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1052, § 51, effective June 30. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2978, § 59, effective August 10.

25-1.5-114.5. Critical access hospitals - licensure - rules - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "Board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(b) "Critical access hospital" means a hospital that is federally designated or undergoing federal designation as a critical access hospital pursuant to 42 CFR 485, subpart F.

(2) (a) On or after January 1, 2026, a person operating or that wishes to operate a critical access hospital shall submit to the department on an annual basis a completed application for a critical access hospital license. On and after July 1, 2026, a person shall not operate a critical access hospital without a critical access hospital license issued by the department.

(b) A person operating a hospital licensed by the department as a critical access hospital is not required to hold a general hospital license to operate the hospital.

(3) The board shall adopt rules establishing the requirements for licensure of, waiver from the requirements for licensure of, safety and care standards for, and fees for licensing and inspecting critical access hospitals. The board shall set the fees in accordance with section 25-3-105.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-121), ch. 439, p. 3065, § 2, effective August 7.

25-1.5-115. Opioid antagonist bulk purchase fund - creation - rules - report - appropriation - definitions.

(1) (a) The opioid antagonist bulk purchase fund is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of payments made to the department by participating eligible entities for the purchase of opioid antagonists; gifts, grants, and donations credited to the fund pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section; and any money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(b) The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section. The department shall transmit all money received through gifts, grants, or donations to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the fund.

(c) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(2) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department for bulk purchasing of opioid antagonists. Eligible entities may purchase opioid antagonists from the department. The department may contract with a prescription drug outlet, as defined in section 12-280-103 (43), for the bulk purchasing and distribution of opioid antagonists. The department may prioritize the purchase of opioid antagonists by eligible entities based on the need of the entity and the availability of the opioid antagonists as determined by the department. The department shall provide technical assistance to participating eligible entities to ensure that eligible entities complete all training and registration requirements.

(3) The department shall promulgate rules specifying the amount an eligible entity must pay to purchase opioid antagonists from the department.

(4) (a) No later than October 1, 2020, and every October 1 thereafter, the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee shall report to the house and senate appropriations committees, or their successor committees, on the fund's activity. The report must include:

(I) Revenue received by the fund;

(II) Revenue and expenditure projections for the forthcoming fiscal year and details of all expenditures from the fund;

(III) The eligible entities that purchased opioid antagonists;

(IV) The amount of opioid antagonists purchased by each eligible entity; and

(V) The discount procured through bulk purchasing.

(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the report required in this subsection (4) continues indefinitely.

(5) As used in this section:

(a) "Eligible entity" means an entity included on the state board of health's eligible entity list created pursuant to section 25-1.5-115.1 (1); except that an employee or agent of a school must be acting in accordance with section 12-30-110 (1)(b), (2)(b), and (4)(b) and, as applicable, section 22-1-119.1.

(b) "Fund" means the opioid antagonist bulk purchase fund created in subsection (1)(a) of this section.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (SB 19-227), ch. 273, p. 2580, § 10, effective May 23. L. 2021: (2) and (5)(b) amended and (5)(d), (5)(e), and (5)(f) added, (SB 21-122), ch. 33, p. 137, § 4, effective April 15. L. 2022: (5) amended and (6) added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1645, § 21, effective July 1. L. 2024: (1)(a), (2), (3), (4)(a)(III), (4)(a)(IV), and (5) amended, (HB 24-1037), ch. 458, p. 3171, § 20, effective June 6. L. 2025: (5)(a) amended, (SB 25-164), ch. 168, p. 682, § 5, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (6), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, p. 1645.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1326 stating the purpose of, and the provision directing legislative staff agencies to conduct, a post-enactment review pursuant to § 2-2-1201 scheduled in 2025, see sections 1 and 55 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. To obtain a copy of the review, once completed, go to "Legislative Resources and Requirements" on the Colorado General Assembly's website.

25-1.5-115.1. Opioid antagonist distribution - eligible entity list - standing order - annual youth overdose prevention report.

(1) The state board of health created in section 25-1-103 shall establish an eligible entity list of entities eligible to be prescribed or dispensed, directly or in accordance with standing orders and protocols, an opioid antagonist from a prescriber.

(2) The state's chief medical officer, as described in section 25-1-105, may grant a standing order allowing all entities included on the state board of health's eligible entity list created pursuant to subsection (1) of this section to distribute opioid antagonists, consistent with the laws of this state.

(3) Beginning in January 2026, and in January each year thereafter, the department shall include, as part of its presentation during its "SMART Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203, information concerning youth overdose prevention.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-164), ch. 168, p. 681, § 4, effective August 6.

25-1.5-115.3. Non-laboratory synthetic opioid detection tests - appropriation - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1646, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2024: IP(1), (1)(b), and (4) amended, (HB 24-1037), ch. 458, p. 3165, § 6, effective June 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 3165.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1326 stating the purpose of, and the provision directing legislative staff agencies to conduct, a post-enactment review pursuant to § 2-2-1201 scheduled in 2025, see sections 1 and 55 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. To obtain a copy of the review, once completed, go to "Legislative Resources and Requirements" on the Colorado General Assembly's website.

25-1.5-115.5. Fentanyl prevention and education campaign - website.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, beginning in the 2022-23 state fiscal year, the department shall develop, implement, and maintain an ongoing statewide prevention and education campaign to address the fentanyl education needs in the state. In the prevention and education campaign, the prevention services division shall provide information to the general public about fentanyl, its dangers, precautionary measures to avoid risks and prevent harm caused by fentanyl, resources for addiction treatment and services, and laws regarding fentanyl, including criminal penalties and immunity for reporting an overdose event pursuant to section 18-1-711. Any unexpended money remaining at the end of the 2022-23 state fiscal year from this appropriation:

(a) Does not revert to the general fund or any other fund;

(b) May be used by the department in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 state fiscal years without further appropriation; and

(c) Must not be used for any other purpose other than the purpose set forth in this section.

(2) In furtherance of the goals of the fentanyl prevention and education campaign, the prevention services division may use television advertising, radio broadcasts, print media, digital strategies, or any other media deemed necessary and appropriate by the division to reach the target audiences of the campaign.

(3) In furtherance of the goals of the fentanyl prevention and education campaign, the prevention services division shall provide at least five regional training sessions during the 2022-23 state fiscal year for community partners to implement youth health development strategies.

(4) In furtherance of the goals of the fentanyl prevention and education campaign, the prevention services division shall develop, implement, and maintain a website to serve as the state resource for the most accurate and timely information regarding fentanyl. At a minimum, the website must include information concerning fentanyl, its dangers, precautionary measures to avoid risks and prevent harm caused by fentanyl, resources for addiction treatment and services, and laws regarding fentanyl, including criminal penalties and immunity for reporting an overdose event pursuant to section 18-1-711.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1646, § 23, effective July 1. L. 2023: IP(1), (2), (3), and (4) amended, (HB 23-1301), ch. 303, p. 1827, § 40, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1326 stating the purpose of, and the provision directing legislative staff agencies to conduct, a post-enactment review pursuant to § 2-2-1201 scheduled in 2025, see sections 1 and 55 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. To obtain a copy of the review, once completed, go to "Legislative Resources and Requirements" on the Colorado General Assembly's website.

25-1.5-116. Costs associated with living organ donation - definitions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1140), ch. 447, p. 2947, § 2, effective September 7. L. 2024: Entire section repealed, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2244, § 2, effective June 3.

Editor's note: Subsection (1) was relocated to § 25-59-105 in 2024.

25-1.5-117. Hospitals - standardized health benefit plan - participation - penalties.

(1) The commissioner of insurance may require a hospital licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103, after a hearing pursuant to section 10-16-1306 (3) concerning the premium rate requirements and network adequacy, to participate in a standardized health benefit plan described in section 10-16-1304.

(2) (a) If the department receives notice from the commissioner of insurance that a hospital refuses to participate in the standardized plan if required by subsection (1) of this section, the department shall issue a warning to the hospital. If the hospital refuses to participate in the standardized plan after receipt of the warning, the department:

(I) Shall fine the hospital up to ten thousand dollars per day for the first thirty days that the hospital refuses to participate and up to forty thousand dollars per day for each day over thirty days that the hospital refuses to participate; and

(II) May suspend or impose conditions on the hospital's license.

(b) In determining the appropriate fine or action concerning the hospital's license pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section, the department shall consider any recommendations of the commissioner of insurance, the hospital's financial circumstances, and other circumstances deemed relevant by the department.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1232), ch. 241, p. 1294, § 6, effective June 16.

25-1.5-118. Training for staff providing direct-care services to residents with dementia - rules - definitions.

(1) By January 1, 2024, the state board of health shall adopt rules requiring covered facilities to provide dementia training for direct-care staff members. The rules must specify the following, at a minimum:

(a) The date on which the dementia training requirement is effective;

(b) The length and frequency of the dementia training, which must be competency-based and must require a covered facility to provide:

(I) At least four hours of initial dementia training for:

(A) All direct-care staff members hired by or who start providing direct-care services at a covered facility on or after the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules, unless an exception established pursuant to subsection (1)(e) of this section applies, which training must be completed within one hundred twenty days after the start of employment or the provision of direct-care services, as applicable; and

(B) All direct-care staff members hired by or providing direct-care services at a covered facility before the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules, unless an exception established pursuant to subsection (1)(e) of this section applies, which training must be completed within one hundred twenty days after the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules; and

(II) At least two hours of continuing education on dementia topics for all direct-care staff members every two years. The continuing education must include current information on best practices in the treatment and care of persons living with dementia diseases and related disabilities.

(c) The content of the initial dementia training, which must be culturally competent and include the following topics:

(I) Dementia diseases and related disabilities;

(II) Person-centered care;

(III) Care planning;

(IV) Activities of daily living; and

(V) Dementia-related behaviors and communication;

(d) The method of demonstrating completion of the required dementia training and continuing education and of exempting a direct-care staff member from the required dementia training if the direct-care staff member moves to a different covered facility than the covered facility through which the direct-care staff member received the training. For purposes of this subsection (1)(d), "covered facility" includes an adult day care facility as defined in section 25.5-6-303 (1).

(e) An exception to the initial dementia training requirements for:

(I) A direct-care staff member hired by or who starts providing direct-care services at a covered facility on or after the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules who has:

(A) Completed an equivalent dementia training program within the twenty-four months immediately preceding the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules; and

(B) Provided proof of satisfactory completion of the training program; and

(II) A direct-care staff member hired by or providing direct-care services at a covered facility before the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules who has:

(A) Received equivalent training, as defined in the rules, within the twenty-four months immediately preceding the effective date of the dementia training requirement specified in the rules; and

(B) Provided proof of satisfactory completion of the training program;

(f) Minimum requirements for individuals conducting the dementia training;

(g) A process for the department to verify compliance with this section and the rules adopted by the state board of health pursuant to this section;

(h) A requirement that covered facilities provide the dementia training and continuing education programs to direct-care staff members at no cost to the staff members; and

(i) Any other matters the state board of health deems necessary to implement this section.

(2) The department shall encourage covered facilities and dementia training providers to explore and apply for available gifts, grants, and donations from state and federal public and private sources to support the development and implementation of dementia training programs.

(3) As used in this section:

(a) "Covered facility" means a nursing care facility or an assisted living residence licensed by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(b) "Dementia diseases and related disabilities" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25-1-502 (2.5).

(c) "Direct-care staff member" means a staff member caring for the physical, emotional, or mental health needs of residents in a covered facility and whose work involves regular contact with residents who are living with dementia diseases and related disabilities.

(d) "Staff member" means an individual, other than a volunteer, who is employed by a covered facility.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-079), ch. 282, p. 2027, § 2, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-079, see section 1 of chapter 282, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1.5-119. Drug repository task force - creation - report - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-098), ch. 459, p. 3266, § 1, effective June 8.

Editor's note: Subsection (11) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2023. (See L. 2022, p. 3266.)

25-1.5-120. Natural medicine testing and standards - rules.

(1) The department of public health and environment, in coordination with the department of revenue, to ensure consistency between rules, shall promulgate rules concerning testing standards and laboratory certification requirements of natural medicine and natural medicine product regulated by the department of revenue pursuant to article 50 of title 44.

(2) At a minimum, the rules must:

(a) Establish natural medicine and natural medicine product laboratory testing standards and requirements;

(b) Establish a natural medicine independent laboratory testing certification program for licensees pursuant to article 50 of title 44, within an implementation time frame established by the department of revenue, requiring licensees to test natural medicine and natural medicine product to ensure, at a minimum, that products transferred for human consumption by persons licensed pursuant to article 50 of title 44 do not contain contaminants that are injurious to health and to ensure correct labeling;

(c) Establish procedures that require notification to the state licensing authority if test results indicate the presence of quantities of any substance determined to be injurious to health;

(d) Ensure that testing verifies concentration representations and homogeneity for correct labeling;

(e) Establish an acceptable variance for concentration representations and procedures to address concentration misrepresentations; and

(f) Establish the protocols and frequency of natural medicine testing by licensees.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-290), ch. 249, p. 1389, § 20, effective July 1. L. 2024: (1), (2)(a), (2)(b), and (2)(c) amended, (SB 24-198), ch. 452, p. 3141, § 6, effective June 6.

25-1.5-120.5. Natural medicine health effects - data collection - pilot data collection study - report - rules - definitions - repeal.

(1) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Health-care facility" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (7).

(b) "Natural medicine" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (13).

(c) "Natural medicine product" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (15).

(d) "Regulated natural medicine" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (21).

(e) "Regulated natural medicine product" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (22).

(f) "State licensing authority" has the meaning set forth in section 44-50-103 (24).

(2) Health effects of natural medicine - data collection - report.

(a) The department, in coordination with other relevant state departments, including the department of revenue, created in section 24-1-117, and the department of regulatory agencies, created in section 24-1-122, shall request and collect readily available and relevant data and information related to the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products, including data and information concerning:

(I) Law enforcement incidents involving the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products;

(II) Adverse health events involving the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products;

(III) Impacts on health-care facilities, hospitals, and health-care systems arising from incidents related to the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products;

(IV) Consumer protection claims related to natural medicine and natural medicine products; and

(V) Behavioral health impacts related to the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products.

(b) The department, in coordination with other relevant state departments, shall request and collect available and relevant data and information related to the health effects of the use of natural medicine or natural medicine products from sources that may include:

(I) All-payer claims data;

(II) Hospital discharge data;

(III) Peer-reviewed research studies; and

(IV) Other sources as determined by the department.

(c) (I) The department shall provide relevant data and information collected pursuant subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section to the department of revenue for use in the department of revenue's annual report required pursuant to section 44-50-202 (1)(g).

(II) The department shall ensure that the data and information collected by the department pursuant to subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section is de-identified and does not include an individual's name, address, contact information, or other personal identifying information.

(d) The collection of data and information related to the use of natural medicine and natural medicine products in accordance with this subsection (2) is subject to the acceptance of gifts, grants, or donations by the department pursuant to subsection (5) of this section. If there is not sufficient funding to finance the collection of data and information, the department is not required to collect the data and information pursuant to this subsection (2) until sufficient funding becomes available to the department.

(3) Pilot data collection program.

(a) The department shall create and maintain a database based on the data and information collected pursuant to sections 12-170-108 (5) and 44-50-401 (6) related to the use of regulated natural medicine and regulated natural medicine products.

(b) (I) The department shall ensure that the data and information collected by the department and maintained in the database is de-identified and does not include an individual's name, address, contact information, or other personal identifying information.

(II) The data and information maintained in the database is:

(A) Proprietary and contains trade secrets;

(B) Confidential;

(C) Not subject to the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24;

(D) Not subject to subpoena or discovery and is not admissible as evidence in any private civil action; and

(E) Not to be released, disclosed, or made public, except as provided by subsection (3)(c) of this section.

(c) The department may release or disclose the data and information contained in the database only:

(I) For research or other empirical studies, as approved by the department;

(II) For conducting surveys or investigative activities as part of a public health program to track health effects of regulated natural medicine or regulated natural medicine products; or

(III) For conducting regulatory duties of the state licensing authority or assisting other state agencies in conducting their regulatory duties, including reporting on services, participant motivations, demographics, and outcomes related to the natural medicine program.

(d) If the department releases the data and information in the database in accordance with subsection (3)(c) of this section, the department shall limit the release to the minimum amount of information necessary for the purposes of the release and must not include an individual's name, address, contact information, or other personal identifying information.

(e) The creation and maintenance of the database in accordance with this subsection (3) is subject to the acceptance of gifts, grants, or donations by the department pursuant to subsection (5) of this section. If there is not sufficient funding to finance the operation or maintenance of the database, the department is not required to operate or maintain the database until sufficient funding becomes available to the department.

(4) The department, in consultation with the department of revenue, created in section 24-1-117, and the department of regulatory agencies, created in section 24-1-122, shall determine the form, format, and timing of the collection and reporting of data and information in accordance with this section and sections 12-170-108 (5) and 44-50-401 (6).

(5) (a) Except as provided in subsection (5)(b) of this section, the department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(b) The department shall not seek, accept, or expend any gifts, grants, or donations to be used for the purposes of this section from a public or private source that may improperly influence the collection or reporting of the data and information collected pursuant to this section.

(6) (a) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2030.

(b) Prior to the repeal of this section, the department, in consultation with the natural medicine advisory board, created in section 12-170-106; the department of revenue, created in section 24-1-117; and the department of regulatory agencies, created in section 24-1-122, shall conduct a review to determine whether appropriations or gifts, grants, or donations are necessary and available to fulfill the purposes of this section.

(c) After conducting the review pursuant to subsection (6)(b) of this section, the department shall inform the general assembly of the decision made by the department regarding the continuation of and funding available for the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-297), ch. 381, p. 2115, § 1, effective June 3.

25-1.5-121. Arie P. Taylor sickle cell disease outreach program - contracts - administration - report - legislative declaration - definition - repeal.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Sickle-cell anemia is a genetic disorder of the hemoglobin in red blood cells that causes red blood cells that carry oxygen to stick together after the oxygen is released, causing blockages in the small blood vessels;

(b) The main symptoms of sickle-cell anemia are anemia and episodes of severe pain caused by the blockages in the small blood vessels; over time, people with sickle-cell anemia are increasingly at risk of other health complications, and the disorder damages their organs;

(c) According to the 2022-23 "Colorado Sickle Cell State Action Plan" prepared by the Colorado sickle cell treatment and research center at the university of Colorado school of medicine, approximately four hundred fifty people in Colorado are living with sickle-cell anemia, although this number likely undercounts the population living with sickle cell disease;

(d) Due to the effects of sickle cell disease, including episodes of debilitating pain, many individuals living with sickle-cell anemia and their families need services and support in the community to manage their health condition and daily lives;

(e) Arie Parks Taylor was the first African American woman to serve as a Women in the Air Force, "WAF", classroom instructor and officer; to be elected to serve in the house of representatives of the Colorado general assembly; to serve as the clerk and recorder for the city and county of Denver or any county in Colorado; and to serve as the chief clerk of the Denver election commission;

(f) Passionate about the concerns of individuals living with sickle-cell anemia, during her time in the general assembly representative Taylor sponsored legislation that created the sickle-cell anemia treatment and research center at the university of Colorado school of medicine, which provides support and treatment for individuals with sickle cell disease and conducts research relating to sickle cell disease; and

(g) Creating an outreach program by partnering with one or more community-based nonprofit organizations to enhance services and support in the community for individuals with sickle cell disease and their families will help ensure a better quality of life for these Coloradans.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "outreach program" means the Arie P. Taylor sickle cell disease outreach program created in subsection (3) of this section.

(3) There is created in the department the Arie P. Taylor sickle cell disease outreach program. The purpose of the outreach program is to provide services and support in the community to individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families.

(4) (a) The department shall solicit applications from community-based nonprofit organizations that are capable of implementing the outreach program.

(b) (I) On or before January 1, 2025, the department shall contract with one or more community-based nonprofit organizations to provide community-based services and support to individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families.

(II) The general assembly shall appropriate two hundred thousand dollars for the outreach program, which amount shall include administrative costs not to exceed eight percent.

(c) The department shall determine the initial term of a contract, not to exceed two years, and shall approve the services and support to be included in a contract.

(d) In awarding a contract, the department shall give priority to a community-based nonprofit organization that:

(I) Has a minimum of ten years' experience in providing services and support in Colorado to individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families, specifically in the Denver metropolitan area or Colorado Springs, which areas of the state have the highest number of individuals living with sickle cell disease in Colorado;

(II) Has experience providing the services and support described in subsection (5)(a) of this section; and

(III) Is engaged in fundraising for and raising awareness of the needs of individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families and maintains a network of persons able to provide peer assistance and resources to those individuals.

(5) (a) Depending upon the needs to be addressed through a contract, the community-based services and support provided through the outreach program may include the following services and support provided by a community-based nonprofit organization or by community health workers or social workers employed by the community-based nonprofit organization:

(I) Culturally appropriate health education and information concerning sickle cell disease and living with sickle cell disease;

(II) Informal counseling and guidance on health behaviors;

(III) Direction and support to individuals and their families in locating and accessing services in the community to address their needs, including nonmedical needs such as housing, food, education, transportation, employment, legal services, and other support;

(IV) Outreach to the sickle cell disease community concerning activities and programs available to individuals living with the effects of sickle cell disease and their families;

(V) Peer support services and referrals for individuals and families living with sickle cell disease in the local community;

(VI) Advocacy regarding the interests of the sickle cell disease community through partnerships with the general public, state and local government entities, health-care providers, and other community-based organizations;

(VII) Referrals for sickle-cell anemia screening; and

(VIII) Any other services and support as determined by the department.

(b) In determining the services and support included in a contract, the department may consult with the sickle-cell anemia treatment and research center, created in section 23-21-203, to identify the community-based services and support that is likely to have the greatest impact on the individuals and families served through the outreach program given the amount and duration of the contract.

(6) (a) Prior to the expiration of a contract, a community-based nonprofit organization implementing the outreach program shall prepare and submit a written report to the department describing:

(I) The type and amount of services and support provided to the community pursuant to the outreach program;

(II) The number of individuals and families impacted through the services and support;

(III) The characteristics of the individuals receiving services and support, including whether the services and support was provided to adults or children with sickle cell disease or their family members, but excluding personally identifying information regarding the individuals; and

(IV) The location where the services and support was provided.

(b) The department shall provide the report to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees. The department may include with the report information known to the department concerning the outcomes of the services and support provided, as well as other relevant information concerning the impact of the outreach program on individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families.

(7) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2030.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-042), ch. 361, p. 2445, § 1, effective June 3.

25-1.5-122. Pharmacy labels - prescription accessibility grant program - repeal.

(1) The prescription accessibility grant program is created in the department. The purpose of the grant program is to provide hardship grants to pharmacies for the purchase of equipment used to create accessible prescription labels.

(2) Grant recipients may use the money received through the grant program to purchase equipment used to create accessible prescription labels.

(3) The department shall administer the grant program and, subject to available appropriations, shall award grants as provided in this section. Grants must be paid out of money appropriated for the grant program as provided in subsection (5) of this section.

(4) (a) To receive a grant, a pharmacy must submit an application to the department in accordance with rules promulgated by the executive director of the department.

(b) The department shall review the applications received pursuant to this section.

(c) Each grant recipient may be awarded up to one thousand five hundred dollars.

(5) Subject to available appropriations, on or before July 1, 2025, the department shall award grants as provided in this section.

(6) On or before January 1, 2026, the department shall submit a summarized report to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees, on the grant program. At a minimum, the report must include the number of grants awarded, the amount of each grant, and the grant recipients.

(7) The general assembly shall appropriate eighty thousand dollars from the general fund to the department to implement the grant program. The department may use a portion of the money appropriated for the program to pay the direct and indirect costs that the department incurs to administer the grant program. Any money appropriated pursuant to this subsection (7) that is not expended or encumbered at the end of the 2024-25 state fiscal year remains available for expenditure by the department for the purposes of this section in the next state fiscal year without further appropriation.

(8) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1115), ch. 321, p. 2144, § 2, effective August 7.

25-1.5-123. Colorado offender identification program.

[Editor's note: This section is effective January 1, 2027.] The department shall collaborate with the department of corrections to operate the program established in section 17-33-102 to provide state-issued identification for offenders.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (HB 26-1256), ch. 338, p. 2056, § 4, effective January 1, 2027.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 338 (HB 26-1256), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act adding this section applies to all individuals released from custody on or after January 1, 2027.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1256, see section 1 of chapter 338, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

PART 2

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT WITH RESPECT TO WATER

Cross references: For the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act", see 42 U.S.C. § 300f et seq.

25-1.5-201. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Minimum general sanitary standards", as used in this part 2 and section 25-1-109 (1)(h), means the minimum standards reasonably consistent with assuring adequate protection of the public health, and, in the case of minimum general sanitary standards as to the quality of water supplied to the public, the same shall be established by rule and regulation and shall be appropriate to promote and protect the public health from endangerment presented by carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic, pathogenic, or toxic contaminants or substances. Such standards shall be based on the best available endangerment assessment evidence and the best available treatment technology or methodology.

(2) "Public water systems" means systems for the provision to the public of piped water for human consumption, if such system has at least fifteen service connections or regularly serves at least twenty-five individuals. The term includes systems that are owned or operated by private, nonprofit entities, as well as:

(a) Any collection, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities under control of the operator of such system and used primarily in connection with such system; and

(b) Any collection or pretreatment storage facilities not under such control which are used primarily in connection with such system.

(3) "Standards", as used in this part 2 and section 25-1-109 (1)(h), means standards reasonably designed to promote and protect the public health.

(4) "Supplier of water" means any person who owns or operates a public water system.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 687, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2015: IP(1) amended, (SB 15-121), ch. 202, p. 698, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2025: Entire section amended with relocations, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2076, § 205, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(V) and (1)(x)(VI) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (1) is similar to former § 25-1.5-202 (1) as it existed prior to 2025.

25-1.5-202. Water - minimum general sanitary standards.

(1) Repealed.

(2) Minimum general sanitary standards for the quality of water supplied to the public shall be no more stringent than the drinking water standards promulgated pursuant to the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act", if such standards exist. If no standards have been promulgated pursuant to the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act" regarding the permissible concentration of any contaminant or any substance in drinking water, the department may recommend to the water quality control commission for promulgation minimum general sanitary standards regarding such contaminant or substance.

(3) (a) The department shall annually establish and revise a priority list of contaminants or substances for which standards may be considered and shall submit said list to the water quality control commission for review and approval.

(b) The priority list of contaminants or substances, together with the department's evaluation of the considerations listed in this paragraph (b), shall be submitted to the water quality control commission for review and approval. The priority list shall be prepared according to a ranking process that incorporates the following considerations:

(I) The actual presence of a contaminant or substance in a drinking water supply system or the relative imminence of threat of contamination of a drinking water supply source;

(II) The identifiability of a potential pathway or continued pathway of contamination;

(III) The availability of analytical techniques for measuring and identifying the contaminant or substance in a reasonable manner;

(IV) Sufficient available information concerning the contaminant or substance to allow an appropriate standard to be developed, including information on the health effects of the contaminant or substance as well as available treatment technology;

(V) The magnitude of potential health risks of the contaminant or substance at reasonably anticipated exposure levels, utilizing the same exposure considerations, criteria for health risk, and criteria for data availability which are used by the criteria and standards division of the office of drinking water, United States environmental protection agency, in establishing the federal drinking water priority list;

(VI) The fact that the contaminant or substance will be the subject of a national primary drinking water regulation in the near future;

(VII) An analysis of the environmental fate and transport mechanisms within relevant environmental media;

(VIII) Identification, characterization, and analysis of the populations and drinking water supplies at risk; and

(IX) The level of effort and scope of work that will be necessary to develop sufficient data for the purpose of supporting an appropriate standard.

(4) (a) Following the department's submission of recommended standards to the water quality control commission, the commission may promulgate standards for contaminants or substances that are not the subject of a standard set pursuant to the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act".

(b) In the promulgation of such standards, the water quality control commission shall find that the standards are necessary to protect public health and have a demonstrated medical, technological, and scientific basis and that:

(I) Based on credible medical and toxicological evidence that has been subjected to peer review, there exists a substantial risk to the public health;

(II) The analytical techniques for measuring and identifying the contaminant or substance are reasonably available;

(III) The adverse health effects posed by the contaminant or substance are known to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty; and

(IV) Compliance with such standard is feasible utilizing the best technology or methodology which is generally available.

(5) All acts, orders, and rules adopted by the state board of health under the authority of this part 2 prior to July 1, 2006, that were valid prior to said date and not otherwise subject to judicial review shall, to the extent that they are not inconsistent with said provisions, be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the water quality control commission under the authority of this part 2. No provision of this part 2 shall be construed to validate any actions, orders, or rules that were not valid when adopted by the board of health prior to such date.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 687, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2), (3)(a), IP(3)(b), (4)(a), and IP(4)(b) amended and (5) added, p. 1127, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2025: (1) repealed, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2109, § 336, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (2) as it existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (1) was relocated to § 25-1.5-201 (1) in 2025.

25-1.5-203. Water - powers and duties of department - rules.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) Construction of community water facilities. To examine plans, specifications, and other related data pertaining to the proposed construction of any publicly or privately owned community water facilities submitted for review of sanitary engineering features prior to construction of such facilities;

(b) Quality of drinking water.

(I) To adopt and enforce minimum general sanitary standards and regulations to protect the quality of drinking water supplied to the public, including the authority to require disinfection and treatment of such water.

(II) Standards and regulations adopted pursuant to this paragraph (b) may also include such minimum standards and regulations as are necessary to assume enforcement of the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act" with regard to public water systems, including, but not limited to, requirements for:

(A) Review and approval by the department, prior to initiation of construction, of the technical plans and specifications, long-term financial plans, and operations and management plans for any new waterworks or technical plans and specifications for substantial modifications to existing waterworks. For the purposes of this subparagraph (II), "waterworks" means the facilities that are directly involved in the production, treatment, or distribution of water for public water systems, as defined in section 141.2 of the national primary drinking water regulations. The department shall approve those new or substantially modified waterworks it determines are capable of complying with the Colorado primary drinking water regulations.

(B) Maintenance of records by the supplier of water relating to the results of tests and procedures required by the standards and regulations, including filing periodic reports with the department;

(C) Public notification by the supplier of water, pursuant to the provisions of the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act";

(D) Granting exemptions and variances from the minimum general sanitary standards to allow appropriate time for compliance, when such procedure can be effected without seriously jeopardizing the public health.

(c) Exemption of public water systems.

(I) To exempt a water supplier from any further documentation requirements for purposes of establishing that it does not meet the definition of a public water system and is not subject to the requirements of the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act", where such water supplier has provided to the department evidence of the following:

(A) An ordinance, resolution, contractual provision, or other similarly enforceable enactment that prohibits connection to the system for the purpose of obtaining water for human consumption; and

(B) Either an annual visual inspection of the water supply system for the purpose of determining the presence of any unauthorized connections to the water supply system, or an annual written survey of those individuals or entities with whom the supplier has a contractual relationship governing the uses to which such water is placed by the contracting parties.

(II) Nothing in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (c) shall be construed to eliminate from the provisions of the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act" any exclusion that may otherwise be available under federal law or regulation.

(d) Lab certification program for testing drinking water.

(I) To establish and maintain a laboratory certification program for the purpose of ensuring competent testing of drinking water as required by the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act" and minimum general sanitary standards as set forth in section 25-1.5-202. Certification procedures shall, at a minimum, include water supply evaluation verification and on-site inspections. The laboratory certification program shall consist of certification levels which correspond to the testing capability and capacity of each laboratory. In addition to certifying laboratories for contaminants regulated as of May 11, 1988, the department shall adopt and implement a schedule for certifying sufficient laboratory capacity for the testing and analysis of contaminants for which reference methods are available and which are scheduled to be regulated under the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act".

(II) Upon request, the department shall refer a public water supplier to a laboratory, either the department's or one certified by the department, which is determined to be equipped to perform the required testing and analysis on a timely basis.

(III) To facilitate an effective laboratory certification program, the department shall work with local public water suppliers toward creating and maintaining a centralized database which:

(A) Quantifies the current and expected demands for the monitoring, testing, and analysis of each supplier, grouped according to the size of the supply system, the source of its supply, and the requirements imposed on each supplier;

(B) Includes an updated list of laboratories certified and available for the testing and analysis of specific contaminants; and

(C) Tracks violations of drinking water standards for the purpose of facilitating an exchange among public water suppliers in addressing similar problems posed by specific contaminants.

(e) Drinking water list. To cooperate with and assist the Colorado water resources and power development authority in the administration of the drinking water revolving fund created by section 37-95-107.8, C.R.S., including adopting rules governing the drinking water project eligibility list provided by said section and modifications to the eligibility list for submission to the general assembly, and to take any other actions necessary to assist the authority in complying with the requirements of the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act".

(f) Repealed.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 689, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1)(f) added, (HB 17-1306), ch. 399, p. 2078, § 2, effective June 8.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(r), (1)(x)(I), (1)(x)(II), (1)(x.2), (1)(x.5), and (1)(gg) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (1)(f)(VII) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(f), effective September 1, 2021. (See L. 2017, p. 2078.)

Cross references: For the short title ("Safe Water in Schools Act") in HB 17-1306, see section 1 of chapter 399, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-1.5-204. Inspection for violations of minimum general sanitary standards relating to quality of drinking water.

(1) Upon presentation of proper credentials, authorized inspectors of the department may enter and inspect, at any reasonable time and in a reasonable manner, any property, premises, or place for the purpose of investigating any actual, suspected, or potential violations of minimum general sanitary standards adopted pursuant to section 25-1.5-202. Samples of drinking water may be obtained by such inspectors, and a portion of any samples to be used as evidence in an enforcement action shall be left with the owner, operator, or person in charge of the premises. A copy of the results of any analysis of such sample shall be furnished promptly to the owner, operator, or person in charge.

(2) If such entry or inspection is denied or not consented to, the department is empowered to and shall obtain, from the district or county court for the judicial district or county in which such property, premises, or place is located, a warrant to enter and inspect said property, premises, or place. The said district and county courts of the state are empowered to issue such warrants upon a proper showing of the need for such entry and inspection, and a copy of any inspection report shall be provided the court within a reasonable time after making the inspection.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 691, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(III) as it existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-205. Advice to other entities.

The department may advise municipalities, utilities, institutions, organizations, and individuals concerning the methods or processes believed best suited to provide the protection or purification of water to meet minimum general sanitary standards adopted pursuant to section 25-1.5-202.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 691, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(IV) as it existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-206. Applicability.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act", the provisions of this part 2 shall apply to each public water system in this state; except that the provisions of this part 2 shall not apply to a public water system that:

(a) Consists only of distribution and storage facilities (and does not have any collection and treatment facilities);

(b) Obtains all of its water from, but is not owned or operated by, a public water system to which such regulations apply;

(c) Does not sell water to any person;

(d) Does not authorize incidental use of untreated water; and

(e) Is not a carrier that conveys passengers in interstate commerce; or

(f) Prohibits, through ordinance, resolution, or other enforceable enactment, the use of its system, or connections thereto, for the delivery of water to the public for human consumption, except to the extent that such user is a public water system subject to the provisions of this part 2.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 691, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(VII) as it existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-207. Damages and injunctive relief to prevent or abate release of contaminants in water.

(1) (a) Except as provided in section 25-1-114.1 (3), any political subdivision or public water system which stores, releases, carries, conveys, supplies, or treats water for human consumption may bring suit to collect damages and for injunctive relief, in addition to all remedies otherwise available to prevent or abate any release or imminent release of contaminants or substances which, in water withdrawn for use, results or would likely result in:

(I) A violation, at the point where the contaminant or substance enters or would enter the intake of the water treatment system of the same or another political subdivision or public water system, of any minimum general sanitary standard or regulation adopted pursuant to this part 2, and the existing treatment system cannot effectively treat the contaminant or substance in question so as to assure that treated water complies with such standard or regulation; or

(II) Significant impairment of the normal operational capability of a water treatment system which meets the applicable specifications of the department for water treatment; or

(III) Rendering the system's drinking water supply unfit for human consumption. Where there are no minimum general sanitary standards, water shall be deemed unfit for human consumption where it is shown that the risk of adverse human health effects from exposure to carcinogens in that water is greater than one times ten to the minus sixth power or greater than the acceptable levels of exposure to noncarcinogens as determined by the reference dose method.

(b) Such an action may be maintained against any person who owns or operates the source or sources of the release of the contaminants, but no such action may be maintained with regard to surface or underground agricultural return flows except as otherwise provided in the "Colorado Chemigation Act", article 11 of title 35, C.R.S. Damages, including the costs of any remedy ordered or approved by the court shall include, as appropriate, those incurred in providing an interim substitute drinking water supply and monitoring and responding to the release or imminent release of contaminants or substances.

(2) Other remedies. Except as provided in this subsection (2), nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict or preempt any right which the state, the department, any public water system, or any other person may have under any other law to seek enforcement, in any court or in any administrative proceeding, of any provision of this section or any other relief regarding contamination of any drinking water supply. In addition, nothing in this section shall be construed to condition, restrict, or prevent any other civil or criminal actions which may be brought by the state or any political subdivision pursuant to any other state or federal statute or regulation or any local ordinance or regulation; except that, with respect to any release or substantial threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant addressed in pleadings or otherwise in a lawsuit brought pursuant to the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980", 42 U.S.C. sec. 9601 et seq., or by the terms and conditions of a remedial action plan, removal order, consent decree, or other order or decree entered or issued by a court or administrative body of competent jurisdiction pursuant to such federal act, any person or entity which is a defendant in such a lawsuit or is subject to the terms and conditions of such a remedial action plan, removal order, consent decree, or other order or decree, shall not be subjected with respect to the same release or substantial threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant to any suit, action, or liability pursuant to section 25-1-114.1 (3); nor shall such person or entity be subject to any suit, action, or liability initiated or prosecuted by a political subdivision or a public water system pursuant to this section with respect to any release or substantial threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant which has been addressed by relief granted, or by measures implemented or legally required to be implemented, pursuant to a lawsuit brought pursuant to such federal act or the terms and conditions of a remedial action plan, removal order, consent decree, or other order or decree entered or issued by a court or administrative body of competent jurisdiction pursuant to such federal act. Nothing in this section shall be construed to bar a political subdivision or public water system from seeking to recover pursuant to applicable law its damages which have been reasonably incurred for the protection of the human health if enforceable arrangements to pay such damages have not otherwise been made.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 692, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(VIII) as it existed prior to 2003.

25-1.5-208. Grant program for public water systems and domestic wastewater treatment works - small communities water and wastewater grant fund - rules - repeal.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section as follows:

(a) To assist suppliers of water that serve a population of not more than five thousand people with meeting their responsibilities with respect to protection of public health, the department, in the name of the state and to the extent that state funds are appropriated therefor, may enter into contracts with both governmental agencies and not-for-profit public water systems, as defined in section 25-1.5-201 (2), or with counties representing unincorporated areas that serve a population of not more than five thousand people, to grant moneys for the planning, design, and construction of public water systems.

(a.5) To assist domestic wastewater treatment works, as defined in section 25-8-103 (5), that serve a population of not more than five thousand people with meeting their responsibilities with respect to the protection of public health and water quality, the department, in the name of the state and to the extent that state funds are appropriated therefor, may enter into contracts with governmental agencies, or with counties representing unincorporated areas that serve a population of not more than five thousand people, to grant moneys for eligible projects as defined in section 25-8-701 (2).

(b) The department may use up to ten percent of the appropriated money for the administration and management of project grants described in subsections (1)(a) and (1)(a.5) of this section.

(2) The water quality control commission shall promulgate rules for the administration of any appropriated grant moneys pursuant to this section and for prioritizing proposed public water systems and domestic wastewater treatment works based upon public health impacts and water quality protection. The department shall authorize grants based on water quality needs and public health-related problems. The commission shall promulgate a project categorization system for use in determining the relative priority of proposed projects. The department shall review applications for state funds and may approve only those applications that are consistent with the project categorization system.

(3) During the grant application process, the department shall seek from the division of local government in the department of local affairs a fiscal analysis of the applying entity to determine financial need. Based upon its fiscal analysis, the division of local government shall issue or deny a certificate of financial need. If a certificate of financial need is issued, the department may authorize a state grant to the project in accordance with the project prioritization adopted by the department.

(4) (a) (I) There is hereby created in the state treasury the small communities water and wastewater grant fund, referred to in this subsection (4) as the "fund". The fund consists of money transferred pursuant to section 39-29-109 (2)(a)(III) and any other money transferred to the fund by the general assembly. The money in the fund may be used only for grants made pursuant to this section and as a state match required by the federal "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act", Pub.L. 117-58, for water pollution control or drinking water projects authorized pursuant to section 37-95-107.6 or 37-95-107.8.

(II) All income derived from the deposit and investment of the money in the fund shall be credited to the fund. At the end of each fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund shall remain in the fund and shall not revert to the general fund or to any other fund.

(b) The revenues in the fund are continuously appropriated to the department for the purposes of this section.

(c) Repealed.

(d) (I) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (4)(a) of this section regarding the permissible uses of money in the fund, if an application for the abandonment of a town has been filed with the secretary of state pursuant to section 31-3-201 (1)(b) and the town owns or operates a water system that is failing or is likely to fail, as determined by the department, the department may transfer up to one hundred thousand dollars from the fund to the department of public safety for the department of public safety to contract for the operation and maintenance of the town's existing water treatment infrastructure.

(II) The department of public safety shall use money transferred from the fund pursuant to this subsection (4)(d) only to contract for the routine operation and maintenance of existing water treatment infrastructure for the town, such as the operation of the chlorine disinfection system and associated sampling as determined by the department, and not for improvements to the water system or other projects that require more significant expenditures. The department of public safety shall use money transferred from the fund only after an application for abandonment of a town is filed with the secretary of state, until the secretary of state makes a final determination on that application; except that the department of public safety may use the money from the fund for an additional six months after the secretary of state makes a final determination on the application for abandonment of the town if the department of public safety determines, on a monthly basis, that the use of money from the fund is necessary.

(III) Any assistance provided for the routine maintenance or operation of existing water treatment infrastructure pursuant to this subsection (4)(d) is temporary and does not transfer ownership of the water system to the state. The state is not responsible or liable for the water system or the debts, obligations, or other requirements of the town for which an application for abandonment was filed.

(IV) This subsection (4)(d) is repealed, effective July 1, 2028.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 693, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2) amended, p. 1128, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1)(a) and (2) amended and (4) added, (SB 09-165), ch. 183, p. 803, § 1, effective April 22. L. 2014: (1)(a) and (2) amended and (1)(a.5) added, (SB 14-025), ch. 9, p. 92, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2020: (4)(c) added, (HB 20-1406), ch. 178, p. 812, § 11, effective June 29. L. 2021: (4)(c) amended, (SB 21-225), ch. 68, p. 272, § 1, effective April 29. L. 2023: (4)(a) amended, (SB 23-238), ch. 106, p. 381, § 1, effective April 25; (1)(b) amended, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1109, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2025: (1)(a) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2077, § 206, effective August 6; (1)(b) amended, (SB 25-203), ch. 326, p. 1704, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (4)(d) added, (SB 26-157), ch. 147, p. 825, § 2, effective May 26.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(x)(IX) as it existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (4)(c)(III) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(c), effective July 1, 2022. (See L. 2021, p. 272.)

(3) Subsections (4)(d)(I), (4)(d)(II), (4)(d)(III), and (4)(d)(IV) were numbered as (4)(d), (4)(d)(I), (4)(d)(II), and (4)(d)(III), respectively, in SB 26-157 but were renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-1.5-209. Drinking water fee - drinking water cash fund.

(1) Repealed.

(2) (a) The drinking water cash fund is hereby created in the state treasury. The general assembly shall annually appropriate money in the cash fund to the department for allocation to the division of administration to operate the drinking water program established in this part 2. The general assembly shall review expenditures of the money to assure that the money is used only for such purposes. All interest earned on the investment or deposit of money in the cash fund and all unappropriated or unencumbered money in the cash fund remain in the cash fund and do not revert to the general fund or any other fund at the end of any fiscal year or any other time.

(b) Repealed.

(c) On and after July 1, 2026, all fees collected pursuant to rules adopted under section 25-8-210 (1)(a)(I) shall be credited to the drinking water cash fund.

(3) Repealed.

Source: L. 2003: Entire section added with relocations, p. 1502, § 2, effective May 1. L. 2007: Entire section RC&RE, p. 1455, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2023: (2) amended and (3) added, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1109, § 2, effective May 17.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to the recreation of this section in 2007, subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2005. (See L. 2003, p. 1502.)

(2) Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of subsections (1), (2)(b), and (3), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 1109.)

25-1.5-210. Best practices for residential rooftop precipitation collection.

(1) With respect to the use of a rain barrel, as defined in section 37-96.5-102 (1), C.R.S., to collect precipitation from a residential rooftop pursuant to section 37-96.5-103, C.R.S., the department, to the extent practicable within existing resources, shall develop best practices for:

(a) Nonpotable usage of the collected precipitation; and

(b) Disease and pest vector control.

(2) If the department develops best practices in accordance with subsection (1) of this section, the department shall:

(a) Post the best practices on the department's website; and

(b) Inform the state engineer of the best practices so that the state engineer can either post or link to the department's best practices on the state engineer's website.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1005), ch. 161, p. 511, § 2, effective August 10.

PART 3

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS

25-1.5-301. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Administration" means assisting a person in the ingestion, application, inhalation, or, using universal precautions, rectal or vaginal insertion of medication, including prescription drugs, according to the legibly written or printed directions of the attending physician or other authorized practitioner or as written on the prescription label and making a written record thereof with regard to each medication administered, including the time and the amount taken, but "administration" does not include judgment, evaluation, or assessments or the injections of medication, the monitoring of medication, or the self-administration of medication, including prescription drugs and including the self-injection of medication by the resident. "Administration" also means ingestion through gastrostomy tubes or naso-gastric tubes, if administered by a person authorized pursuant to sections 25.5-10-204 (2)(j) and 27-10.5-103 (2)(i), C.R.S., as part of residential or day program services provided through service agencies approved by the department of health care policy and financing and supervised by a licensed physician or nurse.

(2) "Facility" means:

(a) The correctional facilities under the supervision of the executive director of the department of corrections including, but not limited to:

(I) Those facilities provided for in article 20 of title 17, C.R.S.;

(II) Minimum security facilities provided for in article 25 of title 17, C.R.S.;

(III) Jails provided for in article 26 of title 17, C.R.S.;

(IV) Community correctional facilities and programs provided for in article 27 of title 17, C.R.S.;

(V) The regimented inmate discipline and treatment program provided for in article 27.7 of title 17, C.R.S.; and

(VI) The Denver regional diagnostic center provided for in article 40 of title 17, C.R.S.;

(b) Institutions for juveniles established in part 15 of article 2.5 of title 19;

(b.5) Assisted living residences as defined in section 25-27-102 (1.3);

(c) Adult foster care facilities provided for in section 26-2-122.3, C.R.S.;

(d) Alternate care facilities provided for in section 25.5-6-303 (3), C.R.S.;

(e) Residential child care facilities for children as defined in section 26-6-903;

(f) Secure residential treatment centers as defined in section 26-6-903;

(g) Facilities that provide treatment for persons with mental health disorders as defined in section 27-65-102, except for those facilities that are publicly or privately licensed hospitals;

(h) All services funded through and regulated by the department of health care policy and financing pursuant to article 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S., in support of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities; and

(i) Adult day care facilities providing services in support of persons as defined in section 25.5-6-303 (1), C.R.S.

(3) "Monitoring" means:

(a) Reminding the resident to take medication or medications at the time ordered by the physician or other authorized licensed practitioner;

(b) Handing a resident a container or package of medication lawfully labeled previously for the individual resident by a licensed physician or other authorized licensed practitioner;

(c) Visual observation of the resident to ensure compliance;

(d) Making a written record of the resident's compliance with regard to each medication, including the time taken; and

(e) Notification to the physician or other authorized practitioner if the resident refuses to or is not able to comply with the physician's or other practitioner's instructions with regard to the medication.

(4) "Qualified manager" means a person who:

(a) Is the owner or operator of the facility or a supervisor designated by the owner or operator of the facility for the purpose of implementing section 25-1.5-303; and

(b) Has completed training in the administration of medications pursuant to section 25-1.5-303 or is a licensed nurse pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12, a licensed physician pursuant to article 240 of title 12, or a licensed pharmacist pursuant to article 280 of title 12. Every unlicensed person who is a "qualified manager" within the meaning of this subsection (4) shall successfully complete a competency evaluation pertaining to the administration of medications.

(5) "Self-administration" means the ability of a person to take medication independently without any assistance from another person.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 694, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2)(d) and (2)(i) amended, p. 2014, § 86, effective July 1; (2)(g) amended, p. 1405, § 64, effective August 7. L. 2010: (2)(g) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 798, § 60, effective April 29. L. 2012: (4)(b) amended, (SB 12-1311), ch. 281, p. 1627, § 70, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1) and (2)(h) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1806, § 38, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2016: (2)(e) and (2)(f) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 770, § 59, effective June 6; (2)(h) and (4)(b) amended, (HB 16-1424), ch. 307, p. 1233, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: (2)(g) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1324, § 187, effective May 25. L. 2019: (4)(b) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1697, § 143, effective October 1. L. 2020: (4)(b) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 701, § 56, effective July 1. L. 2021: (2)(b) amended, (SB 21-059), ch. 136, p. 746, § 120, effective October 1. L. 2022: (2)(e) and (2)(f) amended, (HB 22-1295), ch. 123, p. 846, § 70, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(ee)(I.5)(A), (1)(ee)(I.5)(B), (1)(ee)(II), (1)(ee)(II.5), and (1)(ee)(III)(A) as they existed prior to 2003.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-1.5-302. Administration of medications - powers and duties of department - record checks - rules.

(1) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the power to establish and maintain by rule a program for the administration of medications in facilities. The department of human services, the behavioral health administration, the department of health care policy and financing, and the department of corrections shall develop and conduct a medication administration program as provided in this part 3. A medication administration program developed pursuant to this subsection (1) must be conducted within the following guidelines:

(a) As a condition to authorizing or renewing the authorization to operate any facility that administers medications to persons under its care, the authorizing agency shall require that the facility have a staff member qualified pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section on duty at any time that the facility administers such medications and that the facility maintain a written record of each medication administered to each resident, including the date, time, and amount of the medication and the signature of the person administering the medication. Such record is subject to review by the authorizing agency as a part of the agency's procedure in authorizing the continued operation of the facility. Notwithstanding any exemption enumerated in subsection (1)(b) of this section, any facility may establish a policy that requires a person authorized to administer medication to report to, be supervised by, or be otherwise accountable for the performance of such administration to a registered nurse as defined in section 12-255-104.

(b) Any individual who is not otherwise authorized by law to administer medication in a facility shall be allowed to perform such duties only after passing a competency evaluation. An individual who administers medications in facilities in compliance with the provisions of this part 3 shall be exempt from the licensing requirements of the "Colorado Medical Practice Act", the "Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act", and the laws of this state pertaining to possession of controlled substances as contained in article 280 of title 12, part 2 of article 80 of title 27, or the "Uniform Controlled Substances Act of 2013", article 18 of title 18.

(2) (a) The department shall establish by rule the minimum requirements for course content, including competency evaluations, for medication administration and to determine compliance with the requirements for facilities licensed under this title.

(b) The department shall approve training entities for facilities licensed under this title and maintain a list of approved training entities. The department shall establish by rule the minimum requirements for training entities, including instructor qualifications and the approval process. Approved training entities shall provide the department with a list of all persons who have successfully completed a competency evaluation.

(c) Training entities shall also provide the department with any other pertinent information reasonably requested by the department pursuant to the department's obligation and authority under this section.

(d) The department shall publish and maintain a current list of all persons who have passed a competency evaluation from an approved training entity and paid the fee required by paragraph (e) of this subsection (2).

(e) The department shall set and collect a uniform fee for inclusion in the public competency listing. The department shall not include an individual on the public listing unless the individual has successfully completed a competency evaluation from an approved training entity and paid the fee established by the department. The revenue generated from the fee must approximate the direct and indirect costs incurred by the department in the performance of duties under this section.

(3) The department of human services, the department of health care policy and financing, and the department of corrections may develop and approve minimum requirements for course content, including competency evaluations, for individuals who administer medications in facilities whose operation is authorized by those departments. A department that administers competency evaluations shall maintain a public list of individuals who have successfully completed the competency evaluation.

(4) to (7) Repealed.

(8) Each owner, operator, or supervisor of a facility who employs a person who is not licensed to administer medications shall conduct a criminal background check on each employee prior to employment or promotion to a position in which the person has access to medications. When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an employee performed pursuant to this section reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the owner, operator, or supervisor of the facility shall require that employee to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d).

(9) Every unlicensed person and qualified manager described in this section, as a condition of employment or promotion to a position in which he or she has access to medications, shall sign a disclosure statement under penalty of perjury stating that he or she never had a professional license to practice nursing, medicine, or pharmacy revoked in this or any other state for reasons directly related to the administration of medications.

(10) A person who, on or before July 1, 2017, is authorized to administer medication pursuant to this section is not required to complete additional training but is otherwise subject to this section.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 696, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2009: (7)(c) amended and (8) added, (SB 09-128), ch. 365, p. 1915, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(b) amended, (HB 12-1311), ch. 281, p. 1627, § 71, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1)(b) amended, (SB 13-250), ch. 333, p. 1940, § 62, effective October 1. L. 2016: IP(1), (1)(a), (3), and (8) amended and (9) and (10) added, (HB 16-1424), ch. 307, p. 1233, § 2, effective July 1; (2) amended, (HB 16-1424), ch. 307, p. 1235, § 3, effective July 1, 2017; (4)(b), (5)(b), (6)(b), and (7)(d) added by revision, (HB 16-1424), ch. 307, pp. 1235, 1238, §§ 3, 6. L. 2019: (8) amended, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 553, § 36, effective April 18; (1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1698, § 144, effective October 1. L. 2020: (1)(b) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 702, § 57, effective July 1. L. 2022: (8) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 525, § 38, effective April 21. L. 2023: IP(1) amended, (HB 23-1236), ch. 206, p. 1052, § 8, effective May 16.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(ee)(I) and (1)(ee)(I.3) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsections (4)(b), (5)(b), (6)(b), and (7)(d) provided for the repeal of subsections (4), (5), (6), and (7), respectively, effective July 1, 2017. (See L. 2016, p. 1235.)

Cross references: For the "Colorado Medical Practice Act", see article 240 of title 12; for the "Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act", see article 255 of title 12.

25-1.5-303. Medication reminder boxes or systems - medication cash fund - repeal.

(1) Medication reminder boxes or systems may be used if such containers have been filled and properly labeled by a pharmacist licensed pursuant to article 280 of title 12, a nurse licensed pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12, or an unlicensed person trained pursuant to this section or filled and properly labeled through the gratuitous care by members of one's family or friends. Nothing in this section authorizes or shall be construed to authorize the practice of pharmacy, as defined in section 12-280-103 (39). An unlicensed person shall not fill and label medication reminder boxes pursuant to this section until the person has successfully completed a competency evaluation from an approved training entity or has been approved by an authorized agency, and no facility shall use an unlicensed person to perform such services unless the facility has a qualified manager to oversee the work of the unlicensed person or persons.

(2) The department has, in addition to all other powers and duties imposed upon it by law, the powers and duties provided in this section to develop and implement rules with respect to the provisions in subsection (1) of this section concerning the administration of medication reminder boxes.

(3) The executive directors of the departments that control the facilities defined in section 25-1.5-301 (2)(a) and (2)(b) may direct the unlicensed staff of any such facility to monitor medications in any part of any such facility. Administration of medications in any such facility shall be allowed only in those areas of any such facility that have a licensed physician or other licensed practitioner on duty. Notwithstanding other training requirements established in this section, the operator or administrator of every facility that hires an unlicensed person to administer medications pursuant to this section shall provide on-the-job training for such person, and all such unlicensed persons hired on or after July 1, 2017, shall be adequately supervised until they have successfully completed the training. The on-the-job training must be appropriate to the job responsibilities of each trainee. Facility operators and administrators shall require each unlicensed person who administers medication in the facility to pass a competency evaluation pursuant to section 25-1.5-302 (2) as a condition of employment in that facility. Facility operators and administrators shall document each unlicensed person's satisfactory completion of on-the-job training and passage of the competency evaluation in his or her permanent personnel file.

(4) A person who self-administers medication is personally responsible for medication administration. No facility shall be responsible for observing or documenting the self-administration of medication. Compliance with the requirements for the training of unlicensed persons in medication administration pursuant to this section is not required when persons being cared for are self-administering.

(5) (a) All fees collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the medication administration cash fund, which fund is hereby created.

(b) The general assembly shall make annual appropriations from the medication administration cash fund for expenditures of the department incurred in the performance of its duties under this section.

(c) Repealed.

(d) In accordance with section 24-36-114, C.R.S., all interest derived from the deposit and investment of the medication administration cash fund created in paragraph (a) of this subsection (5) shall be credited to the general fund.

(e) (I) Notwithstanding subsection (5)(a) of this section, on July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer two hundred thousand dollars from the medication administration cash fund created in subsection (5)(a) of this section to the cottage foods cash fund created in section 25-4-1614.5.

(II) This subsection (5)(e) is repealed, effective July 1, 2028.

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 697, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2009: (3) amended, (SB 09-128), ch. 365, p. 1914, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1) amended, (HB 12-1311), ch. 281, p. 1628, § 72, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1), (2), (3), and (5)(c) amended, (HB 16-1424), ch. 307, p. 1237, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1698, § 145, effective October 1. L. 2020: (1) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 702, § 58, effective July 1. L. 2026: (5)(e) added, (HB 26-1033), ch. 375, p. 2332, § 4, effective June 4.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-1-107 IP(1)(ee)(I.5), (1)(ee)(I.6), (1)(ee)(III)(B), (1)(ee)(IV), (1)(ee)(IV.5), and (1)(ee)(V) as they existed prior to 2003.

(2) Subsection (5)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (5)(c), effective July 1, 2017. (See L. 2016, p. 1237.)

Cross references: For the short title ("Tamale Act") in HB 26-1033, see section 1 of chapter 375, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-1.5-304. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2003: Entire article added with relocations, p. 699, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section repealed, (SB 09-128), ch. 365, p. 1913, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Prior to its repeal in 2009, this section was similar to former § 25-1-107 (1)(ee)(VI) and (1)(ee)(VII) as they existed prior to 2003.

PART 4

PRIMARY CARE OFFICE

25-1.5-401. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) There is a shortage of qualified health-care professionals in most areas of the state, particularly in rural and low-income communities;

(b) Lack of access to health care increases health inequities in Colorado and increases the overall cost of health-care services;

(c) Communities designated as health professional shortage areas, medically underserved areas, or medically underserved populations may benefit from:

(I) Federal, state, and private programs that enhance reimbursement for medical services, provide grants for health service infrastructure, and create incentives for the placement of additional health-care professionals in those communities; and

(II) The placement of physicians through federal waiver programs such as the national interest waiver program, the Conrad 30 J-1 visa waiver program, and the national health service corps; and

(d) Assessing the health service needs of the state and coordinating workforce programs to address those needs is an important strategy for increasing access to health services in Colorado.

(2) The general assembly therefore finds that it is in the best interests of the citizens of the state of Colorado to create the primary care office within the department of public health and environment for the purpose of identifying the areas within the state that lack sufficient health-care resources and coordinating available resources to maximize medical reimbursements, grants, and placements of health-care professionals within those areas.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 479, § 1, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-601 as it existed prior to 2013.

25-1.5-402. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Conrad 30 J-1 visa waiver program" means the program established in 8 U.S.C. sec. 1184 (l)(1)(D)(ii), allowing foreign-trained physicians who meet certain criteria to practice in communities designated as medically underserved areas, medically underserved populations, or health professional shortage areas.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment, created in section 25-1-102.

(3) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department.

(4) "Health-care professional" means a licensed physician, an advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to section 12-255-111, a mental health practitioner, a licensed physician assistant, or any other licensed health-care provider for which the federal government authorizes participation in a federally matched state loan repayment program to encourage health-care professionals to provide services in underserved communities.

(5) "Health professional shortage area" has the same meaning as provided in 42 U.S.C. sec. 254e.

(6) "Medically underserved area" means a medically underserved community as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 295p.

(7) "Medically underserved population" has the same meaning as provided in 42 U.S.C. sec. 254b.

(8) "National health service corps" means the program established in 42 U.S.C. sec. 254d.

(9) "National interest waiver program" means the program established in 8 U.S.C. sec. 1153 (b)(2)(B)(ii) allowing foreign-trained physicians who meet certain criteria to practice in communities designated as medically underserved areas, medically underserved populations, or health professional shortage areas.

(10) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(11) "State-designated health professional shortage area" means an area of the state designated by the primary care office, in accordance with state-specific methodologies established by the state board by rule pursuant to section 25-1.5-404 (1)(a), as experiencing a shortage of health-care professionals or behavioral health-care providers.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 480, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: (11) added, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1411, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2019: (4) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1699, § 146, effective October 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-602 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-1.5-403. Primary care office - creation.

(1) There is hereby created in the department the primary care office for the purpose of assessing and addressing unmet needs concerning health-care professionals, resources, and infrastructure across the state. The executive director of the department, subject to the provisions of section 13 of article XII of the state constitution, shall appoint the director of the primary care office, who is the head of the office.

(2) The primary care office and the director of the office are type 2 entities, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercise their powers and perform their duties and functions specified in this part 4 under the department.

(3) The primary care office includes the Colorado health service corps advisory council created in section 25-1.5-504.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 481, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3367, § 44, effective August 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-603 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1.5-404. Primary care office - powers and duties - rules.

(1) The primary care office has, at a minimum, the following powers and duties:

(a) To assess the health-care professional, geriatric advanced practice provider, and behavioral health-care professional needs of areas throughout the state and create and administer state-designated health professional shortage areas in accordance with state board rules adopted under this subsection (1)(a) establishing state-specific methodologies for designating areas experiencing a shortage of health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, or behavioral health-care providers. The primary care office shall coordinate with the department of health care policy and financing in developing the health professional shortage area designation methodologies and in drafting rules under this subsection (1)(a).

(b) To apply to the United States department of health and human services, when appropriate, for designation of communities in the state as medically underserved areas, medically underserved populations, or health professional shortage areas or as any other designations necessary to participate in a federal program to address health-care professional shortages;

(c) To maximize the placement of health-care professionals who serve communities designated as medically underserved areas, medically underserved populations, or health professional shortage areas, or any other communities eligible for participation in a federal, state, or private program to address health-care professional shortages, for the purpose of qualifying said communities for increased reimbursements, grants, and health-care professional placements;

(d) To administer the Colorado health service corps pursuant to part 5 of this article;

(e) To administer or provide technical assistance to participants in applicable federal programs intended to address health-care professional shortages, including the Conrad 30 J-1 visa waiver program, the national interest waiver program, and the national health service corps. The state board may promulgate rules as necessary for the administration of these programs and shall establish by rule application fees for the Conrad 30 J-1 visa waiver program and the national interest waiver program. The primary care office shall transfer the fee amounts collected to the state treasurer for crediting to the visa waiver program fund established in section 25-1.5-405.

(f) To seek and accept public or private gifts, grants, or donations to apply to the costs incurred in fulfilling the duties specified in this section and otherwise administering the programs within the office;

(g) To administer nursing and health-care professional faculty loan repayment pursuant to part 5 of this article;

(h) To develop and administer the practice-based health education grant program as described in section 25-1.5-407; and

(i) With the governor's office of information technology, to work through the government data advisory board, created in section 24-37.5-702, to determine data-sharing agreements that integrate data collected by the state under existing authorities that may inform the analysis of need, allocation of resources, and evaluation of performance of state-administered or state-financed health workforce planning or development initiatives.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 481, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: (1)(a) amended, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1411, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(a) amended, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2832, § 7, effective September 7. L. 2022: (1)(f) amended and (1)(h) and (1)(i) added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1186, § 3, effective May 18.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-604 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021. For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1.5-405. Visa waiver program fund.

There is hereby created in the state treasury the visa waiver program fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", that consists of the application fees collected pursuant to section 25-1.5-404 (1)(e) and any additional moneys that the general assembly may appropriate to the fund. The moneys in the fund are subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for the direct and indirect costs incurred by the department in performing its duties under this part 4. Any moneys in the fund not expended for the purpose of this part 4 may be invested by the state treasurer as provided by law. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remain in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or another fund.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 482, § 1, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-605 as it existed prior to 2013.

25-1.5-406. School nurse grant program - creation - eligibility - award of grants - rules - report - legislative declaration - definitions.

(1) (a) The general assembly finds that:

(I) School nurses play a vital role in a child's health and educational welfare in school, acting as a health-care safety net for children;

(II) When a school nurse is in a school, fewer children are sent home sick or miss school, fewer children are sent to emergency rooms for asthma, fewer 911 calls are made, and teachers and principals have more time to teach and lead;

(III) School nurses are trained to handle medical emergencies and to provide advanced first aid, as well as to provide advanced care to children who depend on medical devices, medication, or medical interventions to remain in school;

(IV) School nurses are also crucial to children's mental health and spend nearly one-third of their time on the mental health concerns of children, including referring children for critical mental health services; and

(V) In addition to providing services in schools, school nurses provide education and training to school staff, promoting healthy behaviors and creating a safe and healthy school environment for children, including children with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and severe allergies.

(b) The general assembly further finds that:

(I) Despite the demonstrated benefit to students and school staff of having school nurses in schools, according to the Colorado department of education, there are approximately only six hundred thirty school nurses in Colorado serving over nine hundred thousand school-aged children;

(II) On average, this requires one full-time school nurse to serve fifteen hundred students, with some nurses serving fewer students and some nurses serving up to three thousand students; and

(III) The number of school nurses serving students is determined by the school district and largely paid for from limited school district funding.

(c) Therefore, the general assembly declares that providing critical funding to increase children's access to school nurses is vital to the health and well-being of Colorado's school children.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Grant program" means the school nurse grant program created in subsection (3) of this section.

(b) "Local education provider" means a school district, other than a local college district, organized and existing pursuant to law; a board of cooperative services; a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22; or a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of title 22.

(c) "Rural school district" means a school district in Colorado that the department of education, created in section 24-1-115, determines is rural, based on the geographic size of the school district and the distance of the school district from the nearest large, urbanized area.

(d) "School" means a public elementary, middle, junior high, or high school.

(e) "School nurse" means a registered nurse who holds a current nursing license through the department of regulatory agencies and who has applied for or holds a special services license from the department of education pursuant to article 60.5 of title 22.

(f) "Small rural school district" means a school district in Colorado that the department of education, created in section 24-1-115, determines is rural, based on the geographic size of the school district and the distance of the school district from the nearest large, urbanized area, and that enrolls fewer than one thousand two hundred students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.

(3) There is created in the department the school nurse grant program to award grants to local education providers to increase the number of school nurses in Colorado public schools. The grant program is administered by the primary care office in the department. The state board may promulgate rules, as necessary, to implement the grant program.

(4) (a) Except as provided in subsection (4)(b) of this section, a local education provider awarded a grant pursuant to this section shall use the grant money to hire a school nurse or nurses in the selected school or schools. The grant shall supplement, not supplant, a local education provider's funding for school nurse positions and student health-care services existing in the local education provider's most recent fiscal year prior to the year of the application to the grant program.

(b) A small rural school district or rural school district awarded a grant pursuant to this section shall first make reasonable efforts to use the grant money to hire a school nurse for the selected school or schools. If a small rural school district or rural school district can demonstrate to the department that it is unable to find a school nurse to fill the school nurse position, the small rural school district or rural school district may use the grant money to contract with a local public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506, a federally qualified health center as defined in section 25-3-101 (2)(a)(III)(A), or other similar community health-care provider, or a registered nurse, to provide health services to the selected school or schools. The person providing health services must meet or exceed the academic and professional qualifications of a school nurse.

(5) In applying for a grant, in addition to complying with the application process and requirements established by the department or state board rule, a local education provider seeking a grant shall include the following information in the grant application:

(a) The ratio of school nurses to the number of students served by the local education provider in all schools and in each school of the local education provider;

(b) The local education provider's number and percentage of schools that are eligible to receive money under Title I, part A of the federal "Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965", 20 U.S.C. sec. 6301 et seq.;

(c) Whether a school district applicant is a small rural school district or rural school district;

(d) The school or schools in which the local education provider intends to use the grant money to hire a school nurse;

(e) The amount of money necessary to attract and retain a school nurse in the school or schools of the local education provider for the grant cycle and whether the local education provider intends to supplement a grant with any additional money to hire the school nurse position or positions; and

(f) The local education provider's plan for continuing to fund the increases in school nursing services following expiration or nonrenewal of the grant.

(6) (a) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall annually award grants in the grant program. The department may fund more than one school nurse position per grant recipient. The amount of the grant must cover up to the cost of hiring a school nurse position or positions in the local education provider's selected school or schools.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2022.)

(c) The department shall give preference to an applicant that:

(I) Is a small rural school district or rural school district; or

(II) Is eligible to receive money under Title I, part A of the federal "Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965", 20 U.S.C. sec. 6301 et seq.

(7) The department may expend a portion of the grant money to offset the department's reasonable and necessary expenses in administering the grant program.

(8) (a) In any fiscal year in which the general assembly makes an appropriation to the department for the grant program, each local education provider that receives a grant pursuant to the program shall provide information to the department on or before June 30 concerning the number of school nurse positions hired through the grant program, the number of students served through the school nurse position, an explanation of services provided by the school nurse, and the impact of the grant program-funded school nurse position on the local education provider and the students it serves.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I) to the contrary, on or before September 1, 2020, and on or before September 1 in each fiscal year thereafter in which the state board has awarded grants in the prior fiscal year, the department shall submit a report to the education and the health and insurance committees of the house of representatives and the education and the health and human services committees of the senate, or any successor committees, that includes, at a minimum, a summary of the information reported by grant recipients pursuant to subsection (8)(a) of this section.

(9) The general assembly shall appropriate three million dollars from the economic recovery and relief cash fund created in section 24-75-228 to the department for the grant program. Any money remaining at the end of the 2022-23 state fiscal year from this appropriation is further appropriated to the department for the purposes of this section. The department shall obligate and spend the money received pursuant to this subsection (9) in accordance with section 24-75-226 (4)(d).

(10) The department and any person who receives money from the department shall comply with the compliance, reporting, record-keeping, and program evaluation requirements established by the office of state planning and budgeting and the state controller in accordance with section 24-75-226 (5).

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1203), ch. 325, p. 3000, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2022: (3), (4)(a), (5)(e), and (6) amended and (9) and (10) added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1191, § 9, effective May 18. L. 2023: (9) amended, (HB 23-1246), ch. 199, p. 1019, § 8, effective May 16. L. 2024: (9) amended, (HB 24-1466), ch. 429, p. 2942, § 28, effective June 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1246, see section 1 of chapter 199, Session Laws of Colorado 2023. For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1466, see section 1 of chapter 429, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-1.5-407. Practice-based health education grant program - creation - primary care office to administer.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall implement the practice-based health education grant program, referred to in this section as the "grant program", to increase practice-based training opportunities necessary for health profession students enrolled in accredited Colorado schools to complete degree requirements and become licensed to practice or program participants enrolled in other training or residency programs offered by a public or nonprofit Colorado medical school or residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) to gain hands-on experience in pursuit of a license in the health-care field.

(2) (a) The grant program shall support the expansion of practice-based training by providing grants to organizations, public or nonprofit Colorado medical schools, or ACGME-accredited residency programs that increase clinical practice-based training capacity for health profession students and program participants. The grant program shall give priority to students from the Colorado public institutions of higher education that offer clinical-based training to students. Organizations, medical schools, and residency programs that receive grants may apply grant funding to costs associated with student and program participant experience coordination, clinical instructors or preceptors, or any other reasonable costs directly associated with the expansion of practice-based training for health profession students or participants in the organization, medical school, or residency program.

(b) The primary care office shall consider the ability of the organizations, medical schools, or residency programs applying for a grant to provide financial or in-kind matching support when the office determines grant awardees, but the office shall avoid disadvantaging small, rural, or nonprofit applicants with a high public payer mix or applicants that disproportionately provide uncompensated care.

(3) The primary care office, referred to in this section as the "office", shall administer the grant program.

(4) In the development of the grant program, the office shall conduct a stakeholder engagement process to recommend:

(a) Grant program eligibility criteria;

(b) Standards to measure applicant capacity to expand practice-based training based upon previous years;

(c) A means to evaluate applicant strategies for reaching expected target practice-based training expansion goals;

(d) Ways to promote evidence-based, technology-enhanced clinical learning opportunities in organizations, medical schools, or residency programs awarded a grant. These opportunities must include clinical simulation lab investments in at least one grant award.

(e) Ways to evaluate applicant principles that are aligned with implementing lasting organizational culture change and internal plans that support staff wellness, retention, and training, such as:

(I) Expanded employee assistance or wellness programs;

(II) Commitment to establishing and maintaining staffing committees tasked with operational input and review of workplace practices; and

(III) Strategies for sustaining increased preceptor and practice-based training capacity;

(f) A statement of principles aligned with equity, inclusion, and diversity goals, especially as they relate to health professional workforce training and development; and

(g) Metrics and reporting responsibilities for grantees.

(5) The general assembly shall appropriate twenty million dollars from the economic recovery and relief cash fund created in section 24-75-228 to the department to implement the grant program. Any unexpended money remaining at the end of the 2022-23 state fiscal year from this appropriation:

(a) Repealed.

(b) Remains available for expenditure until December 31, 2026, without further appropriation; and

(c) Must not be used for any other purpose other than the purposes set forth in this section.

(6) As used in this section, "preceptor" means a health-care professional who is registered, certified, or licensed, as appropriate, pursuant to title 12 and who assumes the responsibility of teaching, supervising, and evaluating a student seeking a credential in a health-care profession discipline as part of the student's clinical training and education.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1187, § 4, effective May 18. L. 2024: (5)(a) repealed and (5)(b) amended, (HB 24-1465), ch. 257, p. 1685, § 8, effective May 24.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

PART 5

STATE HEALTH-CARE PROFESSIONAL LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM

25-1.5-501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that there are areas of Colorado that suffer from a lack of health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, or behavioral health-care providers to serve, and a lack of nursing or other health-care professional faculty to train health-care professionals to meet, the medical and behavioral health-care needs of communities. The general assembly further finds that the state needs to implement incentives to encourage health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, and behavioral health-care providers to practice in these underserved areas and to encourage nursing faculty and other health-care professional faculty to teach health-care professionals.

(2) It is therefore the intent of the general assembly in enacting this part 5 to create a state health service corps program that uses state money, federal money, when permissible, and contributions from communities and private sources to help repay the outstanding education loans that many health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, nursing faculty, and health-care professional faculty hold. In exchange for repayment of loans incurred for the purpose of obtaining education in their chosen health-care, geriatric care, and behavioral health-care professions, the health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, behavioral health-care providers, and candidates for licensure will commit to provide health-care, geriatric care, or behavioral health-care services, as applicable, in communities with underserved health-care, geriatric care, or behavioral health-care needs throughout the state, and the nursing and health-care professional faculty will commit to provide a specified period of service in a qualified faculty position.

(3) In addition, for purposes of increasing the availability of certified addiction counselors, it is the intent of the general assembly to create a scholarship program to provide scholarships to addiction counselors who, in exchange for receiving scholarships to assist them in obtaining the required education and training to be certified as an addiction counselor, commit to practice in a health professional shortage area for a specified period.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 482, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1411, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1) and (2) amended, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2827, § 2, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-701 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Advanced practice provider" means an advanced practice registered nurse, as defined in section 12-255-104 (1), or a physician assistant licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12.

(1.2) "Advisory council" means the Colorado health service corps advisory council created pursuant to section 25-1.5-504.

(1.3) "Behavioral health-care provider" means the following providers who provide behavioral health-care services within their scope of practice:

(a) A licensed addiction counselor;

(b) A certified addiction counselor;

(c) A licensed professional counselor;

(d) A licensed clinical social worker;

(e) A licensed marriage and family therapist;

(f) A licensed psychologist;

(g) A licensed physician assistant with specific training in substance use disorders;

(h) An advanced practice registered nurse with specific training in substance use disorders, pain management, or psychiatric nursing; or

(i) A physician with specific board certification or training in addiction medicine, pain management, or psychiatry.

(1.5) "Behavioral health-care services" means services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of, and the recovery from, mental health and substance use disorders.

(1.7) "Candidate for licensure" means a person who:

(a) Is a candidate for a license as a licensed psychologist, clinical social worker, marriage and family therapist, licensed professional counselor, or addiction counselor;

(b) Has completed a master's degree or, for a psychologist licensure candidate, has completed a doctoral degree;

(c) Has not yet completed the supervised experience hours required for licensure pursuant to section 12-245-304 (1)(d), 12-245-404 (2)(c), 12-245-504 (1)(d), 12-245-604 (1)(d), or 12-245-804 (1)(g), as applicable; and

(d) Is or will be providing behavioral health-care services.

(2) "Colorado health service corps" means the loan repayment program created and operated pursuant to this part 5.

(3) "Colorado health service corps fund" or "fund" means the Colorado health service corps fund created in section 25-1.5-506.

(4) "Federally designated health professional shortage area" means a health professional shortage area as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 254e.

(4.3) "Geriatric advanced practice provider" means an advanced practice provider who satisfies one of the following:

(a) Has completed a formal postgraduate geriatrics training program;

(b) Has completed:

(I) Formal geriatrics training within the advanced practice provider training program, which includes didactic teaching or training about geriatric syndromes and the importance of physical and cognitive function in the care of older adults; and

(II) Postgraduate clinical experience with an emphasis on time spent providing geriatric care; or

(c) Has completed geriatric track clinical experience within the advanced practice provider training program.

(4.5) "Geriatric care" means health care that is provided to older adults, including care provided in outpatient, post-acute, or home-based settings, that focuses on identifying and managing geriatric syndromes and the importance of the older adult's physical and cognitive functional status. "Geriatric care" does not include hospice-only care.

(5) "Health-care professional" means a licensed physician, an advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to section 12-255-111, a mental health practitioner, a licensed physician assistant, or any other licensed health-care provider for which the federal government authorizes participation in a federally matched state loan repayment program to encourage health-care professionals to provide services in underserved communities.

(6) "Health-care professional faculty member" means a person who has an advanced degree in a health-care professional field and is employed in a qualified faculty position.

(6.5) "Health professional shortage area" means a federally designated health professional shortage area or a state-designated health professional shortage area.

(7) "National health service corps program" means the program established in 42 U.S.C. sec. 254d.

(8) "Nursing faculty member" means a person who has an advanced degree in nursing and is employed in a qualified faculty position.

(8.5) "Older adult" means an individual who is at least sixty-five years of age.

(9) "Primary care office" means the primary care office created pursuant to part 4 of this article.

(10) "Primary health services" means health services regarding family medicine, general practice, general internal medicine, pediatrics, general obstetrics and gynecology, oral health, or mental health that are provided by health-care professionals.

(11) "Qualified faculty position" means a part-time or full-time teaching position at an educational institution with accredited nursing or health-care professional training programs, which position requires an advanced degree that meets national accreditation standards and is approved by the primary care office.

(12) "Scholarship program" means the scholarship program for addiction counselors created in section 25-1.5-503.5.

(13) "State-designated health professional shortage area" means an area of the state designated by the primary care office, in accordance with state-specific methodologies established by the state board by rule pursuant to section 25-1.5-404 (1)(a), as experiencing a shortage of health-care professionals, geriatric advanced practice providers, or behavioral health-care providers.

(14) "Underserved population" means any of the following:

(a) Individuals eligible for medical assistance under articles 4 to 6 of title 25.5;

(b) Individuals who are provided services by a behavioral health-care provider and are either charged fees on a sliding scale based upon income or are served without charge.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 483, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: (1.3), (1.5), (1.7), (6.5), (12), (13), and (14) added, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1412, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1.7)(c) and (5) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1699, § 147, effective October 1. L. 2021: (1) and (13) amended and (1.2), (4.3), (4.5), and (8.5) added, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2828, § 3, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-702 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-503. Colorado health service corps - program - creation - conditions.

(1) (a) (I) The primary care office shall maintain and administer, subject to available appropriations, the Colorado health service corps. Subject to available appropriations, the Colorado health service corps shall provide loan repayment for certain eligible:

(A) Health-care professionals who provide primary health services;

(B) Nursing faculty members or health-care professional faculty members in qualified faculty positions;

(C) Behavioral health-care providers and candidates for licensure who provide behavioral health-care services; and

(D) Geriatric advanced practice providers.

(II) Under the Colorado health service corps, subject to the limitations specified in subsection (2) of this section, upon entering into a loan contract the state may either:

(A) Make payments on the education loans of the health-care professional, behavioral health-care provider, candidate for licensure, geriatric advanced practice provider, nursing faculty member, or health-care professional faculty member; or

(B) Agree to make an advance payment in a lump sum of all or part of the principal, interest, and related expenses of the education loans of health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, or health-care professional faculty members, subject to the limitations specified in subsection (2) of this section.

(III) (A) In consideration for receiving repayment of all or part of his or her education loan, the health-care professional shall agree to provide primary health services in health professional shortage areas in Colorado.

(B) In consideration for receiving repayment of all or part of his or her education loan, the behavioral health-care provider or candidate for licensure shall agree to provide behavioral health-care services in health professional shortage areas in Colorado.

(IV) In consideration for receiving repayment of all or part of his or her education loan, the nursing or other health-care professional faculty member must agree to serve two or more consecutive academic years in a qualified faculty position.

(b) Repayment of loans under the Colorado health service corps may be made using money in the Colorado health service corps fund. The primary care office is authorized to receive and expend gifts, grants, and donations or money appropriated by the general assembly for the purpose of implementing the Colorado health service corps. In administering the Colorado health service corps, the primary care office shall collaborate with appropriate partners as needed to maximize the federal money available to the state for state loan repayment programs through the federal department of health and human services. The selection of health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, and health-care professional faculty members for participation in the Colorado health service corps is exempt from the competitive bidding requirements of the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24.

(c) The following providers are not eligible for loan repayment through the Colorado health service corps:

(I) Health-care professionals who are not practicing in primary care specialties or providing primary health services;

(II) Behavioral health-care providers and candidates for licensure who are not providing behavioral health-care services; and

(III) Geriatric advanced practice providers who are not providing geriatric care.

(d) (I) As a condition of receiving a loan repayment through the Colorado health service corps, a health-care professional or behavioral health-care provider must enter into a contract pursuant to which the health-care professional or behavioral health-care provider agrees to practice for at least two years in a community that is located in a health professional shortage area. The health-care professional or behavioral health-care provider, as applicable, the primary care office, and the community employer with which the health-care professional or behavioral health-care provider is practicing must be parties to the contract.

(II) As a condition of receiving a loan repayment through the Colorado health service corps, a nursing faculty or health-care professional faculty member must enter into a contract pursuant to which he or she agrees to serve at least two consecutive academic years or their equivalent in a qualified faculty position. The nursing faculty or health-care professional faculty member, the primary care office, and the educational institution where the qualified faculty position is located must be parties to the contract.

(III) As a condition of receiving a loan repayment through the Colorado health service corps, a candidate for licensure must enter into a contract pursuant to which the candidate for licensure agrees to practice for at least two years after obtaining the license, plus an additional amount of time equivalent to the time spent obtaining the supervised experience hours required for licensure while participating in the program, in a community that is located in a health professional shortage area. The candidate for licensure, the primary care office, and the community employer with which the candidate for licensure is practicing must be parties to the contract.

(IV) As a condition of receiving a loan repayment through the Colorado health service corps, a geriatric advanced practice provider must enter into a contract pursuant to which the geriatric advanced practice provider agrees to provide geriatric care for at least two years in a community that is located in a health professional shortage area. The geriatric advanced practice provider, the primary care office, and the community employer with which the geriatric advanced practice provider is practicing must be parties to the contract.

(2) Subject to available appropriations, the primary care office shall annually select health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, and health-care professional members from the list provided by the advisory council pursuant to section 25-1.5-504 (5)(a) to participate in the Colorado health service corps.

(3) The primary care office, after consulting with the advisory council and accredited health-care professional training programs in the state, shall develop loan forgiveness criteria for nursing faculty and other health-care professional faculty members. In determining whether to forgive the loan of a faculty member, the primary care office shall consider the following criteria:

(a) The faculty positions available at the educational institution at which the health-care professional works;

(b) Documented recruiting efforts by the educational institution;

(c) The attributes of the educational or training program that are designed with the intent to address known shortages of health-care professionals in Colorado;

(d) The type of programs offered at the educational institution, including associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees in the health-care professions, and the need for those programs in the state.

(4) In soliciting private grants to fund faculty loan repayments, the primary care office shall give priority to soliciting grants to fund repayments of loans for nursing faculty.

(5) (a) A health-care professional participating in the Colorado health service corps shall not practice with a for-profit private group or solo practice or at a proprietary hospital or clinic.

(b) For a behavioral health-care provider or candidate for licensure applying to participate in the Colorado health service corps, the advisory council shall prioritize behavioral health-care providers and candidates for licensure who are practicing with a nonprofit or public employer. The advisory council may also consider for participation in the Colorado health service corps behavioral health-care providers and candidates for licensure who are practicing with a for-profit employer, such as a private practice or other site, that provides services to an underserved population.

(c) For a geriatric advanced practice provider applying to participate in the Colorado health service corps, the advisory council shall develop the criteria to be used, and shall apply those criteria, in selecting geriatric advanced practice provider applicants and shall consider whether the applicant is willing to serve as a preceptor for advanced practice providers and other providers seeking training in geriatric care.

(6) A contract for loan repayment entered into pursuant to this part 5 must not include terms that are more favorable to health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, or geriatric advanced practice providers than the most favorable terms that the secretary of the federal department of health and human services is authorized to grant under the national health services corps program. In addition, each contract must include penalties for breach of contract that are at least as stringent as those available to the secretary of the federal department of health and human services. In the event of a breach of contract for a loan repayment entered into pursuant to this part 5, the primary care office shall enforce the contract and collect any damages or other penalties owed.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 483, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: (1), (2), (5), and (6) amended, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1413, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(a)(I)(B), (1)(a)(I)(C), (1)(a)(II), (1)(b), (1)(c), (2), and (6) amended and (1)(a)(I)(D), (1)(d)(IV), and (5)(c) added, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2829, § 4, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-703 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

ANNOTATION

Applied in Kurz v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health, 660 F. Supp. 3d 1046 (D. Colo. 2023).

25-1.5-503.5. Scholarship program for addiction counselors - creation - eligibility - conditions.

(1) Beginning in the 2018-19 state fiscal year, the primary care office shall maintain and administer a scholarship program to assist in increasing the population of certified addiction counselors providing behavioral health-care services in health professional shortage areas. Subject to available appropriations, the primary care office shall award scholarships to help defray the education and training costs associated with obtaining certification as an addiction counselor or with progressing to a higher level of certification for applicants who agree to practice in a health professional shortage area for a specified period.

(2) Under the scholarship program, subject to the limitations specified in this section, upon entering into a scholarship contract, the state may pay up to the full cost of educational materials and direct expenses associated with education and training required for certification as an addiction counselor or for progressing to a higher level of addiction counselor certification, which amount shall be paid to the academic institution or state-approved trainer where the addiction counselor student is enrolled or participating.

(3) As a condition of receiving a scholarship award to assist with obtaining certification or a higher level of certification, an applicant must enter into a contract with the primary care office pursuant to which he or she agrees to serve at least six consecutive months in a community that is located in a health professional shortage area.

(4) Subject to available appropriations, the primary care office shall annually select applicants from the list provided by the advisory council pursuant to section 25-1.5-504 (5)(b) for scholarship awards under this section.

(5) For purposes of recommending scholarship awards, the advisory council shall prioritize addiction counselors who are practicing with a nonprofit or public employer. The advisory council may also consider for participation in the scholarship program addiction counselors who are practicing with a for-profit employer, such as a private practice or other site, that provides services to an underserved population.

(6) In the event of a breach of contract for a scholarship entered into under this section, the primary care office shall enforce the contract and collect any damages or other penalties owed.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1416, § 7, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-1.5-504. Colorado health service corps advisory council - creation - membership - duties.

(1) There is hereby created in the primary care office the Colorado health service corps advisory council to review applications for participation in the Colorado health service corps and for scholarships under section 25-1.5-503.5 and to make recommendations to the primary care office pursuant to section 25-1.5-503 (2) and 25-1.5-503.5 (4).

(2) The advisory council consists of sixteen members appointed by the governor as provided in this subsection (2). In appointing members of the advisory council, the governor shall ensure that the advisory council includes at least one representative from each of the following organizations or practice areas:

(a) The commission on family medicine created pursuant to part 6 of article 1 of title 25.5;

(b) A nonprofit statewide membership organization that provides programs and services to enhance rural health care in Colorado;

(c) A membership organization representing federally qualified health centers in Colorado;

(d) A foundation that funds a health-care professional loan forgiveness program in Colorado;

(e) An economic development organization in Colorado;

(f) A membership organization representing community behavioral health-care providers;

(g) An advanced practice registered nurse in a faculty position at an educational institution with health-care professional programs, who is licensed to practice in Colorado;

(h) A physician who has experience in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity;

(i) A nurse who has experience in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity;

(j) A mental health provider who has experience in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity;

(k) An oral health provider who has experience in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity;

(l) A physician who is a faculty member of a medical school in Colorado;

(m) A citizen representative who has knowledge in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity;

(n) A membership organization representing substance use disorder service providers;

(o) A licensed or certified addiction counselor who has experience in rural health, safety net clinics, or health equity; and

(p) A physician who provides geriatric care or a geriatric advanced practice provider.

(3) (a) Members appointed to the advisory council may serve terms of three years.

(b) The governor may appoint the same person to serve as a member of the advisory council for consecutive terms.

(4) (a) Advisory council members shall serve without compensation and without reimbursement for expenses.

(b) The primary care office shall provide staff assistance to the advisory council as necessary for the advisory council to complete the duties specified in this section.

(5) (a) The advisory council shall review applications received from health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, and health-care professional faculty members to participate in the Colorado health service corps. Subject to available appropriations and federal requirements concerning eligibility for federal loan repayment matching funds, the advisory council shall annually select health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, and health-care professional faculty members to participate in the Colorado health service corps and shall forward its list of selected participants to the primary care office.

(b) The advisory council shall review applications received for participation in the scholarship program. Subject to available appropriations, the advisory council shall annually select addiction counselors to participate in the scholarship program and shall forward its list of selected participants to the primary care office.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 486, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2017: (6) repealed, (SB 17-137), ch. 139, p. 467, § 1, effective April 18; (2)(a) amended, (HB 17-1024), ch. 7, p. 22, § 3, effective August 9. L. 2018: (1), IP(2), (2)(l), and (5) amended and (2)(n) and (2)(o) added, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1417, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2021: IP(2), (2)(n), (2)(o), and (5)(a) amended and (2)(p) added, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2831, § 5, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-704 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-505. Advisory council - report.

(1) On or before December 1, 2011, and on or before December 1 every two years thereafter, the primary care office, with assistance from the advisory council, shall submit to the governor, the health and human services committee of the senate and the health and insurance and public and behavioral health and human services committees of the house of representatives, or any successor committees, a report that includes, at a minimum, the following information:

(a) A description of the health-care professionals, behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, geriatric advanced practice providers, nursing faculty members, and health-care professional faculty members participating in the Colorado health service corps program and the scholarship program;

(b) A description of the programmatic goals of the Colorado health service corps and the scholarship program, including the present status of and any barriers to meeting those goals;

(c) Existing efforts and potential future projects to overcome any barriers to meeting the programmatic goals of the Colorado health service corps and the scholarship program;

(d) An analysis of the effects of the Colorado health service corps program and the scholarship program on addressing the health-care, geriatric care, and behavioral health-care needs of communities in Colorado;

(e) A summary of any assessment or evaluation of program performance conducted during the year; and

(f) A description of the nursing faculty or other health-care professional faculty members participating in the Colorado health service corps and the educational institutions where the participants teach.

(2) The department of public health and environment shall include the report required by this section as part of its "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203.

(3) The reporting requirement in this section is not subject to section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I).

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 488, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1418, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2021: IP(1), (1)(a), and (1)(d) amended, (SB 21-158), ch. 427, p. 2831, § 6, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-705 as it existed prior to 2013.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 21-158, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-1.5-506. Colorado health service corps fund - created - acceptance of grants and donations - annual appropriation from marijuana tax cash fund.

(1) The Colorado health service corps fund is hereby created in the state treasury, which fund consists of:

(a) All general fund money appropriated by the general assembly for the Colorado health service corps, the first five hundred thousand dollars of which shall be used solely for loan repayments for nursing faculty;

(b) Damages and penalties collected from breach of contract actions for loan repayment contracts; and

(c) For the 2016-17 fiscal year and each fiscal year thereafter, tobacco litigation settlement money transferred to the fund by the state treasurer pursuant to section 24-75-1104.5 (1.7)(n).

(2) (a) The money in the fund, other than the money described in subsection (1)(c) of this section, is hereby continuously appropriated to the primary care office for the Colorado health service corps. Any money in the fund not expended for the purpose of this part 5 may be invested by the state treasurer as provided by law. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of money in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or another fund.

(b) The money described in subsection (1)(c) of this section is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the primary care office for the Colorado health service corps.

(3) The primary care office is authorized to receive contributions, grants, and services from public and private sources, and to expend public or private contributions and grants, to carry out the purposes of this part 5.

(4) (a) For the 2018-19 fiscal year and each fiscal year thereafter, the general assembly shall appropriate three million five hundred thousand dollars from the marijuana tax cash fund created in section 39-28.8-501 to the primary care office to:

(I) Provide loan repayment for behavioral health-care providers and candidates for licensure participating in the Colorado health service corps; and

(II) Award scholarships to addiction counselors participating in the scholarship program.

(b) Since behavioral health-care providers, candidates for licensure, and addiction counselors provide behavioral health-care services and treatment to people with substance use or mental health disorders, use of money in the marijuana tax cash fund is permitted under section 39-28.8-501 (2)(b)(IV)(C).

(c) and (d) Repealed.

Source: L. 2013: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 489, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2016: (1)(c) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 466, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-024), ch. 222, p. 1419, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2021: IP(4)(a) amended and (4)(c) added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2386, § 33, effective June 28. L. 2022: (4)(d) added, (SB 22-181), ch. 452, p. 3251, § 4, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-20.5-706 as it existed prior to 2013.

(2) Subsection (4)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(c), effective January 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2386.)

(3) Subsection (4)(d)(III) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(d), effective January 1, 2025. (See L. 2022, p. 3251.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration in SB 18-024, see section 1 of chapter 222, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 22-181, see section 1 of chapter 452, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

(2) For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

PART 6

UNIFORM EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER HEALTH PRACTITIONERS ACT

Editor's note: This part 6 was added with relocations in 2017. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 6, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

25-1.5-601. Short title.

The short title of this part 6 is the "Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Act".

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1006, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-101 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-602. Definitions.

In this part 6:

(1) "Disaster management agency" means the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Disaster relief organization" means an entity that provides emergency or disaster relief services that include health or veterinary services provided by volunteer health practitioners and that:

(A) Is designated or recognized as a provider of those services pursuant to a disaster response and recovery plan adopted by an agency of the federal government or the disaster management agency; or

(B) Regularly plans and conducts its activities in coordination with an agency of the federal government or the disaster management agency.

(3) "Emergency" means an event or condition that is an emergency, disaster, incident of bioterrorism, emergency epidemic, pandemic influenza, or other public health emergency under section 24-33.5-704.

(4) "Emergency declaration" means a declaration of emergency issued by the governor pursuant to section 24-33.5-704.

(5) "Emergency management assistance compact" means the interstate compact approved by congress by Pub.L. 104-321, 110 Stat. 3877, part 29 of article 60 of title 24.

(6) "Entity" means a person other than an individual.

(7) "Health facility" means an entity licensed under the laws of this or another state to provide health or veterinary services.

(8) "Health practitioner" means an individual licensed under the laws of this or another state to provide health or veterinary services.

(9) "Health services" means the provision of treatment, care, advice or guidance, or other services, or supplies, related to the health or death of individuals or human populations, to the extent necessary to respond to an emergency, including:

(A) The following, concerning the physical or mental condition or functional status of an individual or affecting the structure or function of the body:

(i) Preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative, maintenance, or palliative care; and

(ii) Counseling, assessment, procedures, or other services;

(B) Sale or dispensing of a drug, a device, equipment, or another item to an individual in accordance with a prescription; and

(C) Funeral, cremation, cemetery, or other mortuary services.

(10) "Host entity" means an entity operating in this state that uses volunteer health practitioners to respond to an emergency.

(11) "License" means authorization by a state to engage in health or veterinary services that are unlawful without the authorization. The term includes authorization under the laws of this state to an individual to provide health or veterinary services based upon a national certification issued by a public or private entity.

(12) "Person" means an individual, corporation, business trust, trust, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint venture, public corporation, government or governmental subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, or any other legal or commercial entity.

(13) "Scope of practice" means the extent of the authorization to provide health or veterinary services granted to a health practitioner by a license issued to the practitioner in the state in which the principal part of the practitioner's services are rendered, including any conditions imposed by the licensing authority.

(14) "State" means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

(15) "Veterinary services" means the provision of treatment, care, advice or guidance, or other services, or supplies, related to the health or death of an animal or to animal populations, to the extent necessary to respond to an emergency, including:

(A) Diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of an animal disease, injury, or other physical or mental condition by the prescription, administration, or dispensing of vaccine, medicine, surgery, or therapy;

(B) Use of a procedure for reproductive management; and

(C) Monitoring and treatment of animal populations for diseases that have spread or demonstrate the potential to spread to humans.

(16) "Volunteer health practitioner" means a health practitioner who provides health or veterinary services, whether or not the practitioner receives compensation for those services. The term does not include a practitioner who receives compensation pursuant to a preexisting employment relationship with a host entity or affiliate that requires the practitioner to provide health services in this state, unless the practitioner is not a resident of this state and is employed by a disaster relief organization providing services in this state while an emergency declaration is in effect.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1006, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-102 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-603. Applicability to volunteer health practitioners.

This part 6 applies to volunteer health practitioners registered with a registration system that complies with section 25-1.5-605 and who provide health or veterinary services in this state for a host entity while an emergency declaration is in effect.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1008, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-103 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-604. Regulation of services during emergency.

(a) While an emergency declaration is in effect, the disaster management agency, in consultation with the department of agriculture with regard to veterinary services, may limit, restrict, or otherwise regulate:

(1) The duration of practice by volunteer health practitioners;

(2) The geographical areas in which volunteer health practitioners may practice;

(3) The types of volunteer health practitioners who may practice; and

(4) Any other matters necessary to coordinate effectively the provision of health or veterinary services during the emergency.

(b) An order issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this section may take effect immediately, without prior notice or comment, and is not a rule within the meaning of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24.

(c) A host entity that uses volunteer health practitioners to provide health or veterinary services in this state shall:

(1) Consult and coordinate its activities with the disaster management agency and, with regard to veterinary services, the department of agriculture, to the extent practicable to provide for the efficient and effective use of volunteer health practitioners; and

(2) Comply with any laws other than this part 6 relating to the management of emergency health or veterinary services, including section 12-30-103, part 2 of article 30 of title 12, and articles 200 to 225 and 235 to 300 of title 12.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1008, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2019: (c)(2) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1699, § 148, effective October 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-104 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-605. Volunteer health practitioner registration systems.

(a) To qualify as a volunteer health practitioner registration system, a system must:

(1) Accept applications for the registration of volunteer health practitioners before or during an emergency;

(2) Include information about the licensure and good standing of health practitioners that is accessible by authorized persons;

(3) Be capable of confirming the accuracy of information concerning whether a health practitioner is licensed and in good standing before health services or veterinary services are provided under this part 6; and

(4) Meet one of the following conditions:

(A) Be an emergency system for advance registration of volunteer health-care practitioners established by a state and funded through the health resources services administration under section 319I of the "Public Health Service Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 247d-7b, as amended;

(B) Be a local unit consisting of trained and equipped emergency response, public health, and medical personnel formed pursuant to section 2801 of the "Public Health Service Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 300hh, as amended;

(C) Be operated by a:

(i) Disaster relief organization;

(ii) Licensing board;

(iii) National or regional association of licensing boards or health practitioners;

(iv) Health facility that provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient health-care services, including a tertiary care and teaching hospital; or

(v) Governmental entity; or

(D) Be designated by the disaster management agency as a registration system for purposes of this part 6.

(b) While an emergency declaration is in effect, the disaster management agency, a person authorized to act on behalf of the disaster management agency, or a host entity, may confirm whether volunteer health practitioners utilized in this state are registered with a registration system that complies with subsection (a) of this section. Confirmation is limited to obtaining identities of the practitioners from the system and determining whether the system indicates that the practitioners are licensed and in good standing.

(c) Upon request of a person in this state authorized under subsection (b) of this section, or a similarly authorized person in another state, a registration system located in this state shall notify the person of the identities of volunteer health practitioners and whether the practitioners are licensed and in good standing.

(d) A host entity is not required to use the services of a volunteer health practitioner even if the practitioner is registered with a registration system that indicates that the practitioner is licensed and in good standing.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1009, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-105 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-606. Recognition of volunteer health practitioners licensed in other states.

(a) While an emergency declaration is in effect, a volunteer health practitioner, registered with a registration system that complies with section 25-1.5-605 and licensed and in good standing in the state upon which the practitioner's registration is based, may practice in this state to the extent authorized by this part 6 as if the practitioner were licensed in this state.

(b) A volunteer health practitioner qualified under subsection (a) of this section is not entitled to the protections of this part 6 if the practitioner is licensed in more than one state and any license of the practitioner is suspended, revoked, or subject to an agency order limiting or restricting practice privileges, or has been voluntarily terminated under threat of sanction.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1010, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-106 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-607. No effect on credentialing and privileging.

(a) In this section:

(1) "Credentialing" means obtaining, verifying, and assessing the qualifications of a health practitioner to provide treatment, care, or services in or for a health facility.

(2) "Privileging" means the authorizing by an appropriate authority, such as a governing body, of a health practitioner to provide specific treatment, care, or services at a health facility subject to limits based on factors that include license, education, training, experience, competence, health status, and specialized skill.

(b) This part 6 does not affect credentialing or privileging standards of a health facility and does not preclude a health facility from waiving or modifying those standards while an emergency declaration is in effect.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1010, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-107 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-608. Provision of volunteer health or veterinary services - administrative sanctions.

(a) Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a volunteer health practitioner shall adhere to the scope of practice for a similarly licensed practitioner established by the licensing provisions, practice acts, or other laws of this state.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this section, this part 6 does not authorize a volunteer health practitioner to provide services that are outside the practitioner's scope of practice, even if a similarly licensed practitioner in this state would be permitted to provide the services.

(c) The disaster management agency may modify or restrict the health or veterinary services that volunteer health practitioners may provide pursuant to this part 6, and, with regard to emergencies that require only veterinary services, the department of agriculture may modify or restrict the veterinary services that volunteer health practitioners may provide pursuant to this part 6. An order under this subsection (c) may take effect immediately, without prior notice or comment, and is not a rule within the meaning of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24.

(d) A host entity may restrict the health or veterinary services that a volunteer health practitioner may provide pursuant to this part 6.

(e) A volunteer health practitioner does not engage in unauthorized practice unless the practitioner has reason to know of any limitation, modification, or restriction under this section or that a similarly licensed practitioner in this state would not be permitted to provide the services. A volunteer health practitioner has reason to know of a limitation, modification, or restriction or that a similarly licensed practitioner in this state would not be permitted to provide a service if:

(1) The practitioner knows the limitation, modification, or restriction exists or that a similarly licensed practitioner in this state would not be permitted to provide the service; or

(2) From all the facts and circumstances known to the practitioner at the relevant time, a reasonable person would conclude that the limitation, modification, or restriction exists or that a similarly licensed practitioner in this state would not be permitted to provide the service.

(f) In addition to the authority granted by law of this state other than this part 6 to regulate the conduct of health practitioners, a licensing board or other disciplinary authority in this state:

(1) May impose administrative sanctions upon a health practitioner licensed in this state for conduct outside of this state in response to an out-of-state emergency;

(2) May impose administrative sanctions upon a practitioner not licensed in this state for conduct in this state in response to an in-state emergency; and

(3) Shall report any administrative sanctions imposed upon a practitioner licensed in another state to the appropriate licensing board or other disciplinary authority in any other state in which the practitioner is known to be licensed.

(g) In determining whether to impose administrative sanctions under subsection (f) of this section, a licensing board or other disciplinary authority shall consider the circumstances in which the conduct took place, including any exigent circumstances, and the practitioner's scope of practice, education, training, experience, and specialized skill.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1011, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-108 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-609. Relation to other laws.

(a) This part 6 does not limit rights, privileges, or immunities provided to volunteer health practitioners by laws other than this part 6. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, this part 6 does not affect requirements for the use of health practitioners pursuant to the emergency management assistance compact.

(b) The office of emergency management created in section 24-33.5-705, pursuant to the emergency management assistance compact, may incorporate into the emergency forces of this state volunteer health practitioners who are not officers or employees of this state, a political subdivision of this state, or a municipality or other local government within this state.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1012, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-109 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-610. Rules.

The executive director of the department of public health and environment may promulgate rules to implement this part 6. In doing so, the executive director shall consult with and consider the recommendations of the department of agriculture with regard to veterinary services and the entity established to coordinate the implementation of the emergency management assistance compact and shall also consult with and consider rules promulgated by similarly empowered agencies in other states to promote uniformity of application of this part 6 and make the emergency response systems in the various states reasonably compatible.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1012, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-110 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-611. Civil liability for volunteer health practitioners - vicarious liability.

A volunteer health practitioner's immunity from civil liability may be affected by section 13-21-115.5.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1012, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-111 as it existed prior to 2017.

25-1.5-612. Workers' compensation coverage. (Reserved)

25-1.5-613. Uniformity of application and construction.

In applying and construing this part 6, consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.

Source: L. 2017: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 17-1240), ch. 244, p. 1012, § 1, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-29.3-113 as it existed prior to 2017.

PART 7

HEALTH SURVEY FOR BIRTHING PARENTS

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1289, see section 1 of chapter 399, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-1.5-701. Health survey of birthing parents.

(1) Beginning July 1, 2022, the department shall begin developing a methodology and building a health survey for birthing parents, referred to in this section as the "survey", to give people who have given birth the opportunity to share opinions and experiences during the first few years of their babies' lives. The purpose of the survey is to inform Colorado policies and programs designed to advance health equity. As part of the survey, the department shall:

(a) Invite a statewide cohort of people who have recently given birth to join the survey;

(b) Annually and up until a survey participant's child's third birthday, provide to each participant at least two brief online questionnaires on a variety of health and social topics, including:

(I) How the participant feels physically and emotionally after having given birth;

(II) The participant's mental health and substance use before, during, and after pregnancy;

(III) The participant's opinions on childhood vaccinations and other important health decisions;

(IV) The participant's ability to take leave from work;

(V) The participant's ability to feed the participant's baby in the participant's preferred way;

(VI) The participant's experiences with doctors and other health-care workers during and after pregnancy, including any experiences of discrimination; and

(VII) The participant's family's access to health care and health services, including behavioral health services and oral health services, and other resources necessary for the family to be happy and healthy.

(2) The survey must be designed to oversample members of groups that comprise a small percentage of the population and that disproportionately experience health inequities, including African Americans and Native Americans, so that data about the experiences of these populations can be made public. Participant data about race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity must be collected and reported in a manner that protects personally identifying information.

(3) In addition to the multiyear survey described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, subject to available appropriations, the department may implement a standardized, anonymous survey of additional individuals in Colorado who have recently given birth. The survey may cover health and safety topics, as described in subsection (1) of this section, or additional topics. The department shall determine the format for the survey and may design the survey so that the survey may be taken, and results may be compiled, electronically.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1289), ch. 399, p. 2837, § 8, effective June 7. L. 2026: (3) added, (HB 26-1044), ch. 110, p. 446, § 3, effective May 5.

VITAL STATISTICS

ARTICLE 2

Vital Statistics

25-2-101. Short title.

25-2-102. Definitions.

25-2-103. Centralized registration system for all vital statistics - office of the state registrar of vital statistics created - appointment of registrar - rules.

25-2-104. Registration of vital statistics.

25-2-105. Vital statistics, reports, and certificates - forms and information to be included.

25-2-106. Reports of marriage.

25-2-106.5. Reports of civil unions.

25-2-107. Reports of adoption, dissolution of marriage, parentage, and other court proceedings affecting vital statistics - tax on court action affecting vital statistics.

25-2-107.5. Reports of dissolution of civil unions, legal separation of civil unions, or declarations of invalidity of civil unions - fee.

25-2-108. Reports and certificates as to births and deaths. (Repealed)

25-2-108.5. Reports of induced terminations of pregnancy - confidentiality - penalty.

25-2-109. Local registration districts for processing of birth and death certificates. (Repealed)

25-2-110. Certificates of death - electronic death registration system - amended certificate of death following a change in gender - rules - definitions.

25-2-110.5. Fetal deaths - treatment of remains.

25-2-111. Dead bodies - disposition - removal from state - records.

25-2-111.5. Transfer of fetal tissue from induced termination of pregnancy - legislative declaration.

25-2-112. Certificates of birth - filing - establishment of parentage - notice to collegeinvest.

25-2-112.3. Certificates of stillbirth - filing - delayed registration - rules.

25-2-112.5. Social security account numbers - acknowledgments of paternity - to be furnished.

25-2-112.7. Crime of misrepresentation of material information in the preparation of a birth certificate - definitions.

25-2-113. New certificates of birth following adoption - parentage determination.

25-2-113.5. Limited access to information upon consent of all parties - voluntary adoption registry - definitions.

25-2-113.8. Birth certificate modernization act - new birth certificate following a change in gender designation - short title - definition.

25-2-113.9. Gender selection for death certificates.

25-2-114. Delayed registration of births and deaths.

25-2-115. Alteration of reports and certificates - amended reports and certificates - rules.

25-2-116. Institutions to keep records - persons to furnish information.

25-2-117. Certified copies furnished - fee.

25-2-118. Penalties.

25-2-119. Tax on court action affecting vital statistics. (Repealed)

25-2-120. Reports of electroconvulsive treatment.

25-2-121. Fee adjustments - vital statistics records cash fund created - definition.

25-2-122. Heirloom birth and marriage certificates - funds created - report - rules - definitions.

25-2-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Vital Statistics Act of 1984".

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1056, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-1. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 742, § 2, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Curative Statutes of Colorado Respecting Titles to Real Estate", see 16 Dicta 35 (1939). For article, "Transsexuals — Their Legal Sex", see 40 U. Colo. L. Rev. 282 (1968).

This article is a valid exercise of the police power of the state, and it operates in all parts of the state, including Denver and other home-rule cities. People ex rel. Hershey v. McNichols, 91 Colo. 141, 13 P.2d 266 (1932).

25-2-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Dead body" means a lifeless human body or parts of such body or bones thereof from the state of which it reasonably may be concluded that death recently occurred.

(1.5) "Document memorializing the decedent's gender" or "document memorializing the decedent's gender identity" includes any of the following:

(a) A court order approving a legal name or gender change;

(b) Written instructions from the decedent;

(c) A health-care directive;

(d) Proof of clinical treatment for a gender transition;

(e) Documentation of a change to the gender marker on the decedent's birth certificate; or

(f) A driver's license.

(2) "Fetal death" means death prior to the complete expulsion or extraction from its mother of a product of human conception, irrespective of the duration of pregnancy. The death is indicated by the fact that after such expulsion or extraction the fetus does not breathe or show any other evidence of life such as beating of the heart, pulsation of the umbilical cord, or definite movement of voluntary muscles.

(2.5) "Final disposition" means the burial, interment, cremation, natural reduction, removal from the state, or other authorized disposition of a dead body or fetus.

(2.6) "Gender identity" means an individual's innate sense of the individual's own gender, which may or may not correspond with the individual's sex assigned at birth and is designated on a certificate of death as male, female, or "X", which is a sex designation that is neither male nor female.

(2.7) "Induced termination of pregnancy" means the purposeful interruption of a pregnancy with an intention other than producing a live-born infant or removing a dead fetus and that does not result in a live birth.

(3) "Institution" means any establishment which provides inpatient medical, surgical, or diagnostic care or treatment or nursing, custodial, or domiciliary care to two or more unrelated individuals or to which persons are committed by law.

(3.5) "Physician" means a person licensed to practice medicine in Colorado pursuant to article 240 of title 12.

(4) "Regulations" means regulations duly adopted pursuant to section 25-2-103.

(4.3) "State registrar" means the office of the state registrar of vital statistics created in section 25-2-103 (1).

(4.5) "Stillborn death" or "stillbirth" means death prior to the complete expulsion or extraction from its mother of a product of human conception, occurring after the twentieth week of pregnancy, and does not include "induced termination of pregnancy", as defined by subsection (2.7) of this section. The death is indicated by the fact that after such expulsion or extraction the fetus does not breathe or show any other evidence of life such as beating of the heart, pulsation of the umbilical cord, or definite movement of voluntary muscles.

(5) "Vital statistics certificate" means any certificate required by section 25-2-110, 25-2-112, or 25-2-112.3.

(6) "Vital statistics report" means any report required by section 25-2-106 or 25-2-107.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1056, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-2. L. 84: (2.5) and (3.5) added and (6) amended, p. 742, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: (2.7) added, p. 1073, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2001: (4.5) added, p. 439, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2004: (4.5) and (5) amended, p. 473, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: IP and (3.5) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1700, § 149, effective October 1. L. 2021: (2.5) amended, (SB 21-006), ch. 123, p. 497, § 24, effective September 7. L. 2025: (1.5) and (2.6) added, (HB 25-1109), ch. 73, p. 314, § 1, effective April 17; (4.3) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2077, § 208, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (4.5) was originally numbered as (3.7) in House Bill 01-1325 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

ANNOTATION

Limitation on definition of "fetal death". The definition of "fetal death" in this section does not indicate an intent on the part of the general assembly generally to recognize somatic expiration as the only form of death. It is solely a definition of fetal death. Lovato v. District Court, 198 Colo. 419, 601 P.2d 1072 (1979).

25-2-103. Centralized registration system for all vital statistics - office of the state registrar of vital statistics created - appointment of registrar - rules.

(1) In order to provide for the maintenance of a centralized registry of the vital statistics of this state, the office of the state registrar of vital statistics is created in the division of administration in the department of public health and environment. The state registrar is appointed by the state board of health and has such staff and clerical help as is reasonably required in the performance of the state registrar's duties. The state registrar and the staff and clerical help of the state registrar are subject to the state constitution and state personnel system laws. The office of the state registrar is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

(2) The state board of health shall adopt, promulgate, amend, and repeal such rules and orders in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-103, C.R.S., as are necessary and proper for carrying out the provisions of this article.

(3) (a) The state registrar shall direct and supervise the operation of the vital statistics system, prepare and publish annual reports of vital statistics, and administer and enforce the provisions of this article and all rules issued under this article.

(b) In conjunction with the requirements of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the state registrar shall collect the name of the provider of prenatal care, if any, and the name of the provider of initial delivery services and shall require that such information be reported on all birth certificates. In addition, whenever an investigation or inquest is conducted pursuant to section 30-10-606, C.R.S., concerning the death of a child under one year of age, the coroner shall forward the information described in this paragraph (b) to the state registrar for inclusion on the death certificate of the subject of the inquest or investigation.

(4) Federal, state, local, and other public or private agencies may, upon request, be furnished copies of records of data for statistical purposes upon such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by regulation.

(4.5) Notwithstanding any other provision of law that limits the sharing of vital statistics, after receiving the list of names and social security numbers of individuals who received property tax exemptions as either qualifying seniors or qualifying veterans with a disability for the prior year that is provided by the property tax administrator pursuant to section 39-3-207, the state registrar shall identify all individuals on the list who have died and transmit a list of the names and social security numbers of such individuals to the administrator.

(4.7) Notwithstanding any other provision of law that limits the sharing of vital statistics, after receiving the list of names and social security numbers of individuals who had property classified as qualified-senior primary residence real property that is provided by the property tax administrator pursuant to section 39-1-104.6 (5)(c), the state registrar shall identify all individuals on the list who have died and transmit a list of the names and social security numbers of such individuals to the administrator.

(5) The state registrar shall designate organized county, district, or municipal public health agencies established pursuant to part 5 of article 1 of this title and may establish or designate additional offices throughout Colorado to aid in the efficient administration of the system of vital statistics.

(6) The state registrar may:

(a) Require departments or offices so designated or established to comply with performance and accounting standards as set forth in rules promulgated by the state board of health;

(b) Delegate such functions and duties to the staff and clerical help and to any offices established or designated by the state registrar pursuant to this section as deemed necessary or expedient;

(c) Conduct training programs to promote the uniformity of the administration of this article throughout Colorado.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1057, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-3. L. 76: Entire section amended, p. 309, § 48, effective May 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 743, § 4, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2748, § 398, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 401, § 13, effective April 17. L. 2010: (5) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2092, § 87, effective August 11. L. 2016: (4.5) added, (HB 16-1175), ch. 332, p. 1344, § 1, effective June 10. L. 2022: (1) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3367, § 45, effective August 10. L. 2023: (4.5) amended, (SB 23-036), ch. 345, p. 2072, § 7, effective June 5; (4.5) amended, (HB 23-1052), ch. 131, p. 502, § 9, effective January 1, 2025. L. 2024: (4.7) added, (SB 24-111), ch. 169, p. 870, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2078, § 209, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (4.5) was amended in HB 23-1052. Those amendments were superseded by the amendment of subsection (4.5) in SB 23-036.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1052, see section 1 of chapter 131, Session Laws of Colorado 2023. For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1246, see section 1 of chapter 199, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

(2) For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Annotator's note. Since provisions similar to those in repealed § 25-2-109 were included in this section when it was amended in 1984, the applicable annotations under the repealed section have been included in the annotations to this section.

Purpose of this section is to place the state system of registration of births and deaths in charge of the state board of health with power to appoint local registrars. McNichols v. People ex rel. Hershey, 92 Colo. 469, 22 P.2d 131 (1933).

Section supersedes municipal ordinances. And so far as local registrars of vital statistics are concerned, municipal ordinances are superseded by this section. McNichols v. People ex rel. Hershey, 92 Colo. 469, 22 P.2d 131 (1933).

Birth certificate certified by the local registrar is as dependable as one certified by the state registrar, since it is the former who furnishes the information to the latter. Trujillo v. People, 122 Colo. 436, 222 P.2d 775 (1950).

Effect of failure to appoint local registrar. Under former provision, failure of the state board of health to appoint a local registrar of vital statistics for Denver for a number of years did not deprive it of its statutory power to appoint, nor relieve it of the necessity of performing a plain statutory duty. McNichols v. People ex rel. Hershey, 92 Colo. 469, 22 P.2d 131 (1933).

25-2-104. Registration of vital statistics.

Promptly upon receipt of each vital statistics report or certificate, the state registrar shall examine it to determine that it has been properly completed. If the report has been properly completed, the state registrar shall register the statistical event described therein and shall note the date the report has been accepted as having been properly completed and shall place the same, or a reproduction thereof, made in accordance with section 25-2-117 (3), in the permanent files of the office. If not properly completed, the state registrar shall take such action with respect thereto as may be required by applicable regulations.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1057, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-4. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 743, § 5, effective July 1.

25-2-105. Vital statistics, reports, and certificates - forms and information to be included.

(1) The state registrar shall prescribe, furnish, and distribute such forms as are required by this article and shall furnish and distribute such rules as are promulgated pursuant to section 25-2-103. The state registrar may also prescribe such other means for transmission of data as will accomplish the purpose of complete and accurate reporting and registration.

(2) The state registrar shall prescribe, furnish, and distribute such forms as are required by this article with respect to civil union certificates, as defined in section 14-15-103 (2), C.R.S.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1057, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-5. L. 84: Entire section R&RE, p. 744, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-011), ch. 49, p. 155, § 2 effective May 1, 2013.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Transsexuals — Their Legal Sex", see 40 U. Colo. L. Rev. 282 (1968).

25-2-106. Reports of marriage.

Each county clerk and recorder shall prepare a report containing such information and using such form as may be prescribed and furnished by the state registrar with respect to every duly executed marriage certificate that is returned in accordance with section 14-2-109, C.R.S. On or before the tenth day of each month, or more frequently if so requested by the state registrar, such clerk and recorder shall forward to the state registrar all such marriage reports for all marriage certificates returned in the preceding period. Certified copies of marriage certificates may be issued by any clerk and recorder.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1057, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-6.

25-2-106.5. Reports of civil unions.

Each county clerk and recorder shall prepare a report containing such information and using the form as may be prescribed and furnished by the state registrar with respect to every duly executed civil union certificate registered in accordance with section 14-15-112, C.R.S. On or before the tenth day of each month, or more frequently if requested by the state registrar, the county clerk and recorder shall forward to the state registrar all civil union reports for all civil union certificates registered in the preceding period. The county clerk and recorder may issue certified copies of civil union certificates.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-011), ch. 49, p. 156, § 3, effective May 1, 2013.

25-2-107. Reports of adoption, dissolution of marriage, parentage, and other court proceedings affecting vital statistics - tax on court action affecting vital statistics.

(1) The clerk of each court or, for parentage proceedings, the clerk of the court or a delegate child support enforcement unit, shall prepare a report containing information and using forms as may be prescribed and furnished by the state registrar with respect to every decree entered by the court with respect to parentage, adoption, change of name, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or declaration of invalidity of marriage, and every decree amending or nullifying such a decree and also with respect to every decree entered pursuant to section 25-2-114. On or before the tenth day of each month, or more frequently if so requested by the state registrar, the clerk shall forward to the state registrar the reports for all such decrees entered during the preceding period.

(2) In order to help defray the maintenance of vital statistics records, and in addition to the tax levied under section 2-5-119, a tax of three dollars shall be levied upon each action with respect to parentage, adoption, change of name, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or declaration of invalidity of marriage that is filed in the office of each clerk of a court of record in this state on or after July 1, 1985. The tax must be paid at the time the action is filed, and the clerk shall keep the tax in a separate fund and transmit the tax monthly to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the vital statistics records cash fund pursuant to section 25-2-121. A delegate child support enforcement unit acting pursuant to article 13 of title 26 is exempt from paying the tax authorized in this subsection (2).

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1058, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-7. L. 72: Entire section amended, p. 600, § 90, effective May 23. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 269, § 80, effective May 23. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 744, § 7, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 879, § 1, effective May 24. L. 89: (2) amended, p. 796, § 28, effective July 1. L. 96: (1) amended, p. 614, § 19, effective July 1. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-095), ch. 96, p. 755, § 13, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-095, see section 1 of chapter 96, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-2-107.5. Reports of dissolution of civil unions, legal separation of civil unions, or declarations of invalidity of civil unions - fee.

(1) The clerk of each court shall prepare a report containing such information and using such form as may be prescribed and furnished by the state registrar with respect to every decree entered by the court for the dissolution of a civil union, legal separation of a civil union, or declaration of invalidity of a civil union, and every decree amending or nullifying such a decree. On or before the tenth day of each month, or more frequently if so requested by the state registrar, the clerk shall forward to the state registrar the reports for all such decrees entered during the preceding period.

(2) In order to defray the costs of maintenance of vital statistics records, the clerk of the court shall assess a fee of three dollars upon each action filed for a dissolution of a civil union, legal separation of a civil union, or declaration of invalidity of a civil union that is filed in the office of each clerk of a court of record in this state on or after May 1, 2013. The clerk shall keep any fees so collected in a separate fund, and each month the clerk shall transmit those fees collected to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the vital statistics records cash fund created in section 25-2-121.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-011), ch. 49, p. 156, § 3, effective May 1.

25-2-108. Reports and certificates as to births and deaths. (Repealed)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1058, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-8. L. 84: Entire section repealed, p. 751, § 16, effective July 1.

25-2-108.5. Reports of induced terminations of pregnancy - confidentiality - penalty.

(1) The department of public health and environment shall not collect the following information as part of any required reporting of induced terminations of pregnancy:

(a) The patient's name, date of birth, address, employer, spouse's name, or parent's or legal guardian's name; or

(b) The city or town where the termination of pregnancy occurred.

(2) Reports of induced terminations of pregnancy collected by the department of public health and environment must only be used for compilation of statistical reports and must not be incorporated into the official records of the office of the state registrar of vital statistics. The state registrar shall dispose of any reports of induced terminations of pregnancy when all statistical processing of the reports have been accomplished.

(3) The department of public health and environment may collect reports of induced terminations of pregnancy from health-care facilities and providers no more than once a month.

(4) (a) Reports of induced terminations of pregnancy collected by the department of public health and environment and statistical analysis of the reports must remain confidential and must not be released, shared with any state or federal agency or institution, or made public upon the issuance of a subpoena or search warrant or during a discovery proceeding; except that an aggregate-level summary of reports may be released to the extent required by law or as necessary to:

(I) Promote equitable access to patient-centered, quality contraceptive services in Colorado;

(II) Reduce unintended pregnancies; and

(III) Monitor changes in clinical practice patterns related to abortion care.

(b) The department of public health and environment shall limit the disclosure of personally identifying information to the minimum amount necessary to accomplish the public health purpose of disclosing the information.

(c) Notwithstanding this subsection (4) to the contrary, information collected that has fewer than ten records must not be released under any circumstance.

(5) An officer, employee, or agent of the department of public health and environment or an officer, employee, or agent of a county, district, or municipal public health agency is not required to participate or testify in a judicial, executive, legislative, or other proceeding that concerns the existence or content of an individual report.

(6) A person who violates this section by releasing or disclosing confidential information or by disclosing information without authorization commits a data privacy breach and is subject to the provisions of section 24-74-107. Each unauthorized disclosure of information constitutes a separate offense.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-129), ch. 96, p. 440, § 10, effective April 24.

25-2-109. Local registration districts for processing of birth and death certificates. (Repealed)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1058, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-9. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1039, § 18, effective May 20. L. 84: Entire section repealed, p. 751, § 16, effective July 1.

25-2-110. Certificates of death - electronic death registration system - amended certificate of death following a change in gender - rules - definitions.

(1) (a) A certificate of death for each death, including a stillborn death, that occurs in Colorado must be filed with the state registrar, or as otherwise directed by the state registrar, within seventy-two hours of assuming custody of a dead body, stillborn fetus, or dead fetus and prior to final disposition, except when inquiry is required by subsection (5.5) of this section or any provision of section 30-10-606 other than section 30-10-606 (1)(b) or when a coroner, a medical examiner, a forensic pathologist, or other qualified individual determines that additional time is necessary to make a proper inquiry to determine the cause and manner of death. In such a situation, the coroner, medical examiner, forensic pathologist, or other qualified individual shall complete and sign the certificate of death as soon as practicable. The state registrar shall register the certificate if it has been completed in accordance with this section. Every certificate of death must identify the decedent's social security number, if available. If the place of death is unknown but the dead body is found in Colorado, the certificate of death must be completed and filed in accordance with this section. The place where the body is found must be shown as the place of death. If the date of death is unknown, the date must be determined by approximation.

(b) (I) The department of public health and environment shall create and the state registrar shall use an electronic death registration system for the purpose of collecting death information from funeral directors, coroners, physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, local registrars, health facilities, and other authorized individuals, as determined by the department. Death information submitted electronically by a funeral director, coroner, physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, local registrar, health facility, or authorized individual, as determined by the department, to the electronic death registration system for purposes of fulfilling the requirements of this section satisfies the signature and filing requirements of this section and section 30-10-606.

(II) Repealed.

(III) (A) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4.5) of this section, any individual, other than a family member of the decedent or other individual assisting in a nonprofessional capacity for the decedent, who is required to initiate, complete, respond to, or file a certificate of death pursuant to this section must use the electronic death registration system used by the state registrar.

(B) A licensed individual who is required to initiate, complete, respond to, or file a certificate of death pursuant to this section shall provide the individual's license number.

(IV) The state registrar shall provide a report to the department of regulatory agencies on a monthly basis that identifies any certificates of death for which a medical certification was not completed in a timely manner using the electronic death registration system or, before March 1, 2024, only, completed as otherwise allowed by this section, and the department shall promptly provide the report to the Colorado medical board created in section 12-240-105 (1)(a). Beginning in 2025, the department of regulatory agencies shall prepare a report to the joint committee of reference during its annual hearing held pursuant to section 2-7-203 of the "SMART Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2. The report must include the number of complaints that the department of regulatory agencies received and the number of disciplinary actions taken against a licensee in each calendar year.

(c) Once a certificate of death has been filed pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, a verification of death document may be used by local offices of vital statistics and the state registrar when verifying a vital event to a person that has requested a verification of fact-of-death. A verification of death document must include the name and address of the decedent, the date of death, the place of death, the gender of the decedent, the date the document is filed, the state file number, and the name of any spouse of the decedent. A verification of death document is not required to contain a social security number of the deceased as is otherwise required of a certificate of death under subsection (1)(a) of this section.

(d) If a certificate of death, copy of certificate of death, certified copy of a certificate of death, or verification of death is recorded into the real estate records of a county clerk and recorder, the document is a public record.

(e) (I) In documentation of the decedent's gender on the certificate of death, the individual completing the certificate of death shall record the decedent's gender to reflect the decedent's gender identity. If the document memorializing the decedent's gender is not provided to the individual completing the certificate of death, the decedent's next of kin or the best qualified individual or source available to provide the decedent's gender may provide that information.

(II) (A) If the individual completing the certificate of death is presented with a document memorializing the decedent's gender identity, the individual completing the death certificate shall record the decedent's gender to reflect the gender identity indicated in the document.

(B) If more than one document is presented to the individual completing the certificate of death pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(II)(A) of this section or to the state registrar pursuant to subsection (1)(f)(I) of this section and the documents conflict regarding the decedent's gender identity, the most recent document memorializing the decedent's gender identity, regardless of expiration date, if any, prevails.

(III) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(e)(I) of this section, if a document memorializing the decedent's gender identity is not presented pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(II)(A) of this section and the individual with the right, or a majority of individuals with the right, to control the disposition of the decedent's remains pursuant to section 15-19-106 objects to the gender recorded by the individual completing the certificate of death pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(I) of this section, the individual or majority of individuals described in this subsection (1)(e)(III) may state their objection to the individual completing the certificate of death before the certificate of death is filed with the state registrar, and the individual completing the certificate of death shall record the decedent's gender as the gender identity reported by the individual or majority of individuals described in this subsection (1)(e)(III).

(f) (I) If a decedent died in the state and the state registrar is presented with a document memorializing the decedent's gender identity that reflects a gender that is not consistent with the gender recorded on the certificate of death filed with the state registrar pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, the state registrar shall issue an amended certificate of death to change the decedent's gender designation to reflect the gender identity indicated in the document.

(II) If the state registrar issues an amended certificate of death and the appropriate legal name change documentation is submitted to the state registrar, the state registrar shall amend the certificate of death to reflect a legal name change made before, or simultaneous to, the decedent's change in gender identity.

(III) In issuing an amended certificate of death, the state registrar shall not:

(A) Request additional information or records other than a document memorializing the decedent's gender identity; or

(B) Disclose information relating to a gender correction, including to other government employees, unless the disclosure is legally required to conduct official business.

(IV) Notwithstanding section 25-2-115, the amended certificate of death issued pursuant to subsection (1)(f)(I) of this section supersedes the original certificate of death as the official public record and must not be marked as amended or indicate in any other manner that the gender or legal name on the certificate of death has been changed.

(V) (A) An individual described in subsection (1)(e)(III) of this section may file a claim in the court of the county where a decedent resided at the time of the decedent's death or where the decedent's remains are located, which claim names as a party the individual or individuals described in subsection (1)(e)(III) of this section and seeks an order of the court amending the gender recorded on the decedent's certificate of death.

(B) An individual completing the certificate of death is not liable for damages or costs resulting from claims related to the information of the decedent as recorded on the certificate of death unless the individual knowingly and willfully recorded the incorrect information on the certificate of death.

(g) A physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse shall review the training materials regarding signing a death certificate provided by the department of public health and environment before the first time they sign a death certificate.

(2) When a death occurs in a moving conveyance in the United States and the body is first removed from the conveyance in Colorado, the death shall be registered in Colorado, and the place where it is first removed shall be considered the place of death. When a death occurs on a moving conveyance while in international air space or in a foreign country or its air space and the body is first removed from the conveyance in Colorado, the death shall be registered in Colorado, but the certificate shall show the actual place of death insofar as can be determined.

(3) (a) The funeral director or individual assisting in a nonprofessional capacity who first assumes custody of a dead body, stillborn fetus, or dead fetus is responsible for the filing of the certificate of death required by subsection (1) of this section within seventy-two hours after receipt of the electronic death registration request unless the physician, their associate physician, the physician assistant, the advanced practice registered nurse, the chief medical officer of the institution in which the death occurred, or the physician who performs an autopsy upon the decedent is unable to complete the medical certification for the certificate of death within the required time frame. The funeral director shall obtain the personal data required by the certificate from the next of kin or the best qualified person or source available. The funeral director shall obtain the medical certification necessary to complete the portion of the certificate pertaining to the cause of death from the best qualified person or source available, pursuant to subsection (4) of this section.

(a.5) (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3)(a.5)(II) of this section, if a decedent had an established primary care physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse, the primary care physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse is responsible for completing the medical certification for the certificate of death in accordance with subsections (1)(a) and (4) of this section if:

(A) The death appears to be due to natural causes and is determined as such with a reasonable degree of medical certainty;

(B) The decedent received medical care from the primary care physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse within a year of the death;

(C) The death occurred when the decedent was not under the direct care of another physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse charged with the patient's care during the illness or condition that resulted in death; and

(D) An inquiry is not required by section 30-10-606.

(II) If, within a year of the death, the decedent had been treated by a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse other than the decedent's established primary care physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse for a chronic condition or terminal illness related to the decedent's death and the conditions set forth in subsections (3)(a.5)(I)(A) and (3)(a.5)(I)(D) of this section are met, that physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse is responsible for completing the medical certification for the certificate of death in accordance with subsection (4) of this section.

(b) In the case of a stillborn fetus, notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the physician, nurse, or other medical personnel attending to the stillborn death may assume responsibility for filing the death certificate required by paragraph (a) of this subsection (3). The person filing the death certificate in the case of a stillborn fetus shall obtain the personal data required by the certificate from a parent and shall include a name on the death certificate if a parent desires to identify a name.

(c) If a death certificate is not filed in the case of a stillborn death as required by paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), a parent may inform the state registrar of the information necessary to complete the death certificate. The state registrar shall confirm such information and complete the death certificate accordingly.

(4) (a) Except when inquiry is required by any provision of section 30-10-606 other than section 30-10-606 (1)(b), the physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse in charge of the patient's care for the illness or condition that resulted in death shall complete the medical certification for the certificate of death within seventy-two hours after receipt of the electronic death registration request or, before March 1, 2024, only, for a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse who is not yet registered to use and using the electronic death registration system used by the department of public health and environment and the state registrar pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section, within seventy-two hours after receiving notice that a medical certification for a certificate of death must be completed. In the absence of the physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse or with the physician's, physician assistant's, or advanced practice registered nurse's approval, the certificate may be completed and signed by an associate physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, the chief medical officer of the institution in which the death occurred, or the physician who performed an autopsy upon the decedent, if such individual has access to the medical history of the case, if said individual views the decedent at or after the time of death, and if the death is due to natural causes. If the death is or may be due to unnatural causes, a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse required to complete a medical certification for a certificate of death in accordance with this subsection (4) shall notify the coroner or the medical examiner when an inquiry or an autopsy is required to be performed pursuant to sections 30-10-606 and 30-10-606.5.

(b) (I) On and after March 1, 2024, a physician's or a physician assistant's repeated or willful failure without reasonable cause to comply with timely completion of a medical certification for a certificate of death in accordance with subsection (1)(a) of this section and this subsection (4) constitutes unprofessional conduct, as defined in section 12-240-121 (1)(hh).

(II) On and after August 12, 2026, an advanced practice registered nurse's repeated or willful failure without reasonable cause to comply with timely completion of a medical certification for a certificate of death in accordance with subsection (1)(a) of this section and this subsection (4) is grounds for discipline, as defined in section 12-255-120 (1)(ii).

(III) If an autopsy is performed, the medical certification shall indicate whether the decedent was pregnant at the time of death, and the information shall be reported on the death certificate as required by subsection (9) of this section. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4.5) of this section, the physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse, or, in their absence, their designee in accordance with this subsection (4), shall complete the medical certification for a certificate of death required by this subsection (4) using the electronic death registration system used by the department of public health and environment and the state registrar pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section.

(4.5) (a) The department of public health and environment shall ensure that all physicians are registered to use the electronic death registration system created and used pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section on or before March 1, 2024. A physician shall use the system for all medical certifications for certificates of death required by subsection (4) of this section immediately upon being registered but is not required to do so before being registered.

(b) A qualified individual shall register to use the electronic death registration system prior to signing a medical certificate of death.

(5) (a) When inquiry is required by section 30-10-606, the coroner shall determine the cause of death and shall complete and sign the medical certification within forty-eight hours after receipt of the electronic death registration request, except as permitted by subsection (5.5) of this section. If an autopsy is performed, the certification must indicate whether the decedent was pregnant at the time of death, and the information must be reported on the certificate of death as required by subsection (9) of this section. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4.5) of this section, a coroner, medical examiner, forensic pathologist, or other qualified individual that determines the cause of death and completes the medical certification for a certificate of death in accordance with this subsection (5) must use the electronic death registration system used by the department of public health and environment and the state registrar pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section.

(b) A coroner, medical examiner, forensic pathologist, or other qualified individual who completes the medical certification for a certificate of death pursuant to this subsection (5) or subsection (5.5) or (6) of this section shall not register "excited delirium" as the cause of death.

(c) As used in this subsection (5), "excited delirium" means a term used to describe a person's state of agitation, excitability, paranoia, extreme aggression, physical violence, and apparent immunity to pain that is not listed in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. "Excited delirium" also includes excited delirium syndrome, hyperactive delirium, agitated delirium, and exhaustive mania.

(5.5) A coroner is not required to comply with subsection (5) of this section if the coroner, in good faith, determines that additional time is needed to make a proper inquiry to determine the cause and manner of death of any individual in the coroner's jurisdiction who has died under any circumstance specified in section 30-10-606 (1) or if the coroner is required to perform a forensic autopsy as required by section 30-10-606.5. In these situations, a coroner shall determine the cause of death and shall complete and sign the medical certification for a certificate of death as soon as is practicable and in accordance with subsection (6) of this section.

(6) If the cause of death cannot be determined within forty-eight hours after a death, the medical certification shall be completed as provided by rule. If an autopsy is performed, the certification shall indicate whether the decedent was pregnant at the time of death, and the information shall be reported on the death certificate as required by subsection (9) of this section. The attending physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, or coroner shall give the funeral director or individual assisting in a nonprofessional capacity notice of the reason for the delay, and final disposition of the body shall not be made until authorized by the office designated or established pursuant to section 25-2-103 in the county where the death occurred or, if such an office does not exist in the county where the death occurred, final disposition of the body shall not be made until authorized by the coroner or the coroner's designee.

(7) When a death is presumed to have occurred within Colorado but the body cannot be located, a death certificate may be prepared by the state registrar upon receipt of an order of a court of competent jurisdiction which shall include the finding of facts required to complete the death certificate. Such a death certificate shall be marked "presumptive" and shall show on its face the date of registration and shall identify the court and the date of decree.

(8) Every funeral establishment shall maintain registration with the office of the state registrar and shall act in accordance with the provisions of this article.

(9) (a) If an autopsy is performed, a certificate of death shall identify whether the decedent was pregnant at the time of death.

(b) The requirement in this subsection (9) and subsections (4), (5), and (6) of this section to indicate whether the decedent was pregnant at the time of death shall be complied with when the person required to make the designation has access to the certification form that permits compliance.

(10) Whenever in the Colorado Revised Statutes the terms "certificate of death" or "death certificate" are used, except as to the initial certificate of death required pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section, the same two terms include a verification of death document that is certified by the state registrar and issued pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of this section.

(11) A deadline set forth in this section by which an individual is required to complete an action relating to a certificate of death or a medical certification for a certificate of death is extended by one day per day of closure if the business or facility at which the individual is employed is actually closed for an entire calendar day that is a weekend day or a legal holiday. Such a deadline is not extended if the business or facility is open for any portion of such a calendar day or if the business or facility is closed for an entire calendar day that is not a weekend day or a legal holiday.

(12) As used in this section, "qualified individual" means a physician; a physician assistant licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12; an advanced practice registered nurse, as defined in section 12-255-104 (1); or the chief medical officer of the institution in which the death occurred.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1059, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-10. L. 84: Entire section R&RE, p. 744, § 8, effective July 1. L. 97: (1) amended, p. 1286, § 29, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1) and (3) amended, p. 439, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2005: (9) added, p. 214, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2011: (4), (5), (6), and (9) amended, (HB 11-1183), ch. 85, p. 230, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2012: (1) amended, (HB 12-1041), ch. 266, p. 1384, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2014: (1)(c) and (10) added, (HB 14-1073), ch. 30, p. 176, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2023: (1)(a), (3)(a), (4), and (5) amended and (1)(b)(III), (1)(b)(IV), (3)(a.5), (4.5), (5.5), and (11) added, (SB 23-020), ch. 135, p. 519, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2024: (5) amended, (HB 24-1103), ch. 47, p. 167, § 2, effective August 7; (1)(d) added, (HB 24-1269), ch. 394, p. 2718, § 6, effective July 1, 2025. L. 2025: (1)(c) amended and (1)(e) and (1)(f) added, (HB 25-1109), ch. 73, p. 315, § 2, effective April 17; (1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(III), (3)(a), IP(3)(a.5)(I), (3)(a.5)(I)(B), (3)(a.5)(I)(C), (3)(a.5)(II), (4), (4.5), and (6) amended and (1)(g) and (12) added, (HB 25-1082), ch. 436, p. 2518, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1)(b)(III) amended, (HB 26-1258), ch. 383, p. 2404, § 32, effective August 12; (4) amended, (HB 26-1296), ch. 122, p. 530, § 1, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (1)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(b)(II), effective September 1, 2014. (See L. 2012, p. 1384.)

(2) Section 33(2) of chapter 383 (HB 26-1258), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to offenses committed; license and registration applications filed; certificates of death initiated, completed, responded to, or filed; and contracts entered into or renewed on or after August 12, 2026.

Cross references: (1) For unlawful acts of funeral establishments and mortuary science practitioners, see § 12-135-105; for a certified copy of an affidavit of death as proof in joint tenancy, see §§ 38-31-102 and 38-31-103.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1997 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 236, Session Laws of Colorado 1997.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Scientific Findings on Death and Coroner's Inquest", see 20 Rocky Mt. L. Rev. 197 (1948).

The term "physician" relates solely to doctors of medicine and osteopathy. Colo. Chiropractic Ass'n v. State, 171 Colo. 395, 467 P.2d 795 (1970).

Death under care of chiropractor is "without medical assistance". Where one dies while under the care of a chiropractor, it is a "death occurring without medical attendance". Colo. Chiropractic Ass'n v. State, 171 Colo. 395, 467 P.2d 795 (1970).

Thus, a chiropractor may not sign a death certificate. Colo. Chiropractic Ass'n v. State, 171 Colo. 395, 467 P.2d 795 (1970).

Article does not encompass autopsy reports. Denver Publ'g Co. v. Dreyfus, 184 Colo. 288, 520 P.2d 104 (1974).

25-2-110.5. Fetal deaths - treatment of remains.

(1) In every instance of fetal death, the pregnant woman shall have the option of treating the remains of a fetal death pursuant to article 135 of title 12.

(2) In every instance of fetal death, the health-care provider, upon request of the pregnant woman, shall release to the woman or the woman's designee the remains of a fetal death for final disposition in accordance with applicable law. Such request shall be made by the pregnant woman or her authorized representative prior to or immediately following the expulsion or extraction of the fetal remains. Unless a timely request was made, nothing in this section shall require the health-care provider to maintain or preserve the fetal remains.

(3) (a) Nothing in this section shall prohibit a health-care provider from conducting or acquiring medical tests on the remains of a fetal death prior to release.

(b) Upon a request pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, whenever a medical test is conducted pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the health-care provider conducting the test shall, where medically permissible and otherwise permitted by law, release to the pregnant woman or the woman's designee the remains of a fetal death for final disposition.

(4) Nothing in this section shall prohibit the health-care provider from requiring a release of liability for the release of the remains of a fetal death prior to such release.

(5) A health-care provider shall be immune from all civil or criminal liability, suit, or sanction with regard to any action taken in good-faith compliance with the provisions of this section.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 1032, § 2, effective June 5. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1700, § 150, effective October 1.

25-2-111. Dead bodies - disposition - removal from state - records.

(1) A funeral director or individual assisting in a nonprofessional capacity who first assumes custody of a dead body shall, prior to final disposition of the body, obtain authorization for final disposition of the body. The office designated or established pursuant to section 25-2-103 in the county where the death occurred or, if such an office does not exist in the county where the death occurred, the coroner or the coroner's designee shall authorize final disposition of the body on a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar. No body shall be buried, cremated, deposited in a vault or tomb, or otherwise disposed of, nor shall any body be removed from this state, until such authorization has been obtained, completed, and approved. The coroner or the coroner's designee shall include in the authorization notice of the requirements of subsection (7) of this section.

(2) A disposition permit issued under the law of another state which accompanies a dead body or fetus brought into this state shall be authority for final disposition of the body or fetus in this state.

(3) Repealed.

(4) Any person who removes from the place of death or transports or finally disposes of a dead body or fetus, in addition to filing any certificate or other form required by this article, shall keep a record which shall identify the body and such information pertaining to his receipt, removal, and delivery of such body as may be prescribed in regulations. Such record shall be retained for a period of not less than seven years and shall be made available for inspection by the state registrar or his representative upon demand.

(5) No sexton or other person in charge of any place in which interment or other disposition of dead bodies is made shall inter or allow interment or other disposition of a dead body or fetus unless it is accompanied by authorization for final disposition.

(6) Authorization for disinterment and reinterment shall be required prior to disinterment of a dead body or fetus. Such authorization shall be issued by the state registrar to a funeral director or person acting as such upon proper application.

(7) (a) The owner of land that is used to inter a dead human body shall record the burial within thirty days after the burial with the county clerk and recorder of the county in which the land is situated. The owner shall record the following:

(I) The dead person's name as it appears on the death certificate;

(II) The dead person's date of birth;

(III) The dead person's age at the time of death;

(IV) The cause of death;

(V) The name of the owner or owners of the property where the dead human body is interred;

(VI) The legal description of the property where the dead human body is interred if the person is interred on private property;

(VII) The reception number for the death certificate if recorded by the county clerk; and

(VIII) The latitude and longitude coordinates, such as those given by a global positioning system, that are verified by two witnesses or the county coroner, sheriff, or a designee of the county coroner or sheriff.

(b) This subsection (7) does not apply to dead human bodies interred in cemeteries, vaults, or tombs operated or maintained by public entities or businesses that inter people in the ordinary course of business and are available to the general public.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1059, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-11. L. 84: (1) amended, (3) repealed, and (5) and (6) added, p. 745, 751, §§ 9, 16, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) amended, p. 880, § 2, effective May 24. L. 2010: (1) amended and (7) added, (HB 10-1275), ch. 193, p. 827, § 1, effective August 11. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1082), ch. 436, p. 2521, § 2, effective August 6.

25-2-111.5. Transfer of fetal tissue from induced termination of pregnancy - legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that the United States congress enacted 42 U.S.C. sec. 289g-2, prohibiting the acquisition, receipt, or other transfer of human fetal tissue for valuable consideration if the transfer affects interstate commerce. The general assembly determines and declares that the acquisition, receipt, or other transfer of human fetal tissue for valuable consideration affects intrastate commerce and is not in the public interest of the residents of Colorado. Therefore, the general assembly finds, determines, and declares that the exchange for valuable consideration of human fetal tissue should be prohibited.

(2) (a) No physician or institution that performs procedures for the induced termination of pregnancy shall transfer such tissue for valuable consideration to any organization or person that conducts research using fetal tissue or that transplants fetal tissue for therapeutic purposes. For the purposes of this section, "valuable consideration" includes, but is not limited to:

(I) Any lease-sharing agreement in excess of the current market value for commercial rental property for the area in which the physician's or institution's place of business is located;

(II) Any lease-sharing agreement that is based on the term or number of induced terminations of pregnancy performed by such physician or institution;

(III) Any moneys, gifts in lieu of money, barter arrangements, or exchange of services that do not constitute reasonable payment associated with the transportation, implantation, processing, preservation, quality control, or storage of human fetal tissue as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 289g-2; or

(IV) Any agreement to purchase fetal tissue for a profit.

(b) Nothing in this subsection (2) shall prevent the disposition of fetal tissue from an induced termination of pregnancy pursuant to part 4 of article 15 of this title.

(3) Any physician or institution that violates subsection (2) of this section shall be fined by the state registrar not more than ten thousand dollars, depending upon the severity of the violation.

(4) The department of public health and environment may promulgate rules related to enforcement activities necessary to implement subsections (2) and (3) of this section.

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 1073, § 2, effective August 2.

25-2-112. Certificates of birth - filing - establishment of parentage - notice to collegeinvest.

(1) A certificate of birth for each live birth which occurs in this state shall be filed with the state registrar or as otherwise directed by the state registrar within ten days after such birth and shall be registered if it has been completed and filed in accordance with this section. When a birth occurs on a moving conveyance within the United States and the child is first removed from the conveyance in Colorado, the birth shall be registered in Colorado, and the place where the child is first removed shall be considered the place of birth. When a birth occurs on a moving conveyance while in international air space or in a foreign country or its air space and the child is first removed from the conveyance in Colorado, the birth shall be registered in this state but the certificate shall show the actual place of birth insofar as can be determined. Either of the parents of the child shall verify the accuracy of the personal data entered thereon in time to permit its filing within such ten-day period.

(2) When a birth occurs in an institution, or upon order of any court with proper jurisdiction, the person in charge of the institution or such person's designated representative shall obtain the personal data, prepare the certificate, certify the authenticity of the birth registration either by signature or by an approved electronic process, and file it with the state registrar or as otherwise directed by the state registrar within the required ten days; the physician in attendance shall provide the medical information required by the certificate within five days after the birth. When the birth occurs outside an institution, the certificate shall be prepared and filed by the physician in attendance at or immediately after the birth, or in the absence of such a physician by any person witnessing the birth, or in the absence of any such witness by the father or mother, or in the absence of the father and the inability of the mother by the person in charge of the premises where the birth occurred. The person who completes and files the certificate shall also be responsible for obtaining the social security account numbers of the parents and delivering those numbers to the state registrar along with the certificate.

(2.5) Repealed.

(2.7) For the purposes of a birth registration, the mother is deemed to be the woman who has given birth to the child, unless otherwise provided by law or determined by a court of competent jurisdiction prior to the filing of the birth certificate. The information about the father shall be entered as provided in subsection (3) of this section.

(3) (a) If the mother was married either at the time of conception or birth, the name of the husband shall be entered on the certificate as the father of the child unless:

(I) Paternity has been determined otherwise by a court of competent jurisdiction, in which case the name of the father as so determined shall be entered; or

(II) The mother and the mother's husband execute joint or separate forms prescribed and furnished by the state registrar reflecting the mother's and the husband's signatures individually witnessed and attesting that the husband is not the father of the child, in which case, information about the father shall be omitted from the certificate; or

(III) The mother executes a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar attesting that the husband is not the father and that the putative father is the father, the putative father executes a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar attesting that he is the father, and the husband executes a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar attesting that he is not the father. Such forms may be joint or individual or a combination thereof, and each signature shall be individually witnessed. In such event, the putative father shall be shown as the father on the certificate.

(IV) A court of competent jurisdiction has determined the husband is not the presumed father and the putative father executes a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar which is individually witnessed attesting that he is the father and the mother executes a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar which is individually witnessed that the putative father is the father. In such event the putative father shall be shown as the father on the birth certificate.

(b) If the mother was not married at the time of conception or birth, the name of the father shall be entered if, but only if, the mother and the person to be named as the father so request in writing on a form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar or if paternity has been determined by a court of competent jurisdiction, in which case the name of the father as so determined shall be entered.

(c) For purposes of acknowledging paternity, the form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar shall contain the minimum requirements specified by the secretary of the federal department of health and human services.

(3.5) Upon the birth of a child to an unmarried person in an institution, the person in charge of the institution or that person's designated representative shall provide an opportunity for the person who gave birth and the person seeking to acknowledge parentage pursuant to section 19-4-105 to complete a written acknowledgment of parentage on the form prescribed and furnished by the state registrar.

(4) Whoever assumes the custody of a living infant of unknown parentage shall report on a form and in the manner prescribed by the state registrar within ten days to the state registrar or as otherwise directed by the state registrar such information as the state registrar shall require, which report shall constitute the certificate of birth for the infant. The place where the child was found shall be entered as the place of birth, and the date of birth shall be determined by approximation. If the child is identified and a certificate of birth is found or obtained, any report registered under this section shall be sealed and filed and, except as provided in section 25-2-113.5, may be opened only by order of a court of competent jurisdiction or as provided by regulation.

(5) and (6) (Deleted by amendment, L. 93, p. 952, § 1, effective September 1, 1993.)

(7) The state registrar shall revise the birth certificate worksheet form used for the preparation of a certificate of live birth to include:

(a) A statement that knowingly and intentionally misrepresenting material information on the worksheet form used for the preparation of a birth certificate is a petty offense;

(b) A requirement to report whether the live birth occurred after a transfer to a hospital by a direct-entry midwife registered pursuant to article 225 of title 12; and

(c) A place to report where the pregnant person intended to give birth at the onset of the person's labor.

(8) On or before February 15, 2020, and on or before the fifteenth day of each month thereafter, the state registrar shall provide to the director of collegeinvest the name of each eligible child, as defined in section 23-3.1-306.5 (2)(a.7), born or adopted during the prior calendar month, the date and location of the birth or adoption, and the name and mailing address of the parent or parents, as defined in section 23-3.1-306.5 (2)(g), of the eligible child listed on the eligible child's certificate of birth or the report of adoption forwarded to the state registrar as required by section 25-2-107 (1).

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1059, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-12. L. 83: (4) amended, p. 1047, § 2, effective June 15. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 746, § 10, effective July 1. L. 90: (2) amended and (5) and (6) added, p. 900, § 29, effective July 1. L. 93: (2.5) added, p. 1921, § 6, effective July 1; (1), (2), (3), (5), and (6) amended and (2.7) and (3.5) added, p. 952, § 1, effective September 1. L. 94: (3)(a) amended, p. 1543, § 18, effective May 31; (3)(a)(II), (3)(a)(III), (3)(a)(IV), and (3.5) amended, pp. 2044, 2045, §§ 1, 2, effective June 3. L. 96: (2.5) amended, p. 402, § 14, effective April 17. L. 97: (3)(c) added, p. 1286, § 30, effective July 1. L. 2015: (7) added, (HB 15-1282), ch. 325, p. 1329, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2019: (8) added, (HB 19-1280), ch. 158, p. 1879, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2021: (7) amended, (SB 21-101), ch. 196, p. 1051, § 7, effective September 1; (7) amended, (SB 21-194), ch. 434, p. 2869, § 3, effective September 7. L. 2022: (7)(a) amended, (HB 22-1229), ch. 68, p. 349, § 41, effective March 1; (3.5) amended, (HB 22-1153), ch. 210, p. 1394, § 7, effective August 10. L. 2024: (8) amended, (SB 24-226), ch. 311, p. 2095, § 2, effective May 31. L. 2025: (8) amended, (SB 25-300), ch. 428, p. 2452, § 39, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (3)(a) by Senate Bill 94-088 and Senate Bill 94-141 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (2.5)(b) provided for the repeal of section (2.5) effective July 1, 2001. (See L. 96, p. 402.)

(3) Amendments to subsection (7) by SB 21-101 and SB 21-194 were harmonized and subsection (7)(b) as added by SB 21-194 was renumbered as subsection (7)(c).

(4) Section 47 of chapter 68 (HB 22-1229), Session Laws of Colorado 2022, provides that the act amending subsection (7)(a) is effective March 1, 2022, but the governor did not approve the act until April 7, 2022.

Cross references: (1) For statement in the certificate as to whether blood test for syphilis and HIV has been made, see § 25-4-203; for penalty for failure to file a certificate, see § 25-2-118.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1997 act enacting subsection (3)(c), see section 1 of chapter 236, Session Laws of Colorado 1997.

ANNOTATION

Effect of failure to file within time specified in this section is to subject the doctor to a fine or imprisonment under § 25-2-118. Manship v. People, 99 Colo. 1, 58 P.2d 1215 (1936) (concurring opinion).

But it does not affect the admissibility of a copy of the certificate certified by the registrar. Manship v. People, 99 Colo. 1, 58 P.2d 1215 (1936) (concurring opinion).

Applied in People in Interest of an Unborn Child v. Estergard, 169 Colo. 445, 457 P.2d 698 (1969).

25-2-112.3. Certificates of stillbirth - filing - delayed registration - rules.

(1) The state registrar shall create a certificate of stillbirth and shall furnish and distribute such form as necessary. The state board of health shall promulgate rules necessary to implement this section.

(2) (a) A certificate of stillbirth shall be offered to a mother after the occurrence of any stillbirth. If the mother decides to have a certificate of stillbirth filed, it shall be filed with the state registrar within three days after the stillbirth occurs and shall be registered by the state registrar if it has been completed and filed in accordance with the provisions of this section and section 25-2-112.

(b) If the mother decides not to place a name on the certificate of stillbirth, the person preparing the certificate of stillbirth shall leave this option on the certificate blank.

(3) Notwithstanding the provisions set forth in subsection (2) of this section, if a certificate of stillbirth is not registered after one year from the date the stillbirth occurs, a certificate marked "Delayed" may be filed and registered in accordance with the provisions of section 25-2-114.

Source: L. 2004: Entire section added, p. 473, § 2, effective July 1.

25-2-112.5. Social security account numbers - acknowledgments of paternity - to be furnished.

(1) Regardless of the marital status of the mother, each parent shall furnish the social security account number or numbers, if the parent has more than one such number, issued to that parent, and the other parent's social security account number, if known, at the time of the child's birth to the person authorized under section 25-2-112 to obtain them for the state registrar, unless the state, in accordance with federal regulations, finds good cause for not requiring the parent to furnish such numbers to the state.

(2) The department of public health and environment shall make the birth certificate, the mother's and father's social security account numbers, and any written acknowledgments of paternity, including any notarized affidavits acknowledging paternity and any witnessed forms prescribed and furnished by the state registrar, furnished under this section and section 25-2-112 available to the state agency responsible for enforcing child support under Title IV-D of the federal "Social Security Act" upon request of that agency. The social security account numbers shall not be recorded on the birth certificate and may not be used for any purpose other than for the establishment and enforcement of child support orders.

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 954, § 2, effective September 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2045, § 3, effective June 3; (2) amended, p. 2748, § 399, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (2) by Senate Bill 94-141 and House Bill 94-1029 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-2-112.7. Crime of misrepresentation of material information in the preparation of a birth certificate - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Birth parent" means a parent who gave birth to a child born in this state. "Birth parent" also includes a person presumed to be a parent or an alleged genetic parent in accordance with sections 19-4-105 and 25-2-112 (3) or a parent who signs a voluntary acknowledgment of parentage or is recognized pursuant to section 19-4-106.

(b) "Material information" means the legal name of a birth parent, the birth date of a birth parent, the mother's maiden name prior to a first marriage, if applicable, and the place of birth of a birth parent.

(2) A birth parent commits the crime of misrepresentation of material information in the preparation of a birth certificate if the birth parent knowingly and intentionally misrepresents material information that is used to create a child's birth certificate.

(3) The crime of misrepresentation of material information in the preparation of a birth certificate is a petty offense.

Source: L. 2015: Entire section added, (HB 15-1282), ch. 325, p. 1328, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3232, § 444, effective March 1, 2022. L. 2022: (1)(a) amended, (HB 22-1153), ch. 210, p. 1394, § 8, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-2-113. New certificates of birth following adoption - parentage determination.

(1) (a) The state registrar shall prepare a new certificate of birth as to any person born in this state whenever he or she receives, with respect to such a person, any of the following: A report concerning adoption or parentage as required by section 25-2-107; or a report or certified copy of a decree concerning the adoption or parentage of the person from a court of competent jurisdiction outside this state; or a certified copy of the marriage certificate of the parents, together with a statement of the husband, executed after the marriage, in which the husband acknowledges paternity. The state registrar shall not prepare a new certificate of birth for an adoption if the court that has decreed the adoption, an adoptive parent, or the adopted person has requested that the state registrar not prepare such new certificate of birth. Each new certificate must show all information shown on the original certificate of birth, except information for which substitute information is included as a result of the report or decree which prompts the preparation of the new certificate.

(b) A new certificate of birth shall be prepared by the state registrar as to any adopted person born in a foreign country and a resident of this state whenever the state registrar receives with respect to such person a certified copy of the final decree of adoption as required by section 19-5-212, C.R.S., and section 25-2-107 and findings of fact as required by this section. In proceedings for the adoption of a person who was born in a foreign country, the juvenile court having jurisdiction of adoptions, upon evidence from reliable sources, shall make findings of fact as to the date and place of birth and parentage of such person. The state registrar shall prepare a new birth certificate in the new name of the adopted person and shall seal the certified copy of the findings of the court and the certified copy of the final decree of adoption which shall be kept confidential except as otherwise provided in part 3 of article 5 of title 19, C.R.S. The birth certificate shall be labeled as a certificate of foreign birth and shall show specifically the true or probable country of birth and that the certificate is not evidence of United States citizenship. If the child was born in a foreign country but was a citizen of the United States at the time of birth, the state registrar shall not prepare a certificate of foreign birth but instead shall notify the adoptive parents of the procedures for obtaining a revised birth certificate for their child through the United States department of state. Any copy of a certificate of foreign birth issued shall indicate this policy, show the actual place of birth, and indicate the fact that the certificate is not proof of United States citizenship for the adopted child. A new certificate of birth in the new name of the adopted person prepared by the state registrar pursuant to this section is hereby legalized and made valid.

(c) Repealed.

(2) (a) The state registrar shall register each new certificate of birth prepared pursuant to subsection (1) of this section by marking thereon the words "new certificate", by marking thereon the date such certificate is completed, which date thereafter shall be the registration date, and by substituting such new certificate for the original certificate of birth for such person.

(b) A new certificate of birth issued pursuant to an adoption, and any copy of such certificate issued, shall be marked by the state registrar with the words "issued pursuant to adoption" if so requested by an adoptive parent or by an adopted person.

(c) The state registrar shall develop rules to ensure that the adoptive parent's decision to include such information, in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2), is made knowingly, including having a separate signature line verifying such choice.

(3) Thereafter, the original certificate and evidence concerning adoption or parentage must be sealed and is not subject to inspection, except as provided in section 25-2-113.5 or in part 3 of article 5 of title 19, by regulation, or upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction after the court has satisfied itself that the interests of the child or the child's descendants or the parents will best be served by opening the seal. The information obtained from opening the seal may be withheld from public view or from being presented as evidence at the discretion of the judge.

(4) In the event the decree which formed the basis for the new certificate of birth is annulled and if the state registrar receives either a certified copy of such decree of annulment or a report with respect to such decree as required by section 25-2-107, the state registrar shall return the original certificate to its place in the files. Thereafter the new certificate and evidence concerning the annulment shall not be subject to inspection except as provided in section 25-2-113.5, upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or as provided by regulation.

(5) If no certificate of birth is on file for the person for whom a new birth certificate is to be established under this section and the date and place of birth have not been determined in the adoption or paternity proceedings, a delayed certificate of birth shall be filed with the state registrar before a new certificate of birth is established. The new birth certificate shall be prepared on the delayed birth certificate form.

(6) When a new certificate of birth is established by the state registrar, all copies of the original certificate of birth in the custody of any other custodian of vital records in this state shall be sealed from inspection, except as otherwise provided in part 3 of article 5 of title 19, C.R.S., or forwarded to the state registrar, as the state registrar shall direct.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1060, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-13. L. 76: (1) amended, p. 651, § 1, effective July 1. L. 78: (1)(a) and (3) amended, p. 269, § 81, effective May 23. L. 83: (3) and (4) amended, p. 1047, § 3, effective June 15. L. 84: (1)(b) amended, (1)(c) repealed, and (5) and (6) added, pp. 747, 751, §§ 11, 16, effective July 1. L. 87: (1)(b) amended, p. 820, § 35, effective October 1. L. 99: (1)(b), (3), and (6) amended, p. 1136, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2002: (2) amended, p. 333, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2018: (1)(a) and (3) amended, (SB 18-095), ch. 96, p. 755, § 14, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-095, see section 1 of chapter 96, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Adoption of Children in Colorado", see 37 Dicta 100 (1960).

25-2-113.5. Limited access to information upon consent of all parties - voluntary adoption registry - definitions.

(1) Adoption is based upon the legal termination of parental rights and responsibilities of birth parents and the creation of the legal relationship of parent and child between an adoptee and his or her adoptive parents. Under current laws and the social premises underlying adoption, the general assembly has been charged with the duty to preserve the right to privacy and confidentiality of birth parents whose children were adopted, the adoptees, and the adoptive parents. The general assembly recognizes, however, that some adults who were adopted as children, their siblings who may or may not have been adopted, and some birth parents whose children were surrendered for adoption have a strong desire to obtain information about each other. The purpose of this section is to set up a voluntary adoption registry where qualified persons may register their willingness to release information to each other and to provide for the disclosure of such information.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Adoptive parent" means an adult who has become a parent of a child through the legal process of adoption.

(b) "Consent" means a verified written statement which has been notarized.

(c) "Identifying information" includes the following information:

(I) The name of the qualified adoptee before placement in adoption;

(II) The name and address of each qualified birth parent as it appears in birth records;

(III) The current name, address, and telephone number of the qualified adult adoptee; and

(IV) The current name, address, and telephone number of each qualified birth parent.

(d) "Qualified adult adoptee" means an adopted person eighteen years of age or older who was born in Colorado and who meets the requirements of this section.

(e) "Qualified birth parent" means a genetic, biological, or natural parent whose rights were voluntarily or involuntarily terminated by a court or otherwise and who meets the requirements of this section. "Birth parent" includes a man who is the parent of a child as established in accordance with the provisions of the "Uniform Parentage Act", article 4 of title 19, C.R.S., prior to the termination of parental rights and who meets the requirements of this section.

(f) "Registrar" means the state registrar of vital statistics or his designated representative.

(g) "Relative" includes an individual's spouse, birth parent, adoptive parent, sibling, or child who is twenty-one years of age or older.

(g.5) "Sibling" has the same meaning as "biological sibling" pursuant to section 19-1-103.

(h) "Voluntary adoption registry" or "registry" means a place where eligible persons, as described in this section, may indicate their willingness to have their identities and whereabouts disclosed to each other under conditions specified in this section.

(3) The registrar shall maintain a confidential list of qualified adult adoptees who have presented a consent regarding the release of identifying information about themselves. Any consent by a qualified adult adoptee shall be accompanied by the adoptee's desired method of notification in the event that a match occurs; however, the state shall not incur costs of notification in excess of that part of the fee charged to the applicant for the purpose of notification. Any consent shall also indicate whether the qualified adult adoptee desires release of his identifying information if a match occurs after his death. The qualified adult adoptee may revise his consent with respect to change of address or method of notification. Any name and accompanying information shall be removed from the list upon the verified written request of the listed adoptee. The registrar shall maintain a closed record of such list and accompanying information, except as provided in accordance with this section.

(4) The registrar shall maintain a confidential list of qualified birth parents who have presented a consent regarding the release of identifying information about themselves. Any consent by a qualified birth parent shall be accompanied by the birth parent's desired method of notification in the event that a match occurs; however, the state shall not incur costs of notification in excess of that part of the fee charged to the applicant for the purpose of notification. Any consent shall also indicate whether the qualified birth parent desires release of his identifying information if a match occurs after his death. The qualified birth parent may revise his consent with respect to change of address or method of notification. Any name and accompanying information shall be removed from the list upon the verified written request of the listed birth parent. The registrar shall maintain a closed record of such list and accompanying information, except as provided in accordance with this section. Any birth parent who in terminating his parental rights used an alias, and this alias is listed in the original sealed birth certificate, may also file a consent with the registry. A birth parent shall not be matched with the qualified adult adoptee without the consent of the other birth parent unless:

(a) There is only one birth parent listed on the birth certificate; or

(b) The other birth parent is deceased; or

(c) The other birth parent is unable to be located by the department of public health and environment after an exhaustive search, the cost of said search to be fully funded by the birth parent seeking a match, said search to be in accordance with the rules and regulations promulgated by the department.

(5) The registrar shall maintain a confidential list of relatives of deceased qualified adult adoptees and relatives of deceased qualified birth parents who have presented a consent regarding the release of identifying information about themselves. Any consent by such relative shall be accompanied by the person's desired method of notification in the event that a match occurs; however, the state shall not incur costs of notification in excess of that part of the fee charged to the applicant for the purpose of notification. Such relative may revise his consent with respect to change of address or method of notification. Any name and accompanying information shall be removed from the list upon the verified written request of the listed relative. The registrar shall maintain a closed record of such list and accompanying information, except as provided in accordance with this section.

(5.5) The registrar shall maintain a confidential list of former foster children who may or may not have been adopted, who are eighteen years of age or older, who have presented a consent regarding the release of identifying information about themselves and who are searching for a sibling who is also eighteen years of age or older, who may or may not have been adopted, and who may or may not have been in the foster care system. Any consent by such sibling shall be accompanied by the sibling's desired method of notification in the event that a match occurs. However, the state shall not incur costs of notification in excess of that part of the fee charged to the applicant for the purpose of notification. A sibling may revise his or her consent with respect to change of address or method of notification. Any name and accompanying information shall be removed from the list upon the verified written request of the listed sibling. The registrar shall maintain a closed record of the list and accompanying information except as provided for pursuant to this section.

(6) The registrar shall regularly review the lists provided for in subsections (3), (4), (5), and (5.5) of this section and any other nonsealed administrative files or records within his or her office to determine if there is a match. If it appears that a match has occurred, then and only then is the registrar authorized to proceed to confirm the match through recourse to sealed documents on file in the office of the registrar. When a match is confirmed, the registrar shall notify each party, by his or her designated method only, prior to an exchange of identifying information. Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow any state or local governmental department, agency, or institution, or any employee thereof, to solicit any consent for the release of identifying information.

(7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow the registrar to issue a copy of the original birth certificate to any registrant.

(8) Any person who knowingly uses, publishes, or divulges information obtained through operation of the registry to any person in a manner not authorized by this section commits a civil infraction.

(9) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the information acquired by the registry shall not be disclosed under any public records law, sunshine or freedom of information legislation, rules, or practice.

(10) (a) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall establish fees to be charged each person requesting that his name be placed on the list provided for in subsection (3), (4), or (5) of this section and for the services provided by the registrar in establishing and implementing the registry pursuant to this section. It is the intent of the general assembly that the fees shall cover all direct and indirect costs incurred pursuant to this section.

(b) The fees collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the general fund. The general assembly shall annually appropriate from the general fund to the department of public health and environment an amount sufficient to meet expenses incurred pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1044, § 1, effective June 15. L. 87: (2)(e) amended, p. 821, § 36, effective October 1. L. 94: (4)(c), (10)(a), and (10)(b) amended, p. 2748, § 400, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2)(d) amended, p. 993, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1) and (6) amended and (2)(g.5) and (5.5) added, (SB 09-079), ch. 59, pp. 214, 215, §§ 2, 3, effective March 25. L. 2021: (2)(g.5) amended, (SB 21-059), ch. 136, p. 746, § 121, effective October 1; (8) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3232, § 445, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (4)(c), (10)(a), and (10)(b), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-2-113.8. Birth certificate modernization act - new birth certificate following a change in gender designation - short title - definition.

(1) The short title of this section is "Jude's Law".

(1.5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "report of birth" means an electronic or paper document containing information related to a vital event submitted by a person or entity required to submit the information for purposes of registering a vital statistic.

(2) (a) Repealed.

(b) An amended birth certificate may be issued to change the sex designation of the person to male, female, or "X" pursuant to the requirements of this section. "X" is a designation that is neither male nor female.

(c) A report of birth, filed with the state registrar, must be completed in accordance with the information required by the national center for health statistics in the centers for disease control and prevention in the federal department of health and human services.

(3) The state registrar shall issue a new birth certificate to a person who was born in this state and who has a gender different from the sex denoted on that person's birth certificate when the state registrar receives:

(a) A written request from the person, or from the person's parent if the person is a minor, or from the person's guardian or legal representative, signed under penalty of law, to issue a new birth certificate with a gender designation that differs from the sex designated on the person's original birth certificate; and

(b) (I) A statement, in a form or format designated by the state registrar, from the person, or from the person's parent if the person is a minor, or from the person's guardian or legal representative, signed under penalty of law, confirming the sex designation on the person's birth certificate does not align with the person's gender identity; and

(II) If the person is a minor under the age of eighteen, a statement, in a form or format designated by the state registrar, signed under penalty of law, from a professional medical or mental health-care provider licensed in good standing in Colorado or with an equivalent license in good standing from another jurisdiction, stating the sex designation on the birth certificate does not align with the minor's gender identity. This subsection (3)(b)(II) does not require a minor to undergo any specific surgery, treatment, clinical care, or behavioral health care.

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, the state registrar shall issue a new birth certificate to a person with a court order indicating the sex or gender of the person born in the state of Colorado has been changed.

(5) Repealed.

(6) The state registrar is authorized to contact the medical or mental health-care provider to verify a statement made pursuant to subsection (3)(b)(II) of this section.

(7) If a new birth certificate is issued pursuant to this section, the birth certificate must reflect, or be reissued to reflect, any legal name change made before or simultaneous to the change in gender designation, as long as appropriate documentation of the name change is submitted.

(8) The state registrar shall not request any additional information or records other than those required by subsection (3) or (4) of this section to process a request to modify a gender designation. The state registrar shall not disclose information relating to a gender correction, including to other government employees, unless required in order to conduct official business.

(9) When the state registrar receives the documentation described in subsection (3) or (4) of this section, the state registrar shall issue a new birth certificate reflecting the new gender designation and, if applicable, the person's new name. Notwithstanding section 25-2-115 (1), the new birth certificate supersedes the original as the official public record and must not be marked as amended or indicate in any other manner that the gender designation or name on the certificate has been changed.

(10) In the case of a person who is a resident of this state and was born in another state or in a foreign jurisdiction, if the other state or foreign jurisdiction requires a court decree in order to amend a birth certificate to reflect a change in gender, the courts in this state have jurisdiction to issue such a decree.

(11) The state registrar shall promptly notify the department of revenue when an individual is issued a new birth certificate pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1039), ch. 377, p. 3403, § 1, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2020: (3)(b)(II) and (9) amended, (SB 20-166), ch. 280, p. 1370, § 1, effective July 13. L. 2022: (1.5) and (2)(c) added and (2)(a) repealed, (HB 22-1157), ch. 321, p. 2274, §§ 5, 4, effective June 2. L. 2025: (5) repealed, (HB 25-1312), ch. 205, p. 930, § 10, effective May 16.

Cross references: For the short title ("Kelly Loving Act") in HB 25-1312, see section 1 of chapter 205, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-2-113.9. Gender selection for death certificates.

On or before January 1, 2026, the department of public health and environment shall add a gender field to the certificate of death form and the electronic death registration system that is required to be utilized by a qualified individual pursuant to section 25-2-110.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1109), ch. 73, p. 316, § 3, effective April 17.

25-2-114. Delayed registration of births and deaths.

(1) When a birth, foundling birth, death, or fetal death has occurred in this state but no certificate as to such event has been filed or registered in accordance with the provisions of section 25-2-110 or 25-2-112, a certificate as to such event may be accepted for filing or registration, or both, in accordance with applicable regulations concerning certificates that have not been timely or properly filed or registered. The state registrar shall endorse on the certificate a summary statement of the evidence submitted to substantiate the facts asserted in such certificate. If a certificate is not registered until more than a year after the event, the state registrar shall mark the word "Delayed" on the face thereof.

(2) When the state registrar finds the certificate or such supplementary evidence as may be required by regulations to be deficient or invalid, the certificate shall not be registered, and the person who requested the registration shall be advised in writing both as to the basis for the alleged deficiency or invalidity and also as to such person's right of appeal. Judicial review of the action of the state registrar may be had in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-106, C.R.S., but an action for judicial review shall be commenced within sixty days after the date the state registrar gives his notice in writing of his decision. If no action for judicial review is commenced within said period, the state registrar shall return the certificate and all documents submitted in support thereof to the person submitting the same if registration of the certificate has been refused.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1061, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-14.

25-2-115. Alteration of reports and certificates - amended reports and certificates - rules.

(1) A vital statistics report or certificate shall not ever be altered in any way except in accordance with this article 2 and applicable rules. Except for amended birth certificates issued pursuant to section 25-2-113.8 and amended certificates of death issued pursuant to section 25-2-110 (1)(f), the date of alteration and a summary description of the evidence submitted in support of the alteration must be endorsed on or made a part of each vital statistics certificate that is altered. Every vital statistics report or certificate that is altered in any way must be marked "Amended", except for amended birth certificates issued pursuant to section 25-2-113.8; amended certificates of death issued pursuant to section 25-2-110 (1)(f); the birth report or certificate of a child altered by the addition of a father's name pursuant to section 25-2-112 (3), in which case, upon request of the parents, the surname of the child shall be changed on the report and certificate to that of the father; or additions and minor corrections made within one year after the date of the statistical event as may be specified by applicable rules. A child's surname may be changed upon affidavit of the parent that the change is being made to conform the child's surname to the parent's legal surname.

(2) Upon receipt of a certified copy of a court order changing the name of a person born in this state and upon request of such person, or upon the request of his parent, guardian, or legal representative if he is under a legal disability, the original certificate of birth shall be amended to reflect the new name thereon.

(3) In the event the state registrar alters a birth certificate or death certificate, he shall promptly report the amendment to any other custodians of the vital statistics record and their records shall be amended accordingly.

(4) Repealed.

(5) When an applicant does not submit the minimum documentation required in the regulations for amending a vital statistics record or when the state registrar has reasonable cause to question the validity or adequacy of the applicant's sworn statements or documentary evidence, and if the deficiencies are not corrected, the state registrar shall not amend the vital statistics record and shall advise the applicant of the reason for this action and shall further advise the applicant of the right of appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1061, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-15. L. 77: (1) amended, p. 1274, § 1, effective May 20. L. 84: (3) amended and (4) and (5) added, p. 748, § 12, effective July 1. L. 2018: (1) amended, (SB 18-095), ch. 96, p. 756, § 15, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1) amended and (4) repealed, (HB 19-1039), ch. 377, p. 3405, § 2, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1109), ch. 73, p. 317, § 4, effective April 17.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-095, see section 1 of chapter 96, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-2-116. Institutions to keep records - persons to furnish information.

(1) Every person in charge of an institution shall keep a record of personal particulars and dates concerning each person admitted or confined to such institution. This record shall include such information as required by the standard certificate of birth, death, and fetal death forms issued under the provisions of this article. The record shall be made at the time of admission. The name and address of the person providing the information shall appear on the record.

(2) When a dead human body is released or disposed of by an institution, the person in charge of the institution shall record the name of the deceased, date of death, name and address of the person to whom the body is released, and date of removal from the institution, or, if finally disposed of by the institution, the date, place, and manner of disposition shall be recorded.

(3) Any person having knowledge of the facts shall furnish such information as he may possess regarding any birth, death, fetal death, adoption, marriage, or dissolution of marriage upon demand of the state registrar.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1062, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-16.

25-2-117. Certified copies furnished - fee.

(1) Vital statistics records shall be treated as confidential, but the department of public health and environment shall, upon request, furnish to any applicant having a direct and tangible interest in a vital statistics record a certified copy of any record registered under the provisions of this article. Any copy of the record of a birth or death, when properly certified by the state registrar or as otherwise directed by the state registrar to be a true copy thereof, shall be prima facie evidence in all courts and places of the facts therein stated.

(2) An applicant shall pay fees established pursuant to section 25-2-121 for each of the following services:

(a) The reproduction and certification of birth or death records; except that an applicant shall not pay a fee:

(I) For the provision of a certified copy of such a record to:

(A) Another state agency;

(B) A county department of human or social services; or

(C) An individual presenting a letter of referral from a county department of human or social services; or

(II) If the applicant is a delegate child support enforcement unit acting pursuant to article 13 of title 26, C.R.S.;

(b) Any search of the files and records of the state registrar when no certified copy is made, such fee to pertain to each hour or fractional hour of time of the search;

(c) The processing of new certificates, delayed certificates, or corrected certificates;

(d) The verification of marriage or divorce;

(e) The reproduction of various vital statistics, publications, reports, and data services; and

(f) The verification of a civil union or dissolution of a civil union.

(3) To preserve vital statistics records, the state registrar is authorized to prepare typewritten, photographic, electronic, or other reproductions of certificates or reports. When certified by the state registrar, such reproductions shall be accepted as the original records. The documents from which permanent reproductions have been made and verified may be disposed of as provided by regulation.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1062, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-17. L. 82: Entire section amended, p. 408, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1049, § 1, effective June 15. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 749, § 13, effective July 1. L. 89: (2)(a) amended, p. 796, § 29, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2749, § 401, effective July 1. L. 2010: (2)(a) amended, (SB 10-006), ch. 341, p. 1578, § 2, effective June 5. L. 2013: (2)(d) and (2)(e) amended and (2)(f) added, (SB 13-011), ch. 49, p. 156, § 4, effective May 1. L. 2018: (2)(a)(I)(B) and (2)(a)(I)(C) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 441, § 99, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2010 act amending subsection (2)(a), see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2010. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

ANNOTATION

I. General Consideration.

II. Confidentiality.

III. Certified Copy as Evidence.

I. GENERAL CONSIDERATION.

Law reviews. For article, "Hearsay in Criminal Cases Under the Colorado Rules of Evidence: An Overview", see 50 U. Colo. L. Rev. 277 (1979).

II. CONFIDENTIALITY.

Records exempt from public record act's right to inspect. This section exempts vital statistics records from right to inspect given by public records act and person is entitled to copies of such records only if he can show direct and tangible interest. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 31 Colo. App. 525, 506 P.2d 748 (1972), aff'd, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

Provisions for record search not authority to provide copy. The provisions of this section providing for a search of the records by their custodian do not authorize the custodian to provide a copy of the record or to divulge the contents. Purpose of such search is to determine whether a particular record exists, and information contained in such record can only be released to those having prescribed interest. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 31 Colo. App. 525, 506 P.2d 748 (1972), aff'd, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

Registrar of vital statistics has limited discretion. The registrar of vital statistics is a ministerial officer who, unlike a judge, has but limited discretion in the performance of his duties. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

The discretion of the registrar of vital statistics is limited to furnishing the information to an "applicant having a direct and tangible interest", and, where the petitioner does not have the requisite "significant legal relationship", then the registrar does not have discretion to furnish the information. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

"Applicant having direct and tangible interest" is one who has significant legal relationship to person who is subject of record. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 31 Colo. App. 525, 506 P.2d 748 (1972), aff'd, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

Person seeking copies of vital statistics record for commercial purposes does not have the direct and tangible interest required by this section. Eugene Cervi & Co. v. Russell, 31 Colo. App. 525, 506 P.2d 748 (1972), aff'd, 184 Colo. 282, 519 P.2d 1189 (1974).

III. CERTIFIED COPY AS EVIDENCE.

Dependability of certification by local registrar. A birth certificate certified by the local registrar is as dependable as one certified by the state registrar, since it is the former who furnishes the information to the latter. Trujillo v. People, 122 Colo. 436, 222 P.2d 775 (1950).

Copy is prima facie evidence. A certified copy of a death certificate is admissible and is prima facie evidence of the facts recited therein. Parfet v. Kan. City Life Ins. Co., 128 F.2d 361 (10th Cir. 1942); Occidental Life Ins. Co. v. United States Nat'l Bank, 98 Colo. 126, 53 P.2d 1180 (1935); Indus. Comm'n v. Havens, 136 Colo. 111, 314 P.2d 698 (1957); Michael v. John Hancock Mut. Life Ins. Co., 138 Colo. 450, 334 P.2d 1090 (1959); Nat'l Farmers Union Life Ins. Co. v. Norwood, 147 Colo. 283, 363 P.2d 681 (1961); City & County of Denver v. Smerdel, 165 Colo. 475, 440 P.2d 158 (1968); Robinson v. N.Y. Life Ins. Co., 30 Colo. App. 83, 490 P.2d 81 (1971); Lockwood v. Travelers Ins. Co., 179 Colo. 103, 498 P.2d 947 (1972).

However, the weight of the certified copy of a death certificate depends upon the information upon which it is based, the source of that information, and the manner in which it is obtained. Prudential Ins. Co. v. Cline, 98 Colo. 275, 57 P.2d 1205 (1935); Nat'l Farmers Union Life Ins. Co. v. Norwood, 147 Colo. 283, 363 P.2d 681 (1961); City & County of Denver v. Smerdel, 165 Colo. 475, 440 P.2d 158 (1968); Robinson v. N.Y. Life Ins. Co., 30 Colo. App. 83, 490 P.2d 81 (1971); Lockwood v. Travelers Ins. Co., 179 Colo. 103, 498 P.2d 947 (1972); Simonton v. Cont'l Cas. Co., 32 Colo. App. 138, 507 P.2d 1132 (1973).

Limitation where issue is cause of death. The term "facts" as used in this section does not extend to the coroner's opinion as to whether death from external means resulted from accident, suicide, or homicide, when the critical issue in the case is whether death resulted from one of these causes. Lockwood v. Travelers Ins. Co., 179 Colo. 103, 498 P.2d 947 (1972).

Coroner's conclusive statement should be excised. Therefore, it is error to introduce a coroner's death certificate statement without excision of the conclusive statement that death resulted by accident rather than by suicide or homicide. Lockwood v. Travelers Ins. Co., 179 Colo. 103, 498 P.2d 947 (1972).

25-2-118. Penalties.

(1) Except as otherwise provided for in section 25-2-112.7 with respect to misrepresentation of material information in the preparation of a birth certificate, any person who knowingly and willfully makes any false statement in or supplies any false information for or for purposes of deception applies for, alters, mutilates, uses, attempts to use, applies for amendments thereto, or furnishes to another for deceptive use any vital statistics certificate, and any person who knowingly and willfully and for purposes of deception uses or attempts to use or furnishes for use by another any vital statistics certificate knowing that such certificate contains false information or relates to a person other than the person with respect to whom it purports to relate, and any person who manufactures, advertises for sale, sells, or alters any vital statistics certificate knowing or having reason to know that such document establishes or may be used to establish a false status, occupation, membership, license, privilege, or identity for himself or herself or any other person, and any person who uses any such document to commit a crime commits a class 2 misdemeanor.

(2) Any person who willfully violates any of the provisions of this article 2 or refuses or neglects to perform any of the duties imposed upon the person by this article 2 commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1062, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-18. L. 84: (1) amended, p. 750, § 14, effective July 1. L. 2015: (1) amended, (HB 15-1282), ch. 325, p. 1329, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3233, § 446, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a class 2 misdemeanor, see § 18-1.3-501; for the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

ANNOTATION

Malice must be proved. Where an undertaker was issued a permit to remove a body, but sought no burial permit from any registrar of vital statistics prior to interment of body, believing the former to be sufficient, he is guilty of no misdemeanor in the absence of malice. Addington v. Bates, 101 Colo. 293, 73 P.2d 529 (1937).

25-2-119. Tax on court action affecting vital statistics. (Repealed)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 1063, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-8-19. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 270, § 82, effective May 23. L. 84: Entire section repealed, p. 751, § 16, effective July 1.

25-2-120. Reports of electroconvulsive treatment.

(1) Any person who performs electroconvulsive treatment in the state of Colorado shall file a report with the department of public health and environment setting forth the data required by subsection (2) of this section. An institution in which electroconvulsive treatment is performed shall be the reporting entity for all electroconvulsive treatments performed at that institution.

(2) Such reports shall be made to the department of public health and environment on forms prescribed by the department within thirty days after January 1 and July 1 of each year on a semiannual basis and shall contain the following detailed information for each reporting period:

(a) The total number, broken down by inpatient and outpatient and exclusive of substance abuse, of adult psychiatric admissions, minor children psychiatric admissions, and readmissions of both;

(b) The number of patients within each category of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) who received electroconvulsive treatment;

(c) Statistical information on each patient receiving electroconvulsive treatment including, but not limited to, the following:

(I) Diagnosis;

(II) Number of electroconvulsive treatments;

(III) Age;

(IV) Sex;

(V) Ethnicity;

(VI) Whether such patient was voluntary or involuntary;

(VII) Whether or not such patient was capable of giving his written informed consent;

(VIII) Whether or not any complications resulted from such electroconvulsive treatment, such as cardiac arrest, fracture, apnea, memory loss, or death (including autopsy results with particular attention to the brain);

(IX) The method of payment for such electroconvulsive treatment and, if applicable, the name of the insurance company making such payments.

(3) The name of the patient receiving electroconvulsive treatment shall remain confidential information and shall not be disclosed to the department, any other agency or individual. The forms prescribed by subsection (2) of this section shall not require any information which would disclose, directly or indirectly, the identity of the patient.

Source: L. 79: Entire section added, p. 613, § 2, effective June 22. L. 94: (1) and IP(2) amended, p. 2749, § 402, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1) and the introductory portion to subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-2-121. Fee adjustments - vital statistics records cash fund created - definition.

(1) This section shall apply to all activities of the office of the state registrar in the department of public health and environment.

(2) (a) The office of the state registrar shall propose, as part of its annual budget request, an adjustment in the amount of each fee that the office of the state registrar is authorized by law to collect. The budget request and the adjusted fees for the office of the state registrar shall reflect its direct and indirect costs and the direct and indirect costs necessary to maintain and operate the Colorado responds to children with special needs program.

(b) (I) Based upon the appropriation made and subject to the approval of the executive director of the department of public health and environment, the office of the state registrar shall adjust its fees so that the revenue generated from said fees approximates its direct and indirect costs and the direct and indirect costs necessary to maintain and operate the Colorado responds to children with special needs program. Such fees shall remain in effect for the fiscal year for which the budget request applies. All fees collected by the office of the state registrar shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the vital statistics records cash fund, which fund is hereby created. All moneys credited to the vital statistics records cash fund and all interest earned thereon shall be subject to appropriation by the general assembly to be used as provided in this section and shall not be deposited in or transferred to the general fund of this state or any other fund.

(II) For those services required by this article and those services provided by the Colorado responds to children with special needs program, each office designated or established pursuant to section 25-2-103 shall charge fees as specified by the state registrar. Such fees shall be used for the purpose of paying the direct and indirect costs of the office and the office of the state registrar for compliance with the provisions of this article and the direct and indirect costs necessary to maintain and operate the Colorado responds to children with special needs program.

(c) Beginning July 1, 1985, and each July 1 thereafter, whenever moneys appropriated to the office of the state registrar for its activities for the prior fiscal year are unexpended, said moneys shall be made a part of the appropriation to the office of the state registrar for the next fiscal year, and such amount shall not be raised from fees collected by the office of the state registrar. If a supplemental appropriation is made to the office of the state registrar for its activities and the services provided by the Colorado responds to children with special needs program, the fees of the office of the state registrar, when adjusted for the fiscal year following that in which the supplemental appropriation was made, shall be adjusted by an additional amount that is sufficient to compensate for the supplemental appropriation. Moneys appropriated to the office of the state registrar in the annual general appropriation act shall be designated as cash funds and shall not exceed the amount anticipated to be raised from fees collected by the office of the state registrar.

(d) As used in this section, "Colorado responds to children with special needs program" means the program established within the department of public health and environment under the authority of section 25-1.5-105.

(3) to (5) Repealed.

Source: L. 84: Entire section added, p. 750, § 15, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) and (2)(b)(I) amended, p. 2750, § 403, effective July 1. L. 2003: (3) added, p. 458, § 18, effective March 5. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 2065, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2010: (2)(b)(II) amended, (SB 10-006), ch. 341, p. 1578, § 3, effective June 5. L. 2020: (4) added, (HB 20-1406), ch. 178, p. 812, § 12, effective June 29. L. 2022: (3) and (4) repealed, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2979, § 60, effective August 10. L. 2025: (5) added, (SB 25-264), ch. 129, p. 505, § 32, effective April 25.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 505.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (2)(b)(I), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2010 act amending subsection (2)(b)(II), see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2010.

25-2-122. Heirloom birth and marriage certificates - funds created - report - rules - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Heirloom birth certificate" means a birth certificate that is suitable for display and may bear the seal of the state and be signed by the governor.

(b) "Heirloom marriage certificate" means a marriage certificate that is suitable for display and may bear the seal of the state and be signed by the governor.

(2) (a) In addition to any other birth certificate issued pursuant to section 25-2-112, the state registrar shall issue, upon request and upon payment of a fee established by rule of the state board of health, an heirloom birth certificate representing the birth of the individual named on the original birth certificate. The state registrar may establish procedures for issuing heirloom birth certificates; except that an heirloom birth certificate shall be issued in a form consistent with the need to protect the integrity of vital records, including secure measures designed to prevent tampering, counterfeiting, or otherwise duplicating the birth certificate for fraudulent purposes, pursuant to the federal "Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004", 5 U.S.C. sec. 301.

(b) An heirloom birth certificate shall have the same status as evidence as that of an original birth certificate.

(c) The fee established pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) shall be sufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs of producing and issuing the heirloom birth certificate, plus an additional ten dollars. The state registrar shall transmit moneys generated pursuant to this subsection (2), along with an explanation of the number of heirloom birth certificate sales that correspond to such moneys, to the state treasurer, who shall credit:

(I) For each sale of an heirloom birth certificate, ten dollars to the immunization fund created in section 25-4-1708; and

(II) The remainder of such moneys to the vital statistics records cash fund created in section 25-2-121.

(3) (a) In addition to any other marriage certificate issued pursuant to section 25-2-106, the state registrar shall issue, upon request and upon payment of a fee established by rule of the state board of health, an heirloom marriage certificate representing the marriage of the persons named on the original marriage certificate recorded in the county clerk and recorder's office. The state registrar may establish procedures for issuing the heirloom marriage certificates; except that an heirloom marriage certificate shall be issued in a form consistent with the need to protect the integrity of vital records.

(b) An heirloom marriage certificate shall have the same status as evidence as that of an original marriage certificate.

(c) The fee established pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) shall be sufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs of producing and issuing the heirloom marriage certificate, plus an additional ten dollars. The state registrar shall transmit moneys generated pursuant to this subsection (3), along with an explanation of the number of heirloom marriage certificate sales that correspond to such moneys, to the state treasurer, who shall credit:

(I) For each sale of an heirloom marriage certificate, ten dollars to the Colorado domestic abuse program fund created in section 39-22-802, C.R.S.; and

(II) The remainder of such moneys to the vital statistics records cash fund created in section 25-2-121.

Source: L. 2006: Entire section added, p. 943, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2007: (2)(c)(I) amended, p. 654, § 1, effective April 26.

HOSPITALS

ARTICLE 3

Hospitals

PART 1
HOSPITALS

25-3-100.5. Definitions.

25-3-101. Hospitals - health facilities - licensed - definitions.

25-3-102. License - application - issuance - waiver - certificate of compliance required - rules.

25-3-102.1. Deemed status for certain facilities.

25-3-102.5. Nursing facilities - consumer satisfaction survey - pilot survey.

25-3-103. License denial or revocation - provisional license - rules.

25-3-103.1. Health facilities general licensure cash fund.

25-3-103.5. Nondiscrimination - hospital surgical privileges - hospital rules and regulations.

25-3-103.7. Employment of physicians - when permissible - conditions - definitions.

25-3-104. Reports.

25-3-105. License - fee - rules - performance incentive system - penalty.

25-3-106. Unincorporated associations.

25-3-107. Disciplinary actions reported to Colorado medical board or podiatry board.

25-3-108. Receivership.

25-3-109. Quality management functions - confidentiality and immunity.

25-3-110. Emergency contraception - definitions.

25-3-111. Authentication of verbal orders - hospital policies or bylaws.

25-3-112. Hospitals - charity care information - charges for the uninsured - reports to department - department review - collections protection - hospital financial assistance standards committee established - rules. (Repealed)

25-3-113. Health-care facility stakeholder forum - creation - membership - duties.

25-3-114. STEMI task force - creation - membership - duties - report - notice of funding through gifts, grants, and donations - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3-115. Stroke advisory board - creation - membership - duties - report - definition - repeal.

25-3-116. Department recognition of national certification - suspension or revocation of recognition.

25-3-117. Heart attack database - hospitals to report data on heart attack care.

25-3-118. Hospital off-campus location - obtain and use unique NPI - definitions.

25-3-119. Freestanding emergency departments - required notices - disclosures - rules - definitions.

25-3-120. Regulation of surgical smoke - requirement to adopt a policy - definitions - applicability.

25-3-121. Health-care facilities - emergency and nonemergency services - required disclosures - balance billing - unfair or deceptive trade practice - rules - definitions.

25-3-122. Out-of-network facilities - emergency medical services - billing - payment - unfair or deceptive trade practice.

25-3-123. Mental health facility pilot program - establishment - rules - definitions.

25-3-124. Food donations to nonprofit organizations encouraged.

25-3-125. Visitation rights - hospital patients - residents in nursing care facilities or assisted living residences - limitations - definitions - short title.

25-3-126. Health facilities - health-care practitioners - requirements related to labor and childbirth - rules - definitions.

25-3-127. Emergency room intake data - marijuana use - annual report.

25-3-128. Hospitals - nurses, nurse aides, and EMS providers - staffing requirements - enforcement - waiver - rules - definitions.

25-3-129. Office of saving people money on health care - study - report.

25-3-130. Intimate examination of sedated or unconscious patient - informed consent required - rules - definitions.

25-3-131. Maternal health-care services - discontinuation - required notifications - definitions - repeal.

25-3-132. Rural and frontier hospital capital needs study - task force - creation - report - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

25-3-133. Emergency medical condition - emergency medical services - transfer - discharge - nonliability - enforcement - definitions.

25-3-134. 340B drug pricing program transparency - definitions.

PART 2
MATERNITY HOSPITALS

25-3-201 to

25-3-207. (Repealed)

PART 3
COUNTY HOSPITALS - ESTABLISHMENT

25-3-301. Establishment of public hospital.

25-3-302. Board of trustees.

25-3-303. Organization of trustees.

25-3-304. Trustees - powers and duties - ability to designate hospital as enterprise - definition.

25-3-304.5. Hospital collaborative agreements - additional powers.

25-3-305. Vacancies - removal for cause.

25-3-306. Right of eminent domain.

25-3-307. Building requirements.

25-3-308. Improvements, operations, or enlargements.

25-3-309. Hospital fees.

25-3-310. Rules and regulations.

25-3-311. Donations permitted.

25-3-312. Training school for nurses.

25-3-313. Lease of hospital.

25-3-314. Charge for professional services.

25-3-315. Records of hospital.

PART 4
STATE PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL ACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF HEALTH FACILITIES

25-3-401. Department to administer plan.

25-3-402. State advisory hospital and mental retardation facilities and community mental health centers council. (Repealed)

25-3-403. Department to administer federal mental health construction funds.

PART 5
CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC NECESSITY

25-3-501 to

25-3-521. (Repealed)

PART 6
HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS DISCLOSURE

25-3-601. Definitions.

25-3-602. Health facility reports - advisory committee - creation - duties.

25-3-603. Department reports.

25-3-604. Privacy.

25-3-605. Confidentiality.

25-3-606. Penalties.

25-3-607. Regulatory oversight.

PART 7
COLORADO HOSPITAL REPORT CARD ACT

25-3-701. Short title.

25-3-702. Comprehensive hospital information system - executive director - duties - definitions. (Repealed)

25-3-703. Hospital report card - rules - exemption.

25-3-704. Fees.

25-3-705. Health-care charge transparency - hospital charge report - definitions.

PART 8
CONSUMER PROTECTION RELATING TO HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY

25-3-801 to

25-3-803. (Repealed)

PART 1

HOSPITALS

25-3-100.5. Definitions.

As used in this article 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Acute treatment unit" means a facility or a distinct part of a facility for short-term psychiatric care, which may include treatment for substance use disorders, that provides a total, twenty-four-hour, therapeutically planned and professionally staffed environment for persons who do not require inpatient hospitalization but need more intense and individual services than are available on an outpatient basis, such as crisis management and stabilization services.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Heart attack database" means a national registry designed for heart attack data.

(4) "Joint commission" means an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies health-care organizations and programs in the United States, or its successor entity.

(5) "PCI center" means a hospital that performs percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), commonly known as coronary angioplasty, for acute myocardial infarction.

(6) "STEMI" means ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

Source: L. 2006: Entire section added, p. 1391, § 22, effective August 7. L. 2017: IP amended and (2) to (6) added, (HB 17-1246), ch. 214, p. 834, § 1, effective May 18; entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1324, § 188, effective May 25.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by SB 17-242 and HB 17-1246 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-3-101. Hospitals - health facilities - licensed - definitions.

(1) It is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to open, conduct, or maintain any general hospital; hospital unit; freestanding emergency department as defined in section 25-1.5-114; critical access hospital as defined in section 25-1.5-114.5; psychiatric hospital; community clinic; rehabilitation hospital; convalescent center; facility for persons with developmental disabilities as defined in section 25-1.5-103 (2)(c); nursing care facility; hospice care; assisted living residence, except an assisted living residence shall be assessed a license fee as set forth in section 25-27-107; dialysis treatment clinic; ambulatory surgical center; birthing center; home care agency; or other facility of a like nature, except those wholly owned and operated by a governmental unit or agency, without first having obtained a license from the department.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) (I) "Community clinic" means a health-care facility that provides health-care services on an ambulatory basis, is neither licensed as an on-campus department or service of a hospital nor listed as an off-campus location under a hospital's license, and meets at least one of the following criteria:

(A) Operates inpatient beds at the facility for the provision of extended observation and other related services for not more than seventy-two hours;

(B) Provides emergency services at the facility and is not otherwise required to obtain licensure as a freestanding emergency department in accordance with section 25-1.5-114; or

(C) Is not otherwise subject to health facility licensure under this section or section 25-1.5-103 but opts to obtain licensure as a community clinic in order to receive private donations, grants, government funds, or other public or private reimbursement for services rendered.

(II) "Community clinic" includes a prison clinic operated by the department of corrections.

(III) "Community clinic" does not include:

(A) A federally qualified health center, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4);

(B) A rural health clinic, as defined in section 1861 (aa)(2) of the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(2);

(C) A facility that functions only as an office for the practice of medicine or the delivery of primary care services by other licensed or certified practitioners; or

(D) A freestanding emergency department, as defined in and required to be licensed under section 25-1.5-114.

(b) "Hospital unit" means a physical portion of a licensed or certified general hospital, psychiatric hospital, maternity hospital, or rehabilitation hospital that is leased or otherwise occupied pursuant to a contractual agreement by a person other than the licensee of the host facility for the purpose of providing outpatient or inpatient services.

(c) "Main hospital" means a health-care facility that is licensed as a general hospital and operates a remote psychiatric inpatient location under a general hospital's license.

(d) "Remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital" or "remote psychiatric inpatient location" means a health-care facility that is federally determined or seeking federal determination as a remote location of a main hospital with provider-based status pursuant to 42 CFR 413.65, delivers health-care services under the name, ownership, and financial and administrative control of a main hospital, and meets the following criteria:

(I) (A) Was initially licensed by the department as a psychiatric hospital; or

(B) Would otherwise be subject to licensing as a psychiatric hospital;

(II) Meets all the state board of health licensing rules for a psychiatric hospital, including building standards adopted pursuant to section 25-1-108 (1)(c)(II);

(III) Is a standalone facility not located on any hospital campus;

(IV) Is located within thirty-five miles of the main hospital in a rural area as defined in section 25-1.5-103 (3)(b); and

(V) Offers primarily inpatient psychiatric services with seventeen or more inpatient beds.

(3) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the licensing of individual services provided by a licensed or certified provider on its own premises.

(4) A health-care facility is not required to be licensed as a community clinic solely due to the facility's ownership status, corporate structure, or engagement of outside vendors to perform nonclinical management services. This section permits regulation of a physician's office only to the extent the office is a community clinic as defined in this section.

(5) A health-care facility that is a remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital is not required to be separately licensed as a psychiatric hospital. The department shall recognize the health-care facility as lawfully licensed under the main hospital's general license, upon proof that the remote psychiatric inpatient location satisfies the criteria in subsection (2)(d) of this section.

(6) A remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital is subject to state board of health licensing rules for psychiatric hospitals and is not subject to state board of health licensing rules for general hospitals.

(7) Any enforcement action by the department must be taken against the main hospital's general hospital license, regardless of whether the action arises from conduct that occurs at the main hospital location or the remote psychiatric inpatient location.

(8) In the event that the remote psychiatric inpatient location is no longer federally determined as a remote location of a general hospital with provider-based status pursuant to 42 CFR 413.65, the remote psychiatric inpatient location must seek a psychiatric hospital license in order to continue operating.

(9) (a) A health-care facility that delivers health-care services under the name, ownership, and financial and administrative control of a main hospital that does not meet the requirements of subsection (2)(d)(IV) of this section may elect to become a remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital for purposes of this section if the facility:

(I) Was licensed by the department of public health and environment as a psychiatric hospital prior to May 4, 2026;

(II) Was federally determined as a remote location of a general hospital with provider-based status pursuant to 42 CFR 413.65 prior to May 4, 2026;

(III) Meets the criteria described in subsections (2)(d)(II) and (2)(d)(V) of this section; and

(IV) Is certified to accept medicaid and serves medicaid members.

(b) A health-care facility that qualifies as a remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital pursuant to this subjection (9) is subject to the same requirements applied to a remote psychiatric inpatient location pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 09: p. 411, § 1. C.L. § 1053. CSA: C. 78, § 133. CRS 53: § 66-4-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-1. L. 71: p. 631, § 1. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 440, § 3, effective May 18. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1051, § 1, effective May 25. L. 84: (1) amended, p. 338, § 4, effective April 25. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2750, § 404, effective July 1. L. 95: Entire section amended, p. 1023, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 1329, § 16, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1391, § 23, effective August 7. L. 2008: (1) amended, p. 2233, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2011: (1) and (2) amended, (HB 11-1101), ch. 94, p. 277, § 2, effective April 8; (2)(a) amended, (HB 11-1323), ch. 265, p. 1198, § 2, effective June 2. L. 2012: (1) and (2)(a) amended and (4) added, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1253, § 3, effective June 4. L. 2019: (1), (2)(a)(I)(B), and (2)(a)(III)(C) amended and (2)(a)(III)(D) added, (HB 19-1010), ch. 324, p. 2998, § 3, effective August 2; (1) amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3641, § 12, effective July 1, 2022. L. 2020: (2)(a)(III)(A) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 287, § 22, effective September 14. L. 2022: (1) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1592, § 228, effective July 1, 2024. L. 2024: (1) amended, (SB 24-121), ch. 439, p. 3066, § 3, effective July 1, 2026. L. 2026: (2)(c), (2)(d), (5), (6), (7), (8), and (9) added, (HB 26-1305), ch. 103, p. 410, § 2, effective May 4.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1) by HB 19-1010 and HB 19-1237 were harmonized, effective July 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsections (1) and (2)(a) and adding subsection (4), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment on Moon v. Mercy Hosp., appearing below, see 35 U. Colo. L. Rev. 612 (1963). For article, "Smith v. O'Halloran: Nursing Home Reform in the Courts", see 13 Colo. Law. 2248 (1984).

Hospital license is prerequisite. A license to operate a hospital is a prerequisite to the functioning of such an establishment. Moon v. Mercy Hosp., 150 Colo. 430, 373 P.2d 944 (1962).

Hospitals and doctors require different licenses. This section and § 12-36-107 are expressions of the legislative will that hospitals and doctors require different licenses. These licenses authorize related but different activities, and the issuance of the one does not permit operation under the other. The general assembly plainly and unequivocally has treated these pursuits as separate and distinct pursuits requiring different licenses. Purcell v. Poor Sisters of St. Francis Seraph, 147 Colo. 478, 364 P.2d 184 (1961); Moon v. Mercy Hosp., 150 Colo. 430, 373 P.2d 944 (1962).

Licensed hospital covered by malpractice limitations section. A hospital which is licensed under this section is clearly embraced within provisions of § 13-80-105 (now § 13-80-102 (1)(c)) prohibiting the bringing of an action to recover from a "licensed health establishment" due to alleged negligence unless such action be instituted within two years after the cause accrued. Adams v. Poudre Valley Hosp. Dist., 173 Colo. 98, 476 P.2d 565 (1970).

Licensing by home-rule city. The provisions of this article do not conflict with any rights of a home-rule city as to the licensing of a chiropractic sanitarium since the general assembly can provide for the licensing of hospitals within the limits of home-rule cities in the interest of general health. Spears Free Clinic & Hosp. for Poor Children v. State Bd. of Health, 122 Colo. 147, 220 P.2d 872 (1950).

Applied in In re Estate of Smith v. O'Halloran, 557 F. Supp. 289 (D. Colo. 1983).

25-3-102. License - application - issuance - waiver - certificate of compliance required - rules.

(1) (a) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective until July 1, 2028.] An applicant for a license described in section 25-3-101 shall apply to the department of public health and environment annually upon such form and in such manner as prescribed by the department; except that a community residential home shall make application for a license pursuant to section 25.5-10-214, C.R.S.

(1) (a) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective July 1, 2028.]

(I) An applicant for a license described in section 25-3-101 shall apply to the department every two years upon such form and in such manner as prescribed by the department; except that a community residential home shall make application for a license pursuant to section 25.5-10-214.

(II) On or before July 1, 2030, notwithstanding subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section, the department may issue a license described in section 25-3-101 to an applicant and require the applicant to apply to the department after a one-year period as the department deems appropriate.

(b) The department has authority to administer oaths, subpoena witnesses or documents, and take testimony in all matters relating to issuing, denying, limiting, suspending, or revoking a license.

(c) The department shall issue licenses to applicants furnishing satisfactory evidence of fitness to conduct and maintain a health facility described in section 25-3-101 in accordance with this part 1 and the rules adopted by the department. The department shall not require, as satisfactory evidence of fitness, evidence as to whether an applicant has provided self declarations, affidavits, or other attestations as to its general compliance with statutory or regulatory licensing requirements. The department shall determine an applicant's fitness solely based on the specific fitness information or documentation submitted by the applicant upon the department's request or as otherwise acquired by the department through its own review or investigation of the applicant. The department may require the applicant to attest to the accuracy of the information provided as long as the attestation does not require the applicant's affirmation of its general compliance with statutory or regulatory licensing requirements. CAPS check information pursuant to section 26-3.1-111 (6)(a)(III) may be considered part of an applicant's evidence of fitness. The board may promulgate rules as necessary to implement this subsection (1)(c).

(d) (I) The license expires one year after the date of issuance.

(II) This subsection (1)(d) is repealed, effective July 1, 2028.

(d.5) The main hospital must demonstrate that it meets the following conditions in its application for renewal of a license described in section 25-3-101 in order for a remote psychiatric inpatient location to continue to operate under the main hospital's general hospital license:

(I) The remote psychiatric inpatient location is designated by the commissioner of the behavioral health administration to provide services pursuant to article 65 of title 27;

(II) The remote psychiatric inpatient location is federally determined as a remote location of a general hospital with provider-based status pursuant to 42 CFR 413.65;

(III) The remote psychiatric inpatient location meets all state board of health psychiatric hospital rules; and

(IV) The remote psychiatric inpatient location is certified to accept medicaid and serves medicaid members.

(e) (I) For a change of ownership, the department shall conduct a fitness review of a new owner based upon information compiled within the five years preceding the date of the application; except that the new owner shall disclose whether, within the ten years preceding the date of an application, the new owner:

(A) Has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude;

(B) Had a state license or federal certification denied, revoked, or suspended by another jurisdiction;

(C) Had a civil judgment or criminal conviction against the new owner in a case brought by the federal, state, or local authorities that resulted from the operation, management, or ownership of a health facility or other entity related to substandard patient care or health-care fraud.

(II) The new owner shall provide the information specified in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (e) to the department regardless of whether action has been stayed during a judicial appeal or otherwise settled between the parties.

(III) The department may review an existing owner of a licensed health facility or entity only when the department has new information not previously available or disclosed that bears on the fitness of the existing owner to operate or maintain a licensed health facility or entity.

(IV) A conversion of the health facility's or entity's legal structure, or the legal structure of an entity that has a direct or indirect ownership interest in the health facility or entity, is not a change of ownership unless the conversion also includes a transfer of at least fifty percent of the licensed facility's direct or indirect ownership interest to one or more new owners.

(2) Repealed.

(3) (a) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the department of public health and environment shall not issue or renew any license described in section 25-3-101 for a facility covered by section 25-1.5-103 (5) unless the department receives a certificate of compliance for the applicant's building or structure from the division of fire prevention and control in the department of public safety in accordance with part 12 of article 33.5 of title 24, C.R.S.

(b) The department of public health and environment shall take action on an application for licensure within thirty days after the date that the department receives from the applicant all of the necessary information and documentation required for licensure, including a certificate of compliance from the division of fire prevention and control.

(4) If at any time a remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital is no longer federally determined to have provider-based status pursuant to 42 CFR 413.65, the remote psychiatric inpatient location must secure a psychiatric hospital license from the department to continue operations.

Source: L. 09: p. 412, § 2. C.L. § 1054. CSA: C. 78, § 134. C.R.S. 53: § 66-4-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-2. L. 71: p. 631, § 2. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 1094, § 3, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2750, § 405, effective July 1. L. 95: (1) amended, p. 1023, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2) amended, p. 1391, § 24, effective August 7. L. 2010: (2) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 799, § 61, effective April 29. L. 2012: (1) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1254, § 4, effective June 4; (1) amended and (3) added, (HB 12-1268), ch. 234, p. 1025, § 2, effective July 1, 2013. L. 2013: (3)(a) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1688, § 75, effective August 7; (1)(a) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1807, § 39, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2019: (2) amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3638, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: (1)(c) amended, (HB 20-1302), ch. 265, p. 1274, § 9, effective September 14; (1)(d) amended, (SB 20-113), ch. 19, p. 75, § 2, effective September 14. L. 2026: (1)(d.5) and (4) added, (HB 26-1305), ch. 103, p. 412, § 3, effective May 4; (1)(a) amended, (SB 26-138), ch. 308, p. 1764, § 5, effective July 1, 2028; (1)(d)(II) added by revision, (SB 26-138), ch. 308, pp. 1764, 1775, §§ 5, 19.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (1) by House Bill 12-1268 and House Bill 12-1294 were harmonized, effective July 1, 2013.

(2) Subsection (2)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (2), effective July 1, 2021. (See L. 2019, p. 3638.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-113, see section 1 of chapter 19, Session Laws of Colorado 2020. For the legislative declaration in SB 26-138, see section 1 of chapter 308, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ANNOTATION

Relicensing and recertification. The court of appeals cannot order the department of health to recertify or relicense a nursing facility for this decision is statutorily committed to the department of health. State Dept. of Health v. Geriatrics, 699 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1985).

Applied in Spears Free Clinic & Hosp. for Poor Children v. State Bd. of Health, 122 Colo. 147, 220 P.2d 872 (1950).

25-3-102.1. Deemed status for certain facilities.

(1) (a) In the licensing of an ambulatory surgical center following the issuance of initial licensure by the department of public health and environment, the voluntary submission of satisfactory evidence that the applicant is accredited by the joint commission, the American association for accreditation of ambulatory surgery facilities, inc., the accreditation association for ambulatory health care, the American osteopathic association, or any successor entities shall be deemed to meet certain requirements for license renewal so long as the standards for accreditation applied by the accrediting organization are at least as stringent as the licensure requirements otherwise specified by the department.

(b) (I) In the application for the renewal of a license for a health facility described in section 25-3-101, other than an ambulatory surgical center, the department of public health and environment shall deem health facilities that are currently accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services as satisfying the requirements for renewal of the license.

(II) If the standards for national accreditation are less stringent than the state's licensure standards for a particular health facility, the department of public health and environment may conduct a survey that focuses on the more stringent state standards. Beginning one year after the department first grants deemed status to a health facility pursuant to this subsection (1)(b), the department may conduct validation surveys, based on a valid sample methodology, of up to ten percent of the total number of accredited health facilities in the industry. If the department conducts a validation survey of a health facility, the validation survey is in lieu of a licensing renewal survey that the health facility would have undergone if the health facility did not have deemed status pursuant to this subsection (1)(b). Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the department may enter, survey, and investigate hospitals pursuant to section 25-3-128.

(III) If the department takes an enforcement activity, as defined in section 25-1.5-103 (2)(b.5), against a health facility to which it has granted deemed status pursuant to this subsection (1)(b), the department may revoke the health facility's deemed status.

(IV) (A) A remote psychiatric inpatient location of a general hospital must only be deemed by the department to meet the requirements for renewal under the general hospital's license if a psychiatric hospital accrediting organization has determined that the remote psychiatric inpatient location satisfies specialized psychiatric requirements to be accredited as a psychiatric hospital.

(B) Nothing in this section prevents the department from conducting an inspection of the remote psychiatric inpatient location for licensing or other requirements.

(C) Nothing in this section prevents the department from conducting an inspection of a remote psychiatric inpatient location to investigate a complaint regarding a violation of section 27-65-106, 27-65-107, 27-65-108.5, 27-65-109, 27-65-110, or 27-65-119 to the extent the complaint is applicable to a health-care facility licensed by the department.

(c) Upon submission of a completed application for license renewal, the department of public health and environment shall accept proof of the accreditation in lieu of licensing inspections or other requirements. Nothing in this section exempts an accredited health facility from inspections or from other forms of oversight by the department as necessary to ensure public health and safety. Nothing in this section prevents the department of public health and environment from conducting an inspection of a hospital or other health facility described in section 25-3-101 to investigate a complaint regarding the provisions of section 27-65-106, 27-65-107, 27-65-108.5, 27-65-109, 27-65-110, or 27-65-119 to the extent the complaint is applicable to health facilities licensed by the department of public health and environment.

(2) In determining fees otherwise payable by a health facility for license renewal, the department of public health and environment shall give due consideration to efficiencies and savings generated in connection with the deemed status process in subsection (1) of this section and shall specifically provide an appropriate credit or reduced fee to a health facility that achieves license renewal through deemed status.

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 1236, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1970, § 84, effective August 5. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1255, § 5, effective June 4. L. 2022: (1)(b)(II) amended, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1180, § 3, effective May 18; (1)(c) amended, (HB 22-1256), ch. 451, p. 3235, § 40, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(c) amended, (HB 23-1138), ch. 423, p. 2489, § 11, effective July 1, 2024. L. 2026: (1)(b)(III) amended and (1)(b)(IV) added, (HB 26-1305), ch. 103, p. 413, § 4, effective May 4.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-3-102.5. Nursing facilities - consumer satisfaction survey - pilot survey.

(1) (a) The department shall develop and implement a consumer satisfaction survey based on the results of the pilot survey implemented pursuant to paragraph (a.5) of this subsection (1). The pilot survey and the resulting consumer satisfaction survey shall be implemented to determine the level of satisfaction among residents and residents' families regarding the quality of care and quality of living in nursing facilities. "Nursing facility", as used in this section, means a nursing facility as defined in section 25.5-4-103 (14), C.R.S. The department shall appoint an advisory committee to develop the consumer satisfaction survey. The advisory committee shall include, but not be limited to, the state ombudsman, representatives of senior groups, representatives of the disabled community, representatives of providers of long term care services, and long term care consumers or their family members. The advisory committee shall develop recommendations for the development of an assessment tool for the consumer satisfaction survey and shall develop recommendations for the implementation of the pilot survey and the consumer satisfaction survey. The advisory committee shall ensure that a representative sample of participants are chosen and surveyed in a manner that will yield accurate and useful results. The department shall ensure that every nursing facility licensed by the department participates in the assessment of consumer satisfaction; except that any nursing facility that accepts exclusively private pay residents shall not be required to participate. Information about results of the most recent consumer satisfaction survey and how such survey was conducted shall be included by the facility in all informational materials provided to persons who inquire about the facility. The department shall assure confidentiality for residents during the survey process. The department shall make the results of consumer satisfaction surveys available to the public.

(a.5) (I) The department shall develop and implement a pilot consumer satisfaction survey to aid in the determination of the level of satisfaction among residents and residents' families regarding the quality of care and quality of living in nursing facilities. The pilot survey shall be used exclusively for the development of the consumer satisfaction survey to be implemented pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection (1) and shall not be used to penalize any participating facility. The pilot survey shall be used to assess:

(A) The validity of the questionnaire for use in the consumer satisfaction survey implemented pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection (1);

(B) The nursing facilities residents' cognition levels in order to determine the ability of the residents to complete the survey in a meaningful manner;

(C) The techniques employed to obtain the number of completed survey questionnaires needed to achieve a statistical validity of plus or minus ten percent on the final consumer satisfaction survey; and

(D) The survey data to ensure that such data is meaningful to consumers.

(II) The pilot survey shall involve the participation of no more than ten percent of all nursing facilities licensed by the department. The department shall select nursing facilities to participate in the pilot survey based on characteristics including, but not limited to, the rural or urban location of the facilities, and the cross-section of the resident population of the facilities. Facilities that volunteer to participate in the pilot survey shall be given priority in the selection process so long as the required characteristics are met.

(III) (A) The individual nursing facility results of the pilot survey shall be confidential and not made available to the public; except that each nursing facility shall be provided with the pilot survey results from its own facility.

(B) Aggregate statistical results of the pilot survey may be made available to the public.

(C) Repealed.

(IV) Repealed.

(b) The consumer satisfaction survey shall be easy to understand so that each resident or resident's family member or representative who participates may fill out the survey unassisted; except that the department or its designated representative may assist a resident or resident's family with filling out the survey. Nursing facility volunteers and employees shall be prohibited from assisting participants with the completion of the survey. The names of the participants in the survey shall be kept confidential, and all surveys shall be returned directly to the department.

(c) Repealed.

(d) The department shall administer the consumer satisfaction survey based on the recommendations of the advisory committee in all licensed nursing facilities that are required to participate in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (1). The department shall commence implementation of the survey on or before July 1, 2003. After the pilot survey is complete, the department shall evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot survey instruments, adopt any recommendations, and continue to survey all licensed facilities on a three-year cycle with one-third of the participating licensed nursing facilities completing the initial survey in one of the three years. Each participating licensed nursing facility shall perform a new consumer satisfaction survey every three years thereafter; except that the department may require, or a participating licensed nursing facility may request, that a new consumer satisfaction survey be performed more often if conditions warrant. If the licensed nursing facility requests such a survey, the department shall perform the survey if the licensed nursing facility pays the department for the costs associated with performing the survey. A licensed nursing facility may comment on the results of a consumer satisfaction survey and have such comments included in any publication or distribution of the results by the department.

(e) Hospice residents and their family members and transitional care unit residents and their family members, shall be exempt from participation in the pilot survey and consumer satisfaction survey conducted in each nursing facility.

(f) Nursing facilities shall release the name, address, and telephone number of each family member or party responsible for a nursing facility resident to the department for the sole use of conducting the pilot survey and the consumer satisfaction survey.

(2) (a) The department shall respond to a complaint from a nursing facility resident or resident's family member or representative within five working days after receipt of the complaint and, for sixty days after the date the department received the complaint, the department shall update the complainant on the status of the complaint investigation at least every fourteen days until the complaint is resolved and an investigation is finalized. If the complaint is not resolved within sixty days after the date the department received the complaint, the department shall continue to update the complainant on the status of the complaint every thirty days until the complaint is resolved and an investigation report is resolved and an investigation is finalized. At the request of the complainant, the department shall not maintain such contact.

(b) (I) The state and local long-term care ombudsman, established pursuant to article 11.5 of title 26, C.R.S., in compliance with the federal "Older Americans Act of 1965", ("ombudsman") shall refer to the state department for investigation and resolution all complaints received by the ombudsman involving possible licensure violations in nursing homes that are exclusively private pay facilities.

(II) Information about the ombudsman, including the ombudsman's role in dealing with resident complaints and all contact information and telephone numbers for the ombudsman, shall be included in the information provided to a resident upon admission to a facility that is not a private pay facility.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 1222, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2002: (1)(a) and (1)(d) amended and (1)(a.5), (1)(e), and (1)(f) added, p. 1924, § 1, effective June 7; (1)(a.5)(III)(C) repealed, p. 1935, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2004: (1)(c) repealed, p. 471, § 1, effective August 4. L. 2005: (1)(a.5)(IV) repealed, p. 279, § 12, effective August 8. L. 2006: (1)(a) amended, p. 2014, § 87, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the "Older Americans Act of 1965", see Pub.L. 89-73, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.

25-3-103. License denial or revocation - provisional license - rules.

(1) (a) The department of public health and environment may deny an application for a new or renewal license under this part 1 or revoke a license if the applicant or licensee has not satisfied the requirements of this part 1 or part 6 of this article and the rules of the department or the state board of health. If a license is denied or revoked, the department may grant the applicant or licensee a provisional license upon payment of a fee established by the state board of health by rule, subject to the limitations in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1). The provisional license is valid for no longer than ninety days and may be issued to allow the applicant or licensee time to comply with the requirements for a regular license. A second provisional license may be issued if the department determines it is necessary to effect compliance. The second provisional license must be issued for the same duration as the first provisional license upon payment of the fee established by the state board of health by rule, subject to the limitations in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1). No further provisional licenses may be issued for the then current year after the second issuance.

(b) The state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of the fee established pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of the fee is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of the fee as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

(c) On or after June 4, 2012, the state board of health may increase the amount of a provisional license fee established pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section that is in effect on June 4, 2012, by an amount not to exceed the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor, bureau of labor statistics, consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all urban consumers and all goods, or its applicable predecessor or successor index. Nothing in this subsection (1)(c) limits the ability of the state board of health to reduce the amount of a provisional license fee in effect on such date or to modify fees in accordance with subsection (1)(b) of this section as necessary to comply with section 24-75-402.

(2) Upon a finding of reasonable compliance by an applicant holding a provisional license, a regular license shall be issued upon receipt of the regular license fee established pursuant to section 25-3-105.

(3) No denial of a renewal license shall be lawful unless, before institution of such proceedings by the department of public health and environment, said department has given the licensee notice in writing of facts on conduct that may warrant denial, has afforded the applicant opportunity to submit written data, views, and arguments with respect to such facts on conduct, and, except in cases of deliberate and willful violation, has given the applicant a reasonable opportunity to comply with all lawful requirements for licensure.

(4) No application for renewal of a license shall be denied by the department of public health and environment, and no previously issued license shall be revoked, suspended, annulled, limited, or modified until after a hearing as provided in section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(5) The department of public health and environment may suspend or revoke the license for the operation of a nursing care facility or intermediate care facility of any licensee convicted of violating any provision of section 26-1-127 or section 25.5-6-206 (8), C.R.S., if the department finds such suspension or revocation necessary to safeguard the rights of patients in the future. No license or permit shall thereafter be issued to any person so convicted, except upon a specific finding by the department that the rights of the patients will have adequate safeguards.

Source: L. 09: p. 412, § 3. C.L. § 1055. CSA: C. 78, § 135. CRS 53: § 66-4-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-3. L. 71: p. 632, § 3. L. 77: (5) added, p. 1357, § 5, effective June 19. L. 78: (5) amended, p. 270, § 83, effective May 23. L. 84: (2) amended, p. 1121, § 25, effective June 7. L. 91: (5) amended, p. 1856, § 14, effective April 11. L. 94: (1), (3), (4), and (5) amended, p. 2751, § 406, effective July 1. L. 95: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1024, § 4, effective July 1. L. 98: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1333, § 44, effective June 1. L. 2006: (1)(a) amended, p. 1574, § 2, effective June 2;(5) amended, p. 2015, § 88, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1) amended, p. 954, § 3, effective May 17. L. 2012: (1)(a) amended and (1)(c) added, (HB 12-1294) ch. 252, p. 1256, § 6, effective June 4. L. 2018: (1)(c) amended, (HB 18-1375), ch. 274, p. 1713, § 59, effective May 29.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1), (3), (4), and (5), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsection (1)(a) and adding subsection (1)(c), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Smith v. O'Halloran: Nursing Home Reform in the Courts", see 13 Colo. Law. 2248 (1984).

Applied in Spears Free Clinic & Hosp. for Poor Children v. State Bd. of Health, 122 Colo. 147, 220 P.2d 872 (1950); In re Estate of Smith v. O'Halloran, 557 F. Supp. 289 (D. Colo. 1983).

25-3-103.1. Health facilities general licensure cash fund.

(1) All fees collected pursuant to this article shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the health facilities general licensure cash fund, which fund is hereby created.

(2) The general assembly shall make annual appropriations from the health facilities general licensure cash fund to partially reimburse the department of public health and environment for the direct and indirect costs of the department incurred in the performance of its duties pursuant to this article 3. No appropriation shall be made out of the cash fund for expenditures incurred by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(II) in carrying out duties relating to health facilities wholly owned and operated by a governmental unit or agency.

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1024, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2003: (2) amended, p. 709, § 37, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 1948, § 2, effective June 2. L. 2022: (2) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1508, § 56, effective July 1.

25-3-103.5. Nondiscrimination - hospital surgical privileges - hospital rules and regulations.

(1) The bylaws of any hospital licensed pursuant to the provisions of part 3 of this article or established pursuant to section 32-1-1003, C.R.S., which does not limit staff privileges to employees or contracting physicians of such hospital, shall include provisions for the use of the facility by, and staff privileges for, duly licensed doctors of medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, and podiatry within the scope of their respective licenses. Such bylaws shall not discriminate on the basis of the staff member's holding a degree of doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, doctor of dental science, or doctor of podiatric medicine within the scope of their respective licensure. Provision shall be made in the bylaws for the right to pursue and practice full surgical privileges for holders of a degree of doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, doctor of dental science, or doctor of podiatric medicine within the scope of their respective licensure. Such rights and privileges may be limited or restricted upon the basis of an individual practitioner's demonstrated training, experience, current competence, professional ethics, health status, or failure to abide by the hospital's rules, regulations, and procedures.

(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require a hospital to offer a specific service or services not otherwise offered or to buy, construct, or renovate facilities, to purchase equipment, hire additional staff, or to comply with other requirements of law concerning its planning, financing, or operation. If a health service is offered, the hospital shall not discriminate between persons holding a degree of doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, or doctor of podiatric medicine who are authorized by law to perform such services.

(3) A hospital may require the coadmittance by a medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy for any patient admitted for surgical treatment by a podiatrist or dentist. The responsibility for obtaining such coadmittance shall be that of the podiatrist or dentist admitting said patient and not of the hospital. Patients admitted for podiatric or dental care shall receive the same basic medical appraisal as patients admitted for other services. Such appraisal shall include an admission history and physical examination by a medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or qualified, hospital-credentialed and -privileged podiatrist, who is either on the medical staff or approved by the medical staff of such hospital. The findings of such appraisal shall be recorded on the patient's medical record. The admitting podiatrist or dentist shall be responsible for that part of the history and examination that is related to podiatry or dentistry. The medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy shall be responsible for the treatment of any medical problem that may be present on admission or arise during hospitalization of such podiatric or dental patient. Such doctor shall evaluate the general medical condition of the podiatric or dental patient and determine, after consultation if necessary, the overall risk of the pending surgical treatment to the patient's health.

(4) Within one hundred eighty days after May 25, 1983, the governing body of every hospital subject to the provisions of part 3 of this article or established pursuant to section 32-1-1003, C.R.S., which does not limit staff privileges to employees or contracting physicians of such hospital, shall provide in its bylaws reasonable standards and procedures to be applied by such hospital and its staff in considering and acting upon applications for staff membership or privileges by a person holding a Colorado license to practice as a doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathic medicine, podiatrist, or dentist in conformance with the requirements of any national accrediting body to which the hospital subscribes. Such standards and procedures shall be available for public inspection and shall be based on an applicant's individual training, experience, current competence, professional ethics, health status, and the hospital's rules of professional conduct applied equally to all persons holding a Colorado license to practice as a doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathic medicine, podiatrist, or dentist.

(5) Hospital rules and regulations shall be reasonable, necessary, and applied in good faith equally and in a nondiscriminatory manner to all staff members, or applicants seeking to become staff members, holding a degree of doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathic medicine, doctor of dental science, or doctor of podiatric medicine.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1053, § 1, effective May 25. L. 2007: (3) amended, p. 436, § 1, effective August 3.

25-3-103.7. Employment of physicians - when permissible - conditions - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) Repealed.

(b) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(c) "Federally qualified health center" or "FQHC" has the same meaning as set forth in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4).

(d) "Health-care facility" means a hospital, hospice, behavioral health safety net provider, as defined in section 27-50-101 (7), federally qualified health center, school-based health center, rural health clinic, PACE organization, or long-term care facility.

(e) "Hospice" means an entity that administers services to a terminally ill person utilizing palliative care or treatment and that is currently licensed and regulated by the department pursuant to the department's authority under section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(f) "Hospital" means a hospital currently licensed or certified by the department pursuant to the department's authority under section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(f.3) "Long-term care facility" means:

(I) A nursing facility as defined by section 25.5-4-103, C.R.S., and licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103;

(II) An assisted living residence as defined by section 25-27-102 and licensed pursuant to section 25-27-103; or

(III) An independent living facility or a residence for seniors that provides assistance to its residents in the performance of their daily living activities.

(f.5) "PACE organization" means an organization providing a program of all-inclusive care for the elderly pursuant to section 25.5-5-412, C.R.S.

(g) "Physician" means a person duly licensed to practice under article 220, 240, or 290 of title 12.

(h) "Rural health clinic" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 1861 (aa)(2) of the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(2).

(i) "School-based health center" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 25-20.5-502.

(2) (a) A health-care facility may employ physicians, subject to the limitations set forth in subsections (3) to (6) of this section. The employment of physicians at a long-term care facility may be direct or through a separate entity authorized to conduct business in this state that has common or overlapping ownership as an affiliate or subsidiary of an entity, including a foreign entity, that owns, controls, or manages the long-term care facility, subject to the limitations set forth in subsections (3) to (6) of this section.

(b) Nothing in this subsection (2) allows any person who is not licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12 to practice or direct the practice of medicine at a long-term care facility.

(3) Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow any health-care facility that employs a physician to limit or otherwise exercise control over the physician's independent professional judgment concerning the practice of medicine or diagnosis or treatment or to require physicians to refer exclusively to the health-care facility or to the health-care facility's employed physicians. Any health-care facility that knowingly or recklessly so limits or controls a physician in such manner or attempts to do so shall be deemed to have violated standards of operation for the particular type of health-care facility and may be held liable to the patient or the physician, or both, for such violations, including proximately caused damages. Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect any health-care facility's decisions with respect to the availability of services, technology, equipment, facilities, or treatment programs, or as requiring any health-care facility to make available to patients or physicians additional services, technology, equipment, facilities, or treatment programs.

(4) Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow a health-care facility that employs a physician to offer the physician any percentage of fees charged to patients by the health-care facility or other financial incentive to artificially increase services provided to patients.

(5) The medical staff bylaws or policies or the policies of any health-care facility that employs physicians shall not discriminate with regard to credentials or staff privileges on the basis of whether a physician is an employee of, a physician with staff privileges at, or a contracting physician with, the health-care facility. Any health-care facility that discriminates with regard to credentials or staff privileges on the basis of whether a physician is an employee of, a physician with staff privileges at, or a contracting physician with, the health-care facility shall be deemed to have violated standards of operation for the particular type of health-care facility and may be held liable to the physician for such violations, including proximately caused damages. This subsection (5) shall not affect the terms of any contract or written employment arrangement that provides that the credentials or staff and clinical privileges of any practitioner are incident to or coterminous with the contract or employment arrangement or the individual's association with a group holding the contract.

(6) When applying for initial facility licensure and upon each application for license renewal, every health-care facility licensed or certified by the department that employs a physician shall report to the department the number of physicians on the health-care facility's medical staff. The report shall separately identify the number of those physicians who are employed by the health-care facility under separate contract to the health-care facility and independent of the health-care facility.

(7) The medical staff bylaws or policies or the policies of any health-care facility that employs physicians shall contain a procedure by which complaints by physicians alleging a violation of subsection (3), (4), or (5) of this section may be heard and resolved, which procedure shall ensure that the due process rights of the parties are protected. A physician who believes he or she has been the subject of a violation of subsection (3), (4), or (5) of this section has a right to complain and request review of the matter pursuant to such procedure.

(8) Nothing in this section shall preclude a physician or a patient from seeking other remedies available to the physician or to the patient at law or in equity.

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 721, § 2, effective May 6. L. 94: (1)(a) and (6) amended, p. 2751, § 407, effective July 1. L. 95: (1)(a), (3), and (5) amended and (7) and (8) added, p. 977, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1)(a) amended, p. 709, § 38, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1) to (7) amended, p. 452, § 1, effective April 11. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 932, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1)(d) and (6) amended and (1)(f.5) added, (HB 09-1004), ch. 26, p. 115, § 1, effective March 19. L. 2011: (1)(d) and (2) amended and (1)(f.3) added, (SB 11-084), ch. 112, p. 346, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2012: (6) amended, (HB 12-1052), ch. 228, p. 1006, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1)(g) and (2)(b) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1700, § 151, effective October 1. L. 2020: (1)(c) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 288, § 23, effective September 14. L. 2022: (1)(d) amended (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1592, § 229, effective July 1, 2024; (1)(a)(II) added by revision, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, pp. 1592, 1605; §§ 229, 263(1)(b).

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(a), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 1592, 1605.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1)(a) and (6), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1995 act amending subsections (1)(a), (3), and (5) and adding subsections (7) and (8), see section 1 of chapter 201, Session Laws of Colorado 1995. For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsection (6), see section 1 of chapter 228, Session Laws of Colorado 2012. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Physician as the Hospital's Employee: SB 95-212", see 24 Colo. Law. 2345 (1995).

No exposure to vicarious liability. Since a hospital may employ a physician but cannot limit or otherwise exercise control over the physician's independent professional judgment, this section does not expose the hospital to vicarious liability with respect to negligent or tortious acts committed by the physician employee. Estate of Harper ex rel. Al-Hamim v. Denver Health & Hosp. Auth., 140 P.3d 273 (Colo. App. 2006).

Corporate practice of medicine doctrine is statutorily altered, but not abolished, in Colorado. Daly v. Aspen Ctr. for Women's Health, Inc., 134 P.3d 450 (Colo. App. 2005).

25-3-104. Reports.

Any person, partnership, association, or corporation maintaining any hospital or other facility for the treatment or care of the sick or injured shall make a report to the department of public health and environment upon request but not more frequently than quarterly. The department of public health and environment shall have power to investigate and shall have free access to such facilities consistent with section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

Source: L. 09: p. 412, § 4. C.L. § 1056. CSA: C. 78, § 136. CRS 53: § 66-4-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-4. L. 71: p. 632, § 4. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2752, § 408, effective July 1. L. 95: Entire section amended, p. 1024, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2003: Entire section amended, p. 709, § 39, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-3-105. License - fee - rules - performance incentive system - penalty.

(1) (a) (I) (A) Subject to the limitations in subsections (1)(a)(I)(B) and (1)(a)(I)(B.5) of this section, the state board of health shall establish a schedule of fees, which must be set at a level sufficient to meet the direct and indirect costs of administration and enforcement of this article 3, as appropriated by the general assembly for each fiscal year, less any money appropriated for the same fiscal year by the general assembly from any other source to meet such costs. The fee schedule must also ensure that the reserve balance in the health facilities general licensure cash fund, created in section 25-3-103.1 (1), is consistent with the limits specified in section 24-75-402 (3) and must be modified, as necessary, to comply with the limits. The state board shall establish and modify, as necessary, the fee schedule by rules adopted in accordance with article 4 of title 24. Except as specified in subsection (1)(a)(II) of this section, the department of public health and environment may assess fees in accordance with the fee schedule established by the state board against health facilities licensed by the department. All fees collected pursuant to the fee schedule must be deposited in the health facilities general licensure cash fund, created in section 25-3-103.1 (1), and are subject to appropriation by the general assembly in accordance with section 25-3-103.1 (2).

(B) On or after June 4, 2012, and until June 30, 2025, the state board of health may increase the amount of any fee on the schedule of fees established pursuant to subsection (1)(a)(I)(A) of this section that is in effect on June 4, 2012, by an amount not to exceed the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor, bureau of labor statistics, consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all urban consumers and all goods, or its applicable predecessor or successor index. Nothing in this subsection (1)(a)(I)(B) limits the ability of the state board of health to reduce the amount of any fee on the schedule of fees in effect on such date or to modify fees as necessary to comply with section 24-75-402. Notwithstanding the requirements of this subsection (1)(a)(I)(B), the state board of health may assess fees necessary to cover the costs associated with the surveys conducted pursuant to section 25-3-128.

(B.5) For state fiscal year 2025-26 and each state fiscal year thereafter, the schedule of fees adopted by the state board of health pursuant to subsection (1)(a)(I)(A) of this section must be updated and published by March 1 of the year that the fees will take effect. The fees are not subject to rule-making by the state board of health. The schedule of fees must increase eight percent for state fiscal year 2025-26; six percent for each of the state fiscal years 2026-27, 2027-28, and 2028-29; and, for state fiscal year 2029-30, and each year thereafter, the increase must be equal to the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index, or a successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by urban consumers.

(C) The department of public health and environment shall institute, by rule, a performance incentive system for licensed health facilities under which a licensed health facility would be eligible for a reduction in its license renewal fee if: The department's on-site relicensure inspection demonstrates that the health facility has no significant deficiencies that have negatively affected the life, safety, or health of its consumers; the licensed health facility has fully and timely cooperated with the department during the on-site inspection; the department has found no documented actual or potential harm to consumers; and, in the case where any significant deficiencies are found that do not negatively affect the life, safety, or health of consumers, the licensed health facility has submitted, and the department has accepted, a plan of correction and the health facility has corrected the deficient practice, as verified by the department, within the period required by the department. Notwithstanding the requirements of this subsection (1)(a)(I)(C), any fees associated with the surveys and investigations of hospitals authorized by section 25-3-128 are not subject to a reduction based on the performance incentive system.

(II) An assisted living residence shall be assessed a fee as set forth in section 25-27-107, and a separate fee shall be collected pursuant to section 25-3-704 to meet the costs incurred by the department in completing the requirements of part 7 of this article.

(III) A license issued by the department may be revoked at any time by the state board of health for any of the causes set forth in section 25-3-103 or for a licensee's failure to comply with any of the rules of the state board or to make the reports required by section 25-3-104. Any person, partnership, association, company, or corporation opening, conducting, or maintaining any facility for the treatment and care of the sick or injured who does not have a provisional or regular license authorizing such person or entity to open, conduct, or maintain the facility is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars.

(IV) A main hospital with a remote psychiatric inpatient location is subject to a separate licensing fee for each remote psychiatric inpatient location operating under a single general hospital license.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 953, § 2, effective May 17, 2007.)

(c) Repealed.

(2) The department of public health and environment shall maintain a full, true, and accurate accounting of the costs of providing services under this article, including indirect costs, and, at least annually, shall provide a detailed cost accounting report to the health care facility stakeholder forum created in section 25-3-113. The department shall regularly evaluate and update its cost-accounting methods.

(3) Repealed.

(4) On July 1, 2013, any moneys remaining in the health facilities general licensure cash fund created in section 25-3-103.1 (1) from fees collected by the department of public health and environment for health facility building and structure code plan reviews and inspections are transferred to the health facility construction and inspection cash fund created in section 24-33.5-1207.8, C.R.S.

Source: L. 09: p. 413, § 6. C.L. § 1058. CSA: C. 78, § 138. CRS 53: § 66-4-5. L. 54: p. 133, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-5. L. 71: p. 632, § 5. L. 77: Entire section amended, p. 1275, § 1, effective July 1. L. 95: Entire section amended, p. 1025, § 7, effective July 1. L. 98: (1) amended, p. 1333, § 45, effective June 1. L. 2000: (2) amended, p. 461, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2003: (1)(a) amended, p. 1524, § 1, effective May 1. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1391, § 25, effective August 7. L. 2007: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 953, § 2, effective May 17. L. 2012: (1)(a)(I) and (2) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1257, § 7, effective June 4; (4) added (HB 12-1268), ch. 234, p. 1026, § 3, effective July 1, 2013. L. 2018: (1)(a)(I)(B) amended, (HB 18-1375), ch. 274, p. 1714, § 60, effective May 29. L. 2019: (1)(c)(IV) added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3640, § 9, effective July 1, 2021. L. 2022: (1)(a)(I)(B) and (1)(a)(I)(C) amended, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1181, § 4, effective May 18. L. 2024: (1)(a)(I)(A) and (1)(a)(I)(B) amended and (1)(a)(I)(B.5) added, (HB 24-1417), ch. 136, p. 506, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2026: (1)(a)(IV) added, (HB 26-1305), ch. 103, p. 413, § 5, effective May 4; (1)(a)(II) amended, (SB 26-169), ch. 311, p. 1807, § 37, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (3)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (3), effective July 1, 1996. (See L. 95, p. 1025.)

(2) Subsection (1)(c)(IV) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(c), effective July 1, 2022. (See L. 2019, p. 3640.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsections (1)(a)(I) and (2), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-3-106. Unincorporated associations.

An unincorporated association organized and existing for the purpose of providing hospital services for its members shall be governed, managed, and controlled by a board of trustees selected in accordance with the provisions of the state constitution and bylaws of such association. Such board of trustees shall have the right to acquire, own, and hold, in the name of such association or in the name of persons who hold title in trust for said association, real property devoted to or connected with hospital purposes and to operate and manage the same in accordance with the laws of this state, and such board of trustees shall have the power and right from time to time to sell, convey, lease, or otherwise dispose of such property, including any hospital building of such association, whenever acquired, and to direct the sale, conveyance, lease, or other disposition of the same by persons who hold the title to such property in trust for said association to such purchaser, lessee, or other person or entity for such price and upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by resolution of the board of trustees of the association adopted by two-thirds vote of the entire board of trustees of such association at any regular or special meeting of said board. The sale, conveyance, lease, or other disposition of such property may be made in the manner provided in this section to any person, corporation, county, municipality, or other entity.

Source: L. 57: p. 416, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-4-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-4-6.

25-3-107. Disciplinary actions reported to Colorado medical board or podiatry board.

(1) Any disciplinary action to suspend, revoke, or otherwise limit the privileges of a licensed physician or podiatrist that is taken by the governing board of a hospital required to be licensed or certified pursuant to this part 1 or required to obtain a certificate of compliance pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(I) or (1)(a)(II) shall be reported to the Colorado medical board or the Colorado podiatry board, whichever board is appropriate, in the form prescribed by said board.

(2) Said hospital shall provide such additional information as is deemed necessary by the Colorado medical board or the Colorado podiatry board to conduct a further investigation and hearing.

Source: L. 76: Entire section added, p. 421, § 7, effective July 1. L. 79: (1) amended, p. 523, § 28, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 505, § 23, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 527, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1) amended, p. 710, § 40, effective July 1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1990, § 86, effective July 1.

25-3-108. Receivership.

(1) It is the purpose of this section to establish a receivership mechanism that will be available as a remedy for such violations of applicable laws and regulations by a licensee of a long-term health-care facility that require facility closure by the department of public health and environment in order to safeguard against potential transfer trauma resulting from relocation of its residents as a result of closure of the facility.

(2) The department of public health and environment, the licensee or owner of a long-term health-care facility, or the lessee of such facility with the approval of the owner may apply to the district court for the appointment of a receiver to operate the long-term health-care facility when:

(a) The department of public health and environment has refused to issue a renewal license or has revoked the license of such facility and the action of the department is final; or

(b) The department of public health and environment, through the executive director thereof, has taken summary action to suspend the license of any such facility in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-104 (4), C.R.S.

(3) The action of the department of public health and environment with respect to nonrenewal or revocation of a license and recommendation for certification for medicaid participation shall not be final for the purposes of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section until all administrative hearings and judicial appeals sought by a licensee of a long-term health-care facility have been exhausted or the time permitted for the same has expired and until the decisions resulting from any such appeals, if any, sustain the action of said department.

(4) Application for the appointment of a receiver pursuant to this section shall be to the district court for the county where the long-term health-care facility is located. No hearing on such application shall be held sooner than seventy-two hours after the licensee of such facility has been served with notice thereof, as provided in the Colorado rules of civil procedure; except that when the department exercises its summary powers, an emergency receiver may be appointed upon agreement in writing between the department and licensee, with the approval of the owner, until a hearing for appointment of a receiver as provided in this section. Notice shall also be served upon any owner and any lessee of a long-term health-care facility and any holder of a security interest of record in said facility. An application for appointment of a receiver pursuant to this section shall have precedence and priority over any civil or criminal case pending in the district court wherein the application is filed.

(5) For the purposes of this section, the action of the department of public health and environment exercised pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall become effective upon appointment of the receiver of the court.

(6) Prior to ordering the appointment of a receiver for the operation of a long-term health-care facility, the district court must find:

(a) That grounds for the appointment of a receiver exist as provided in subsection (2) of this section; and

(b) That proper notice as required by subsection (4) of this section has been served; and

(c) That there is a necessity to continue care on a temporary basis at the facility to avoid potential transfer trauma which would serve the best interests of the residents of the facility pending arrangements for the lease, sale, or closure of the facility.

(7) The department of public health and environment shall grant the receiver a license pursuant to section 25-3-102 and shall recommend certification for medicaid participation, and the department of health care policy and financing and the Colorado healthcare affordability and sustainability enterprise shall reimburse the receiver for the long-term health-care facility's medicaid residents pursuant to sections 25.5-6-204 and 25.5-4-402.4 (5.7).

(8) The appointment of the receiver shall be in accordance with and governed by the provisions of rule 66 of the Colorado rules of civil procedure. The court shall enter an order of appointment and fix the fees and expenses of the receiver. The receiver shall be a licensed nursing home administrator and shall post a bond with adequate sureties as determined by the court, and the receiver may be sued upon the same in the name of the people of the state of Colorado at the instance and for the use of any party injured. The receiver shall perform duties, assume responsibilities, and preserve the long-term health-care facility property in accordance with established principles of law for receivers of real property. Such duties and responsibilities shall be determined by the court following a hearing, at which time the parties may appear and be heard. The court shall specify the duties and responsibilities of the receiver in the order of appointment. No security interest in any real or personal property comprising said facility or contained within the facility nor any fixture of the facility shall be impaired or diminished by the receiver, but the receiver shall comply with the standards of the department of public health and environment in providing health care to patients.

(9) Nothing in this section shall prevent the court from altering or amending the terms and conditions of the receivership or the receiver's responsibilities and duties following a hearing, at which time the parties may appear and be heard; and nothing in this section shall prohibit the parties from stipulating to the terms and conditions of the receivership and the responsibilities and duties of the receiver, including the duration thereof, and such stipulation shall be submitted to the court for approval.

(10) A receivership established pursuant to this section may be terminated by the court upon application therefor by the licensee of a long-term health-care facility, the department of public health and environment, or the receiver. The receivership may be terminated upon a finding by the court that the receivership is no longer necessary, but in no case shall the receivership continue for longer than one hundred eighty days from the date of the initial appointment of the receiver unless extended by written agreement of the parties as provided in subsection (9) of this section.

(11) Upon termination of the receivership, the court shall order a final accounting and finally fix the fees and expenses of the receiver following a hearing, at which time the parties may appear and be heard.

Source: L. 79: Entire section added, p. 1003, § 1, effective June 7. L. 91: (7) amended, p. 1857, § 15, effective April 11. L. 94: (1), (2), (3), (5), (7), (8), and (10) amended, pp. 2752, 2624, §§ 409, 43, effective July 1. L. 2006: (7) amended, p. 2015, § 89, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1) amended, p. 2040, § 64, effective June 1. L. 2025: (7) amended, (SB 25-270), ch. 151, p. 603, § 8, effective May 1.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (7) by sections 43 and 409 of House Bill 94-1029 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1), (2), (3), (5), (7), (8), and (10), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Smith v. O'Halloran: Nursing Home Reform in the Courts", see 13 Colo. Law. 2248 (1984).

This section modifies the general rule that a receiver stands in the shoes of the entity in receivership and may assert no greater rights than the entity whose property the receiver was appointed to receive. Rather, to implement the statutory purpose to avoid "transfer trauma" from relocation of patients, the Department of Social Services is required to reimburse a receiver appointed pursuant to this section for its medicaid residents in accordance with § 26-4-110 (5). Thus, despite an apparent conflict with its regulations, the Department may not withhold the final month's payment claimed by a receiver pending completion of audits. Good Shepherd v. Dept. of Health, 789 P.2d 423 (Colo. App. 1989).

Applied in State ex rel. State Dept. of Health v. I.D.I., Inc., 642 P.2d 14 (Colo. App. 1981); In re Estate of Smith v. O'Halloran, 557 F. Supp. 289 (D. Colo. 1983).

25-3-109. Quality management functions - confidentiality and immunity.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the implementation of quality management functions to evaluate and improve patient and resident care is essential to the operation of health-care facilities licensed or certified by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a). For this purpose, it is necessary that the collection of information and data by such licensed or certified health-care facilities be reasonably unfettered so a complete and thorough evaluation and improvement of the quality of patient and resident care can be accomplished. To this end, quality management information relating to the evaluation or improvement of the quality of health-care services shall be confidential, subject to the provisions of subsection (4) of this section, and persons performing such functions shall be granted qualified immunity. It is the intent of the general assembly that nothing in this section revise, amend, or alter part 2 of article 30 or article 240 of title 12.

(2) For purposes of this section, a "quality management program" means a program that includes quality assurance and risk management activities, the peer review of licensed health-care professionals not otherwise provided for in part 2 of article 30 of title 12, and other quality management functions that are described by a facility in a quality management program approved by the department of public health and environment. Nothing in this section shall revise, amend, or alter part 2 of article 30 or article 240 of title 12.

(3) Except as otherwise provided in this section, any records, reports, or other information of a licensed or certified health-care facility that are part of a quality management program designed to identify, evaluate, and reduce the risk of patient or resident injury associated with care or to improve the quality of patient care shall be confidential information; except that such information shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (4) of this section.

(4) The records, reports, and other information described in subsection (3) and subsection (5.5) of this section shall not be subject to subpoena or discoverable or admissible as evidence in any civil or administrative proceeding. No person who participates in the reporting, collection, evaluation, or use of such quality management information with regard to a specific circumstance shall testify thereon in any civil or administrative proceeding. However, this subsection (4) shall not apply to:

(a) Any civil or administrative proceeding, inspection, or investigation as otherwise provided by law by the department of public health and environment or other appropriate regulatory agency having jurisdiction for disciplinary or licensing sanctions;

(b) Persons giving testimony concerning facts of which they have personal knowledge acquired independently of the quality management information program or function;

(c) The availability, as provided by law or the rules of civil procedure, of factual information relating solely to the individual in interest in a civil suit by such person, next friend or legal representative. In no event shall such factual information include opinions or evaluations performed as a part of the quality management program.

(d) Persons giving testimony concerning an act or omission which they have observed or in which they participated, notwithstanding any participation by them in the quality management program;

(e) Persons giving testimony concerning facts they have recorded in a medical record relating solely to the individual in interest in a civil suit by such person.

(5) Nothing in this section shall affect the voluntary release of any quality management record or information by a health-care facility; except that no patient-identifying information shall be released without the patient's consent.

(5.5) (a) The confidentiality of information provided for in this section shall in no way be impaired or otherwise adversely affected solely by reason of the submission of the information to a nongovernmental entity to conduct studies that evaluate, develop, and analyze information about health-care operations, practices, or any other function of health-care facilities. The records, reports, and other information collected or developed by a nongovernmental entity shall remain protected as provided in subsections (3) and (4) of this section. In order to adequately protect the confidentiality of such information, no findings, conclusions, or recommendations contained in such studies conducted by any such nongovernmental entity shall be deemed to establish a standard of care for health-care facilities.

(b) For purposes of this subsection (5.5), "health-care facility" includes a carrier as defined in section 10-16-102 (8), C.R.S., and a health-care practitioner licensed or certified pursuant to title 12, C.R.S.

(6) Any person who in good faith and within the scope of the functions of a quality management program participates in the reporting, collection, evaluation, or use of quality management information or performs other functions as part of a quality management program with regard to a specific circumstance shall be immune from suit in any civil action based on such functions brought by a health-care provider or person to whom the quality information pertains. In no event shall this immunity apply to any negligent or intentional act or omission in the provision of care.

(7) and (8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 97, p. 507, § 2, effective April 24, 1997.)

(9) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit any statutory or common law privilege, confidentiality, or immunity.

(10) Nothing in this section shall revise, amend, or alter the requirements of section 25-3-107.

(11) (Deleted by amendment, L. 97, p. 507, § 2, effective April 24, 1997.)

(12) Nothing in this section shall affect a person's access to his medical record as provided in section 25-1-801, nor shall it affect the right of any family member or any other person to obtain medical record information upon the consent of the patient or his authorized representative.

Source: L. 88: Entire section added, p. 1006, § 1, effective April 29. L. 89: (1) and (2) amended, p. 689, § 5, effective July 1. L. 94: (1), (2), (3), (4)(a), IP(7), and (8) amended, p. 2754, § 410, effective July 1. L. 97: (1), (3), (7), (8), and (11) amended, p. 507, § 2, effective April 24. L. 2003: IP(4) amended and (5.5) added, p. 942, § 1, effective April 17; (1) amended, p. 710, § 41, effective July 1. L. 2013: (5.5)(b) amended, (HB 13-1266), ch. 217, p. 992, § 62, effective May 13. L. 2019: (1) and (2) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1700, § 152, effective October 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1), (2), (3), and (4)(a), the introductory portion to subsection (7), and subsection (8), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

The federal Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act (PAMII) requires disclosure of peer review and quality assurance records. To the extent Colorado's laws conflict with PAMII and the access to peer review and medical assurance records that PAMII provides, they are preempted. Ctr. for Legal Advocacy v. Hammons, 323 F.3d 1262 (10th Cir. 2003).

Documents that exist regardless of any quality management functions undertaken pursuant to a state approved quality management program are discoverable, but only from their original source; and conversations between or among health care providers about medical care before a qualifying quality management function is initiated or outside the operation of a qualifying quality management function are not privileged. Zander v. Craig Hosp., 743 F. Supp. 2d 1225 (D. Colo. 2010).

Doctor's investigation, undertaken on his own, was outside the scope of hospital's quality management program and is not privileged. Doctor's belief and expectation that hospital would initiate a quality management review does not alter the independent nature of doctor's investigation or make it privileged. Zander v. Craig Hosp., 743 F. Supp. 2d 1225 (D. Colo. 2010).

A hospital that is properly licensed does not need to prove that its quality management program was in compliance with all applicable regulations for the privilege to apply. Because a quality management program is required to maintain a hospital's license, a hospital that is licensed by the department of public health and environment necessarily has a quality management program that has been approved by the department; therefore, the minutes from the hospital's quality management program committee are covered by the quality management privilege, and the trial court erred in ordering that they be produced. Simpson v. Cedar Springs Hosp., Inc., 2014 CO 73, 336 P.3d 180.

A wrongful discharge claim could not be predicated on this section where, with regard to the employee's conduct at issue, this section neither established a public duty nor created an important job-related right or privilege. Jaynes v. Centura Health Corp., 148 P.3d 241 (Colo. App. 2006).

25-3-110. Emergency contraception - definitions.

(1) For purposes of this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Emergency contraception" means a drug approved by the federal food and drug administration that prevents pregnancy after sexual intercourse, including but not limited to oral contraceptive pills; except that "emergency contraception" shall not include RU-486, mifepristone, or any other drug or device that induces a medical abortion. Nothing in section 2-4-401 (1.5), C.R.S., shall be construed to amend or alter the definition of "emergency contraception".

(b) "Sexual assault survivor" shall have the same meaning as "victim" as defined in section 18-3-401 (7), C.R.S.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, all health-care facilities that are licensed pursuant to this part 1 and provide emergency care to sexual assault survivors shall amend their evidence-collection protocols for the treatment of sexual assault survivors to include informing the survivor in a timely manner of the availability of emergency contraception as a means of pregnancy prophylaxis and educating the survivor on the proper use of emergency contraception and the appropriate follow-up care.

(3) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to require:

(a) A health-care professional who is employed by a health-care facility that provides emergency care to a sexual assault survivor to inform the survivor of the availability of emergency contraception if the professional refuses to provide the information on the basis of religious or moral beliefs; or

(b) A health-care facility to provide emergency contraception to a sexual assault survivor who is not at risk of becoming pregnant as a result of the sexual assault or who was already pregnant at the time of the assault.

(4) If any licensed pharmacy does not have nonprescription emergency contraception in stock, the pharmacy shall place a conspicuous notice in the area where customers obtain prescription drugs that states "Plan B Emergency Contraception Not Available".

(5) The general assembly encourages health-care facilities to provide training to emergency room staff concerning the efficacy of emergency contraception and the time-sensitive nature of the drug.

(6) Because emergency contraception is time-sensitive and a sexual assault survivor may seek information on or direct access to emergency contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy resulting from the assault instead of or prior to seeking hospital treatment, it is critical that sexual assault survivors have accurate information about the availability and use of emergency contraception. Therefore, the general assembly encourages:

(a) Entities offering victim assistance or counseling and rape crisis hotlines to include information concerning the availability and use of emergency contraception; and

(b) Licensed or registered pharmacies in the state of Colorado to distribute information concerning the availability and use of emergency contraception.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 63, § 2, effective March 15. L. 2009: (1)(a) amended, (SB 09-225), ch. 126, p. 546, § 2, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2007 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2007.

25-3-111. Authentication of verbal orders - hospital policies or bylaws.

(1) A hospital licensed pursuant to part 3 of this article shall require that all verbal orders be authenticated by a physician or responsible individual who has the authority to issue verbal orders in accordance with hospital and medical staff policies or bylaws. The policies or bylaws shall require that:

(a) Authentication of a verbal order occurs within forty-eight hours after the time the order is made unless a read-back and verify process pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (1) is used. The individual receiving a verbal order shall record in writing the date and time of the verbal order, and sign the verbal order in accordance with hospital policies or medical staff bylaws.

(b) A hospital policy may provide for a read-back and verify process for verbal orders. A read-back and verify process shall require that the individual receiving the order immediately read back the order to the physician or responsible individual, who shall immediately verify that the read-back order is correct. The individual receiving the verbal order shall record in writing that the order was read back and verified. If the read-back and verify process is followed, the verbal order shall be authenticated within thirty days after the date of the patient's discharge.

(2) Verbal orders shall be used infrequently. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to encourage the more frequent use of verbal orders by the medical staff at a hospital.

Source: L. 2010: Entire section added, (HB 10-1229), ch. 199, p. 869, § 1, effective May 5.

25-3-112. Hospitals - charity care information - charges for the uninsured - reports to department - department review - collections protection - hospital financial assistance standards committee established - rules. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2012: Entire section added, (SB 12-134), ch. 162, p. 569, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2014: (1)(d) amended and (3.5), (3.7), (4)(b), (7), (8), and (9) added, (SB 14-050), ch. 269, p. 1080, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2021: Entire section repealed, (HB 21-1198), ch. 435, p. 2885, § 7, effective September 7.

25-3-113. Health-care facility stakeholder forum - creation - membership - duties.

(1) There is hereby created in the department of public health and environment the health care facility stakeholder forum, referred to in this section as the "stakeholder forum". The stakeholder forum must consist of representatives from various types of provider facilities licensed by the department, consumers, consumer advocates, ombudsmen, and other interested parties. The department shall meet at least four times each year with the stakeholder forum to discuss and take into consideration the concerns and issues of interest to the forum members and other attendees regarding the development and implementation of rules and other matters that affect all health-care facilities licensed by the department.

(2) The members of the stakeholder forum serve on a voluntary basis without compensation and are responsible for noticing, staffing, recording, and reporting the notes from the stakeholder forum meetings. The department shall consider the attendance of its representatives at meetings with the stakeholder forum to be within the normal course of business, with no additional appropriation to or resources from the department required.

(3) The stakeholder forum and the department shall work to coordinate with, and shall not duplicate the work being done by, established or statutorily authorized advisory committees or working groups on issues related to the development and implementation of rules.

(4) For purposes of section 24-4-103 (2), C.R.S., as amended by House Bill 12-1008, enacted in 2012, the department may use the stakeholder forum described in this section, when appropriate, to serve as the representative group for the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 2012: Entire section added, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1258, § 8, effective June 4.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act adding this section, see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-3-114. STEMI task force - creation - membership - duties - report - notice of funding through gifts, grants, and donations - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-225), ch. 277, p. 1444, § 1, effective May 24.

Editor's note: Subsection (5) provided for the repeal of this section, effective August 1, 2015. (See L. 2013, p. 1444.)

25-3-115. Stroke advisory board - creation - membership - duties - report - definition - repeal.

(1) (a) There is created in the department the stroke advisory board, the purpose of which is to evaluate potential strategies for stroke prevention and treatment and develop a statewide needs assessment identifying relevant resources. The governor shall appoint eighteen members to the stroke advisory board as follows:

(I) Six physicians who are actively involved in stroke care and who satisfy the following criteria: One physician who is board-certified in primary care; one physician who is board-certified in vascular neurology; one physician who is privileged and actively practicing interventional neuroradiology; one physician who is board-certified in neurosurgery; one physician representing a statewide chapter of emergency physicians; and one physician who is a board-certified neurologist serving patients in a rural area of the state;

(II) One member representing a statewide association of physicians;

(III) One member representing a statewide hospital association;

(IV) One member who is an emergency medical service provider, as defined in section 25-3.5-103 (8);

(V) One member who is a registered nurse involved in stroke care;

(VI) One hospital administrator from a hospital located in a rural area of the state;

(VII) One hospital administrator from a hospital located in an urban area of the state;

(VIII) One representative from a stroke rehabilitation facility;

(IX) One member who is a Colorado resident representing a national association whose goal is to eliminate cardiovascular disease and stroke;

(X) One member who is a Colorado resident representing a national stroke association;

(XI) One member who is a physical or occupational therapist actively involved in stroke care;

(XII) One member of the public who has suffered a stroke or is the caregiver of a person who has suffered a stroke; and

(XIII) One member who is an expert in stroke database management.

(b) The executive director of the department or the executive director's designee shall serve as an ex officio member of the stroke advisory board.

(c) Members of the stroke advisory board serve without compensation and are not entitled to reimbursement of expenses incurred in serving on or performing duties of the advisory board.

(2) (a) The stroke advisory board shall study and make recommendations for developing a statewide plan to improve quality of care for stroke patients. In conducting the study, the stroke advisory board shall explore the following issues, without limitation:

(I) Creation of a state database or registry consisting of data on stroke care that mirrors the data hospitals submit to nationally recognized organizations;

(II) Access to aggregated stroke data, which must exclude any identifying or confidential information about the reporting hospital or patients treated by the hospital, from a state database that may be developed or from a nationally recognized organization by the advisory board, by any person who submits a written request for the data;

(III) Evaluation of currently available stroke treatments and the development of recommendations, based on medical evidence, for ways to improve stroke prevention and treatment;

(IV) A plan that would encourage rural and urban hospitals to coordinate services for the necessary referral or receipt of patients requiring stroke care in the state; and

(V) The criteria used by nationally recognized bodies for designating a hospital in stroke care and whether a designation is appropriate or needed to assure access to the best quality care for Colorado residents with stroke events.

(b) By January 31, 2014, and by each January 1 thereafter, the stroke advisory board shall submit a report specifying its findings and recommendations to the health and human services committee of the senate, the health, insurance, and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, and the department. The stroke advisory board shall include in its report a recommendation on whether a designation of a hospital in stroke care is appropriate or needed to assure access to the best quality care for Colorado residents with stroke events.

(3) The stroke advisory board may accept and expend, subject to appropriation by the general assembly, gifts, grants, and donations to pay the stroke advisory board's direct expenses. The stroke advisory board shall transmit any monetary gifts, grants, or donations it receives to the state treasurer for deposit in the health facilities general licensure cash fund.

(3.5) The department staff is not required to provide any financial support or perform any administrative duties related to the operation of the stroke advisory board.

(4) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "department" means the department of public health and environment.

(5) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2028. Prior to the repeal, the department of regulatory agencies shall review the functions of the stroke advisory board in accordance with section 2-3-1203, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-225), ch. 277, p. 1446, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2018: (5) amended, (HB 18-1265), ch. 205, p. 1321, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2020: (3) amended and (3.5) added, (HB 20-1397), ch. 213, p. 1030, § 1, effective June 30. L. 2022: IP(1)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 59, § 75, effective February 25.

25-3-116. Department recognition of national certification - suspension or revocation of recognition.

(1) A hospital that has an accreditation, certification, or designation in stroke or STEMI care from a nationally recognized accrediting body, including a certification as a comprehensive stroke center or primary stroke center by the joint commission or an accreditation as a STEMI receiving center or STEMI referral center by the American College of Cardiology Accreditation Services or its successor organization, may send information and supporting documentation to the department. The department shall make a hospital's national accreditation, certification, or designation available to the public in a manner determined by the department.

(2) The department shall deem a hospital that is currently accredited, certified, or designated by a nationally recognized accrediting body as satisfying the requirements for recognition and publication by the department. The department may suspend or revoke a recognition and publication of a hospital's accreditation, certification, or designation if the department determines, after notice and hearing in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., that the hospital no longer holds an active accreditation, certification, or designation from a nationally recognized certifying body.

(3) Whether a hospital attains a national accreditation, certification, or designation in stroke or STEMI care has no bearing on, or connection with, the licensing or certification of the hospital by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(4) Repealed.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-225), ch. 277, p. 1448, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2017: (1) amended and (4) repealed, (HB 17-1246), ch. 214, p. 834, § 2, effective May 18.

25-3-117. Heart attack database - hospitals to report data on heart attack care.

(1) (a) A hospital that is accredited by the American College of Cardiology Accreditation Services or its successor organization or any nationally recognized accrediting body as a STEMI receiving center shall report to the heart attack database data that is consistent with nationally recognized guidelines on individuals with confirmed heart attacks within the state. Within thirty days after receiving a quarterly report of a hospital's heart attack data from the heart attack database, a hospital accredited as a STEMI receiving center shall submit the report to the department.

(b) Hospitals that are recognized as STEMI referral centers pursuant to section 25-3-116 and PCI centers that are not accredited as heart attack receiving centers are encouraged to report data to the heart attack database and provide quarterly database reports to the department.

(2) (a) Reports obtained by the department pursuant to this section are:

(I) Privileged and strictly confidential;

(II) Not subject to civil subpoena, not discoverable, and not admissible in a civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding against a health-care facility or health-care professional; and

(III) Not directly available to the public.

(b) With regard to reports obtained pursuant to this section, the department shall protect the confidentiality of patient records in accordance with state and federal laws and shall not disclose publicly any identifying or proprietary information of any hospital, hospital administrator, health-care professional, or employee.

(3) The department shall sign a letter of commitment with any nationally recognized body whose reports are provided to the department pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section to ensure compliance with the confidentiality requirements and, as part of the letter of commitment, request reporting measures and metrics at the national level for benchmarking purposes.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (HB 17-1246), ch. 214, p. 835, § 3, effective May 18.

25-3-118. Hospital off-campus location - obtain and use unique NPI - definitions.

(1) An off-campus location of a hospital must apply for, obtain, and use on all claims for reimbursement or payment for health-care services provided at the off-campus location submitted on or after January 1, 2020, a unique NPI that is separate and distinct from the hospital's NPI. The off-campus location's unique NPI must be included on any claim for reimbursement or payment for health-care services provided at the off-campus location, regardless of whether the claim is filed or submitted by or through a central office of the hospital or a health-care clearinghouse.

(2) As used in this section:

(a) "Health-care clearinghouse" has the same meaning as set forth in 45 CFR 160.103.

(b) "NPI" or "national provider identifier" means the standard, unique health identifier for health-care providers that is issued by the national provider system in accordance with 45 CFR 162.

(c) "Off-campus location" means a facility:

(I) Whose operations are directly or indirectly owned or controlled by, in whole or in part, or affiliated with a hospital, regardless of whether the operations are under the same governing body as the hospital;

(II) That is located more than two hundred fifty yards from the hospital's main campus;

(III) That provides services that are organizationally and functionally integrated with the hospital; and

(IV) That is an outpatient facility providing preventive, diagnostic, treatment, or emergency services.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1282), ch. 158, p. 1108, § 2, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1282, see section 1 of chapter 158, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-3-119. Freestanding emergency departments - required notices - disclosures - rules - definitions.

(1) (a) (I) A freestanding emergency department shall give to every individual seeking treatment at the facility a written notice containing the following statements immediately upon registration:

Patient Information

This is an emergency medical facility that treats emergency medical conditions.

We will screen and treat you regardless of your ability to pay.

You have a right to ask questions regarding your treatment options and costs.

You have a right to receive prompt and reasonable responses to questions and requests.

You have a right to reject treatment.

However, we encourage you to defer your questions until after we screen you for an emergency medical condition.

This is not a complete statement of patient information or rights. You will receive a more comprehensive statement of patient's rights upon the completion of a medical screening examination that does not reveal an emergency medical condition or after treatment has been provided to stabilize an emergency medical condition.

​

(II) (A) If the freestanding emergency department does not have or include within its facility an urgent care center or clinic, the freestanding emergency department shall include the following statement in the notice required by subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section, immediately following the sentence that reads "This is an emergency medical facility that treats emergency medical conditions.":

This is not an urgent care center or primary care provider.

(B) If the freestanding emergency department has or includes within its facility an urgent care center or clinic, the freestanding emergency department shall include the following statement in the notice required by subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section, immediately following the sentence that reads "This is an emergency medical facility that treats emergency medical conditions.":

This facility also contains an urgent care center that operates from (insert time urgent care center opens) to (insert time urgent care center closes) and provides primary care services (and insert, if applicable, that the urgent care center offers primary care services by appointment).

(III) If the individual seeking treatment is a minor who is accompanied by an adult, the freestanding emergency department shall provide the written notice required by this subsection (1)(a) to the accompanying adult.

(b) In addition to giving an individual the written notice required by subsection (1)(a) of this section, a freestanding emergency department staff member or health-care provider shall provide the information specified in subsection (1)(a) of this section to the individual orally.

(c) As necessary, the state board of health, by rule, may update the information required to be included in the written notice of patient information set forth in this subsection (1).

(2) (a) A freestanding emergency department shall post a sign that is plainly visible in the area within the facility where an individual seeking care registers or checks in and that states:

This is an emergency medical facility that treats emergency medical conditions.

(b) (I) If the freestanding emergency department does not have or include within its facility an urgent care center or clinic, the freestanding emergency department shall include the following statement on the sign required by this subsection (2), immediately following the statement specified in subsection (2)(a) of this section:

This is not an urgent care center or primary care provider.

(II) If the freestanding emergency department has or includes within its facility an urgent care center or clinic, the freestanding emergency department shall include the following statement on the sign required by this subsection (2), immediately following the statement specified in subsection (2)(a) of this section:

This facility also contains an urgent care center that operates from (insert time urgent care center opens) to (insert time urgent care center closes) and provides primary care services (and insert, if applicable, that the urgent care center offers primary care services by appointment).

(3) (a) After performing an appropriate medical screening examination and determining that a patient does not have an emergency medical condition or after treatment has been provided to stabilize an emergency medical condition, the freestanding emergency department shall provide to the patient a written disclosure that:

(I) Specifies whether the freestanding emergency department accepts patients who are enrolled in: The state medical assistance program under articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5; medicare, as authorized in Title XVIII of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended; the children's basic health plan established under article 8 of title 25.5; or a health plan authorized under 10 U.S.C. sec. 1071 et seq.;

(II) Lists the specific health insurance provider networks and carriers with which the freestanding emergency department participates or states that the freestanding emergency department is not a participating provider in any health insurance provider networks;

(III) States that the freestanding emergency department or a physician providing health-care services at the freestanding emergency department may not be a participating provider in the patient's health insurance provider network;

(IV) States that a physician providing health-care services at the freestanding emergency department may bill separately from the freestanding emergency department for the health-care services provided to the patient;

(V) Specifies the chargemaster or fee schedule price for the twenty-five most common health-care services provided by the freestanding emergency department;

(VI) Contains a statement specifying that the price listed on the freestanding emergency department's chargemaster or fee schedule for any given health-care service is the maximum charge that any patient will be billed for the service and that the actual charge for any health-care service rendered may be lower depending on applicable health insurance benefits and the availability of discounts or financial assistance;

(VII) Contains the following statement or a statement containing substantially similar information:

If you are covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to consult with your health insurer to determine accurate information about your financial responsibility for a particular health-care service provided at this freestanding emergency department. If you are not covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to contact (insert name and telephone number for office responsible for financial services) to discuss payment options and the availability of financial assistance prior to receiving a health-care service from this freestanding emergency department.

(VIII) Contains information about the facility fees that the freestanding emergency department charges, indicating either the maximum facility fee that the freestanding emergency department charges or the range of the minimum to maximum amount of the facility fees that the freestanding emergency department charges; and

(IX) Includes the freestanding emergency department's website address where the information contained in the disclosure required by this subsection (3) may be found.

(b) A freestanding emergency department shall update the information contained in the written disclosure required by this subsection (3) at least once every six months.

(c) Receipt of the disclosure under this subsection (3) does not waive a covered person's protections under section 10-16-704 (3)(b).

(4) A freestanding emergency department shall post the disclosure required by subsection (3) of this section on its website and update the disclosure posted on its website at least once every six months.

(5) A freestanding emergency department shall provide the information required by this section in a clear and understandable manner and in languages appropriate to the communities and patients the freestanding emergency department serves.

(6) Nothing in this section affects or otherwise limits a hospital's or other health facility's obligations under section 6-20-101 or article 49 of this title 25.

(7) The state board of health may adopt rules as necessary to implement and enforce this section, including rules necessary to ensure that freestanding emergency departments are complying in good faith with the intent of this section and the transparency and disclosure requirements of this section.

(8) As used in this section:

(a) "Chargemaster or fee schedule", which is often referred to as "charge description master" or "CDM", means a uniform schedule of charges represented by a health facility as the facility's gross billed charge, or maximum charge that any patient will be billed, for a given health-care service, regardless of payer and before any discounts or negotiations are applied.

(b) "Emergency medical condition" has the same meaning as set forth in 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395dd (e)(1).

(c) "Freestanding emergency department" has the same meaning as section 25-1.5-114 (5).

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-146), ch. 157, p. 1101, § 2, effective January 1, 2019. L. 2019: (8)(c) amended, (HB 19-1010), ch. 324, p. 2998, § 4, effective August 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-146, see section 1 of chapter 157, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-3-120. Regulation of surgical smoke - requirement to adopt a policy - definitions - applicability.

(1) On or before May 1, 2021, each hospital with surgical services and each ambulatory surgical center, licensed in accordance with this article 3, shall adopt and implement a policy that prevents human exposure to surgical smoke via the use of a surgical smoke evacuation system during any planned surgical procedure that is likely to generate surgical smoke.

(2) As used in this section:

(a) "Surgical smoke" means the gaseous by-product produced by energy-generating devices including surgical plume, smoke plume, bio-aerosols, laser-generated airborne contaminants, or lung-damaging dust.

(b) "Surgical smoke evacuation system" means equipment designed to capture and neutralize surgical smoke at the point of origin and before the surgical smoke makes contact with the eyes or the respiratory tract of the occupants of a room.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1041), ch. 62, p. 226, § 1, effective August 2.

25-3-121. Health-care facilities - emergency and nonemergency services - required disclosures - balance billing - unfair or deceptive trade practice - rules - definitions.

(1) On and after January 1, 2020, health-care facilities shall develop and provide disclosures to consumers about the potential effects of receiving emergency or nonemergency services from an out-of-network provider providing services at an in-network facility or emergency services at an out-of-network facility. The disclosures must comply with the rules adopted pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(2) The state board of health, in consultation with the commissioner of insurance and the applicable regulators of health-care providers in the division of professions and occupations in the department of regulatory agencies, shall adopt rules that specify the requirements for health-care facilities to develop and provide consumer disclosures in accordance with this section. The state board of health shall ensure that the rules, at a minimum, comply with the notice and consent requirements in subsection (3.5) of this section and the federal "No Surprises Act".

(3) Receipt of the disclosure required by this section does not waive a consumer's protections under section 10-16-704 (3) or (5.5) or the consumer's right to benefits under the consumer's health benefit plan at the in-network benefit level for all covered services and treatment received.

(3.5) (a) An out-of-network facility may balance bill a covered person for services other than ancillary services if:

(I) The out-of-network facility provides written notice that the facility will balance bill a covered person at least seventy-two hours in advance of the date of service, if the appointment was scheduled at least seventy-two hours in advance, or at least three hours before the scheduled appointment, if the appointment was made less than seventy-two hours in advance, in either paper or electronic format, as selected by the covered person. The notice must be available in the fifteen most common languages in the geographic region in which the out-of-network facility is located. The notice must state:

(A) If applicable, that the facility is out of network with respect to the covered person's health benefit plan;

(B) Effective upon the implementation date of the applicable federal rules, a good-faith estimate of the amount of the charges for which the covered person may be responsible;

(C) That the estimate or consent to treatment does not constitute a contract for services;

(D) If the facility is a participating provider and the health-care provider is not a participating provider, a list of participating providers at the facility who are able to provide the same services;

(E) Information about whether prior authorization or other care management limitations may be required in advance of receiving the requested services; and

(F) That consent to receive the services at an out-of-network facility is optional and that the covered person may seek services from a participating provider, in which case the cost-sharing responsibility of the covered person would not exceed the responsibility for in-network benefits under the covered person's health benefit plan;

(II) The out-of-network facility obtains signed consent from the covered person that acknowledges that the covered person has been:

(A) Provided with written notice of the covered person's financial responsibility, in the format and language selected by the covered person and within the applicable periods specified in subsection (3.5)(a)(I) of this section; and

(B) Provided written notice that the payment by the covered person for health-care services provided at the out-of-network facility may not accrue toward meeting any limitation that the health benefit plan places on cost sharing, including an explanation that the payment may not apply to an in-network deductible.

(b) The notice and consent required by this subsection (3.5) must include the date on which the covered person received the written notice and the date and the time at which the consent form was signed. The out-of-network facility shall provide a signed copy of the consent form to the covered person through regular or electronic mail.

(c) An out-of-network facility that obtains a signed consent with respect to furnishing an item or service shall retain the signed consent for at least a seven-year period after the date on which such item or service is furnished.

(d) An out-of-network facility shall not balance bill a covered person, as defined in section 10-16-102 (15), for services if the provisions of section 10-16-705 (4.5)(c)(II) apply.

(3.7) A violation of this section is an unfair or deceptive trade practice pursuant to section 6-1-105 (1)(rrr).

(4) As used in this section and section 25-3-122:

(a) "Ancillary services" means:

(I) Diagnostic services, including radiology and laboratory services, unless excluded by rule of the secretary of the United States department of health and human services pursuant to 42 U.S.C. sec. 300gg-132 (b)(3);

(II) Items and services related to emergency medicine, anesthesiology, pathology, radiology, and neonatology, whether or not provided by a physician or nonphysician provider, unless excluded by rule of the secretary of the United States department of health and human services pursuant to section 2799B-2 (b)(3) of the federal "No Surprises Act";

(III) Items and services provided by assistant surgeons, hospitalists, and intensivists, unless excluded by rule of the secretary of the United States department of health and human services pursuant to section 2799B-2 (b)(3) of the federal "No Surprises Act";

(IV) Items and services provided by an out-of-network provider if there is no in-network provider who can furnish the needed services at the facility; and

(V) Any other items and services provided by specialty providers as established by rule of the commissioner.

(a.3) "Balance bill" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-704 (19)(c).

(a.5) "Carrier" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-102 (8).

(b) "Covered person" has the same meaning as defined in section 10-16-102 (15).

(c) "Emergency services" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-704 (19)(e).

(c.5) "Federal 'No Surprises Act'" means the federal "No Surprises Act", Pub.L. 116-260, as amended.

(d) "Geographic area" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-704 (19)(h).

(e) "Health benefit plan" has the same meaning as defined in section 10-16-102 (32).

(f) "Medicare reimbursement rate" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-704 (19)(k).

(g) "Out-of-network facility" means a health-care facility that is not a participating provider.

(h) "Participating provider" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-102 (46).

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1174), ch. 171, p. 1992, § 6, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2022: (2), IP(4), (4)(a), (4)(c), (4)(d), (4)(f), and (4)(g) amended and (3.5), (4)(a.3), (4)(a.5), (4)(c.5), and (4)(h) added, (HB 22-1284), ch. 446, p. 3147, § 5, effective August 10. L. 2023: (3.7) added, (SB 23-093), ch. 152, p. 649, § 11, effective May 4. L. 2024: (3.5)(d) added, (SB 24-093), ch. 41, p. 149, § 3, effective January 1, 2025. L. 2026: (3.7) amended, (HB 26-1426), ch. 334, p. 2027, § 99, effective August 12.

25-3-122. Out-of-network facilities - emergency medical services - billing - payment - unfair or deceptive trade practice.

(1) If a covered person receives emergency services at an out-of-network facility, the out-of-network facility shall:

(a) Submit a claim for the entire cost of the services to the covered person's carrier; and

(b) Not bill or collect payment from a covered person for any outstanding balance for covered services not paid by the carrier, except for the applicable in-network coinsurance, deductible, or copayment amount required to be paid by the covered person.

(2) (a) If a covered person receives emergency services at an out-of-network facility, and the facility receives payment from the covered person for services for which the covered person is not responsible pursuant to section 10-16-704 (3)(b) or (5.5), the facility shall reimburse the covered person within sixty calendar days after the date that the overpayment was reported to the facility.

(b) An out-of-network facility that fails to reimburse a covered person as required by subsection (2)(a) of this section for an overpayment shall pay interest on the overpayment at the rate of ten percent per annum beginning on the date the facility received the notice of the overpayment. The covered person is not required to request the accrued interest from the out-of-network health-care facility in order to receive interest with the reimbursement amount.

(3) (a) An out-of-network facility, other than any out-of-network facility operated by the Denver health and hospital authority pursuant to article 29 of title 25, must send a claim for emergency services to the carrier within one hundred eighty days after the receipt of insurance information in order to receive reimbursement as specified in this subsection (3)(a). The reimbursement rate is the greater of:

(I) One hundred five percent of the carrier's median in-network rate of reimbursement for that service provided in a similar facility or setting in the same geographic area; or

(II) The median in-network rate of reimbursement for the same service provided in a similar facility or setting in the same geographic area for the prior year based on claims data from the all-payer health claims database created in section 25.5-1-204.

(b) An out-of-network facility operated by the Denver health and hospital authority created in section 25-29-103 must send a claim for emergency services to the carrier within one hundred eighty days after the delivery of services in order to receive reimbursement as specified in this subsection (3)(b). The reimbursement rate is the greater of:

(I) The carrier's median in-network rate of reimbursement for the same service provided in a similar facility or setting in the same geographic area;

(II) Two hundred fifty percent of the medicare reimbursement rate for the same service provided in a similar facility or setting in the same geographic area; or

(III) The median in-network rate of reimbursement for the same service provided in a similar facility or setting in the same geographic area for the prior year based on claims data from the Colorado all-payer health claims database described in section 25.5-1-204.

(c) If the out-of-network facility submits a claim for emergency services after the one-hundred-eighty-day period specified in this subsection (3), the carrier shall reimburse the facility one hundred twenty-five percent of the medicare reimbursement rate for the same services in a similar setting or facility in the same geographic area.

(d) The out-of-network facility shall not bill a covered person any outstanding balance for a covered service not paid for by the carrier, except for any coinsurance, deductible, or copayment amount required to be paid by the covered person.

(4) An out-of-network facility may initiate arbitration pursuant to section 10-16-704 (15) if the facility believes the payment made pursuant to subsection (3) of this section is not sufficient.

(5) This section does not apply when a covered person voluntarily uses an out-of-network provider.

(6) A violation of this section is an unfair or deceptive trade practice pursuant to section 6-1-105 (1)(rrr).

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1174), ch. 171, p. 1994, § 6, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2023: (6) added, (SB 23-093), ch. 152, p. 649, § 12, effective May 4. L. 2026: (6) amended, (HB 26-1426), ch. 334, p. 2027, § 100, effective August 12.

Cross references: For definitions applicable to this section, see § 25-3-121 (4).

25-3-123. Mental health facility pilot program - establishment - rules - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Mental health facility" means a facility approved to participate in the pilot program pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(b) "Pilot program" means the mental health facility pilot program established pursuant to this section.

(2) There is established in the department the mental health facility pilot program to authorize not more than two entities to participate in a three-year pilot program to allow individuals with either a physical health diagnosis or significant mental health diagnosis to reside in a facility that treats both the physical and mental health issues and provides additional services to help the individual transition to independent living.

(3) On or before October 1, 2019, the department shall develop an application for interested entities to apply to be authorized as a mental health facility. The application must require the applicant to show, at a minimum, that it:

(a) Is serving individuals with physical or mental or both physical and mental health diagnoses;

(b) Offers staff secure environments rather than physically secure spaces;

(c) Has the capability to provide integrated services with community medical and behavioral health providers;

(d) Has sufficient staffing levels of licensed nurses, nursing assistants, and occupational and recreational professionals;

(e) Has a partnership with either an acute care hospital or psychiatric hospital and with a skilled nursing facility, so it has the ability to transfer an individual in need of a higher level of care;

(f) Demonstrates a collaborative relationship with the hospital, including consultation and treatment plan support, one-on-one staffing support, and ongoing training for staff at the mental health facility;

(g) Is in a community that has resources to support community engagement to move an individual to less restrictive environments as an individual progresses;

(h) Demonstrates cost savings or cost neutrality for the state medical assistance program;

(i) Is willing and able to contribute at least one-third of the increased costs that the applicant will incur due to the pilot program and has identified sources for the other two-thirds; and

(j) Is willing to prepare reports on the pilot program.

(4) On or before February 1, 2020, the department shall select up to two applicants to become mental health facilities under the pilot program; except that, if more than one applicant is selected:

(a) One selected applicant must be in a community with a population of over one hundred thousand and one selected applicant must be in a community with a population of under one hundred thousand unless there is no qualified applicant from such a community;

(b) Both selected applicants must not be located in the same city unless the only qualified applicants are from a single city; and

(c) Both selected applicants must not be assisted living facilities.

(5) The department is authorized to adopt rules to implement the pilot program.

(6) The state long-term care ombudsman office, established pursuant to section 26-11.5-104, has access to the premises and residents of a mental health facility during reasonable hours for the purposes set out in the federal "Older Americans Act of 1965".

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1160), ch. 225, p. 2261, § 2, effective August 2.

Cross references: (1) For the federal "Older Americans Act of 1965", see Pub.L. 89-76, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1160, see section 1 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-3-124. Food donations to nonprofit organizations encouraged.

Each hospital is encouraged to donate apparently wholesome food to one or more local nonprofit organizations for distribution to needy or poor individuals.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-090), ch. 127, p. 550, § 5, effective September 14.

25-3-125. Visitation rights - hospital patients - residents in nursing care facilities or assisted living residences - limitations - definitions - short title.

(1) The short title of this section is the "Elizabeth's No Patient or Resident Left Alone Act".

(2) (a) Subject to the restrictions and limitations for skilled nursing facility and nursing facility residents' visitation rights specified in 42 U.S.C. sec. 1396r (c)(3)(C); 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395i (c)(3)(C); 42 CFR 483.10 (a), (b), and (f); the rights for assisted living residents specified in rule pursuant to section 25-27-104; the restrictions and limitations specified by a health-care facility pursuant to subsection (3) of this section; restrictions and limitations specified in state or local public health orders; and the communications exception specified in section 25-1-120, in addition to hospital patient visitation rights in 42 CFR 482.13 (h), a patient or resident of a health-care facility may have at least one visitor of the patient's or resident's choosing during the patient's stay or residency at the health-care facility, including:

(I) A visitor to provide a compassionate care visit to alleviate the patient's or resident's physical or mental distress;

(II) A visitor or support person designated pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section for a patient or resident with a disability; and

(III) For a patient who is under eighteen years of age, the parent or legal guardian of, or the person standing in loco parentis to, the patient.

(b) (I) A patient or resident of a health-care facility may designate, orally or in writing, a support person who supports the patient or resident during the course of the patient's stay or residency at a health-care facility and who may visit the patient or resident and exercise the patient's or resident's visitation rights on behalf of the patient or resident when the patient or resident is incapacitated or otherwise unable to communicate.

(II) When a patient or resident has not designated a support person pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(I) of this section and is incapacitated or otherwise unable to communicate the patient's or resident's wishes and an individual provides an advance medical directive designating the individual as the patient's or resident's support person or other term indicating the individual is authorized to exercise rights covered by this section on behalf of the patient or resident, the health-care facility shall accept this designation and allow the individual to exercise the patient's or resident's visitation rights on the patient's or resident's behalf.

(3) (a) Consistent with 42 CFR 482.13 (h); 42 U.S.C. sec. 1396r (c)(3)(C); 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395i (c)(3)(C); 42 CFR 483.10 (a), (b), and (f); and section 25-27-104, a health-care facility shall have written policies and procedures regarding the visitation rights of patients and residents, including policies and procedures setting forth any necessary or reasonable restriction or limitation to ensure health and safety of patients, staff, or visitors that the health-care facility may need to place on patient or resident visitation rights and the reasons for the restriction or limitation.

(b) (I) During a period when the risk of transmission of a communicable disease is heightened, a health-care facility may:

(A) Require visitors to enter the health-care facility through a single, designated entrance;

(B) Deny entrance to a visitor who has known symptoms of the communicable disease and should encourage the visitor to seek care;

(C) Require visitors to use medical masks, face coverings, or other personal protective equipment while on the health-care facility premises or in specific areas of the health-care facility;

(D) For a hospital, require visitors to sign a waiver acknowledging the risks of entering the health-care facility, waiving any claims against the health-care facility if the visitor contracts the communicable disease while on the health-care facility premises, and acknowledging that menacing and physical assaults on health-care workers and other employees of the health-care facility will not be tolerated, and, if such abuse occurs, a hospital may restrict the visitor's current or future access;

(E) For all other health-care facilities, require visitors to sign a document acknowledging the risks of entering the health-care facility and acknowledging that menacing and physical assaults on health-care workers and other employees of the health-care facility will not be tolerated;

(F) Require all visitors, before entering the health-care facility, to be screened for symptoms of the communicable disease and deny entrance to any visitor who has symptoms of the communicable disease;

(G) Require all visitors to the health-care facility to be tested for the communicable disease and deny entry for those who have a positive test result; and

(H) Restrict the movement of visitors within the health-care facility, including restricting access to where immunocompromised or otherwise vulnerable populations are at greater risk of being harmed by a communicable disease.

(II) For visitation of a patient or resident with a communicable disease who is isolated, the health-care facility may:

(A) Limit visitation to essential caregivers who are helping to provide care to the patient or resident;

(B) Limit visitation to one caregiver at a time per patient or resident with a communicable disease;

(C) Schedule visitors to allow adequate time for screening, education, and training of visitors and to comply with any limits on the number of visitors permitted in the isolated area at one time; and

(D) Prohibit the presence of visitors during aerosol-generating procedures or during collection of respiratory specimens.

(4) If a health-care facility requires, pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, that a visitor use a medical mask, face covering, or other personal protective equipment, or take a test for a communicable disease, in order to visit a patient or resident at the health-care facility, nothing in this section:

(a) Requires the health-care facility, if the required equipment or test is not available due to lack of supply, to allow a visitor to enter the facility;

(b) Requires the health-care facility to supply the required equipment or test to the visitor or bear the cost of the equipment for the visitor; or

(c) Precludes the health-care facility from supplying the required equipment or test to the visitor.

(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Advance medical directive" has the same meaning as set forth in section 15-18.7-102 (2).

(b) "Caregiver" means a parent, spouse, or other family member or friend of a patient who provides care to the patient.

(c) "Communicable disease" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25-1.5-102 (1)(a)(IV).

(d) (I) "Compassionate care visit" means a visit with a friend or family member that is necessary to meet the physical or mental needs of a patient or resident when the patient or resident is exhibiting signs of physical or mental distress, including:

(A) End-of-life situations;

(B) Adjustment support after moving to a new facility or environment;

(C) Emotional support after the loss of a friend or family member;

(D) Physical support after eating or drinking issues, including weight loss or dehydration; or

(E) Social support after frequent crying, distress, or depression.

(II) "Compassionate care visit" includes a visit from:

(A) A clergy member or layperson offering religious or spiritual support; or

(B) Other persons requested by the patient or resident for the purpose of a compassionate care visit.

(e) "Health-care facility" means a hospital, nursing care facility, or assisted living residence licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-3-101.

(f) "Patient or resident with a disability" means a patient or resident who needs assistance to effectively communicate with health-care facility staff, make health-care decisions, or engage in activities of daily living due to a disability such as:

(I) A physical, intellectual, behavioral, or cognitive disability;

(II) Deafness, being hard of hearing, or other communication barriers;

(III) Blindness;

(IV) Autism spectrum disorder; or

(V) Dementia.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1425), ch. 179, p. 816, § 1, effective June 29. L. 2022: Entire section RC&RE, (SB 22-053), ch. 430, p. 3034, § 2, effective June 8.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 30, 2021. (See L. 2020, p. 816.) However, this section was recreated in 2022.

25-3-126. Health facilities - health-care practitioners - requirements related to labor and childbirth - rules - definitions.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, on and after January 1, 2022, a health facility that provides services related to labor and childbirth shall demonstrate to the department, in the form and manner determined by the department by rule, that the health facility has a policy that:

(a) Allows every birthing person to have a companion or doula with the person during birth in addition to a partner or spouse;

(b) Prioritizes newborns bonding with their families in order to facilitate the physiologic postpartum process;

(c) Will not exclude from care any person experiencing physiologic birth or interrupt the process of physiologic birth without the informed consent of the birthing person;

(d) Details the facility's process related to receiving a pregnant person's patient information from any provider regulated under title 12 who has provided care for the pregnant person;

(e) Establishes processes to transfer and receive pregnant persons across levels of care of licensed facilities within the facility's capacity and capability; and

(f) Establishes a process to receive individuals who are pregnant, undergoing physiologic birth, or in the physiologic postpartum process from locations other than licensed facilities, including a process to receive verbal and written information from individuals with relevant information, including but not limited to family members, doulas, or a health-care provider regulated under title 12.

(1.5) Required notice to birthing parents.

(a) No later than January 1, 2027, a health facility shall make electronically available to a birthing parent and a birthing parent's companion or family member, if applicable, and in print if requested:

(I) A required notice to birthing parents of the components of respectful labor and childbirth, including:

(A) A birthing parent's right to be free from harm and mistreatment;

(B) Respect for a birthing parent's dignity, privacy, and confidentiality;

(C) A birthing parent's right to informed choice and consent;

(D) The right to have a birthing companion and a family member with the birthing parent during birth;

(E) Equitable and high-quality care for a birthing parent that is evidence-based, free from discrimination, and culturally sensitive; and

(F) Effective communication, during which health-care practitioners introduce themselves, explain their roles, and welcome questions and concerns from a birthing parent or the birthing parent's birthing companion or family member; and

(II) Information, including telephone contact information, concerning where to file a complaint with the appropriate state or federal office or agency relating to the birthing process that alleges the following:

(A) Discrimination based on disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, or age;

(B) Unprofessional conduct or negligent medical care from a licensed health-care practitioner, including failure to provide informed consent;

(C) Unsafe conditions or failure to allow visitation rights specified in section 25-3-125, including allowing a birthing companion or doula in addition to a partner or spouse to be present during labor and birth, at a licensed health facility; or

(D) Violation of state or federal privacy and security laws, including the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, and its implementing regulations.

(b) The requirements set forth in this subsection (1.5):

(I) Do not apply to labor and childbirth policies described in subsection (2) of this section relating to a birthing individual who is in custody; and

(II) Do not create a private right of action against a health facility, a health facility employee, a person with whom the health facility has a contractual relationship, or a licensed health-care practitioner for failing to comply with this subsection (1.5).

(2) For labor and childbirth services provided to a birthing person who is in custody, a health facility shall demonstrate to the department, in the form and manner determined by the department by rule, that the health facility has a policy that:

(a) Prioritizes newborns bonding with their families in order to facilitate the physiologic postpartum process, unless:

(I) The parent or legal guardian of the newborn consents to medical treatment;

(II) The newborn is released to a legal guardian; or

(III) The birthing person is released from labor and delivery; and

(b) Will not exclude from care any person experiencing physiologic birth or interrupt the process of physiologic birth without the informed consent of the birthing person.

(3) As used in this section:

(a) "Doula" means a person who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a pregnant person before, during, and after pregnancy.

(b) "Physiologic birth" means labor and birth powered by the innate human capacity of a pregnant person and the pregnant person's fetus, which includes endogenous hormone systems.

(c) "Physiologic postpartum process" means the biologic process that happens to both the newborn and birthing person after delivery due to endogenous hormone systems.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-193), ch. 433, p. 2864, § 8, effective September 7. L. 2024: (1)(d) and (1)(e) amended and (1)(f) added, (HB 24-1459), ch. 426, p. 2916, § 6, effective June 5. L. 2026: (1.5) added, (HB 26-1044), ch. 110, p. 446, § 4, effective May 5.

25-3-127. Emergency room intake data - marijuana use - annual report.

The department of public health and environment shall create a de-identified report from hospital and emergency room discharge data of patients, including demographic information regarding patients' age, race, ethnicity, gender, and geographic location, presenting with conditions or a diagnosis that reflects marijuana use, including and identifying if the marijuana use was in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs, and provide that report at the department's presentations to the legislative committees of reference pursuant to section 2-7-203 in 2022, and annually each year thereafter. The report can be produced in conjunction with the report required pursuant to section 30-10-624 (2).

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1317), ch. 313, p. 1913, § 3, effective June 24.

25-3-128. Hospitals - nurses, nurse aides, and EMS providers - staffing requirements - enforcement - waiver - rules - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "Clinical staff nurse" means a practical nurse or registered professional nurse licensed pursuant to article 255 of title 12 who provides direct care to patients.

(b) "EMS provider" means an individual who holds a valid certificate or license issued by the department as provided in article 3.5 of this title 25.

(c) "Nurse aide" means a person certified pursuant to article 255 of title 12 to practice as a nurse aide who provides direct care to patients or who works in an auxiliary capacity under the supervision of a registered nurse.

(d) "Staffing plan" means the master nurse staffing plan developed for a hospital pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section.

(2) (a) On or before September 1, 2022, each hospital shall establish a nurse staffing committee pursuant to rules promulgated by the state board of health, either by creating a new committee or assigning the nurse staffing functions to an existing hospital staffing committee. The nurse staffing committee must have at least sixty percent or greater participation by clinical staff nurses, in addition to auxiliary personnel and nurse managers. The nurse staffing committee must include a designated leader of workplace violence prevention and reduction efforts.

(b) The nurse staffing committee:

(I) Shall annually develop and oversee a master nurse staffing plan for the hospital that:

(A) Is voted on and recommended by at least sixty percent of the nurse staffing committee;

(B) Includes minimum staffing requirements as established in rules promulgated by the state board of health for each inpatient unit and emergency department that are aligned with nationally recognized standards and guidelines;

(C) Includes strategies that promote the health, safety, and welfare of the hospital's employees and patients;

(D) Includes guidance and a process for reducing nurse-to-patient assignments to align with the demand based on patient acuity; and

(E) May include innovative staffing models;

(II) (A) Shall submit the recommended staffing plan to the hospital's senior nurse executive and the hospital's governing body for approval. If the final plan approved by the hospital changes materially from the recommendations put forth by the staffing committee, the senior nurse executive shall provide the nurse staffing committee with an explanation for the changes.

(B) If, after receiving the explanation referenced in subsection (2)(b)(II)(A) of this section, the staffing committee believes the final plan does not meet nurse staffing standards established in rules promulgated by the state board of health, the staffing committee, with a vote of sixty percent or more of the members, may request the department review the final adopted staffing plan for compliance with rules promulgated by the state board of health.

(III) May publish a report that is responsive to the changes made to the recommended plan pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(II) of this section, if any;

(IV) Shall describe in writing the process for receiving, tracking, and resolving complaints and receiving feedback on the staffing plan from clinical staff nurses and other staff; and

(V) Shall make the complaint and feedback process available to all providers, including clinical staff nurses, nurse aides, and EMS providers.

(c) The department is authorized to and shall enter, survey, and investigate each hospital as necessary to ensure compliance with the nursing staffing standards established in rules promulgated by the state board of health.

(3) A hospital shall:

(a) Submit the final, approved nurse staffing plan to the department on an annual basis;

(b) On a quarterly basis, evaluate the staffing plan and prepare a report for internal review by the staffing committee;

(c) Provide the relevant unit-based staffing plan to:

(I) Each applicant for a nursing position on a given unit upon an offer of employment; and

(II) A patient upon request; and

(d) Prepare an annual report containing the details of the evaluation required in subsection (3)(b) of this section and submit the report to the department, in a form and manner determined by rules promulgated by the state board of health.

(4) A hospital shall not assign a clinical staff nurse, nurse aide, or EMS provider to a hospital unit unless, consistent with the conditions of participation adopted for federal medicare and medicaid programs, hospital personnel records include documentation that the training and demonstration of competency were successfully completed during orientation and on a periodic basis consistent with hospital policies.

(5) (a) On or before September 1, 2022, each hospital shall report, in a form and manner determined by rules promulgated by the state board of health, the baseline number of beds the hospital is able to staff in order to provide patient care and the hospital's current bed capacity. The reporting may include:

(I) Seasonal or other anticipated variances in staffed-bed capacity; and

(II) Anticipated factors impacting staffed-bed capacity.

(b) In promulgating rules pursuant to subsection (5)(a) of this section, the state board of health shall:

(I) Use the data provided to the department by each hospital throughout the COVID-19 pandemic through an internet-based resource management and communication tool developed for and commonly used by hospitals;

(II) Determine the number of seasonal variations allowable with regard to subsection (5)(a)(I) of this section with a minimum of two and a maximum of four allowable variances; and

(III) Define "staffed-bed capacity" for the purposes of this section.

(c) On or before September 1, 2022, as determined by rules promulgated by the state board of health, if a hospital's ability to meet staffed-bed capacity falls below eighty percent of the hospital's reported baseline for not less than seven and not more than fourteen consecutive days, the hospital shall notify the department and submit:

(I) A plan to ensure staff is available, within thirty days, to return to a staffed-bed capacity level that is eighty percent of the reported baseline; or

(II) A request for a waiver due to a hardship, which request articulates why the hospital is unable to meet the required staffed-bed capacity, if:

(A) The hospital's current staffed-bed capacity falls below eighty percent of the hospital's reported baseline for not less than seven and not more than fourteen consecutive days; or

(B) The hospital's current staffed-bed capacity threatens public health.

(d) The department may impose fines, not to exceed one thousand dollars per day, for a hospital's failure to:

(I) Meet the reported staffed-bed capacity of eighty percent or more of the hospital's reported baseline; or

(II) Accurately report a hospital's baseline staffed-bed capacity.

(6) Each hospital with more than twenty-five beds shall articulate in its emergency plan a demonstrated ability to expand the hospital's staffed-bed capacity up to one hundred twenty-five percent of the hospital's baseline staffed-bed capacity and intensive care unit capacity within fourteen days after:

(a) A statewide public health emergency is declared or the hospital is notified by the department that surge capacity is needed; and

(b) The state has used all available authority to expedite workforce availability and maximize hospital throughput and capacity, such as:

(I) Licensing or certification flexibility for health facilities;

(II) Reducing requirements for licensing, credentialing, and the receipt of staff privileges;

(III) Waiving scope of practice limitations; and

(IV) Waiving state-regulated payer provisions that create barriers to timely patient discharge.

(7) Each hospital shall update its emergency plan at least annually and as often as necessary, as circumstances warrant. The emergency plan must include the actions the hospital will take to maximize staffed-bed capacity and appropriate utilization of hospital beds to the extent necessary for a public health emergency and through the following activities:

(a) Cross-training, just-in-time training, and redeployment of staff;

(b) Supporting all hospital facilities, including hospital-owned facilities, to provide any necessary, available, and appropriate preventive care, vaccine administration, diagnostic testing, and therapeutics;

(c) Maximizing hospital throughput by discharging patients to skilled nursing, post-acute, and other step-down facilities; and

(d) Reducing the number of scheduled procedures in the hospital.

(8) Beginning September 1, 2022, the department may fine a hospital an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars per day for the failure to:

(a) Achieve the required staffed-bed capacity described in subsection (6) of this section within fourteen days after a declared statewide public health emergency or other notification by the department that surge capacity is needed;

(b) Include the amount of necessary vaccines for administration in its annual emergency plan and have the vaccines available, to the extent that the vaccines are available, at each of its hospital facilities and hospital-owned primary care sites during and outside of the public health emergency, as determined by rules promulgated by the department; and

(c) Include the necessary testing capabilities available in its annual emergency plan and at each of its hospital facilities and hospital-owned primary care sites during and outside of a public health emergency, to the extent that the testing is available, as determined by rules promulgated by the department.

(9) For the purposes of this section, the department shall enter, survey, and investigate each hospital:

(a) As deemed necessary by the department;

(b) For purposes of infection control and emergency preparedness; and

(c) To ensure compliance with this section.

(10) The department shall annually report on the information contained in the quarterly report described in subsection (3)(d) of this section as a part of its presentation to its committee of reference at a hearing held pursuant to section 2-7-203 (2)(a) of the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act".

(11) The department may promulgate rules to require health facilities licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 to develop and implement infection prevention plans that align with national best practices and standards and that are responsive to COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. The requirements may include testing, vaccination, and treatment in accordance with applicable state laws, rules, and executive orders.

(12) The state board of health shall promulgate rules as necessary to implement this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1174, § 1, effective May 18.

25-3-129. Office of saving people money on health care - study - report.

(1) The office of saving people money on health care in the lieutenant governor's office shall study:

(a) The level of preparedness of health facilities licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 to respond to post-viral illness resulting from the COVID-19 virus;

(b) The effects of post-viral illness resulting from the COVID-19 virus on the mental, behavioral, and physical health and the financial security of the people of Colorado; and

(c) The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the cost of health care in Colorado and on the ability of Colorado's public health system to respond to emergencies.

(2) On or before January 1, 2023, and on or before January 1 each year thereafter, the office of saving people money on health care shall report its findings to the governor.

(3) The office of saving people money on health care shall coordinate, monitor, and support the efforts to improve the affordability of health care, health outcomes, and public health readiness in state programs and departments.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1179, § 1, effective May 18.

25-3-130. Intimate examination of sedated or unconscious patient - informed consent required - rules - definitions.

(1) (a) (I) Except as provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section, a health-care facility shall not permit a licensed health-care provider, or a student or trainee under the supervision of a licensed health-care provider, to perform an intimate examination of a sedated or unconscious patient at the health-care facility unless the patient has provided specific informed consent to the examination in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.

(II) In addition to the requirement to obtain a patient's specific informed consent, a health-care facility may allow a student or trainee to perform an intimate examination of a sedated or unconscious patient for educational or training purposes only if:

(A) The examination is related to the planned procedure to be performed on the patient at the health-care facility;

(B) The student or trainee has been introduced to the patient as part of the patient's care team, and the student's or trainee's role in performing an intimate examination for educational or training purposes has been shared with the patient; and

(C) The student or trainee is under the direct supervision of the licensed health-care provider responsible for supervising the student or trainee.

(b) The requirements of subsection (1)(a) of this section do not limit the ability of a health-care facility to allow:

(I) A licensed health-care provider to perform an intimate examination of a patient who is sedated or unconscious without obtaining the patient's specific informed consent in emergency situations when the intimate examination is medically necessary for the life or well-being of the patient, but the licensed health-care provider must make a record of performing the examination without obtaining the patient's specific informed consent, including an explanation of the reason for not obtaining the patient's consent, and the record must be provided to the patient prior to discharge; or

(II) A licensed health-care provider who has obtained the patient's consent to provide health care that includes an intimate examination to perform the intimate examination if the licensed health-care provider has informed the patient of the intimate examination in the course of obtaining the patient's consent to the health care.

(2) To obtain specific informed consent to perform an intimate examination on a sedated or unconscious patient, a health-care facility shall, during a preoperative appointment before the procedure at which the examination will be performed or, in the absence of a preoperative appointment, as soon as possible before the intimate examination occurs:

(a) Provide a written or electronic document to the patient, separate from any other notice or agreement, that:

(I) Includes the following heading at the top of the document, in no smaller than eighteen-point, bold-faced type: "CONSENT FOR EXAMINATION OF BREASTS, PELVIC REGION, RECTUM, AND/OR PROSTATE";

(II) Specifies the nature and purpose of the intimate examination;

(III) Names one or more licensed health-care providers whom the patient may authorize to perform the intimate examination;

(IV) States whether there may be one or more students or trainees whom the patient may authorize to perform an intimate examination for educational or training purposes or to observe or otherwise be present at the examination, either in person or through electronic means, and identifies the students or trainees by name; and

(V) Provides the patient the ability to consent to or decline the following:

(A) An intimate examination for diagnosis or treatment, to be performed by a licensed health-care provider;

(B) An intimate examination for educational or training purposes, to be performed by a licensed health-care provider; and

(C) One or more, but no more than three, additional intimate examinations for educational or training purposes, to be performed by up to three different students or trainees;

(b) Obtain the signature of the patient on the written or electronic document; and

(c) Sign the written or electronic document.

(3) (a) For purposes of complying with subsection (2) of this section, a health-care facility may:

(I) Develop and use its own written or electronic document, so long as the document satisfies the requirements of subsection (2) of this section; or

(II) Use a written or electronic document developed by the department for use by health-care facilities and licensed health-care providers, so long as the document satisfies the requirements of subsection (2) of this section.

(b) If the department develops a written or electronic document for use by health-care facilities, the department shall develop a single, consistent document for use by all health-care facilities and all licensed health-care providers, regardless of practice area, that complies with the requirements of subsection (2) of this section.

(c) The health-care facility shall make the completed, signed specific informed consent document available to the patient.

(4) (a) (I) If a health-care facility violates this section, or retaliates against an individual, including a whistleblower, for filing a complaint regarding a violation of this section with the department or a regulator or for otherwise complaining to any other person, the aggrieved individual may file a complaint with the department. The department may receive and investigate complaints filed pursuant to this subsection (4)(a) against a health-care facility and, as appropriate, may refer matters related to a licensed health-care provider or a student or trainee under the supervision of a licensed health-care provider to the appropriate regulator.

(II) If the department determines, after a hearing on the matter in accordance with the requirements and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, that a health-care facility has violated this section or has retaliated against an individual, including a whistleblower, for filing a complaint with the department or a regulator regarding a violation of this section or for otherwise complaining to any other person, the department may take action authorized in this article 3 against the health-care facility's license or impose restrictions or conditions on the health-care facility as the department determines appropriate.

(III) The state board of health may adopt rules as necessary to enforce this section.

(b) A patient who has been subjected to an intimate examination in violation of this section may file a civil action for damages in a court of competent jurisdiction. Such action is not a medical malpractice action, and the limitation on damages for noneconomic loss or injury established pursuant to section 13-21-102.5 applies to any award to the patient for noneconomic damages.

(5) Nothing in this section affects the ability to perform a medical forensic examination, including the collection of evidence, in connection with an alleged sexual assault or other crime or the investigation of an alleged sexual assault or other crime, pursuant to applicable laws.

(6) As used in this section:

(a) "Health-care facility" means a health-care facility licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a) and includes an individual authorized to act on behalf of the health-care facility.

(b) (I) "Intimate examination" means palpation of a breast or an internal pelvic, prostate, or rectal examination.

(II) "Intimate examination" does not include a visual examination of a part of the body specified in subsection (6)(b)(I) of this section that occurs incidental to the care being provided.

(c) "Licensed health-care provider" means:

(I) A physician or physician assistant licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12;

(II) A person who holds a physician training license issued pursuant to section 12-240-128 and is:

(A) A resident enrolled in an approved residency, as defined in section 12-240-104 (4);

(B) An intern enrolled in an approved internship, as defined in section 12-240-104 (2); or

(C) A fellow enrolled in an approved fellowship, as defined in section 12-240-104 (1);

(III) An advanced practice registered nurse, as defined in section 12-255-104 (1); a registered nurse, as defined in section 12-255-104 (11); or a midwife, other than a direct-entry midwife or certified nurse midwife, practicing in this state whose scope of practice includes performing intimate examinations; or

(IV) A direct-entry midwife registered pursuant to article 225 of title 12.

(d) "Patient" means an individual under the care of a licensed health-care provider or health-care facility or the patient's authorized representative.

(e) "Patient's authorized representative" means an individual who is authorized to make health-care decisions for or exercise rights on behalf of the patient, including, for a patient who is under eighteen years of age, the parent or legal guardian of, or the individual standing in loco parentis to, the patient.

(f) "Regulator" means:

(I) For licensed health-care providers described in subsections (6)(c)(I) and (6)(c)(II) of this section, the Colorado medical board created in section 12-240-105;

(II) For licensed health-care providers described in subsection (6)(c)(III) of this section, the state board of nursing created in section 12-255-105; and

(III) For licensed health-care providers described in subsection (6)(c)(IV) of this section, the director of the division of professions and occupations in the department of regulatory agencies.

(g) "Student" means an individual currently enrolled in:

(I) An approved medical college, as defined in section 12-240-104 (3);

(II) An approved education program, as defined in section 12-255-104 (2), for professional nursing; or

(III) A training program approved by the director of the division of professions and occupations in the department of regulatory agencies, as described in section 12-225-104 (4)(c).

(h) "Trainee" means an individual enrolled in or otherwise participating in training, practical experience, practicum, or any other experiential or clinical program that is required pursuant to article 225, 240, or 255 of title 12 for the individual to become a licensed health-care provider.

(i) "Whistleblower" means an individual who has knowledge of an alleged violation of this section.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (HB 23-1077), ch. 262, p. 1557, § 2, effective January 1, 2024.

25-3-131. Maternal health-care services - discontinuation - required notifications - definitions - repeal.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, at least ninety days before a hospital providing maternal health-care services or a birth center may discontinue such services, the facility shall provide notice to:

(a) The department of public health and environment responsible for licensing health facilities pursuant to section 25-3-101;

(b) The primary care office, created in section 25-1.5-403;

(c) The governor;

(d) All patients receiving maternal health-care services at the facility as of the date of the notice;

(e) All health-care providers that provide maternal health-care services for the facility as of the date of the notice; and

(f) The general public.

(2) The notice required in subsection (1) of this section must include:

(a) A description of the maternal health-care services being discontinued;

(b) The rate the maternal health-care services had been provided at in the previous year;

(c) The number and type of health-care providers impacted;

(d) The proposed plan for transitioning patients to new health-care providers; and

(e) The proposed plan for transitioning the health-care providers to new positions.

(3) (a) In the event of an emergency, a facility shall provide the notice required in subsection (1) of this section on the day a definitive plan for alternative patient care has been arranged or within seven days after the emergency has been identified, whichever is earlier.

(b) This subsection (3) does not apply in the event of an emergency covered by rules promulgated by the department of public health and environment if such emergency affects the physical space of the facility and necessitates the removal of clients, employees, or contractors from the facility.

(4) As used in this section:

(a) "Emergency" means a sudden and unforeseen circumstance or financial impediment that would inhibit a hospital's ability to safely and effectively operate a maternal health-care service.

(b) "Maternal health-care services" means health-care services provided to an individual regarding care related to the individual's pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period.

(5) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1262), ch. 393, p. 2711, § 5, effective June 4.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1262, see section 1 of chapter 393, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-3-132. Rural and frontier hospital capital needs study - task force - creation - report - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Many of Colorado's rural and frontier hospitals operate in outdated facilities, and some facilities have not had any meaningful upgrades for decades;

(b) These hospitals struggle with the increased maintenance costs necessary to keep facilities operational and are falling behind in being able to provide care that is consistent with current standards; and

(c) An informal study conducted by Colorado Rural Futures, a group of chief executive officers of Colorado rural and frontier hospitals, identified approximately five hundred million dollars in needed upgrades for facilities of hospitals that were responsive to the informal study, but the capital needs of rural and frontier hospitals throughout the state could require an investment of as much as one billion dollars.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Frontier area" means a county in the state that has a population density of six or fewer individuals per one square mile.

(b) "Rural and frontier hospital" means a hospital that is licensed as a general or critical access hospital by the department and that operates in a rural area or a frontier area.

(c) "Rural area" means an area listed as eligible for rural health funding by the federal office of rural health policy.

(d) "Study" means the study required pursuant to this section.

(e) "Task force" means the rural and frontier hospital capital needs study task force created in subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(3) Subject to oversight by the task force, the department shall study or shall contract for a study to evaluate the capital needs of Colorado rural and frontier hospitals. The study must:

(a) Objectively measure the number of studied facilities that are not code compliant in accordance with the current and relevant edition of the Facility Guidelines Institute "Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities";

(b) Identify the age of core facilities and additions that have been made to such buildings;

(c) Evaluate the estimated project cost, including construction costs and relevant planning, design, and engineering costs, per square foot to renovate or replace facilities identified as having capital needs;

(d) Make a reasonable estimate of the total cost of capital needs per facility and the aggregate total cost of capital needs for all facilities identified in the study; and

(e) Review or evaluate any other matters concerning capital needs of rural and frontier hospitals that are requested by the task force.

(4) (a) (I) There is created the rural and frontier hospital capital needs study task force for the purposes of developing and approving the parameters of the study and overseeing the study and the report of the results of the study.

(II) In addition to the purpose of the task force set forth in subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section, the task force may facilitate contracting with a private sector consulting company to assist with data compilation, research, and outreach to rural and frontier hospitals. The task force may establish the frequency that the task force wants the company to report back to the task force.

(b) (I) Subject to subsection (4)(b)(II) of this section, no later than two months after sufficient funding has been secured in accordance with subsection (6)(a) of this section, members shall be appointed to the task force as follows:

(A) The governor shall appoint three members; and

(B) The president of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, the minority leader of the senate, and the minority leader of the house of representatives shall appoint one member each.

(II) The composition of members appointed to the task force must be as follows:

(A) Three members who work in rural or frontier hospitals;

(B) One member who works as an architect professional;

(C) One member who works as a construction contractor professional;

(D) One member who represents hospitals; and

(E) One member of the general public who lives in a rural area or frontier area.

(c) The task force shall hold its first meeting within two months of all appointments being made to the task force pursuant to subsection (4)(b) of this section and meet at least quarterly after its first meeting until the report required by subsection (5) of this section is completed and may meet more frequently before that date if needed. Meetings of the task force may be in person or online.

(5) Not later than eighteen months after the date that the task force holds its first meeting, the department shall complete the study and compile the results of the study into a report. The department shall present the report to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees.

(6) (a) It is the intent of the general assembly that the implementation of this section be funded entirely by gifts, grants, and donations; that gifts, grants, and donations will be received throughout the course of the study; and that, in accordance with section 24-75-1305, no additional general fund money be appropriated for the implementation of this section. The department and the task force may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources to implement this section. The department shall not implement this section unless it receives an amount of gifts, grants, and donations that it deems necessary to implement this section.

(b) The study is contingent on money being available to carry out the study. If money is not available for the task force, the department, or any other entity to carry out its duties required pursuant to this section, the task force, the department, or the entity is not required to carry out the duties. A contract with a third-party entity that will provide services related to the study must be contingent on money being available for that purpose.

(7) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1223), ch. 439, p. 2527, § 1, effective August 6.

25-3-133. Emergency medical condition - emergency medical services - transfer - discharge - nonliability - enforcement - definitions.

(1) Requirements. A facility shall provide emergency medical services to a person who presents to the facility when the person requests or a request is made on the person's behalf for emergency medical services. In the absence of a request, a facility shall provide emergency medical services to a person if a prudent layperson would believe, based on the person's appearance or behavior, that the person is in need of emergency medical services.

(2) Central log required. For each person who presents to a facility and requests emergency medical services or a request is made on the person's behalf for emergency medical services, the facility shall input into a central log whether the person refused treatment, was denied treatment, whether no treatment was required, or whether the person was transferred, admitted and treated, stabilized and transferred, or discharged.

(3) Nondiscrimination. A facility is a place of public accommodation subject to part 6 of article 34 of title 24 and shall not deny emergency medical services or discriminate in providing emergency medical services to a patient for a discriminatory or unlawful reason as described in part 6 of article 34 of title 24.

(4) Provider protections.

(a) A facility shall not penalize or take any adverse action against a health-care provider for refusing to transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition that has not been stabilized.

(b) This subsection (4) does not alter or limit the rights and protections afforded to a person pursuant to section 24-34-402 (1).

(5) Financial inquiry. A facility shall not delay providing emergency medical services to a person in order to inquire about the person's ability to pay for emergency medical services.

(6) Appropriate transfer. If a patient has received an appropriate medical screening examination as described in subsection (10)(c)(I)(A) of this section and the examining health-care provider determines that an emergency medical condition exists and the condition has not been stabilized, the facility shall not transfer the patient unless all of the following conditions are met:

(a) The patient is provided medical treatment within the facility's capacity that minimizes the risks to the patient's health;

(b) The receiving facility has the space and qualified personnel available for treating the patient and has agreed to accept transfer of the patient and to provide appropriate medical treatment;

(c) The transfer is effected through qualified personnel and transportation equipment, including the use of necessary and medically appropriate life support measures during the transfer;

(d) The transferring facility sends all medical records or copies of the medical records, related to the patient's emergency medical condition that the patient presented to the facility for, that are available at the time of the transfer, including medical records or copies of the medical records, related to observations of signs and symptoms; preliminary diagnosis; treatment provided to the patient; test results; the informed written request or certification provided pursuant to subsection (6)(e) of this section or a copy of the request or certification; and, if relevant, the name and address of any on-call physician who refused or failed to appear at the facility within a reasonable amount of time to provide the patient with necessary stabilizing treatment;

(e) (I) After being informed of the facility's obligations pursuant to this section and the risk of transfer, the patient or the patient's representative requests the transfer in writing;

(II) A physician has signed a certification that includes a summary of the risks and benefits of transferring the patient and a statement that, based upon the information available at the time of the transfer, the medical benefits reasonably expected from the provision of appropriate medical treatment at another facility outweigh the increased risks to the patient from being transferred; or

(III) If a physician is not physically present in the facility at the time a patient is transferred, the examining health-care provider has signed a certification that includes the information described in subsection (6)(e)(II) of this section and the physician, after consulting with the examining health-care provider, agrees with the certification and subsequently countersigns the certification.

(7) Appropriate discharge.

(a) If a patient has received an appropriate medical screening examination as described in subsection (10)(c)(I)(A) of this section and the examining health-care provider determines that an emergency medical condition exists, the facility shall not discharge the patient unless the patient's emergency medical condition has been stabilized.

(b) If a patient has not been stabilized, discharging the patient is only permitted if:

(I) After being informed of the facility's obligations pursuant to this section and the risk of discharge, the patient or the patient's representative requests a discharge in writing; or

(II) The facility offers the patient further medical examination and treatment and informs the patient or the patient's representative of the risks and benefits of the examination and treatment but the patient or the patient's representative does not consent to the medical examination and treatment. The patient's medical record must contain a description of the examination and, if applicable, the treatment and a statement that the patient or the patient's representative refused. The facility shall take all reasonable steps to secure the patient's written informed refusal, which must indicate the patient has been informed of the risks and benefits of the examination and treatment, if applicable.

(8) Nonliability. A facility or health-care provider does not violate this section if:

(a) The patient is provided an appropriate medical screening examination as described in subsection (10)(c)(I)(A) of this section by a health-care provider and the examining health-care provider determines that no emergency medical condition exists and records the determination in the patient's medical record;

(b) The patient is provided an appropriate medical screening examination as described in subsection (10)(c)(I)(A) of this section by a health-care provider and the examining health-care provider determines that an emergency medical condition exists and the patient is appropriately transferred or discharged pursuant to subsection (6) or (7) of this section; or

(c) The patient is provided an appropriate medical screening examination as described in subsection (10)(c)(I)(A) of this section by a health-care provider and the examining health-care provider determines that an emergency medical condition exists and the patient is admitted in good faith to the facility as an inpatient for further stabilizing treatment.

(9) Investigation and penalty.

(a) The department may investigate a facility that negligently violates this section pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(b) (I) A physician who negligently violates this section engages in unprofessional conduct and is subject to discipline pursuant to section 12-240-121.

(II) This subsection (9)(b) applies to a physician who:

(A) Signs a certification pursuant to subsection (6)(e)(II) of this section that states the medical benefits reasonably expected from appropriate medical treatment at another facility outweigh the increased risks to the patient from being transferred if the physician knew or should have known the benefits did not outweigh the risks;

(B) Misrepresents a patient's condition or other information, including a facility's obligations pursuant to this section; or

(C) Is the on-call physician and fails or refuses to present to the facility within a reasonable period of time pursuant to subsection (10)(c)(I)(B) of this section after being contacted.

(c) If a civil monetary penalty is imposed pursuant to section 12-240-121 or 25-1.5-103, the maximum civil monetary penalty amount must be reduced by any civil monetary penalty imposed pursuant to the federal "Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395dd (d), for the same violation.

(10) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Abortion" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25-6-402.

(b) (I) "Emergency medical condition" means:

(A) A medical condition manifesting itself by acute signs and symptoms of sufficient severity, including severe pain, such that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in placing the health of the person in serious jeopardy, serious impairment of bodily functions, or serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part; or

(B) With respect to a pregnant person who is having contractions, there is inadequate time to effectuate a safe transfer to another facility before delivery or that transferring the patient may pose a threat to the health or safety of the patient.

(II) "Emergency medical condition" includes, but is not limited to, labor, ectopic pregnancy, a complication resulting from pregnancy or pregnancy loss, and emergent hypertensive disorders when the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in placing the health of the person in serious jeopardy, serious impairment to bodily functions, or serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part.

(c) (I) "Emergency medical services" means:

(A) An appropriate medical screening examination within the capability of the facility, including ancillary services routinely available to the facility, to determine if an emergency medical condition exists; and

(B) When the examining health-care provider determines that an emergency medical condition exists, the medical treatment necessary to stabilize the emergency medical condition that is within the capability of the facility. If the patient's emergency medical condition requires the services of an on-call physician, the examining health-care provider shall attempt to contact the on-call physician, if applicable.

(II) "Emergency medical services" includes providing an abortion or sterilization procedures when a patient has an emergency medical condition and an abortion or sterilization procedures are necessary to stabilize the patient and are within the capability and capacity of the facility.

(d) "Facility" means an emergency department of a hospital licensed pursuant to section 25-3-101; a freestanding emergency department, as defined in section 25-1.5-114; or any other licensed health-care facility, or area of a hospital or health-care facility, that holds itself out to the public as providing emergency care.

(e) "Labor" means the process of childbirth beginning with the latent or early phase of labor and continuing through the delivery of the placenta. A person experiencing contractions is in labor unless a physician, a certified nurse midwife, or other qualified medical personnel, acting within the person's scope of practice as defined in the facility's medical staff bylaws and state law, certifies after a reasonable time of observation that the person is in false labor.

(f) "Stabilize" means to provide medical treatment that may be necessary to ensure, within reasonable medical probability, that no material deterioration of the patient's condition, serious impairment of bodily functions or dysfunction of any bodily organ or part, or threat to the patient's life is likely to result from or occur during the transfer or discharge of the patient.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-130), ch. 190, p. 841, § 1, effective May 14.

25-3-134. 340B drug pricing program transparency - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "340B drug pricing program" or "340B program" means the program described in 42 U.S.C. sec. 256b (a)(1).

(b) "340B savings" means the difference between the aggregated market rate costs and the aggregated acquisition costs for 340B drugs.

(c) "Hospital covered entity" means a hospital licensed or certified by the department pursuant to the department's authority under section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a) and that is a "covered entity" as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 256b (a)(4).

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, each hospital covered entity that is a reporting hospital, as defined in section 25.5-1-701, shall include the following information in the annual report submitted pursuant to section 25.5-1-703 (3):

(a) The annual, reported 340B savings to the hospital covered entity resulting from its ability to acquire pharmaceuticals at a discount through the 340B drug pricing program;

(b) A description of how the hospital covered entity uses savings from participation in the 340B program;

(c) The aggregated market rate costs and the aggregated acquisition costs for 340B drugs used to calculate 340B savings; and

(d) The total operating costs of the hospital covered entity and costs relating to providing charity care.

(3) Nothing in this section requires the public disclosure of records that are public records under the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24, but that are exempted from disclosure under that act.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-071), ch. 313, p. 1642, § 3, effective August 6.

PART 2

MATERNITY HOSPITALS

25-3-201 to 25-3-207. (Repealed)

Source: L. 96: Entire part repealed, p. 561, § 23, effective April 24.

Editor's note: This part 2 was numbered as article 5 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 2 prior to its repeal in 1996, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 3

COUNTY HOSPITALS - ESTABLISHMENT

25-3-301. Establishment of public hospital.

(1) Whenever the board of county commissioners of any county which has a population of at least three thousand is presented with a petition signed by five hundred resident registered qualified electors, or by fifty percent of the resident registered qualified electors of such county, at least two hundred fifty of whom are residents of other than the county seat or town where it is proposed to locate such public hospital, asking that a public hospital board be appointed and that an annual tax be levied for the establishment and maintenance of a public hospital at a place in the county named therein, and which petition shall specify the maximum amount of money proposed to be expended in purchasing or building said hospital, such board of county commissioners shall have the power to create, by resolution, such public hospital board, to levy such tax, and to appropriate to such public hospital board the funds for purchasing or building such hospital and for maintaining the hospital, as well as the power to turn to the control and maintenance of such public hospital board any public or other hospital then being conducted by the board of county commissioners. Said tax shall not exceed three mills on the dollar for each year.

(2) If it is proposed in such petition, or in a petition later filed with like number of resident registered qualified elector signers, to create an indebtedness of the county for purchasing, erecting, or enlarging of buildings or equipment for such public hospital, then the board of county commissioners shall submit such question in the manner provided by law for creating debt for erecting public buildings and, if the vote authorizes it, shall issue such bonds, so authorized, as the public hospital board requests. In those counties having a population of less than three thousand, a public hospital board may be created by the petition of not less than fifty-one percent of the resident registered qualified electors or two hundred such resident registered qualified electors, regardless of where they live in the county. In such counties, an annual levy of not to exceed five mills on the dollar shall be assessed to purchase, build, and maintain such a county hospital.

Source: L. 43: p. 275, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 151(1). L. 53: p. 342, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-7-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-1. L. 70: p. 140, § 9. L. 71: p. 634, § 1.

25-3-302. Board of trustees.

(1) If a board of county commissioners decides to create a public hospital board of trustees, levy an annual tax, and appropriate funds to purchase, erect, and maintain or turn over to the public hospital board of trustees control of a county hospital, the board of county commissioners shall proceed at once to appoint to the public hospital board of trustees, for designated terms, seven trustees chosen from the citizens at large with reference to their fitness for office. All of the trustees must be residents of the county. Nothing in this article 3 requires a licensed physician to be appointed to a public hospital board of trustees; however, if a licensed physician is appointed to a public hospital board of trustees, membership on that board is limited to one licensed physician at any given time. The seven appointees constitute the public hospital board of trustees for the public hospital. The public hospital board of trustees is a body corporate under the name "Board of Trustees for ............... Hospital", the name of the hospital being inserted in the blank.

(2) One of the trustees, so designated in such original appointment, shall hold office until the second Tuesday of January following his appointment, one until the second Tuesday of the second January following his appointment, two until the second Tuesday of the third January following their appointment, one until the second Tuesday of the fourth January following his appointment, and two until the second Tuesday of the fifth January from their appointment. Thereafter, the term of office of each appointee shall be five years from the end of the preceding term. At the expiration of the term of each of said trustees, the office shall be filled by appointment of the board of county commissioners.

(3) (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3)(b) of this section, in counties with a population of less than three thousand, the board of public hospital trustees shall consist of five citizens at large that have the same requirements with reference to their fitness for such office as all other counties. One of the trustees, so designated in such original appointment, shall hold office until the second Tuesday of January following their appointment, one until the second Tuesday of the second January following their appointment, one until the second Tuesday of the third January following their appointment, one until the second Tuesday of the fourth January following their appointment, and one until the second Tuesday of the fifth January following their appointment. The term of office and the method of filling vacancies shall be the same as for all other counties.

(b) The board of county commissioners of a county with a population of less than three thousand that creates a public hospital board of trustees may determine, by a resolution of the board of county commissioners, that the public hospital board of trustees shall consist of seven, rather than five, citizens at large that have the same requirements with reference to their fitness for such office as all other counties. For a public hospital board of trustees that is created after August 7, 2023, and that consists of seven members pursuant to this subsection (3)(b), the trustees shall hold office as is specified in subsection (2) of this section. For a public hospital board of trustees that is in existence when the board of county commissioners determines that the public hospital board of trustees will consist of seven members, one of the additional trustees shall hold office until the second Tuesday of the third January following their appointment, and the other additional trustee shall hold office until the second Tuesday of the fifth January from their appointment. The term of office and the method of filling vacancies shall be the same as for all other counties.

Source: L. 43: p. 276, § 2. L. 47: p. 503, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 151(2). L. 53: p. 343, § 2. CRS 53: § 66-7-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-2. L. 84: (1) amended, p. 752, § 1, effective March 5. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1065), ch. 90, p. 334, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2023: (3) amended, (SB 23-068), ch. 54, p. 194, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1085), ch. 78, p. 329, § 1, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the short title ("Colorado Frontier Hospitals Act of 2023") in SB 23-068, see section 1 of chapter 54, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-3-303. Organization of trustees.

(1) The members of the board of public hospital trustees within ten days after their appointment shall qualify by taking the oath of office. They shall annually organize and operate as follows:

(a) Unless otherwise authorized under the provisions of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1), they shall elect one of their number as president, one as vice-president, and one as secretary. No bond shall be required of them. The county treasurer of the county shall be treasurer of the board of trustees and shall receive and pay out all moneys under the control of said board as ordered by it but shall receive no compensation from such board. No trustee shall receive any compensation for services performed but may receive reimbursement for any cash expenditures actually made for personal expenses incurred as such trustee. An itemized statement of all such expenses and money paid out shall be made under oath by such trustee and filed with the secretary and allowed only by the affirmative vote of all the trustees present at a meeting of the board.

(b) If approved by resolution of the board of county commissioners, the board may organize and operate by electing one of their number as president, one as vice-president, and one as secretary-treasurer. The trustees may appoint an assistant secretary-treasurer from outside the membership of the board of trustees. No bond shall be required of the trustees, except of the secretary-treasurer and assistant secretary-treasurer who shall each file with the board of trustees, at the expense of the hospital, a corporate fidelity bond in an amount not less than ten thousand dollars, conditioned on the faithful performance of the duties of his office. The secretary-treasurer shall receive and pay out all the moneys under the control of the board of trustees as ordered by it. No trustee shall receive any compensation for services performed, but may receive reimbursement for any cash expenditures actually made for personal expenses incurred as such trustee. An itemized statement of all such expenses and money paid out shall be made under oath by such trustee and filed with the secretary-treasurer and allowed only by the affirmative vote of all the trustees present at a meeting of the board.

(2) For purposes of part 4 of article 6 of title 24, C.R.S., any board of public hospital trustees created pursuant to section 25-3-302 shall continue to be a local public body, as defined in section 24-6-402 (1)(a), C.R.S., regardless of whether the hospital governed by such board of trustees is designated an enterprise pursuant to section 25-3-304 (3).

Source: L. 43: p. 276, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 151(3). CRS 53: § 66-7-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-3. L. 73: p. 690, § 1. L. 93: (2) added, p. 1819, § 2, effective June 6. L. 2025: IP(1) amended, (HB 25-1085), ch. 78, p. 329, § 2, effective August 6.

25-3-304. Trustees - powers and duties - ability to designate hospital as enterprise - definition.

(1) (a) A public hospital board of trustees shall make and adopt such bylaws, rules, and regulations for its own guidance and for the government of the hospital as it deems expedient for the economic and equitable conduct thereof, not inconsistent with state law or the ordinances of the city or town in which the public hospital is located.

(b) The public hospital board of trustees has exclusive control of:

(I) The use and expenditure of all money collected to the credit of the hospital, including the right to invest or have invested money held by the hospital or in the office of the county treasurer and to receive the interest and income therefrom;

(II) The purchase of sites;

(III) The purchase, construction, or enlargement of any hospital building; and

(IV) The supervision, care, and custody of any grounds, rooms, or buildings that it purchases, constructs, or leases.

(c) Except as described in subsection (1)(d) of this section, a public hospital board of trustees may acquire by lease real and personal property subject to the approval of the board of county commissioners. All tax money received for hospital purposes must be paid out of the county treasury only upon warrants drawn by the county commissioners upon sworn vouchers approved by the public hospital board of trustees. All other money received for the hospital must be deposited in the treasury of the hospital and paid out only upon order of the public hospital board of trustees. If a public hospital board of trustees acquires and holds hospital property and facilities, including real and personal property, by conveyance on transfer of title, then title to all lands must be in either the name of the county or the public hospital's corporate name for the hospital's use and benefit. County hospitals situated in home rule counties have the additional borrowing authority granted by section 30-35-201 (23)(b).

(d) A public hospital board of trustees that has elected to designate its public hospital as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, as described in subsection (3) of this section, is not required to obtain the approval of the board of county commissioners before acquiring real or personal property by lease.

(2) (a) The public hospital board of trustees has the power to hire, retain, and remove agents and employees, including administrative, nursing, and professional personnel, engineers, architects, and attorneys, and to fix their compensation; has the power to borrow money and incur indebtedness, and to issue bonds and other evidence of such indebtedness; except that no indebtedness shall be created, except as otherwise provided by statute, in excess of the revenue that may reasonably be expected to be available to the hospital for repayment thereof in the fiscal year in which such indebtedness is to be created, and except that no such indebtedness shall be incurred without the approval of the board of county commissioners if the repayment of such indebtedness is dependent on tax money received for hospital purposes from the board of county commissioners; and shall in general carry out the spirit and intent of this part 3 in establishing and maintaining a county public hospital. Any indebtedness incurred by a public hospital board of trustees is an obligation of the public hospital board of trustees and not an obligation of the board of county commissioners that approved the indebtedness.

(b) A board of public hospital trustees shall hold meetings at least once each month and shall keep a complete record of all its proceedings. Four members of the board constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. During the first week in each January and July, the public hospital board shall file with the board of county commissioners a report of their proceedings with reference to such hospital and a statement of all receipts and expenditures during the half year. On or before each December 1, the board shall certify to the board of county commissioners the amount necessary to maintain and improve said hospital for the ensuing year. A trustee shall not have a personal pecuniary interest, either directly or indirectly, in the purchase of any supplies for said hospital, unless the same are purchased by competitive bidding.

(c) A public hospital board of trustees may offer to the general public products and services of any health-care organization, association, partnership, or corporation to the extent that the products and services are consistent with the powers and duties of a county public hospital pursuant to this part 3.

(3) (a) The board of public hospital trustees may, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (b) of this subsection (3), designate the hospital as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution so long as said board of trustees retains authority to issue revenue bonds and the hospital receives less than ten percent of its total annual revenues in grants. So long as the hospital is designated as an enterprise pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (3), the hospital shall not be subject to any of the provisions of section 20 of article X of the state constitution.

(b) (I) The board of public hospital trustees may, by resolution, designate the hospital as an enterprise as long as the hospital meets the requirements for an enterprise as stated in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3). Such designation shall be effective beginning with the budget year immediately following the budget year in which such resolution is adopted. Such resolution shall be adopted no sooner than ninety days and no later than thirty days prior to the commencement of the budget year in which such designation becomes effective.

(II) The board of public hospital trustees may, by resolution, revoke the designation of the hospital as an enterprise. Such revocation shall be effective beginning with the budget year immediately following the budget year in which such resolution is adopted. Such resolution shall be adopted no sooner than ninety days and no later than thirty days prior to the commencement of the budget year in which such revocation becomes effective.

(III) Upon adoption of any resolution pursuant to the provisions of subparagraph (I) or (II) of this paragraph (b), the board of public hospital trustees shall transmit a copy of the resolution to the division of local government in the department of local affairs and the appropriate board or boards of county commissioners.

(IV) The termination or revocation of the designation of the hospital as an enterprise shall not affect in any manner the validity of any revenue bonds issued by the board of public hospital trustees of such hospital pursuant to subsection (4) of this section.

(c) (I) For purposes of this subsection (3), "grant" means any direct cash subsidy or other direct contribution of money from the state or any local government in Colorado which is not required to be repaid.

(II) "Grant" does not include:

(A) Any indirect benefit conferred upon a hospital from the state or any local government in Colorado;

(B) Any revenues resulting from rates, fees, assessments, or other charges imposed by a hospital for the provision of goods or services by such hospital;

(C) Any federal funds, regardless of whether such federal funds pass through the state or any local government in Colorado prior to receipt by a hospital.

(4) (a) Subject to the limitations set forth in paragraph (b) of this subsection (4), the board of public hospital trustees shall have the power to issue revenue bonds, secured by any revenues of the hospital other than property tax revenues. Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section to the contrary, such revenue bonds may provide for their repayment over a term greater than one fiscal year. The board shall authorize the issuance of revenue bonds by resolution, duly approved by no less than two-thirds of the entire membership of the board. All bonds shall be signed by the president of the board of trustees, countersigned by the secretary of the board of trustees, and shall be numbered and registered in a book kept by the secretary or the secretary-treasurer, as applicable. Each bond shall state upon its face the amount for which such bond is issued, to whom such bond is issued, and the date of its issuance.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph (b), the issuance of any revenue bonds pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (4) shall not become effective for a period of thirty days following the adoption of any resolution authorizing such issuance for the purpose of allowing the board of county commissioners to review such pending bond issue. Such review period shall commence upon the date of receipt by the board of county commissioners of written notice from the board of public hospital trustees of such pending revenue bond issue. During said thirty days, the board of county commissioners may file a written notice with the board of trustees stating that the board of county commissioners has no objection to such pending bond issue. Upon receipt of such notice of no objection, the issuance of such revenue bonds shall become effective. If, within said thirty days, the board of county commissioners does not file with the board of trustees either a written notice of no objection or a written objection, the issuance of such revenue bonds shall become effective. If the board of county commissioners files a written objection, the issuance of such revenue bonds shall be prohibited until such time as the board of county commissioners gives written notice to the board of trustees of withdrawal of the board's objection.

Source: L. 43: p. 277, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 151(4). CRS 53: § 66-7-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-4. L. 73: p. 691, § 2. L. 81: (1) amended, p. 1486, § 2, effective June 8. L. 93: (3) and (4) added, p. 1817, § 1, effective June 6. L. 94: (3)(c)(II)(B) amended, p. 1640, § 59, effective May 31. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1065), ch. 90, p. 335, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2023: (1)(c) and (2) amended, (SB 23-068), ch. 54, p. 195, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2025: (2)(b) amended, (HB 25-1085), ch. 78, p. 330, § 3, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the short title ("Colorado Frontier Hospitals Act of 2023") in SB 23-068, see section 1 of chapter 54, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-3-304.5. Hospital collaborative agreements - additional powers.

In addition to the powers specified in section 25-3-304, the board of trustees of a county public hospital may enter into a collaborative agreement with another county public hospital; a health service district; a hospital affiliate; or a private, nonprofit hospital in accordance with section 25.5-1-1001.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-298), ch. 343, p. 2058, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (SB 25-078), ch. 56, p. 235, § 2, effective August 6.

25-3-305. Vacancies - removal for cause.

Vacancies in the board of trustees occasioned by removals, resignations, or otherwise shall be reported to the board of county commissioners and be filled in like manner as original appointments. Any trustee may be removed for cause by the board of county commissioners.

Source: L. 43: p. 278, § 5. CSA: C. 78, § 151(5). CRS 53: § 66-7-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-5.

25-3-306. Right of eminent domain.

If the board of public hospital trustees and the owners of any property desired by it for hospital purposes cannot agree as to the price to be paid therefor, said board shall report the facts to the board of county commissioners, and condemnation proceedings shall be instituted by the board of county commissioners and prosecuted in the name of the county wherein such public hospital is to be located.

Source: L. 43: p. 278, § 6. CSA: C. 78, § 151(6). CRS 53: § 66-7-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-6.

25-3-307. Building requirements.

No hospital buildings shall be erected or constructed until the plans and specifications have been made therefor and adopted by the board of public hospital trustees and bids advertised for according to law as for other county public buildings. Such hospital may be in more than one unit or set of buildings within the same town or city, or in separate towns or cities, or within adjacent counties, and, if in adjacent counties, upon approval of the respective boards of county commissioners.

Source: L. 43: p. 278, § 7. CSA: C. 78, § 151(7). L. 51: p. 442, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-7-7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-7. L. 73: p. 692, § 3.

25-3-308. Improvements, operations, or enlargements.

In counties exercising the rights conferred by this part 3, the board of county commissioners may appropriate money from its general fund, in addition to the tax for the hospital fund provided for in section 25-3-301, in an amount that the board of county commissioners deems appropriate for the improvement, operation, or enlargement of any public hospital so established.

Source: L. 43: p. 278, § 8. CSA: C. 78, § 151(8). CRS 53: § 66-7-8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-8. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (SB 23-068), ch. 54, p. 196, § 4, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the short title ("Colorado Frontier Hospitals Act of 2023") in SB 23-068, see section 1 of chapter 54, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-3-309. Hospital fees.

Every hospital established under this part 3 is for the benefit of the inhabitants of the county and of any person falling sick or who is injured or maimed within its limits. Every inhabitant or person who is not indigent shall pay to the board of public hospital trustees or to the officer it designates for the county public hospital reasonable compensation for occupancy, nursing, laboratories, care, medicine, or attendants according to rules prescribed by the board in order to render the use of the hospital of the greatest benefit to the greatest number.

Source: L. 43: p. 278, § 9. CSA: C. 78, § 151(9). CRS 53: § 66-7-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-9. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1142), ch. 65, p. 618, § 3, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1142, see section 1 of chapter 65, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-3-310. Rules and regulations.

(1) When such hospital is established, the physicians, nurses, attendants, persons sick therein, and persons approaching or coming within the limits of same and all buildings and grounds of such hospital and all furniture and other articles used or brought there shall be subject to such rules and regulations as said public hospital board may prescribe.

(2) Said public hospital board may exclude from the use of such hospital any inhabitants and persons who willfully violate such rules and regulations. The board may extend the privileges and use of such hospital to persons residing outside of such county upon such terms and conditions as said board may from time to time by its rules and regulations prescribe.

Source: L. 43: p. 279, § 10. CSA: C. 78, § 151(10). CRS 53: § 66-7-10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-10.

25-3-311. Donations permitted.

Any person, firm, organization, corporation, or society desiring to make donations of money, personal property, or real estate for the benefit of such public hospital shall have the right to vest title of the money, personal property, or real estate so donated in said county, to be controlled, when accepted, by the board of public hospital trustees according to the terms of the deed, gift, devise, or bequest of such property.

Source: L. 43: p. 279, § 11. CSA: C. 78, § 151(11). CRS 53: § 66-7-11. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-11. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 2050, § 16, effective October 14.

25-3-312. Training school for nurses.

The board of trustees of such county public hospital may establish and maintain, in connection therewith and as a part of said public hospital, a training school for nurses.

Source: L. 43: p. 279, § 12. CSA: C. 78, § 151(12). CRS 53: § 66-7-12. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-12.

25-3-313. Lease of hospital.

The public hospital board having control of such hospital after its establishment and turning over to its management may in its discretion rent or lease the said hospital, for such rental and for such term as it deems reasonable and proper, to any corporation not for pecuniary profit duly organized under the laws of the state of Colorado for the purpose of conducting a hospital.

Source: L. 43: p. 279, § 13. CSA: C. 78, § 151(13). CRS 53: § 66-7-13. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-13.

25-3-314. Charge for professional services.

Any hospital which is owned by a county, or by a city and county, having a population in excess of two hundred fifty thousand persons and which is a teaching hospital duly accredited as such by the joint commission on accreditation of hospitals and by the council on medical education of the American medical association may employ physicians and surgeons licensed to practice medicine in the state of Colorado for the performance of professional services in such hospital or in any related outpatient facility which is owned by such county or city and county. Charges for the services so rendered by any such physician or surgeon, excluding professional trainees, may be collected through the medium of such hospital in the name of the physician or surgeon and, upon collection, may be placed in a medical practice fund to be established, maintained, and used by such hospital solely for the purpose of payment of compensation to the physicians and surgeons so employed and for the payment of consultation fees to other physicians and surgeons not so employed, or directly to physicians and surgeons who are directly engaged in medical research or medical education.

Source: L. 67: p. 306, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-7-14. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 671, § 4, effective April 19.

25-3-315. Records of hospital.

For purposes of part 2 of article 72 of title 24, C.R.S., the records of any hospital established pursuant to this part 3 shall continue to be public records, as defined in section 24-72-202 (6), C.R.S., regardless of whether such hospital is designated as an enterprise pursuant to section 25-3-304 (3).

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 1819, § 3, effective June 6.

PART 4

STATE PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL ACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF HEALTH FACILITIES

25-3-401. Department to administer plan.

(1) The department of public health and environment is designated as the sole agency for carrying out the purposes of the federal "Hospital Survey and Construction Act", Public Law 79-725 of the 79th Congress of the United States, approved August 13, 1946, or any amendments thereto, and the successor provisions thereof of Public Law 93-641, and is authorized to formulate, submit, and administer a state plan for carrying out the provisions thereof and to accept on behalf of the state any funds allotted to the state under the provision of the said federal acts, or any amendments thereto. In carrying out the purposes of this section, the department of public health and environment is authorized to make such reports as may be required by the said federal acts, or any amendments thereto, and to do all things that may be required as a condition precedent to the proper application for the receipt of federal grants under the said federal acts, and any amendments thereto and regulations thereof, and to administer and supervise the expenditure of such grants for the purposes of this section.

(2) The state plan established under subsection (1) of this section shall provide for adequate hospital facilities for the people residing in the state, without discrimination on account of race, creed, or color, and shall provide for adequate hospital facilities for persons unable to pay therefor. The department of public health and environment shall provide minimum standards for the maintenance and operation of hospitals which receive federal aid under this part 4, and compliance with such standards shall be required in the case of hospitals which have received federal aid under the provisions of said federal acts, or any amendments thereto.

Source: L. 47: p. 500, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 151(14). CRS 53: § 66-18-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-18-1. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 425, § 3, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2756, § 415, effective July 1. L. 96: (2) amended, p. 1471, § 18, effective June 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-3-402. State advisory hospital and mental retardation facilities and community mental health centers council. (Repealed)

Source: L. 47: p. 501, § 2. CSA: C. 78, § 151(15). CRS 53: § 66-18-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-18-2. L. 64: p. 481, § 2. L. 65: p. 706, § 1. L. 78: Entire section repealed, p. 425, § 4, effective July 1.

25-3-403. Department to administer federal mental health construction funds.

The department of public health and environment is designated as the sole agency for carrying out the purposes of Part C of Title I and Title II of the federal "Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act of 1963", Public Law 88-164 of the 88th congress of the United States, approved October 31, 1963, or any amendments thereto, and is authorized to administer a state plan for carrying out its provisions and to accept, on behalf of the state, all funds allotted to the state under the provisions of the federal act. The state mental health authority shall formulate the state plan. In carrying out the purposes of the federal act, the department of public health and environment is authorized to make such reports as may be required by the federal act, to do all things that may be required as a condition precedent to the proper application for the receipt of federal grants under the federal act, and to administer and supervise the expenditure of such grants in consultation with the mental health authority of the state of Colorado.

Source: L. 64: p. 480, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-18-3. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2756, § 416, effective July 1. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-096), ch. 44, p. 472, § 10, effective August 8.

Cross references: (1) For designation of the department of human services as the official mental health authority, see § 27-66-106.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-096, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

PART 5

CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC NECESSITY

25-3-501 to 25-3-521. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This part 5 was numbered as article 41 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 5 prior to its repeal in 1987, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Pursuant to § 25-3-521, as enacted by section 1 of chapter 107, Session Laws of Colorado 1982, this part 5 was to be repealed effective July 1 after the date congress repealed state requirements for certificates of public necessity as provided in Pub.L. 93-641. Such requirements were repealed by Pub.L. 99-660, effective January 1, 1987. This part 5 was therefore repealed effective July 1, 1987.

PART 6

HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS DISCLOSURE

25-3-601. Definitions.

As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Advisory committee" means the advisory committee created pursuant to section 25-3-602 (4).

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2.5) "Health-care-associated infection" means a localized or systemic condition that results from an adverse reaction to the presence of an infectious agent or its toxins that was not present or incubating at the time of admission to the health facility.

(3) "Health facility" means a hospital, a hospital unit, an ambulatory surgical center, a dialysis treatment clinic currently licensed or certified by the department pursuant to the department's authority under section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a), or other state licensed or certified facility that submits data to the national healthcare safety network, or its successor.

(4) Repealed.

(5) "Infection" means the invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms that reproduce and multiply, causing disease by local cellular injury, secretion of a toxin, or antigen-antibody reaction in the host.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1569, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2007: IP added, p. 2041, § 65, effective June 1. L. 2016: (2.5) added, (3) amended, and (4) repealed, (HB 16-1236), ch. 105, p. 302, § 1, effective April 15.

25-3-602. Health facility reports - advisory committee - creation - duties.

(1) (a) A health facility specified by the department shall collect data on health-care-associated infection rates for specific clinical procedures and health-care-associated infections as determined by the department.

(b) The advisory committee may define criteria to determine when data on a procedure or health-care-associated infection described in paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) shall be collected.

(c) An individual who collects data on health-care-associated infection rates shall take the test for the appropriate national certification for infection control and become certified within six months after the individual becomes eligible to take the certification test, as recommended by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc., or its successor. Mandatory national certification requirements shall not apply to individuals collecting data on health-care-associated infections in hospitals licensed for fifty beds or less, licensed ambulatory surgical centers, licensed dialysis treatment centers, licensed long-term care facilities, and other licensed or certified health facilities specified by the department. Qualifications for these individuals may be met through ongoing education, training, experience, or certification, as defined by the department.

(2) Each health-care provider who performs a clinical procedure subject to data collection as determined by the department pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall report to the health facility at which the clinical procedure was performed a health-care-associated infection that the health-care provider diagnoses at a follow-up appointment with the patient using standardized criteria and methods consistent with guidelines determined by the advisory committee. The reports made to the health facility under this subsection (2) shall be included in the reporting the health facility makes under subsection (3) of this section.

(3) (a) A health facility shall routinely submit its health-care-associated infection data to the national healthcare safety network in accordance with national healthcare safety network requirements and procedures. The data submissions shall begin on or before July 31, 2007, and continue thereafter.

(b) If a health facility is a division or subsidiary of another entity that owns or operates other health facilities or related organizations, the data submissions required under this part 6 shall be for the specific division or subsidiary and not for the other entity.

(c) Health facilities shall authorize the department to have access to health-facility-specific data contained in the national healthcare safety network database consistent with the requirements of this part 6.

(4) (a) The executive director of the department shall appoint an advisory committee. The advisory committee shall consist of:

(I) One representative from an urban hospital;

(II) One representative from a rural hospital;

(III) One board-certified or board-eligible physician licensed in the state of Colorado, who is affiliated with a Colorado hospital or medical school, who is an active member of a national organization specializing in health-care epidemiology or infection control, and who has demonstrated an interest and expertise in health facility infection control;

(IV) Four infection control practitioners as follows:

(A) One from a stand-alone ambulatory surgical center;

(B) One health-care professional certified by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc., or its successor;

(C) One from a long-term care setting; and

(D) One other health-care professional.

(V) Either one medical statistician with an advanced degree in such specialty or one clinical microbiologist with an advanced degree in such specialty;

(VI) One representative from a health consumer organization;

(VII) One representative from a health insurer; and

(VIII) One representative from a purchaser of health insurance.

(b) The advisory committee shall assist the department in development of the department's oversight of this article and the department's methodology for disclosing the information collected under this part 6, including the methods and means for release and dissemination.

(c) The department and the advisory committee shall evaluate on a regular basis the quality and accuracy of health-facility information reported under this part 6 and the data collection, analysis, and dissemination methodologies.

(d) The advisory committee shall elect a chair of the advisory committee annually. The advisory committee shall meet no less than four times per year in its first year of existence and no less than two times in each subsequent year. The chair shall set the meeting dates and times. The members of the advisory committee shall serve without compensation.

(5) (a) The advisory committee shall recommend additional clinical procedures based upon the criteria set forth in paragraph (c) of this subsection (5) and other health-care-associated infections that must be reported pursuant to subsection (1) of this section. The recommendations of the advisory committee must be consistent with information that may be collected by the national healthcare safety network.

(b) Repealed.

(c) In making its recommendations under paragraph (a) of this subsection (5), the advisory committee shall recommend clinical procedures and other health-care-associated infections to monitor and report, using the following considerations:

(I) Whether the procedure contains a high risk for infection contraction;

(II) Whether the type or types of infection present a serious risk to the patient's health or life; and

(III) Any other factors determined by the advisory committee.

(d) Repealed.

(6) The advisory committee may recommend that health facilities report process measures to the advisory committee, in addition to those listed in subsections (1) and (5) of this section, to accommodate best practices for effective prevention of infection.

(7) Repealed.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1570, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2009: (1)(c) amended, (HB 09-1025), ch. 34, p. 143, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2012: (4)(a)(IV) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1259, § 9, effective June 4. L. 2016: (1), (2), (3)(a), (4)(a)(I), (4)(a)(II), (4)(a)(IV), (5)(a), IP(5)(c), and (7)(a) amended and (5)(b) and (5)(d) repealed, (HB 16-1236), ch. 105, p. 302, § 2, effective April 15. L. 2021: (7) repealed, (SB 21-093), ch. 110, p. 436, § 1, effective September 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsection (4)(a)(IV), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-3-603. Department reports.

(1) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), on or before September 15, 2025, and each September 15 thereafter, the department shall submit to the health and human services committees of the house of representatives and of the senate, or their successor committees, a report summarizing the risk-adjusted health-facility data. The department shall post the report on its website.

(2) Repealed.

(3) (a) All data in reports issued by the department shall be risk-adjusted consistent with the standards of the national healthcare safety network.

(b) The annual report must compare the risk-adjusted, health-care-associated infection rates, collected under section 25-3-602 for health facilities specified by the department for each individual health facility in the state. The department, in consultation with the advisory committee, shall make this comparison as easy to comprehend as possible. The report must include an executive summary, written in plain language, that includes, but is not limited to, a discussion of findings, conclusions, and trends concerning the overall state of health-care-associated infections in the state, including a comparison to prior years when available. The report may include policy recommendations as appropriate.

(c) The department shall publicize the report and its availability as widely as practical to interested parties, including but not limited to health facilities, providers, media organizations, health insurers, health maintenance organizations, purchasers of health insurance, organized labor, consumer or patient advocacy groups, and individual consumers. The annual report shall be made available to any person upon request.

(d) A health-facility report or department disclosure may not contain information identifying a patient, employee, or licensed health-care professional in connection with a specific infection incident.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1572, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2016: (2) repealed and (3)(b) amended, (HB 16-1236), ch. 105, p. 304, § 3, effective April 15. L. 2017: (1) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 93, § 3, effective March 16. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 280, § 19, effective April 10.

25-3-604. Privacy.

Compliance with this part 6 shall not violate a patient's right to confidentiality. A patient's social security number and any other information that could be used to identify a patient shall not be released, notwithstanding any other provision of law.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1573, § 1, effective June 2.

25-3-605. Confidentiality.

(1) Except as provided by subsection (5) of this section, all information and materials obtained and compiled by the department under this part 6 or compiled by a health facility under this part 6, including all related information and materials, are confidential; are not subject to disclosure, discovery, subpoena, or other means of legal compulsion for release to any person, subject to subsection (2) of this section; and may not be admitted as evidence or otherwise disclosed in a civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding.

(2) The confidential protections under subsection (1) of this section shall apply without regard to whether the information or materials are obtained from or compiled by a health facility or an entity that has ownership or management interests in a health facility.

(3) The transfer of information or materials under this part 6 is not a waiver of a privilege or protection granted under law.

(4) Information reported by a health facility under this part 6 and analyses, plans, records, and reports obtained, prepared, or compiled by a health facility under this part 6 and all related information and materials are subject to an absolute privilege and shall not be used in any form against the health facility, its agents, employees, partners, assignees, or independent contractors in any civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding, regardless of the means by which a person came into possession of the information, analysis, plan, record, report, or related information or materials.

(5) The provisions of this section regarding the confidentiality of information or materials compiled or reported by a health facility in compliance with or as authorized under this part 6 shall not restrict access, to the extent authorized by law, by the patient or the patients' legally authorized representative to records of the patient's medical diagnosis or treatment or to other primary health records.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1573, § 1, effective June 2.

25-3-606. Penalties.

(1) A determination that a health facility has violated the provisions of this part 6 may result in the following:

(a) Termination of licensure or other sanctions related to licensure under part 1 of this article; or

(b) A civil penalty of up to one thousand dollars per violation for each day the health facility is in violation of this part 6.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1574, § 1, effective June 2.

25-3-607. Regulatory oversight.

The department shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with this part 6 as a condition of licensure under part 1 of this article and shall enforce compliance according to the provisions in part 1 of this article.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1574, § 1, effective June 2.

PART 7

COLORADO HOSPITAL REPORT CARD ACT

Editor's note: This part 7 was originally numbered as part 6 in House Bill 06-1278 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-3-701. Short title.

This part 7 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Hospital Report Card Act".

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1576, § 1, effective August 7.

25-3-702. Comprehensive hospital information system - executive director - duties - definitions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1576, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2008: (1) amended, p. 709, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1)(b)(II)(B) and (1)(b)(VI)(B) amended, (SB 10-217), ch. 315, p. 1474, § 1, effective May 27. L. 2017: (2)(b) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 93, § 4, effective March 16. L. 2022: Entire section repealed, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1181, § 5, effective May 18.

Editor's note: This section was originally numbered as § 25-3-602 in House Bill 06-1278 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-3-703. Hospital report card - rules - exemption.

(1) (a) The executive director shall approve a Colorado hospital report card consisting of public disclosure of data assembled pursuant to this part 7. At a minimum, the data shall be made available on an internet website in a manner that allows consumers to conduct an interactive search that allows them to view and compare the information for specific hospitals. The website must include:

(I) Clinical outcomes measures from general and public hospitals licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103; and

(II) Such additional information as is determined necessary to ensure that the website enhances informed decision-making among consumers and health-care purchasers, which must include, at a minimum, appropriate guidance on how to use the data and an explanation of why the data may vary from hospital to hospital.

(b) When making a determination as to what data to report as required by subsection (1)(a) of this section, each executive director shall consider:

(I) Inclusion of data on all patients regardless of the payer source for Colorado hospitals and other information that may be required for either individual or group purchasers to assess the value of the product;

(II) Use of standardized clinical outcomes measures recognized by national organizations that establish standards to measure the performance of health-care providers;

(III) Data that is severity and acuity adjusted using statistical methods that show variation in reported outcomes, where applicable, and data that has passed standard edits;

(IV) Reporting the results with separate documents containing the technical specification and measures;

(V) Standardization in reporting; and

(VI) Disclosure of the methodology of reporting.

(2) Prior to the completion of the Colorado hospital report card, the executive director shall ensure that every hospital is allowed thirty days within which to examine the data and submit comments for consideration and inclusion in the final Colorado hospital report card.

(3) The state board of health shall promulgate rules that establish nursing-sensitive quality measures based upon a nationally recognized standard and revise the rules as necessary every three years to be included in the hospital report card. The nursing-sensitive quality measures must include at a minimum:

(a) Skill mix;

(b) The nursing hours per patient per day;

(c) Voluntary turnover;

(d) Patient falls prevalence rate;

(e) Patient falls with injury; and

(f) Recorded incidences of violence against staff and contracted staff.

(4) Hospitals with fewer than one hundred beds are exempt from the requirements of this section.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1579, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2022: (1) amended and (3) and (4) added, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, pp. 1181, 1182, §§ 6, 7, effective May 18.

25-3-704. Fees.

(1) The executive director shall annually determine the costs incurred by the department and the Colorado commission for hospital statistics in completing the requirements of this part 7.

(2) The executive director shall apportion, according to net patient service revenues, the costs annually among the hospitals who pay the annual registration fee required by this section and report the same to the state board of health. The state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of the annual fee imposed by this section. At no time shall the fee be higher than what is necessary to implement the report required pursuant to this part 7.

(3) All fees collected pursuant to this part 7 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the health facilities general licensure cash fund created in section 25-3-103.1.

(4) Notwithstanding the amount specified for the fee in this section, the state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of the fee if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of the fee is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of the fee as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1579, § 1, effective August 7.

25-3-705. Health-care charge transparency - hospital charge report - definitions.

(1) The commissioner of insurance shall work with the duly constituted association of hospitals selected by the executive director for assistance in carrying out the purposes of this section.

(2) (a) On or before August 1, 2009, and on or before each August 1 thereafter, each hospital licensed pursuant to part 1 of this article shall report annually to the association of hospitals the information necessary to allow the association to determine the charges for the twenty-five most common inpatient diagnostic-related groups for which there are at least ten cases rendered by the hospital during the calendar year immediately preceding the release of the hospital charge report. If a hospital does not have twenty-five of the most common diagnostic-related groups with at least ten or more cases rendered, the hospital shall report only on those most common diagnostic-related groups that have at least ten cases rendered.

(b) A hospital that does not use diagnostic-related groups is exempt from paragraph (a) of this subsection (2).

(3) (a) The commissioner of insurance shall work with the association of hospitals to incorporate the information reported pursuant to this section on the website.

(b) The commissioner of insurance shall require the association of hospitals to submit a plan to the commissioner on or before November 30, 2008, that states the implementation status of a plan to make the hospital charges reported pursuant to this section available to the public on the website. The plan shall identify the process and time periods for implementation, any barriers to implementation, and recommendations of changes in the law that may be enacted by the general assembly to eliminate the barriers.

(c) When developing the required plan, the association of hospitals shall consider:

(I) The method for hospitals to report charges to the association;

(II) Standards that provide for the validity and comparability of hospital charges; and

(III) The format for making hospital charges available to the public.

(4) (a) The association of hospitals shall make the information reported by the hospitals pursuant to this section available on the website on or before August 1, 2009, and on or before August 1 of each year thereafter. The information reported by the hospitals shall include disclaimers regarding factors including case severity ratings and individual patient variations that may affect actual charges to a patient for services provided.

(b) The information reported by the hospitals that is published in accordance with this section shall include:

(I) Volume of cases by diagnostic-related group required to be reported by the hospital;

(II) Rank by volume of the top twenty-five diagnostic-related groups required to be reported by the hospital;

(III) Mean charge for each of the top twenty-five diagnostic-related groups with more than ten occurrences by hospital;

(IV) Case severity rating by hospital by diagnostic-related group; and

(V) A general disclaimer statement regarding the hospital variations and patient variations that affect the actual charges to patients.

(c) Before publication of the information published pursuant to this section on the website, the commissioner shall ensure that every hospital is allowed thirty days within which to examine the data and submit comments for consideration and inclusion in the final hospital charge report.

(5) (a) The commissioner of insurance shall approve the publication of information on the website consisting of public disclosure of charge data assembled pursuant to this section. At a minimum, the information shall be made available on the website in a manner that allows consumers to conduct an interactive search to view and compare the information for specific hospitals. The website shall include any additional information necessary to ensure that the website information is available to consumers and health-care purchasers. The information shall include, at a minimum, appropriate guidance on how to use the data and an explanation of why the data may vary from hospital to hospital. The report specified in this subsection (5) shall be released on the website on or before August 1, 2009, and on or before each August 1 thereafter.

(b) The commissioner of insurance shall make the website available by hyperlink on the division of insurance website.

(c) The division of insurance shall review the information posted on the website to ensure that the website and information provided by the association is easy to navigate, contains consumer-friendly language, and fulfills the intent of this section. The division shall also ensure that the hyperlink from the division's website to the website is easily accessible.

(6) There shall be no liability on the association of hospitals or a cause of action against the association or its agents, employees, or directors or authorized designees of the commissioner for actions taken or omitted in the performance of duties pursuant to this section.

(7) Repealed.

(8) As used in this section:

(a) "Charge" means the amount that a hospital expects to charge for an inpatient diagnostic-related group. A charge that is required to be reported to the public shall be the mean charge for all cases of the diagnostic-related group occurring in the calendar year prior to the release of the hospital charge report.

(b) "Diagnostic-related group" means the classification assigned to an inpatient hospital service claim based on the patient's age and sex, the principal and secondary diagnoses, the procedures performed, and the discharge status.

(c) "Website" means a website established by the association of hospitals that links to the website created pursuant to section 25-3-703.

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 1262, § 3, effective May 27. L. 2011: (7) repealed, (HB 11-1303), ch. 264, p. 1165, § 60, effective August 10. L. 2022: (1) amended, (HB 22-1401), ch. 178, p. 1183, § 8, effective May 18.

Cross references: In 2008, this section was added by the "Health Care Transparency Act". For the short title and legislative declaration, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 294, Session Laws of Colorado 2008.

PART 8

CONSUMER PROTECTION RELATING TO HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY

Editor's note: This part 8 was added in 2022 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2023. For the text of this part 8 prior to 2023, consult the 2022 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. This part 8 was relocated to part 9 of article 1 of title 25.5. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

25-3-801 to 25-3-803. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2023: Entire part repealed, (SB 23-252), ch. 305, p. 1864, § 2, effective August 7.

25-3.5 ARTICLE 3.5

Emergency Medical and Trauma Services

PART 1
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE

25-3.5-101. Short title.

25-3.5-102. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-103. Definitions.

25-3.5-104. Emergency medical and trauma services advisory council - creation - duties.

25-3.5-104.3. State trauma advisory council - duties. (Repealed)

25-3.5-104.5. Joint advisory council - duties. (Repealed)

25-3.5-105. Rules and regulations.

25-3.5-106. Local standards - uninterrupted service - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-107. Religious exception.

25-3.5-108. EMS system sustainability task force - created - powers and duties - membership - reports - repeal.

PART 2
TREATMENT SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-201. Training programs.

25-3.5-202. Personnel - basic requirements.

25-3.5-203. Emergency medical service providers - licensure - renewal of license - duties of department - rules - record checks - definitions.

25-3.5-203.5. Community paramedic endorsement - rules.

25-3.5-204. Emergency medical services for children.

25-3.5-205. Emergency medical service providers - investigation - discipline.

25-3.5-206. Emergency medical practice advisory council - creation - powers and duties - emergency medical service provider scope of practice - definitions - rules.

25-3.5-207. Ability of certified or licensed emergency medical service providers to work in clinical settings - restrictions - definitions - rules.

25-3.5-208. Emergency medical service providers' peer health assistance program - fund - rules.

25-3.5-209. Use of ketamine in prehospital setting when peace officer is present - definition.

25-3.5-210. Report on statewide use of ketamine.

PART 3
TRANSPORTATION SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-301. Number of individuals needed for ambulance operation - exception.

25-3.5-302. Issuance of licenses and permits - term - requirements - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-303. Vehicular liability insurance required - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-304. Suspension - revocation - hearings - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-305. Alleged negligence.

25-3.5-306. Violation - penalty.

25-3.5-307. Licensure of fixed-wing and rotor-wing air ambulances - cash fund created - rules - repeal.

25-3.5-307.5. Standards for air ambulance services - rules - civil penalties - disciplinary actions.

25-3.5-308. Rules - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-309. Secure transportation - license required - fees - exceptions.

25-3.5-310. Secure transportation - issuance of licenses and permits - term - requirements.

25-3.5-311. Secure transportation - rules.

25-3.5-312. Funding.

25-3.5-313. Reporting.

25-3.5-314. Ambulance service - license required - exceptions - rules - local authorization to operate - penalties - liability insurance.

25-3.5-315. Minimum standards for ambulance services - rules.

25-3.5-316. Ambulance services cash fund - created.

25-3.5-317. License - application - inspection - criminal history record check - issuance - investigation - definitions.

25-3.5-318. License denial, suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew.

PART 4
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-401. Responsibility for coordination.

25-3.5-402. Local government participation.

25-3.5-403. Poison information center - state funding. (Repealed)

PART 5
DOCUMENTATION SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-501. Records - ambulance services to report - access to patient information.

25-3.5-502. Forms and reports - repeal. (Repealed)

PART 6
LOCAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

25-3.5-601. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-602. Definitions.

25-3.5-603. Emergency medical services account - creation - allocation of money - rules.

25-3.5-604. EMTS grant program - EMS account - role of council and department - rules - awards.

25-3.5-605. Improvement of county emergency medical and trauma services - eligibility for county funding - manner of distributing funds.

25-3.5-606. Annual report.

25-3.5-607. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

PART 7
STATEWIDE TRAUMA SYSTEM

25-3.5-701. Short title.

25-3.5-702. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-703. Definitions.

25-3.5-704. Statewide emergency medical and trauma care system - development and implementation - duties of department - rules.

25-3.5-705. Creation of fee - creation of trauma system cash fund.

25-3.5-706. Immunity from liability.

25-3.5-707. False representation as trauma facility - penalty.

25-3.5-708. Financing for statewide trauma system.

25-3.5-709. Annual report.

PART 8
TOBACCO EDUCATION, PREVENTION, AND CESSATION PROGRAMS

25-3.5-801. Short title.

25-3.5-802. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-803. Definitions.

25-3.5-804. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - review committee - grants - reimbursement for expenses - rules.

25-3.5-805. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - requirements.

25-3.5-806. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - reporting requirements.

25-3.5-807. Tobacco program fund - created. (Repealed)

25-3.5-807.5. Transfer of balance of tobacco program fund - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-808. Administration - limitation.

25-3.5-809. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - funding.

25-3.5-810. Nicotine products education, prevention, and cessation programs.

PART 9
QUALITY MANAGEMENT

25-3.5-901. Short title.

25-3.5-902. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-903. Definitions.

25-3.5-904. Quality management programs - creation - assessments - confidentiality of information - exceptions - immunity for good faith participants.

PART 10
STATEWIDE MARIJUANA EDUCATION CAMPAIGN

25-3.5-1001. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-1002. Definitions.

25-3.5-1003. Eighteen-month public awareness and education campaign - legalization of marijuana - repeal. (Repealed)

25-3.5-1004. Ongoing prevention and education campaign - training - marijuana.

25-3.5-1005. Website - primary state resource for information.

25-3.5-1006. Align marijuana messaging - integration of information across state agencies.

25-3.5-1007. Evaluation of marijuana campaigns.

PART 11
EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONDERS

25-3.5-1101. Legislative declaration.

25-3.5-1102. Definitions.

25-3.5-1103. Registration - rules - funds.

25-3.5-1104. Training programs - rules.

25-3.5-1105. Investigation and discipline.

PART 12
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE REFERRAL AND EDUCATION SERVICES (CARES) PROGRAM

25-3.5-1201. Short title.

25-3.5-1202. Definitions.

25-3.5-1203. Community assistance referral and education services programs - authorization - scope.

25-3.5-1204. Reports.

PART 13
COMMUNITY INTEGRATED HEALTH-CARE SERVICE AGENCIES

25-3.5-1301. Definitions - rules.

25-3.5-1302. Community integrated health-care service agency license required - rules - civil and criminal penalties - liability insurance.

25-3.5-1303. Minimum standards for community integrated health-care service agencies - adult protective services data system check - rules.

25-3.5-1304. Community integrated health care service agencies cash fund - created.

25-3.5-1305. License - application - inspection - record check - issuance - definition.

25-3.5-1306. License denial - suspension - revocation - definition - penalty.

25-3.5-1307. Repeal of part - review of functions.

PART 14
STOP THE BLEED SCHOOL CONTROL KITS

25-3.5-1401. (Repealed)

PART 1

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE

25-3.5-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Act".

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1278, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 525, § 1, effective July 1.

25-3.5-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby declares that it is in the public interest to provide available, coordinated, and quality emergency medical and trauma services to the people of this state. It is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this article to establish an emergency medical and trauma services system, consisting of at least treatment, transportation, communication, and documentation subsystems, designed to prevent premature mortality and to reduce the morbidity that arises from critical injuries, exposure to poisonous substances, and illnesses.

(2) To effect this end, the general assembly finds it necessary that the department of public health and environment assist, when requested by local government entities, in planning and implementing any one of such subsystems so that it meets local and regional needs and requirements and that the department coordinate local systems so that they interface with an overall state system providing maximally effective emergency medical and trauma systems.

(3) The general assembly further finds that the provision of adequate emergency medical and trauma services on highways in all areas of the state is a matter of statewide concern and requires state financial assistance and support.

(4) The general assembly also finds that:

(a) Colorado's emergency medical services system not only provides individuals who are ill or injured emergency medical and trauma care twenty-four hours per day and three hundred sixty-five days per year, but also serves as a critical safety net for many Coloradans who might not have immediate access to other health-care services;

(b) As highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Colorado's emergency medical services system augments community health, preventative health, and public health programs throughout the state;

(c) Despite the essential nature of the emergency medical services system and the assumption held by members of the public that, once a 911 call is placed, an ambulance will quickly arrive, emergency medical services are not a required service in Colorado;

(d) While emergency medical services are generally available throughout the state, some Coloradans no longer have access to a Colorado-based emergency medical services system, and other Colorado communities are at risk of losing their emergency medical services;

(e) The instability and unsustainability of emergency medical services in some parts of the state puts lives at risk;

(f) Ground ambulance service is the only component of Colorado's emergency medical system that is not subject to statewide standardization and regulation, which statewide standardization and regulation would provide medical and operational benefits and consumer protections;

(g) The lack of statewide standardization and regulation for ground ambulance services inhibits consumer protections and investigations and adjudication of consumer complaints because the department lacks authority to investigate and adjudicate any complaints related to ground ambulances; and

(h) To ensure sustainability of, and equitable access to, emergency medical services in Colorado, a comprehensive assessment of the emergency medical services system, along with recommendations for modernizing and sustaining the emergency medical services system, should be performed.

(5) (a) The general assembly further finds that:

(I) The provision of emergency medical services, including ambulance services and air ambulance services, is essential to the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare of the people of the state of Colorado;

(II) Access to timely and appropriate medical care in out-of-hospital services is a critical component of the state's health-care infrastructure, particularly in rural and frontier areas of the state in which hospitals and other health-care resources may be limited; and

(III) Emergency medical services function as an integral part of the continuum of care by bridging prehospital, interfacility, and community-based health-care delivery.

(b) Therefore, the general assembly declares that:

(I) It is necessary to recognize and support emergency medical services as an essential service in the state of Colorado and to ensure that each resident of and visitor to the state has access to emergency medical services;

(II) As essential health-care providers and first responders, emergency medical service providers are expected to respond during a declared disaster, prescribed closure, crisis, or emergency; and

(III) It is the policy of the state of Colorado that:

(A) When in active service, emergency medical service providers are authorized to travel unencumbered upon the roads and highways within the state; and

(B) At any time or place in which emergency medical service providers are called to respond, their performance of emergency medical services falls within the duties and classified demands of their jobs and the regular usage and wear of their vehicles and equipment.

(6) The general assembly recognizes and declares that emergency medical services are essential. When acting on duty or responding as a volunteer, emergency medical service providers, including providers of emergency ambulance service and nonemergency ambulance service, are recognized as providing essential services regardless of location.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1278, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1055, § 2, effective July 1. L. 89: (3) added, p. 1148, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2757, § 417, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 525, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2022: (4) added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2086, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2026: (5) and (6) added, (HB 26-1238), ch. 118, p. 500, § 2, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1238, see section 1 of chapter 118, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ANNOTATION

Limitation on entities eligible to license ambulances. Since the general assembly has indicated a coordinated system of emergency medical care to be of statewide concern and has provided a comprehensive statutory scheme to regulate the field, governmental entities other than those provided in § 25-3.5-301 may not license ambulances. DuHamel v. People ex rel. City of Arvada, 42 Colo. App. 491, 601 P.2d 639 (1979).

To subject ambulance companies to authority of two jurisdictions is contrary to purpose of section because it fragments the coordinated system and could reduce the availability of service. DuHamel v. People ex rel. City of Arvada, 42 Colo. App. 491, 601 P.2d 639 (1979).

25-3.5-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 3.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Air ambulance" means a fixed-wing or rotor-wing aircraft that is equipped to provide air transportation and is specifically designed to accommodate the medical needs of individuals who are ill, injured, or otherwise mentally or physically incapacitated and who require in-flight medical supervision.

(1.3) "Air ambulance service" means a public or private entity that uses an air ambulance to transport patients to a medical facility and includes the provision of emergency ambulance service and nonemergency ambulance service.

(1.5) "Ambulance" means any privately or publicly owned ground vehicle:

(a) Especially constructed or modified and equipped, intended to be used, and maintained or operated by an ambulance service for the transportation, upon the streets and highways in this state, of individuals who are sick, injured, or otherwise incapacitated or helpless; and

(b) That is required to be licensed pursuant to part 3 of this article.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2005, p. 1330, § 1, effective July 1, 2005.)

(3) (a) "Ambulance service" means the furnishing, operating, conducting, maintaining, advertising, or otherwise engaging in or professing to be engaged in the transportation of patients by ambulance and includes the provision of emergency ambulance service and nonemergency ambulance service.

(b) Taken in context, "ambulance service" also means the person providing or professing to be providing ambulance service.

(c) The person providing and the vehicles used for the emergency transportation of individuals injured at a mine are excluded from this definition when the personnel utilized in the operation of the vehicles are subject to the mandatory safety standards of the federal mine safety and health administration, or its successor agency.

(3.1) "Authorization to operate" or "authorized to operate" means a local licensing authority's approval of or act of approving an ambulance service to operate within the jurisdiction of the local licensing authority.

(3.3) "Behavioral health" has the same meaning as set forth in section 27-50-101 (1).

(3.5) "Board" means the state board of health created pursuant to section 25-1-103.

(4) "Board of county commissioners" includes the governing body of any city and county.

(4.3) "Community integrated health-care service" means the provision of certain out-of-hospital medical services, as determined by rule, that a community paramedic may provide.

(4.5) "Community paramedic" means an emergency medical service provider who obtains an endorsement in community paramedicine pursuant to section 25-3.5-206.

(4.7) "Council" means the state emergency medical and trauma services advisory council created in section 25-3.5-104 (1)(a).

(5) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(6) "Director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment.

(7) "Emergency" means any actual or self-perceived event which threatens life, limb, or well-being of an individual in such a manner that a need for immediate medical care is created.

(7.2) "Emergency ambulance service" means an immediate ambulance or air ambulance response at the time ambulance service or air ambulance service is requested that results in the assessment, treatment, or transport of a patient by an ambulance or air ambulance.

(7.5) "Emergency medical practice advisory council" or "advisory council" means the emergency medical practice advisory council created in section 25-3.5-206.

(8) "Emergency medical service provider" means an individual who holds a valid emergency medical service provider certificate or license issued by the department as provided in this article 3.5.

(8.1) "Emergency medical services facility" means a licensed or certified facility that provides emergency medical services, including but not limited to hospitals, hospital units as defined in section 25-3-101, freestanding emergency departments as defined in section 25-1.5-114, critical access hospitals as defined in section 25-1.5-114.5, psychiatric hospitals, community clinics, community mental health centers, and acute treatment units.

(8.3) "EMS agency patient care database" means the department's database containing records required to be submitted in accordance with section 25-3.5-501.

(8.4) "EMS system sustainability task force" or "task force" means the EMS system sustainability task force created in section 25-3.5-108 (1)(a).

(8.5) "First responder" means:

(a) A peace officer, as described in section 16-2.5-101;

(b) A firefighter, as defined in section 29-5-203 (10);

(c) A volunteer firefighter, as defined in section 31-30-1102 (9)(a);

(d) An emergency medical service provider; and

(e) A mental health professional who responds in a professional capacity to a justifiable medical emergency.

(8.6) "Health information organization network" means an organization that oversees and governs the exchange of health-related information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards.

(8.7) "Justifiable medical emergency" means an underlying medical, traumatic, or psychiatric condition posing an immediate safety risk to the individual, emergency medical service provider, or public. Excited delirium, any subsequent term for excited delirium, or any acute psychiatric diagnosis not recognized in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is not a justifiable medical emergency.

(8.8) "Local licensing authority" means the governing body of a city and county or the board of county commissioners in a county in the state.

(9) "Medical direction" includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) Approval of the medical components of treatment protocols and appropriate prearrival instructions;

(b) Routine review of program performance and maintenance of active involvement in quality improvement activities, including access to dispatch tapes as necessary for the evaluation of procedures;

(c) Authority to recommend appropriate changes to protocols for the improvement of patient care; and

(d) Provision of oversight for the ongoing education, training, and quality assurance for providers of emergency care.

(9.3) "Nonemergency ambulance service" means the transport of a patient by an ambulance or air ambulance and that includes the provision of medically necessary supplies and services and meets the medical necessity requirements under 42 CFR 410.40 (e), as that section existed on July 1, 2025.

(9.5) "Out-of-hospital services" means furnishing any necessary goods and services outside of a hospital setting for the purpose of preventing, alleviating, curing, or healing human illness, a physical disability, a physical injury, or a substance use disorder while responding to an emergency or other health-care condition. "Out-of-hospital services" does not include prehospital setting transports.

(9.8) "Patient" means an individual who is sick, injured, or otherwise incapacitated or helpless.

(10) "Permit" means the authorization issued by the department with respect to an ambulance used or to be used to provide ambulance service in the state.

(10.3) "Prehospital setting" means one of the following settings in which an emergency medical service provider performs patient care, which care is subject to medical direction by a medical director:

(a) At the site of an emergency;

(b) During emergency transport;

(c) During interfacility transport; or

(d) While providing out-of-hospital services.

(10.6) "Refresher course program" means a program establishing a course of instruction designed to keep emergency medical service providers abreast of developments or new techniques in their profession, which course includes an examination administered at any time during or following the course to facilitate continuing evaluation of emergency medical service providers.

(10.8) "Registered emergency medical responder" means an individual who has successfully completed the training and examination requirements for emergency medical responders, who provides assistance to the injured or ill until more highly trained and qualified personnel arrive, and who is registered with the department pursuant to part 11 of this article.

(11) "Rescue unit" means any organized group chartered by this state as a corporation not for profit or otherwise existing as a nonprofit organization whose purpose is the search for and the rescue of lost or injured persons and includes, but is not limited to, such groups as search and rescue, mountain rescue, ski patrols (either volunteer or professional), law enforcement posses, civil defense units, or other organizations of governmental designation responsible for search and rescue.

(11.4) (a) "Secure transportation" or "secure transportation services" means urgent transportation services provided to individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis.

(b) Secure transportation includes:

(I) For an individual being transported pursuant to section 27-65-104 or 27-65-106 (1), transportation from the community to a facility designated by the commissioner of the behavioral health administration in the department of human services for treatment and evaluation pursuant to article 65 of title 27;

(II) For an individual in need of services pursuant to articles 81 and 82 of title 27, transportation from any location to an approved treatment facility, as described in section 27-81-106, or a walk-in crisis center that is operating as part of the behavioral health crisis response system;

(III) For an individual who is receiving transportation across levels of care or to a higher level of care, transportation between any of the following types of facilities:

(A) An emergency medical services facility;

(B) A facility designated by the commissioner of the behavioral health administration in the department of human services for treatment and evaluation pursuant to article 65 of title 27;

(C) An approved treatment facility, as described in section 27-81-106;

(D) A walk-in crisis center that is operating as part of the behavioral health crisis response system; or

(E) A behavioral health entity licensed pursuant to section 25-27.6-106 with a current twenty-four-hour endorsement.

(c) "Secure transportation" does not include urgent transportation services provided by law enforcement or personnel employed by or contracted with a law enforcement agency to individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis; except that any member of a co-responder team who is not law enforcement or personnel employed by or contracted with a law enforcement agency and who holds a valid license for secure transportation by the county in which the secure transportation originates, in a vehicle with a valid permit issued by the county in which the secure transportation originates, and which meets the minimum requirements for secure transportation established by rule pursuant to section 25-3.5-311 may provide urgent secure transportation services.

(11.5) "Service agency" means a fixed-base or mobile prehospital provider of emergency medical services that employs emergency medical service providers to render medical care to patients.

(12) "Volunteer emergency medical service provider" means an emergency medical service provider who does not receive direct remuneration for the performance of emergency medical services.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1279, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 80: (1) and (3) amended, p. 633, § 1, effective April 8. L. 84: (10.6) added, p. 763, § 1, effective July 1. L. 87: (12) added, p. 1126, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (5) and (6) amended, p. 2757, § 418, effective July 1. L. 2000: (3.5) and (11.5) added, p. 526, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2005: (1) and (2) amended and (1.5) added, p. 1330, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2010: (7.5) added, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1944, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2012: (8), (10.6), (11.5), and (12) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1437, § 20, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1.3) added, (HB 16-1280), ch. 206, p. 736, § 1, effective June 1; (4.3) and (4.5) added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1062, § 1, effective June 8; (10.8) added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1310, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2018: IP amended and (8.3) and (8.5) added, (HB 18-1032), ch. 63, p. 612, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2019: (8) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3518, § 1, effective May 31; (8.8) added, (SB 19-052), ch. 122, p. 527, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2021: (3.3), (8.1), and (11.4) added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2308, § 1, effective June 27; (8.6) and (10.3) added, (HB 21-1251), ch. 450, p. 2957, § 1, effective July 6. L. 2022: (3.1), (8.4), and (8.7) added and (10) amended, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2087, § 2, effective June 1; (3.3), (11.4)(b)(I), and (11.4)(b)(III)(B) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1508, § 57, effective July 1; (11.4)(b)(I) amended, (HB 22-1256), ch. 451, p. 3239, § 52, effective August 10; (11.4)(b)(I) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1600, § 249, effective August 10. L. 2024: (8.1) amended, (SB 24-121), ch. 439, p. 3066, § 4, effective July 1, 2026. L. 2025: (4.7) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2078, § 210, effective August 6. L. 2026: (8.5), (8.6), (8.7), (8.8), and (9) amended and (9.8) added, (HB 26-1069), ch. 303, p. 1734, § 2, effective June 2; (1.3), (3), (9), and (10.3) amended and (7.2), (8.9), and (9.2) added, (HB 26-1238), ch. 118, p. 501, § 3, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (8.8) is similar to § 25-3.5-203 (5) as it existed prior to 2019.

(2) Subsection (9.3) was numbered as subsection (8.9) in HB 26-1238 but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(3) (a) Amendments to subsection (9) by HB 26-1238 and HB 26-1069 were harmonized and subsection (9) as amended by HB 26-1238 was renumbered as subsection (9.5).

(b) Amendments to subsection (9.2) by HB 26-1238 were harmonized with HB 26-1069 and subsection (9.2) as added by HB 26-1238 was renumbered as subsection (9.8).

Cross references: (1) For additional definitions applicable to this article 3.5, see § 25-3.5-703.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (5) and (6), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1238, see section 1 of chapter 118, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-3.5-104. Emergency medical and trauma services advisory council - creation - duties.

(1) (a) There is hereby created, in the department of public health and environment, a state emergency medical and trauma services advisory council, to be composed of thirty-two members, of whom twenty-five shall be appointed by the governor no later than January 1, 2001, and at least one of whom shall be from each of the regional emergency medical and trauma advisory council planning areas established in section 25-3.5-704 (2)(c). The other seven members shall be ex officio, nonvoting members. Not more than thirteen of the appointed members of the council shall be members of the same political party. A majority of the members shall constitute a quorum. The membership of the council shall reflect, as equally as possible, representation of urban and rural members.

(b) The appointed members of the council shall be from the following categories:

(I) A fire chief of a service that provides prehospital care in an urban area;

(II) A fire chief of a service that provides prehospital care in a rural area;

(III) An administrative representative of an urban trauma center;

(IV) An administrative representative of a rural trauma center;

(V) A licensed physician who is a prehospital medical director;

(VI) A board-certified physician certified in pediatrics or a pediatric subspecialty;

(VII) A board-certified emergency physician;

(VIII) A flight nurse of an emergency medical service air team or unit;

(IX) An officer or crew member of a volunteer organization who provides prehospital care;

(X) An officer or employee of a public provider of prehospital care;

(XI) An officer or employee of a private provider of prehospital care;

(XII) A representative of a government provider of prehospital care;

(XIII) Three county commissioners or council members from a city and county, two of whom shall represent rural counties and one of whom shall represent an urban county or city and county;

(XIV) A board-certified surgeon providing trauma care at a level I trauma center;

(XV) A board-certified surgeon providing trauma care at a level II trauma center;

(XVI) A board-certified surgeon providing trauma care at a level III trauma center;

(XVII) A board-certified neurosurgeon involved in providing trauma care at a level I or II trauma center;

(XVIII) A trauma nurse coordinator;

(XIX) A registered nurse involved in rural emergency medical and trauma services care;

(XX) A regional council chair;

(XXI) A county emergency manager; and

(XXII) Two representatives of the general public, one from a rural area and one from an urban area.

(c) Ex officio, nonvoting members of the council shall include members from the following categories:

(I) A representative of the state coroners' association, as selected by the association;

(II) The director of the state board for community colleges and occupational education or the director's designee;

(III) The manager of the telecommunication services of the Colorado information technology services in the department of personnel, general support services, or the manager's designee;

(IV) The executive director of the department of public health and environment or the director's designee;

(V) The director of the office of transportation safety in the department of transportation or the director's designee;

(VI) A representative from the state sheriffs' association; and

(VII) A representative from the Colorado state patrol.

(2) Members of the council shall serve for terms of three years each; except that, of the members first appointed, eight shall be appointed for terms of one year, nine shall be appointed for terms of two years, and eight shall be appointed for terms of three years. Members of the council shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the actual performance of their duties. All vouchers for expenditures shall be subject to approval by the director. A vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the governor for the remainder of the unexpired term. Any appointed member who has two consecutive unexcused absences from meetings of the council shall be deemed to have vacated the membership, and the governor shall fill such vacancy as provided in this subsection (2).

(3) The council shall meet at least quarterly at the call of the chairperson or at the request of any seven members. At the first meeting after the appointment of new members, the members shall elect a chairperson who shall serve for a term of one year.

(4) The council shall:

(a) Advise the department on all matters relating to emergency medical and trauma services programs;

(b) Make recommendations concerning the development and implementation of statewide emergency medical and trauma services;

(c) Identify and make recommendations concerning statewide emergency medical and trauma service needs;

(d) Review and make recommendations to approve or deny new rules concerning emergency medical and trauma services and modifications to rules concerning emergency medical and trauma services existing prior to July 1, 2000, prior to the adoption of such rules or modifications by the state board of health;

(e) Review and make recommendations concerning guidelines and standards for the delivery of emergency medical and trauma services, including:

(I) Establishing a list of minimum equipment requirements for ambulance vehicles operated by an ambulance service licensed in this state and making recommendations on the process used by counties in the licensure of ambulance services;

(II) Developing curricula for the training of emergency medical personnel;

(III) Making recommendations on the verification process used by the department to determine facility eligibility to receive trauma center designation; and

(IV) Making recommendations regarding the process used by the department to identify accrediting organizations for air ambulance licensing;

(f) Seek advice and counsel, up to and including the establishment of special ad hoc committees with other individuals, groups, organizations, or associations, when in the judgment of the council such is advisable to obtain necessary expertise for the purpose of meeting the council's responsibilities under this article. The council is authorized to establish special committees for the functions described in this paragraph (f).

(g) Review and make recommendations to the department regarding the amount, allocation, and expenditure of funds for the development, implementation, and maintenance of the statewide emergency medical and trauma system.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1280, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 82: (1) amended, p. 356, § 17, effective April 30. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 889, § 4, effective July 1. L. 84: (4)(j), (4)(k), and (5) added, p. 763, §§ 2, 3, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) amended, p. 881, § 1, effective July 1. L. 86: (6) added, p. 420, § 42, effective March 26. L. 89: (1) amended and (6) repealed, pp. 1146, 1147, §§ 2, 3, effective April 6. L. 91: (1) amended, p. 1068, § 40, effective July 1. L. 92: (1) amended, p. 1043, § 9, effective March 12. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2757, § 419, effective July 1. L. 95: (1), (2), (3), IP(4), (4)(f), (4)(g), and (5) amended, p. 1350, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section R&RE, p. 526, § 4, effective January 1, 2001. L. 2016: (4)(e) amended, (HB 16-1280), ch. 206, p. 736, § 2, effective June 1. L. 2025: (1)(a) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2078, § 211, effective August 6. L. 2026: (4)(d) amended, (HB 26-1069), ch. 303, p. 1736, § 3, effective June 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-3.5-104.3. State trauma advisory council - duties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1347, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (1)(c)(IV) amended, p. 1541, § 128, effective June 1. L. 2000: Entire section repealed, p. 547, § 26, effective January 1, 2001.

25-3.5-104.5. Joint advisory council - duties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1347, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section repealed, p. 547, § 26, effective January 1, 2001.

25-3.5-105. Rules and regulations.

All rules and regulations adopted pursuant to the provisions of this article shall be adopted in accordance with the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978.

25-3.5-106. Local standards - uninterrupted service - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2022: (3) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2098, 2102; §§ 5, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2098, 2102.)

25-3.5-107. Religious exception.

Nothing in this article or the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this article shall be construed to authorize any medical treatment or transportation to any hospital or other emergency care center of an adult who objects thereto on religious grounds and signs a written waiver to that effect.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978.

25-3.5-108. EMS system sustainability task force - created - powers and duties - membership - reports - repeal.

(1) (a) The EMS system sustainability task force is created in the department.

(b) The task force consists of the following twenty voting members:

(I) The following two legislative members:

(A) One member of the senate, appointed by the president of the senate; and

(B) One member of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives;

(II) The following eight members appointed by the director of the department:

(A) Four individuals representing emergency medical services agencies and representing a mix of fire-department-based ambulance services, hospital-based ambulance services, critical care transport ambulance services, private ambulance services, frontier counties, rural counties, metropolitan counties, volunteer services, and air ambulance services;

(B) One individual who is a board-certified emergency medical services physician;

(C) Two individuals who are certified or licensed emergency medical service providers, one of whom is a licensed or certified paramedic and the other of whom is a licensed or certified emergency medical technician; and

(D) One individual representing a community integrated health-care service agency, as defined in section 25-3.5-1301 (1.5), that is licensed pursuant to part 13 of this article 3.5;

(III) One member of a statewide group representing emergency medical service providers, as designated by the group;

(IV) The chair of the council or the chair's designee;

(V) One member of a statewide group representing fire chiefs, as designated by the group;

(VI) One member of a statewide group representing professional firefighters, as designated by the group;

(VII) One member of a statewide group representing emergency medical service provider educators, as designated by the group;

(VIII) One member of a statewide group representing special districts, as designated by the group;

(IX) Two members of a statewide group representing counties, as designated by the group;

(X) One member of a statewide group representing municipalities, as designated by the group; and

(XI) One member of a statewide group representing hospitals, as designated by the group.

(c) The director, or the director's designee, serves as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the task force.

(d) Each legislative member of the task force appointed pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section:

(I) Is entitled to compensation in accordance with section 2-2-326;

(II) Must have a party affiliation or nonaffiliation distinct from the other legislative member appointed to the task force; and

(III) Serves until the appointment of a successor legislative member, upon termination of the legislative member's term of office in the general assembly, or upon completion of the task force's work, whichever occurs first.

(e) The membership of the task force must represent both rural and metropolitan areas of the state as equally as possible.

(f) Appointing or designating authorities must appoint or designate members of the task force on or before August 1, 2022.

(g) Members appointed pursuant to subsections (1)(b)(II) to (1)(b)(XI) of this section serve for the duration of the task force. An appointing or designating authority shall fill any vacancy for the remainder of the duration of the task force. Members appointed or designated serve at the pleasure of the appointing or designating authority and continue to serve until a successor is appointed or designated. Each nonlegislative member of the task force serves without compensation but is entitled to receive reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of duties as a member of the task force.

(2) (a) The legislative members of the task force shall convene the first meeting of the task force no later than September 30, 2022. At the first meeting of the task force, the voting members of the task force shall select one of the legislative members to serve as chair of the task force and the other legislative member to serve as vice-chair of the task force. The legislative members shall alternate between chair and vice-chair each year thereafter for the duration of the task force.

(b) The task force shall meet at least four times each year and at such other times as a majority of the voting members of the task force deem necessary. The chair and vice-chair may designate subcommittees of the task force, which subcommittees may include both task force members and nonmembers, and establish organizational and procedural rules as are necessary for the work of the task force.

(c) The task force may hear presentations from and seek the advice of other individuals, associations, or other organizations when, in the judgment of the task force, it would be helpful to obtain outside expertise to help the task force meet its obligations under this section.

(3) The task force shall make recommendations for statutory, rule, and policy changes required to preserve, promote, and expand consumer access to quality life-preserving emergency medical care and services. To develop the recommendations, the task force's work must reflect at least the following phases of tasks:

(a) Phase one, which includes:

(I) Providing input on the regulatory structure for ambulance service oversight, including input regarding the mechanism by which the department and local jurisdictions will share accountability for ambulance service oversight; and

(II) Overseeing the completion of an environmental scan that will generate a report on the state of emergency medical services in the state, which report is referred to in this subsection (3) as the "state report";

(b) Phase two, which includes:

(I) Reviewing data from the state report; and

(II) Collaborating with stakeholders to formulate recommendations that address inequity or disparity in access to emergency medical services in the state;

(c) Phase three, which, based on the task force's review of the state report, includes collaborating with stakeholders to formulate recommendations addressing emergency medical services workforce recruiting and retention needs in the state;

(d) Phase four, which, based on the task force's review of the state report, includes collaborating with stakeholders to formulate recommendations addressing the financial sustainability of the state's emergency medical services system; and

(e) Phase five, which includes reviewing the implementation status of prior task force recommendations and making recommendations for the long-term sustainability of the emergency medical services system.

(4) The task force shall submit findings and recommendations to the general assembly and the department based on the following schedule:

(a) On or before September 1, 2023, the task force shall submit a report summarizing its phase one findings and recommendations regarding the state of emergency medical services in the state;

(b) On or before September 1, 2024, the task force shall submit a report summarizing its phase two findings and recommendations regarding equitable access to emergency medical services;

(c) On or before September 1, 2025, the task force shall submit a report summarizing its phase three findings and recommendations regarding workforce recruiting and retention considerations;

(d) On or before September 1, 2026, the task force shall submit a report summarizing its phase four findings and recommendations regarding financial sustainability of the state's emergency medical services system; and

(e) On or before January 1, 2027, the task force shall submit a final report summarizing its phase five findings and recommendations regarding implementation of previous recommendations and its recommendations regarding long-term sustainability of the emergency medical services system.

(5) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2087, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2025: (1)(b)(II)(D) amended, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1701, § 7, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1)(b)(IV) amended, (SB 26-169), ch. 311, p. 1807, § 38, effective August 12.

PART 2

TREATMENT SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-201. Training programs.

(1) The department shall design and establish specialized curricula for personnel who respond routinely to emergencies. The board of county commissioners may select from the various curricula available those courses meeting the minimum requirements established by said board.

(2) The department shall distribute the curricula and teaching aids to training institutions and hospitals upon request from a recognized training group or hospital. If a county is unable to arrange for necessary training programs, the department shall arrange a training program within the immediate vicinity of the agency requesting the program. The department shall issue emergency medical service provider certificates or licenses in accordance with section 25-3.5-203 (1) and may issue certificates of successful course completion to those individuals who successfully complete other emergency medical services training programs of the department. The programs may provide for the training of emergency medical dispatchers, emergency medical services instructors, emergency medical services coordinators, and other personnel who provide emergency medical services. The receipt of the certificate of course completion is not deemed state licensure, approval, or a determination of competency.

(3) The department shall consider including in the department's training curriculum for personnel who respond routinely to emergencies the training curriculum concerning interactions with persons with disabilities recommended by the commission on improving first responder interactions with persons with disabilities pursuant to section 24-31-1004.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 92: (2) amended, p. 1143, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2010: (1) amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1944, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2012: (2) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1428, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3528, § 15, effective May 31. L. 2021: (3) added, (HB 21-1122), ch. 405, p. 2691, § 6, effective June 30.

25-3.5-202. Personnel - basic requirements.

Emergency medical service providers employed or utilized in connection with an ambulance service shall meet the qualifications established by the board by rule in order to be certified or licensed. For ambulance drivers, the minimum requirements include the possession of a valid driver's license and other requirements established by the board by rule under section 25-3.5-315. For any person responsible for providing direct emergency medical care and treatment to patients transported in an ambulance, the minimum requirement is possession of an emergency medical service provider certificate or license issued by the department. In the case of an emergency in an ambulance service area where no person possessing the qualifications required by this section is present or available to respond to a call for the emergency transportation of patients by ambulance, any person may operate the ambulance to transport any sick, injured, or otherwise incapacitated or helpless person in order to stabilize the medical condition of the person pending the availability of medical care.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 409, § 1, effective April 4. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 1011, § 1, effective July 1. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 764, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 529, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1428, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3528, § 16, effective May 31. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2099, § 6, effective July 1, 2024.

25-3.5-203. Emergency medical service providers - licensure - renewal of license - duties of department - rules - record checks - definitions.

(1) (a) Repealed.

(a.5) The director or chief medical officer shall regulate the acts emergency medical service providers are authorized to perform subject to the medical direction of a licensed physician. The director or chief medical officer, after considering the advice and recommendations of the council, shall adopt and revise rules, as necessary, regarding the regulation of emergency medical service providers and their duties and functions.

(b) The department shall certify and license emergency medical service providers. The board shall adopt rules for the certification and licensure of emergency medical service providers. The rules must include the following:

(I) A statement that a certificate or license is valid for a period of three years after the date of issuance;

(II) A statement that the certificate or license is renewable at its expiration upon the certificate holder's or licensee's satisfactory completion of the training requirements established pursuant to subsection (2) of this section;

(III) Provisions governing the use of results of national and state criminal history record checks by the department to determine the action to take on a certification or license application pursuant to subsection (4) of this section. Notwithstanding section 24-5-101, provisions governing the use of criminal history record check results must allow the department to consider whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude and the pertinent circumstances connected with the conviction and to make a determination whether the conviction disqualifies the applicant from certification or licensure.

(IV) Disciplinary sanctions, which must include provisions for the denial, revocation, and suspension of certificates and licenses and the suspension and probation of certificate holders and licensees;

(V) An appeals process pursuant to sections 24-4-104 and 24-4-105 that is applicable to department decisions in connection with certifications and licenses and sanctions;

(VI) Pursuant to subsection (1)(b.5) of this section, rules regarding the conversion of an emergency medical service provider's valid certification to a license upon the emergency medical service provider's demonstration to the satisfaction of the department that the emergency medical service provider has completed a four-year bachelor's degree program from an accredited college or university in a field related to the health sciences or an equivalent field, as determined by the board by rule; and

(VII) A statement that an emergency medical service provider may practice in a clinical setting, as defined in section 25-3.5-207 (1)(a), subject to the requirements of section 25-3.5-207 and rules adopted by the board.

(b.5) (I) On or after January 1, 2021, an individual in this state who holds a valid emergency medical service provider certificate issued by the department may apply for a license issued by the department pursuant to this section. The department may issue a license to a certificate holder who has completed a four-year bachelor's degree program from an accredited college or university in a field related to the health sciences or an equivalent field, as determined by the board by rule.

(II) The conversion of an emergency medical service provider's certification to licensure pursuant to this subsection (1)(b.5) does not:

(A) Affect any prior discipline, limitation, or condition imposed by the department on an emergency medical service provider;

(B) Limit the department's authority over any certificate holder; or

(C) Affect any pending investigation or administrative proceeding.

(c) (I) The department may issue a provisional certification or license to an applicant for certification or licensure as an emergency medical service provider who requests issuance of a provisional certification or license and who pays any fee authorized under rules adopted by the board. A provisional certification or license is valid for not more than ninety days.

(II) The department shall not issue a provisional certification or license unless the applicant satisfies the requirements for certification or licensure in accordance with this section and rules adopted by the board under this subsection (1). If the department finds that an emergency medical service provider who has received a provisional certification or license has violated any requirements for certification or licensure, the department may impose disciplinary sanctions under subsection (1)(b)(IV) of this section.

(III) The department may issue a provisional certification or license to an applicant whose fingerprint-based criminal history record check has not yet been completed. The department shall require the applicant to submit to a name-based judicial record check prior to issuing a provisional certification or license.

(IV) The board shall adopt rules as necessary to implement this subsection (1)(c), including rules establishing a fee for provisional certification or licensure. The department shall deposit any fee collected for a provisional certification or license in the emergency medical services account created in section 25-3.5-603.

(d) (I) The department shall exempt certified or licensed emergency medical service providers who have been called to federally funded active duty for more than one hundred twenty days to serve in a war, emergency, or contingency from the payment of certification or license fees and from continuing education or professional competency requirements of this article 3.5 for a renewal date during the service or the six months after the completion of service.

(II) Upon presentation of satisfactory evidence by an applicant for certification or license renewal, the department may accept continuing medical education, training, or service completed by an individual as a member of the armed forces or reserves of the United States, the National Guard of any state, the military reserves of any state, or the naval militia of any state toward the qualifications to renew the individual's certification or license.

(III) (A) A veteran, active military service member, or member of the National Guard and reserves separating from an active duty tour or the spouse of a veteran or member may apply for certification or licensure under this article 3.5 while stationed or residing within this state. The veteran, member, or spouse is exempt from the initial certification or licensure requirements in this article 3.5, except for those in subsection (4) of this section, if the veteran, member, or spouse holds a current, valid, and unrestricted certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) at or above the level of state certification being sought.

(B) The department shall expedite the processing of a certification or license application submitted by a veteran, active military service member, or member of the National Guard and reserves separating from an active duty tour or the spouse of a veteran or member.

(IV) The board shall promulgate rules to implement this subsection (1)(d), including the criteria and evidence for acceptable continuing medical education and training or service.

(2) (a) The council shall advise the department and the board in establishing the training requirements for certificate or license renewal, which training requirements must include a classroom component requiring at least thirty-six and not more than fifty classroom hours.

(b) With the exception of using the term "excited delirium" in the teaching of the history of the term, a person or entity conducting a training program for emergency medical service providers shall not include any training on or reference to the term "excited delirium" in any training program. Nothing in this section prohibits the instruction of emergency medical service courses that include the safe and effective medical interaction with individuals exhibiting an altered mental state, including symptomatology of a state of agitation, excitability, paranoia, extreme aggression, physical violence, and apparent immunity from pain.

(c) For purposes of subsection (2)(b) of this section, "excited delirium" means a term used to describe a person's state of agitation, excitability, paranoia, extreme aggression, physical violence, and apparent immunity to pain that is not listed in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. "Excited delirium" also includes excited delirium syndrome, hyperactive delirium, agitated delirium, and exhaustive mania.

(3) Repealed.

(4) (a) The department shall require a certification or licensure applicant to submit to a federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check from the Colorado bureau of investigation to investigate the applicant for an emergency medical service provider certificate or license. The department may acquire a name-based judicial record check for a certificate or license applicant, performed using state judicial department records.

(b) Each emergency medical service provider certification or licensure applicant required under this subsection (4) to submit to a federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check shall obtain a complete set of fingerprints taken by a local law enforcement agency, another entity designated by the department, or any third party approved by the Colorado bureau of investigation. If an approved third party takes the applicant's fingerprints, the fingerprints may be electronically captured using Colorado bureau of investigation-approved livescan equipment. Third-party vendors shall not keep the applicant's information for more than thirty days unless requested to do so by the applicant. The approved third party or government entity shall transmit the fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation, which shall in turn forward them to the federal bureau of investigation for a national criminal history record check. The department or other authorized government entity is the authorized agency to receive and disseminate information regarding the result of a national criminal history record check. Each entity handling the national criminal history record check shall comply with Pub.L. 92-544, as amended. Each government entity acting as the authorized recipient of the result of a national criminal history record check shall forward the result of the initial national criminal history record check and any subsequent notification of activity on the record to the department to determine the individual's eligibility for initial certification or licensure or certification or licensure renewal.

(c) to (e) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2019.)

(f) If an applicant for certification or licensure renewal has lived in Colorado for:

(I) More than three years at the time of certification or licensure renewal and submitted to a federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check at the time of initial certification or licensure or at the time of a previous renewal of certification or licensure, the applicant is not required to submit to a subsequent fingerprint-based criminal history record check; or

(II) Three years or less at the time of certification or licensure renewal and submitted to a federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check at the time of initial certification or licensure or a previous renewal of certification or licensure, the applicant shall submit to another federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check from the Colorado bureau of investigation; except that the department may acquire a state name-based judicial record check for an applicant.

(g) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an individual performed pursuant to this subsection (4) reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that individual to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d), performed using state judicial department records.

(4.5) (a) As used in this subsection (4.5), unless the context otherwise requires:

(I) "Cat" means a small, domesticated feline animal that is kept as a pet. "Cat" does not include a nondomesticated wild animal.

(II) "Dog" means any canine animal owned for domestic, companionship, service, therapeutic, or assistance purposes.

(III) "Emergency medical service provider" means an emergency medical service provider that is certified or licensed by the department of public health and environment, created under section 25-1-102.

(IV) "Employer" means an entity or organization that employs or enlists the services of an emergency medical service provider, regardless of whether the provider is paid or is a volunteer. The employer may be a public, private, for-profit, or nonprofit organization or entity; or a special district.

(V) "Preveterinary emergency care" means the immediate medical stabilization of a dog or cat by an emergency medical service provider, in an emergency to which the emergency medical service provider is responding, through means including oxygen, fluids, medications, or bandaging, with the intent of enabling the dog or cat to be treated by a veterinarian. "Preveterinary emergency care" does not include care provided in response to an emergency call made solely for the purpose of tending to an injured dog or cat, unless a person's life could be in danger attempting to save the life of a dog or cat.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an emergency medical service provider may provide preveterinary emergency care to dogs and cats to the extent the provider has received commensurate training and is authorized by the employer to provide the care. Requirements governing the circumstances under which emergency medical service providers may provide preveterinary emergency care to dogs and cats may be specified in the employer's policies governing the provision of care.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, nothing in this subsection (4.5) imposes upon an emergency medical service provider any obligation to provide care to a dog or cat, or to provide care to a dog or cat before a person.

(5) Repealed.

(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, nothing in this article 3.5 imposes on an emergency medical service provider an obligation to respond to the scene of a medical emergency or to provide emergency medical services when the emergency medical service provider is off duty.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1281, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 764, § 5, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) amended, p. 524, § 16, effective July 1. L. 87: (1) amended and (3) added, p. 1126, § 2, effective July 1. L. 89: (1) amended and (3) repealed, p. 1152, §§ 3, 5, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2758, § 420, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) amended and (4) and (5) added, p. 529, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1), (2), and (4) amended, p. 1144, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2003: (1)(b)(III) and (4) amended, p. 1662, § 1, effective May 14. L. 2007: (4)(a), (4)(b), (4)(c)(I), (4)(d)(I), and (4)(e) amended, p. 637, § 1, effective April 26. L. 2009: (1)(c) added, (HB 09-1275), ch. 278, p. 1244, § 1, effective May 19. L. 2010: (1)(a) amended and (1)(a.5) added, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1944, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(a.5), IP(1)(b), (1)(c)(I), (1)(c)(II), (4)(a), (4)(b)(I), and (4)(c)(I)(A) amended and (1)(d) added, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1428, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2014: (4.5) added, (SB 14-039), ch. 45, p. 219, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2015: (1)(d)(III) amended, (HB 15-1015), ch. 171, p. 539, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2017: (4)(b)(I) amended, (SB 17-189), ch. 149, p. 504, § 13, effective August 9. L. 2019: (4)(g) added, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 553, § 37, effective April 18; (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(d), (2), and (4) amended and (1)(b.5) added, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3518, § 2, effective May 31; (1)(b)(IV) and (1)(b)(V) amended, (1)(b)(VII) added, and (5) repealed, (SB 19-052), ch. 122, pp. 528, 530, §§ 2, 6, effective August 2. L. 2022: (1)(c)(III), (4)(a), (4)(f)(II), and (4)(g) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 525, § 39, effective April 21. L. 2024: (2) amended, (HB 24-1103), ch. 47, p. 167, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2025: (4)(a) and (4)(g) amended, (SB 25-146), ch. 342, p. 1855, § 7, effective June 2. L. 2026: (6) added, (HB 26-1238), ch. 118, p. 502, § 4, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (1)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(a), effective January 1, 2011. (See L. 2010, p. 1944.)

(2) Amendments to subsection (1)(b) by SB 19-052 and SB 19-242 were harmonized.

(3) Subsection (5) was repealed and relocated to § 25-3.5-103 (8.8) in 2019.

(4) Subsection (1)(b)(VII) was numbered as (1)(b)(VI) in SB 19-052 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(5) Subsection (4)(g) was numbered as (4)(f) in HB 19-1166 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 14-039, see section 1 of chapter 45, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1238, see section 1 of chapter 118, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-3.5-203.5. Community paramedic endorsement - rules.

(1) On or before January 1, 2018, the board shall adopt rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., for community paramedics including standards for:

(a) The department's issuance of an endorsement in community paramedicine to an emergency medical service provider;

(b) Verifying an emergency medical service provider's competency to be endorsed as a community paramedic. The standards must include a requirement that the emergency medical service provider has obtained from an accredited paramedic training center or an accredited college or university a certificate of completion for a course in community paramedicine with competency verified by a passing score on an examination offered nationally and recognized in Colorado for certifying competency to serve as a community paramedic.

(c) Continuing competency to maintain a community paramedic endorsement.

(2) Rules adopted under this section supersede any rules of the Colorado medical board regarding the matters set forth in this part 2.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1062, § 2, effective June 8.

25-3.5-204. Emergency medical services for children.

(1) The department is authorized to establish a program to improve the quality of emergency care to pediatric patients throughout the state, including a component to address public awareness of pediatric emergencies and injury prevention.

(2) The department is authorized to receive contributions, grants, donations, or funds from any public or private entity to be expended for the program authorized pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1361, §4, effective July 1.

25-3.5-205. Emergency medical service providers - investigation - discipline.

(1) (a) The department may administer oaths, take affirmations of witnesses, and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of all relevant records and documents to investigate alleged misconduct by certified or licensed emergency medical service providers.

(b) Upon failure of a witness to comply with a subpoena, the department may apply to a district court for an order requiring the person to appear before the department or an administrative law judge, to produce the relevant records or documents, or to give testimony or evidence touching the matter under investigation or in question. When seeking an order, the department shall apply to the district court of the county in which the subpoenaed person resides or conducts business. The court may punish such failure as a contempt of court.

(2) An emergency medical service provider, the medical supervisor of an emergency medical service provider in a clinical setting, as those terms are defined in section 25-3.5-207 (1), the employer of an emergency medical service provider, a medical director, and a physician providing medical direction of an emergency medical service provider shall report to the department any misconduct that is known or reasonably believed by the person to have occurred.

(3) A person acting as a witness or consultant to the department, a witness testifying, and a person or employer who reports misconduct to the department under this section shall be immune from liability in any civil action brought for acts occurring while testifying, producing evidence, or reporting misconduct under this section if such individual or employer was acting in good faith and with a reasonable belief of the facts. A person or employer participating in good faith in an investigation or an administrative proceeding pursuant to this section shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability that may result from such participation.

(4) All records, documents, testimony, or evidence obtained under this section shall remain confidential except to the extent necessary to support the administrative action taken by the department, to refer the matter to another regulatory agency, or to refer the matter to a law enforcement agency for criminal prosecution.

(5) For the purposes of this section:

(a) "Medical director" means a physician who provides medical direction to certified or licensed emergency medical service providers consistent with the rules adopted by the director or chief medical officer, as applicable, under section 25-3.5-206.

(b) "Misconduct" means an activity meeting the good cause for disciplinary sanctions standard, as defined by the board.

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 875, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2010: (5)(a) amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1945, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(a), (2), and (5)(a) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1430, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1)(a) and (5)(a) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3529, § 17, effective May 31; (2) and (5)(a) amended, (SB 19-052), ch. 122, p. 528, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: (5)(a) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1053, § 52, effective June 30.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(a) was amended in SB 19-242. Those amendments were superseded by the amendment of subsection (5)(a) in SB 19-052, effective August 2, 2019.

25-3.5-206. Emergency medical practice advisory council - creation - powers and duties - emergency medical service provider scope of practice - definitions - rules.

(1) There is created in the department, under the direction of the director of the department, the emergency medical practice advisory council, referred to in this part 2 as the "advisory council". The advisory council is responsible for advising the department regarding the appropriate scope of practice for emergency medical service providers certified or licensed under section 25-3.5-203. The advisory council is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

(2) (a) The advisory council consists of the following thirteen members:

(I) Eight voting members appointed by the governor as follows:

(A) Two physicians licensed in good standing in Colorado who are actively serving as emergency medical service medical directors and are practicing in rural or frontier counties;

(B) Two physicians licensed in good standing in Colorado who are actively serving as emergency medical service medical directors and are practicing in urban counties;

(C) One physician licensed in good standing in Colorado who is actively serving as an emergency medical service medical director in any area of the state;

(D) One emergency medical service provider certified or licensed at an advanced life support level who is actively involved in the provision of emergency medical services;

(E) One emergency medical service provider certified or licensed at a basic life support level who is actively involved in the provision of emergency medical services; and

(F) One emergency medical service provider certified or licensed at any level who is actively involved in the provision of emergency medical services;

(II) One voting member who, as of July 1, 2010, is a member of the state emergency medical and trauma services advisory council, appointed by the executive director of the department;

(III) Two nonvoting ex officio members appointed by the executive director of the department.

(IV) One voting member who is a clinical psychiatrist licensed in good standing in Colorado, recommended by a statewide association of psychiatrists, and appointed by the governor; and

(V) One voting member who is an anesthesiologist licensed in good standing in Colorado, recommended by a statewide association of anesthesiologists, and appointed by the governor.

(b) Members of the advisory council shall serve four-year terms; except that, of the members initially appointed to the advisory council by the governor, four members shall serve three-year terms. A vacancy on the advisory council shall be filled by appointment by the appointing authority for that vacant position for the remainder of the unexpired term. Members serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and continue in office until the member's successor is appointed.

(c) Members of the advisory council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed from the emergency medical services account, created in section 25-3.5-603, for their actual and necessary travel expenses incurred in the performance of their duties under this article.

(d) The advisory council shall elect a chair and vice-chair from its members.

(e) The advisory council shall meet at least quarterly and more frequently as necessary to fulfill its obligations.

(f) The department shall provide staff support to the advisory council.

(g) As used in this subsection (2), "licensed in good standing" means that the physician holds a current, valid license to practice medicine in Colorado that is not subject to any restrictions.

(3) The advisory council shall provide general technical expertise on matters related to the provision of patient care by emergency medical service providers and shall advise or make recommendations to the department in the following areas:

(a) The acts and medications that emergency medical service providers at each level of certification or licensure are authorized to perform or administer under the direction of a physician medical director. The advisory council shall submit a report to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or any successor committees, any time the advisory council advises or recommends authorizing the administration of any new chemical restraint, as defined in section 26-20-102 (2). The report must include the advisory council's reasoning for such advisement or recommendation.

(b) Requests for waivers to the scope of practice rules adopted pursuant to this section and section 25-3.5-203 (1)(a.5);

(c) Modifications to emergency medical service provider certification or licensure levels and capabilities; and

(d) Criteria for physicians to serve as emergency medical service medical directors.

(4) (a) The director or, if the director is not a physician, the chief medical officer shall adopt rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24 concerning the scope of practice of emergency medical service providers. The rules must include the following:

(I) Allowable acts for each level of emergency medical service provider certification or licensure and the medications that a certificate holder or licensee at each level of emergency medical service provider certification or licensure can administer;

(II) Defining the physician medical direction required for appropriate oversight of an emergency medical service provider by an emergency medical services medical director;

(III) Criteria for requests to waive the scope of practice rules in a prehospital setting and the conditions for the waivers;

(IV) Minimum standards for physicians to be emergency medical services medical directors; and

(V) (A) Standards for the issuance by the department of a critical care endorsement for emergency medical service providers. An emergency medical service provider with a critical care endorsement is authorized to perform the tasks and procedures specified by rule. The endorsement is valid as long as the emergency medical service provider maintains certification or licensure by the department.

(B) The director or, if the director is not a physician, the chief medical officer, shall adopt rules implementing this subparagraph (V) by August 1, 2014.

(a.5) (I) The director or, if the director is not a physician, the chief medical officer shall adopt rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24 concerning the scope of practice of a community paramedic. An emergency medical service provider's endorsement as a community paramedic, issued pursuant to the rules adopted under section 25-3.5-203.5, is valid for as long as the emergency medical service provider maintains the emergency medical service provider's certification or licensure by the department.

(II) The rules must establish the tasks and procedures that an emergency medical service provider with a community paramedic endorsement is authorized to perform in addition to an emergency medical service provider's scope of practice, including:

(A) An initial assessment of the patient and any subsequent assessments, as needed;

(B) Medical interventions;

(C) Care coordination;

(D) Resource navigation;

(E) Patient education;

(F) Inventory, compliance, and administration of medications; and

(G) Gathering of laboratory and diagnostic data.

(b) Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection (4) supersede any rules of the Colorado medical board regarding the matters set forth in this subsection (4).

(5) As used in this section:

(a) "Interfacility transport" has the meaning set forth in section 25-3.5-207 (1)(c).

(b) Repealed.

(c) "Scope of practice" has the meaning set forth in section 25-3.5-207 (1)(f).

Source: L. 2010: Entire section added, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1945, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1), IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(I)(D), (2)(a)(I)(E), (2)(a)(I)(F), IP(3), (3)(a), (3)(c), IP(4)(a), (4)(a)(I), and (4)(a)(II) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1431, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2013: IP(4)(a), (4)(a)(III), and (4)(a)(IV) amended and (4)(a)(V) added, (HB 13-1063), ch. 14, p. 37, § 1, effective March 8. L. 2016: (4)(a.5) added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1063, § 3, effective June 8. L. 2019: (1), IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(I)(D), (2)(a)(I)(E), (2)(a)(I)(F), (3)(a), (3)(c), IP(4)(a), (4)(a)(I), (4)(a)(V)(A), and (4)(a.5)(I) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3523, § 3, effective May 31; IP(4)(a), (4)(a)(III), and (4)(a.5)(I) amended and (5) added, (SB 19-052), ch. 122, p. 528, § 4, effective August 2. L. 2021: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(II), and (3)(a) amended, (2)(a)(IV) and (2)(a)(V) added, and (5)(b) repealed, (HB 21-1251), ch. 450, pp. 2963, 2964, §§ 7, 9, effective July 6. L. 2022: (1) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3368, § 46, effective August 10. L. 2026: (3)(a) amended, (SB 26-169), ch. 311, p. 1807, § 39, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsections IP(4)(a) and (4)(a.5)(I) by SB 19-052 and SB 19-242 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-3.5-207. Ability of certified or licensed emergency medical service providers to work in clinical settings - restrictions - definitions - rules.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Clinical setting" means a health facility licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(b) "In-scope tasks and procedures" means tasks and procedures performed by an emergency medical service provider within the emergency medical service provider's scope of practice.

(c) "Interfacility transport" means the movement of a patient from one licensed health-care facility to another licensed health-care facility.

(d) "Medical supervision" means the oversight, guidance, and instructions that a medical supervisor provides to an emergency medical service provider.

(e) "Medical supervisor" means a Colorado-licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, registered nurse, or certified midwife.

(f) "Scope of practice" means the tasks, medications, and procedures that an emergency medical service provider is authorized to perform or administer in accordance with sections 25-3.5-203 and 25-3.5-206 and rules promulgated pursuant to those sections.

(2) In accordance with the limitations contained in this article 3.5, an emergency medical service provider may work in a clinical setting subject to the following conditions:

(a) The emergency medical service provider may perform only tasks and procedures that are within the emergency medical service provider's applicable scope of practice;

(b) The emergency medical service provider shall perform in-scope tasks and procedures pursuant to orders or instructions from, and under the medical supervision of, a medical supervisor;

(c) Medical supervision must be provided by a medical supervisor who is immediately available and physically present at the clinical setting where the care is being delivered to provide oversight, guidance, or instruction to the emergency medical service provider during the emergency medical service provider's performance of in-scope tasks and procedures;

(d) The medical supervisor of the emergency medical service provider must be licensed in good standing; and

(e) Each clinical setting at which an emergency medical service provider performs in-scope tasks and procedures pursuant to this section shall, in collaboration with its medical staff, establish operating policies and procedures that ensure that emergency medical service providers perform tasks and procedures and administer medications within their scope of practice.

(3) Nothing in this section alters the authority of a physician or registered nurse in a clinical setting to delegate acts, including the administration of medications, that are outside of an emergency medical service provider's scope of practice pursuant to section 12-240-107 or 12-255-131, as appropriate.

(4) The board may promulgate rules as necessary to implement this section.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (SB 19-052), ch. 122, p. 529, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2023: (1)(e) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1548, § 57, effective May 25.

25-3.5-208. Emergency medical service providers' peer health assistance program - fund - rules.

(1) As a condition of initial certification or licensure and certification or licensure renewal, every applicant shall pay to the department, at the time of application, two dollars and fifty-five cents. This amount may be adjusted on January 1, 2021, and annually thereafter by the board to reflect:

(a) Changes in the United States department of labor, bureau of labor statistics, consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, or its successor index; and

(b) Overall utilization of the program.

(2) The fee imposed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section is to support designated providers the department selects to provide assistance to emergency medical service providers needing help in dealing with physical, emotional, or psychological conditions that may be detrimental to their ability to provide emergency medical services.

(3) The department shall deposit the fees collected pursuant to this section in the emergency medical services peer assistance fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", which is hereby created in the state treasury. Money in the fund is not subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(4) The department shall select one or more peer health assistance programs as designated providers. To be eligible for designation by the department, a peer health assistance program must:

(a) Provide for the education of emergency medical service providers with respect to the recognition and prevention of physical, emotional, and psychological conditions and provide for intervention when necessary or under circumstances that the department may establish by rule;

(b) Offer assistance to an emergency medical service provider in identifying physical, emotional, or psychological conditions;

(c) Evaluate the extent of physical, emotional, or psychological conditions and refer the emergency medical service provider for appropriate treatment;

(d) Monitor the status of an emergency medical service provider who has been referred for treatment;

(e) Provide counseling and support for the emergency medical service provider and for the family of any emergency medical service provider referred for treatment;

(f) Agree to receive referrals from the department; and

(g) Agree to make services available to all certified and licensed emergency medical service providers.

(5) The department may select an entity to administer the emergency medical service providers peer health assistance program. The administering entity must be a nonprofit private foundation that is qualified under section 501 (c)(3) of the federal "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended, and is dedicated to providing support for charitable, benevolent, educational, and scientific purposes that are related to medicine, medical education, medical research and science, and other medical charitable purposes.

(6) The administering entity shall:

(a) Distribute the money collected from the department, less expenses, to an approved designated provider, as directed by the department;

(b) Provide an annual accounting to the department of all amounts collected, expenses incurred, and amounts disbursed; and

(c) Post a surety performance bond in an amount specified by the department to secure performance under the requirements of this section. The administering entity may recover the actual administrative costs incurred in performing its duties under this section in an amount not to exceed ten percent of the total amount collected.

(7) (a) Any certificate holder or licensee who does not have access to an employee assistance program may apply to the department for participation in a qualified peer health assistance program. In order to be eligible for participation, a certificate holder or licensee shall:

(I) Acknowledge the existence or the potential existence of a physical, psychological, or emotional condition; excessive alcohol or drug use; or a substance use disorder, as defined in section 27-81-102;

(II) After a full explanation of the operation and requirements of the peer health assistance program, agree to voluntarily participate in the program and agree in writing to participate in the program of the peer health assistance organization designated by the department.

(b) (I) Any certificate holder or licensee may self-refer to the qualified peer health assistance program selected by the department. If a certificate holder or licensee who self-refers in accordance with this subsection (7)(b) has access to an employee assistance program, the certificate holder or licensee shall cover the cost of the program.

(II) A certificate holder or licensee who self-refers and is accepted into a qualified peer health assistance program shall affirm that, to the best of their knowledge, information, and belief, they know of no instance in which they have violated this article 3.5 or the rules of the board, except in instances affected by the certificate holder's or licensee's physical, psychological, or emotional condition.

(8) All documents, records, or reports generated in the provision of services to a certificate holder or licensee who is attending a qualified peer health assistance program are confidential and not subject to subpoena and shall not be used as evidence in any proceeding other than disciplinary action by the department. The documents, records, and reports are not public records for purposes of section 24-72-203.

(9) Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the department may summarily suspend the certification of any certificate holder or the license of any licensee who is referred to a peer health assistance program by the department and who fails to attend or to complete the program. If a certificate holder or licensee objects to the suspension, the certificate holder or licensee may submit a written request to the department for the formal hearing on the suspension within two days after receiving notice of the suspension and the department shall grant the request. In the hearing, the certificate holder or licensee shall have the burden of proving that the certificate holder's certification or licensee's license should not be suspended. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105.

(10) Nothing in this section creates any liability on the department or the state of Colorado for the actions of the department in making grants to peer assistance programs, and no civil action may be brought or maintained against the department or the state for an injury alleged to have been the result of the activities of any state-funded peer assistance program or the result of an act or omission of an emergency medical service provider participating in or referred by a state-funded peer assistance program. However, the state remains liable under the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of title 24, if an injury alleged to have been the result of an act or omission of an emergency medical service provider participating in or referred by a state-funded peer assistance program occurred while the emergency medical service provider was performing duties as an employee of the state.

(11) The department may promulgate rules necessary to implement this section.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (SB 19-065), ch. 174, p. 2008, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2020: (7)(a)(I) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1415, § 49, effective July 13; IP(1), (4)(g), IP(7)(a), (7)(b), (8), and (9) amended, (HB 20-1036), ch. 72, p. 304, § 2, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1036, see section 1 of chapter 72, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-3.5-209. Use of ketamine in prehospital setting when peace officer is present - definition.

(1) (a) When a peace officer is present at the scene of an emergency, an emergency medical service provider authorized to administer ketamine in a prehospital setting shall only administer ketamine if the provider has:

(I) Weighed the individual to ensure accurate dosage. If the emergency medical service provider is unable to weigh the individual, the emergency medical service provider shall, prior to the administration of ketamine:

(A) Estimate the individual's weight, and at least two personnel who are trained in weight assessments must agree with the weight assessment; and

(B) Attempt to obtain a verbal order from the emergency medical service provider's medical director or their designee, unless there is a verifiable reason the emergency medical service provider cannot obtain a verbal order.

(II) Training in the administration of ketamine, including training to ensure appropriate dosage based on the weight of the individual;

(III) Training in advanced airway support techniques;

(IV) Equipment available to manage respiratory depression; and

(V) Equipment available to immediately monitor the vital signs of the individual receiving ketamine and the ability to respond to any adverse reactions.

(b) The medical director of an agency that has a waiver to administer ketamine shall develop any necessary training for emergency medical service providers pursuant to this subsection (1).

(2) An emergency medical service provider who administers ketamine shall:

(a) Provide urgent transport to the individual receiving ketamine; and

(b) Record any complications arising out of such administration, including but not limited to apnea, laryngospasm, hypoxia, hypertension, hypotension, seizure, and cardiac arrest.

(3) Absent a justifiable medical emergency, an emergency medical service provider shall not administer ketamine in a prehospital setting to subdue, sedate, or chemically incapacitate an individual for alleged or suspected criminal, delinquent, or suspicious conduct.

(4) If an emergency medical service provider does not comply with the provisions of this section, such noncompliance is considered misconduct, as defined in section 25-3.5-205 (5)(b).

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1251), ch. 450, p. 2958, § 2, effective July 6.

25-3.5-210. Report on statewide use of ketamine.

Beginning January 1, 2022, and each January 1 thereafter, the department shall submit a report on the statewide use of ketamine by emergency medical service providers and any complications that arise out of such use to the house of representatives judiciary committee, the house of representatives health and human services committee, the senate health and human services committee, and the senate judiciary committee, or their successor committees. The department shall make the report publicly available on the department's website.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1251), ch. 450, p. 2964, § 8, effective July 6. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (SB 26-169), ch. 311, p. 1808, § 40, effective August 12.

PART 3

TRANSPORTATION SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-301. Number of individuals needed for ambulance operation - exception.

(1) and (2) Repealed.

(3) No patient shall be transported in an ambulance in this state after January 1, 1978, unless there are two or more individuals, including the driver, present and authorized to operate said ambulance except under unusual conditions when only one authorized person is available.

(4) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2002, p. 696, § 1, effective May 29, 2002.)

(5) and (6) Repealed.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1282, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 81: (2)(a) amended, p. 1944, § 4, effective July 1; (2)(a.1) added, p. 1951, § 18, effective July 1, 1984. L. 84: (2)(a)(I) amended, p. 1125, § 45, effective July 1; (2)(a)(II) and (2)(a.1) repealed, p. 1080, § 1, effective July 1; (2)(a.1)(I) amended, p. 765, § 6, effective July 1. L. 93: (5)(d) amended, p. 1664, § 73, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) and (4) amended, p. 696, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2010: (5)(e) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 799, § 62, effective April 29. L. 2022: (6) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2099, 2102; §§ 7, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (6) provided for the repeal of subsections (1), (2), (5), and (6), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2099, 2102.)

ANNOTATION

Limitation on entities which may license ambulances. Since the general assembly has indicated a coordinated system of emergency medical care to be of statewide concern and has provided a comprehensive statutory scheme to regulate the field, governmental entities other than those provided in this section may not license ambulances. DuHamel v. People ex rel. City of Arvada, 42 Colo. App. 491, 601 P.2d 639 (1979).

To subject ambulance companies to authority of two jurisdictions is contrary to purpose of this act because it fragments the coordinated system and could reduce the availability of service. DuHamel v. People ex rel. City of Arvada, 42 Colo. App. 491, 601 P.2d 639 (1979).

25-3.5-302. Issuance of licenses and permits - term - requirements - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1283, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2022: (4) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2100, 2102; §§ 8, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2100, 2102.)

25-3.5-303. Vehicular liability insurance required - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1283, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 1504, § 45, effective June 1. L. 2022: (2) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2101, 2102; §§ 9, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2101, 2102.)

25-3.5-304. Suspension - revocation - hearings - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1283, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2022: (3) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2101, 2102; §§ 10, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2101, 2102.)

25-3.5-305. Alleged negligence.

(1) In any legal action filed against a person who has been issued a license pursuant to this part 3 in which it is alleged that the plaintiff's injury, illness, or incapacity was exacerbated or that he was otherwise injured by the negligence of the licensee, an act of negligence shall not be presumed based on the fact of the allegation.

(2) In the event a judgment is entered against a person issued a license pursuant to this part 3, the person shall, within thirty days after the judgment is entered, file a copy of the findings of fact, conclusions of law, and order in the case with the department, and the department shall take note of the judgment for purposes of investigation and appropriate action to determine if the person committed a violation of this part 3. Any and all complaints received directly by the department are subject to review.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1283, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2101, § 11, effective July 1, 2024.

25-3.5-306. Violation - penalty.

Any person who violates any provision of this part 3 commits a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1284, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1536, § 264, effective October 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3233, § 447, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

25-3.5-307. Licensure of fixed-wing and rotor-wing air ambulances - cash fund created - rules - repeal.

(1) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1), prior to beginning air ambulance operations in this state, an air ambulance service must be licensed by the department. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (d) of this subsection (1), compliance with rules promulgated by the board or successful completion of an accreditation process through an accrediting organization approved by the department as having standards equivalent to or exceeding the standards established in rules of the board is required for full licensure and renewal of such license by the department for an air ambulance service.

(b) (I) Upon a showing of exigent circumstances, as defined by the board, the department may authorize an unlicensed air ambulance service to provide a particular transport.

(II) The department may recognize the license issued by another jurisdiction for an air ambulance service that makes a limited number of flights per calendar year into or out of Colorado, and the department shall impose an annual fee upon an air ambulance service whose license is so recognized. The department may rescind such recognition, without refunding or prorating the fee, if rescission is necessary to protect public health and safety.

(b.5) The board shall allow the department to grant a waiver of a rule adopted by the board if the applicant for the waiver satisfactorily demonstrates:

(I) (A) The waiver will not adversely affect the health and safety of patients; and

(B) In the particular situation, the requirement serves no beneficial public purpose; or

(II) Circumstances indicate that the public benefit of waiving the requirement outweighs the public benefit to be gained by strictly adhering to the requirement.

(c) In addition to its rule-making authority granted under section 25-3.5-307.5, the board shall promulgate rules specifying minimum licensure requirements and standards for air ambulance services necessary to ensure public health and safety, including governing the issuance of initial and renewal licenses, conditional licenses, provisional licenses, and other necessary licenses; establishing reasonable fees for licensure and for on-site inspections, investigations, changes of ownership, and other activities related to licensure; defining exigent circumstances for purposes of the exception in subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1); and specifying the procedure and grounds for the suspension, revocation, or denial of a license. The rules must include the process used to investigate complaints against an air ambulance service and procedures for data collection and reporting to the department by an air ambulance service; except that complaints that are related to the requirements of an accrediting organization approved by the department in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) may be referred to the organization for investigation if the department determines that referral is appropriate. The department shall consider the results of such investigations in making licensure decisions concerning air ambulance services.

(d) The department may issue a provisional license to an applicant for an initial license to operate an air ambulance service if the applicant is temporarily unable to conform to all the minimum standards required under this article and rules of the board; except that a license shall not be issued to an applicant if the operation of the applicant's air ambulance service will adversely affect patient care or the health, safety, and welfare of the public. As a condition of obtaining a provisional license, the applicant must demonstrate to the department that the applicant is making its best efforts to achieve compliance with applicable standards. The department may issue the applicant a second provisional license for the same duration and shall charge the same fee as for the first provisional license, but the department shall not issue a third or subsequent provisional license to the applicant.

(2) (a) The board shall establish the amount of the licensure fee to reflect the direct and indirect costs incurred by the department in implementing such licensure. The department shall transmit all fees collected pursuant to this section to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the fixed-wing and rotary-wing ambulances cash fund, which fund is hereby created in the state treasury.

(b) Any interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fixed-wing and rotary-wing ambulances cash fund shall be credited to such fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered moneys remaining in such fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not revert or be transferred to the general fund or any other fund of the state. Moneys in such fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for the costs incurred by the department in implementing this section.

(c) (I) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (2)(b) of this section to the contrary, on June 30, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer two hundred fifteen thousand dollars from the fixed-wing and rotary-wing ambulances cash fund to the general fund.

(II) This subsection (2)(c) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 697, § 2, effective May 29. L. 2005: (1) amended, p. 1331, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1) amended, p. 380, § 1, effective April 2. L. 2016: (1) amended, (HB 16-1280), ch. 206, p. 737, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2026: (2)(c) added, (HB 26-1405), ch. 396, p. 2485, § 26, effective June 4.

25-3.5-307.5. Standards for air ambulance services - rules - civil penalties - disciplinary actions.

(1) The board shall promulgate rules in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S., to establish minimum standards for an air ambulance service. The rules must include minimum requirements or standards for:

(a) Approval of an accrediting organization;

(b) Recognizing another jurisdiction's license, including a restriction on the number of allowable flights per year in Colorado under that license, a fee for such recognition, and a process to rescind the recognition upon a showing of good cause;

(c) Malpractice and liability insurance for injuries to persons, in amounts determined by the board, and workers' compensation coverage as required by Colorado law;

(d) Medical crew qualifications and training;

(e) Qualifications, training, and roles and responsibilities for a medical director for an air ambulance service;

(f) Communication equipment, reporting capabilities, patient safety, and crew safety and staffing;

(g) Medical equipment in an air ambulance;

(h) Data collection and submission, including reporting requirements as determined by the department;

(i) Maintaining program quality; and

(j) Management of patient and medical staff safety with regard to clinical staffing and shift time.

(2) Rules promulgated by the board must not include activities preempted by the federal aviation administration or 49 U.S.C. sec. 41713.

(3) Civil penalties. An air ambulance operator, service, or provider or other person who violates this section, section 25-3.5-307, or a rule of the board promulgated pursuant to this part 3 or who operates without a current and valid license is subject to a civil penalty of up to five thousand dollars per violation or for each day of a continuing violation. The department shall assess and collect these penalties. Before collecting a penalty, the department shall provide the alleged violator with notice and the opportunity for a hearing in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and all applicable rules of the board. The department shall transmit all penalties collected pursuant to this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the general fund.

(4) Disciplinary actions. For violation of any provision of this section, section 25-3.5-307, or a rule of the board promulgated pursuant to this part 3 or for operating without a license, the department may take any one or more of the following actions:

(a) Deny, suspend, or revoke a license issued pursuant to this part 3;

(b) Impose a civil penalty as provided in subsection (3) of this section;

(c) Issue a cease-and-desist order if the department has determined that a violation has occurred and immediate enforcement is deemed necessary. The cease-and-desist order must set forth the provisions alleged to have been violated, the facts alleged to have constituted the violation, and the requirement that all violations cease forthwith.

(d) Summarily suspend a license issued pursuant to this part 3 in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1280), ch. 206, p. 738, § 4, effective June 1. L. 2017: (2) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1406, § 81, effective May 25.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective July 1, 2018. (See L. 2016, p. 738.)

25-3.5-308. Rules - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 697, § 2, effective May 29. L. 2005: IP(1) amended, p. 1331, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2022: (2) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, pp. 2101, 2102; §§ 12, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, pp. 2101, 2102.)

25-3.5-309. Secure transportation - license required - fees - exceptions.

(1) (a) After January 1, 2023, an entity shall not provide public or private secure transportation services, as defined in section 25-3.5-103 (11.4), in this state unless that entity holds a valid license issued by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based; except that entities described in subsection (2) of this section may provide secure transportation services.

(b) Licenses, permits, and renewals issued pursuant to this section and section 25-3.5-310 require a fee in an amount to be determined by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based to reflect the direct and indirect costs incurred by the county in implementing licenses for secure transportation.

(2) Ambulance agencies, transportation services provided by the state department of human services, emergency service patrols established pursuant to section 27-81-115, and law enforcement may provide secure transportation services to an individual in need of urgent behavioral health care.

(3) An ambulance agency is eligible to receive reimbursement pursuant to section 25.5-5-328 and is exempt from additional licensing requirements if the agency meets the requirements for secure transportation as established by rule pursuant to section 25-3.5-311.

(4) Each vehicle operated by a secure transportation licensee must be issued a separate permit by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based upon positive review pursuant to section 25-3.5-310.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2309, § 2, effective June 27. L. 2022: (2) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1509, § 58, effective July 1.

25-3.5-310. Secure transportation - issuance of licenses and permits - term - requirements.

(1) (a) After receipt of an original application for a license to provide public or private secure transportation services, the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based shall review the application, the applicant's record, and the applicant's equipment, as well as the applicant's training and operating procedures. In order to be approved for a license, the applicant must provide evidence that the applicant's equipment and training and operating procedures meet or exceed the minimum requirements established by the state board of health pursuant to section 25-3.5-311. The board of county commissioners of any county may impose, by resolution, additional requirements for secure transportation that is based in that county.

(b) If an applicant is approved pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based shall issue a license, valid for three years, to the applicant to provide secure transportation services. The board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based shall also issue a permit, valid for twelve months after the date of issuance, for each vehicle used by the licensee if the vehicles and equipment meet or exceed the minimum requirements established by the state board of health pursuant to section 25-3.5-311.

(2) Any license or permit issued pursuant to this section, unless revoked by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the secure transportation service is based, may be renewed by filing an application, as applicable for an original license or permit. Applications for permit renewal must be filed annually, but not less than thirty days before the date the permit expires.

(3) A licensee or permit holder shall not sell, assign, or otherwise transfer a license or permit issued pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2310, § 2, effective June 27.

25-3.5-311. Secure transportation - rules.

(1) On or before July 1, 2022, the state board of health shall adopt rules establishing the minimum requirements for secure transportation services licensing, including but not limited to:

(a) Staffing requirements for vehicles;

(b) Staff training requirements, including verbal de-escalation and trauma-informed care, as well as cultural competencies related to supporting persons with physical or cognitive disabilities;

(c) Operating procedures, including circumstances when individual physical restraint is allowed;

(d) Quality improvement and the process used to investigate complaints against a licensee;

(e) Data collection and reporting on utilization to the department by a licensee;

(f) Minimum clinical and medical standards and procedures;

(g) The circumstances under which an individual may be transported; and

(h) Criteria for pickup and drop-off.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2311, § 2, effective June 27.

25-3.5-312. Funding.

The department is authorized to seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, and donations from public or private sources for the purpose of facilitating the rule-making process set forth in section 25-3.5-311.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2311, § 2, effective June 27.

25-3.5-313. Reporting.

The department shall annually make publicly available the data collected from secure transportation providers.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2311, § 2, effective June 27.

25-3.5-314. Ambulance service - license required - exceptions - rules - local authorization to operate - penalties - liability insurance.

(1) State license required. On and after July 1, 2024, and except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a person shall not operate or maintain an ambulance service without a license issued by the department and without authorization to operate from the local licensing authority for the county or city and county in which the ambulance service operates or seeks to operate.

(2) Exceptions. Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to the following:

(a) The exceptional emergency use of a privately or publicly owned vehicle, including search and rescue unit vehicles or aircraft not ordinarily used in the act of transporting patients;

(b) A vehicle rendering services as an ambulance during a major catastrophe or emergency when ambulances with authorizations to operate in the county or city and county in which the major catastrophe or emergency occurred or is occurring are insufficient to render the ambulance services required;

(c) An ambulance based outside of the state that is transporting a patient into the state;

(d) A vehicle used or designed for the scheduled transportation of convalescent patients, individuals with disabilities, or individuals who would not be expected to require skilled treatment or care while in the vehicle; and

(e) A vehicle used solely for the transportation of an intoxicated person, as defined in section 27-81-102 (11), who is not otherwise disabled or seriously injured and who would not be expected to require skilled treatment or care while in the vehicle.

(3) Issuance of licenses.

(a) Beginning July 1, 2024, the department shall issue an initial license to an ambulance service that, as of June 30, 2024, holds a valid license issued by a local jurisdiction.

(b) An applicant for a license shall submit to the department, in the form and manner determined by the board by rule, evidence that the ambulance service that is the subject of the application, its employees, and any contractors that the ambulance service uses as staff are covered by general liability insurance. The board, by rule, shall determine the minimum amount of general liability insurance coverage required, which amount must not be less than the amount calculated in accordance with section 24-10-114 (1)(a) and (1)(b).

(4) Violations - penalties.

(a) A person that operates an ambulance service without a license issued pursuant to this part 3 commits a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503 (1.5).

(b) (I) An owner or operator of an ambulance service or other person who violates this part 3 or a rule adopted pursuant to this part 3 or who operates without a valid license is subject to a civil penalty of:

(A) Up to five hundred dollars per violation; or

(B) For each day of a continuing violation, up to five hundred dollars per day.

(II) The department shall assess and collect the civil penalties. Before collecting a civil penalty, the department shall provide the person alleged to have committed the violation with notice and an opportunity to be heard in accordance with article 4 of title 24.

(III) The department shall transmit all civil penalties collected to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the general fund.

(5) County or city and county authorization to operate - rules.

(a) (I) An ambulance service seeking to operate on a regular basis, as defined by the board by rule, in a county or city and county shall file an intent to operate with the local licensing authority for the county or city and county in which the ambulance service intends to operate on forms provided by the department and containing such information as the department may require.

(II) An ambulance service shall not operate in a county or a city and county unless the ambulance service has obtained authorization to operate from the county or the city and county.

(III) A county or city and county may enact an ordinance or resolution governing the authorization to operate ambulance services within the county or city and county. The ordinance or resolution may:

(A) Limit the number of ambulance services that will be authorized to operate within the county's or city and county's jurisdiction;

(B) Determine and prescribe ambulance service areas within the county's or city and county's jurisdiction;

(C) Authorize the local licensing authority to contract with ambulance services;

(D) Authorize the local licensing authority to enter into memoranda of understanding, contracts, or other such agreements to impose obligations on ambulance services that are more stringent than the obligations imposed under this part 3 and rules adopted pursuant to this part 3; and

(E) Establish other necessary requirements that are consistent with this part 3 or rules adopted pursuant to this part 3.

(b) (I) On and after July 1, 2024, a county or city and county that has not opted out of participating in the issuance of authorizations to operate pursuant to subsection (5)(b)(III) of this section shall not grant an ambulance service authorization to operate in the county or city and county without first verifying that the ambulance service has a valid license issued by the department.

(II) Pursuant to section 25-3.5-317 (2)(a), the department has the sole responsibility to conduct vehicle inspections of ambulance services.

(III) Before July 1, 2024, and before July 1 of any year thereafter, a county or city and county may opt out of participating in the issuance of authorizations to operate an ambulance service within the county or city and county by notifying the department in a form and manner determined by the department. If a county or city and county opts out of participating in the issuance of authorizations to operate an ambulance service, an ambulance service need only obtain a state license to operate in that county or city and county.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (5)(d) of this section, a county or city and county shall not impose standards that are more or less stringent than the minimum standards that the board adopts by rule pursuant to section 25-3.5-315.

(d) Nothing in this part 3 prevents a county or city and county from imposing obligations that exceed the minimum standards that the board adopts by rule pursuant to section 25-3.5-315 through the use of memoranda of understanding, contracts, or other such agreements.

(e) (I) Upon a determination by a local licensing authority that a person has violated or failed to comply with this part 3, rules adopted pursuant to this part 3, or an ordinance, resolution, contract, or other agreement governing the ambulance service's authority to operate within the county or city and county, the local licensing authority may summarily suspend, for a period not to exceed ten days, the authorization to operate issued pursuant to this subsection (5).

(II) A local licensing authority shall provide written notice to the ambulance service of a temporary suspension and shall hold a hearing on the matter no later than ten days after issuance of the temporary suspension. After the hearing, the local licensing authority may suspend or revoke the ambulance service's authorization to operate. At the end of any period of suspension, the person whose authorization to operate was suspended may apply for a new authorization to operate in the county or city and county in the same manner as the person applied for the initial authorization to operate.

(III) If an ambulance service commits a second violation or failure to comply with this part 3, rules adopted pursuant to this part 3, or an ordinance, resolution, contract, or other agreement governing the ambulance service's authority to operate within the county or city and county, the local licensing authority may revoke the ambulance service's authorization to operate in the county or city and county.

(IV) A local licensing authority that suspends or revokes an ambulance service's authorization to operate in the county or city and county shall notify the department of the suspension or revocation within thirty days after issuing the suspension or revocation and provide supporting documentation for the department's review of the possible effect that the suspension or revocation has on the ambulance service's state license.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2091, § 4, effective June 1.

25-3.5-315. Minimum standards for ambulance services - rules.

(1) On or before January 1, 2024, the board shall adopt rules establishing minimum standards for the operation of an ambulance service within the state. The rules must address the following:

(a) Minimum equipment to be carried on an ambulance;

(b) Staffing requirements for ambulances;

(c) Medical oversight and quality assurance of ambulance services;

(d) The issuance of licenses;

(e) The process used to investigate complaints against an ambulance service;

(f) Data collection and reporting to the department by an ambulance service;

(g) Inspection of ambulance services by the department or the department's designated representative;

(h) Minimum education, training, and experience standards for the administrator of an ambulance service;

(i) The amount of general liability insurance coverage that an ambulance service shall maintain in accordance with section 25-3.5-314 (3)(b) and the manner in which an ambulance service shall demonstrate proof of insurance to the department. The board may establish by rule that an ambulance service may obtain a surety bond in lieu of liability insurance coverage.

(j) Qualifications, training, and roles and responsibilities for a medical director of an ambulance service;

(k) Communication equipment, reporting capabilities, patient safety, and safety and staffing of crew members;

(l) Management of patient safety with regard to minimum clinical staffing;

(m) Administrative and operational standards for governance, patient records and record retention, personnel, and policies and procedures;

(n) Mandatory incident reporting to the department, including specifying the acts or events that trigger mandatory reporting;

(o) Fees for ambulance service applications and licenses, if deemed necessary to cover the department's direct and indirect costs in implementing and administering this part 3;

(p) Requirements for motor vehicle liability insurance, as required by section 10-4-619;

(q) Vehicle standards to ensure minimum safety standards;

(r) Criteria for waivers to the rules; and

(s) Any other rules as necessary to implement this part 3.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2094, § 4, effective June 1.

25-3.5-316. Ambulance services cash fund - created.

(1) There is hereby created the ambulance services cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The department shall transmit any fees collected pursuant to this part 3 to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the fund. The fund consists of the credited fees and any money that the general assembly may transfer or appropriate to the fund.

(2) The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for the department's direct and indirect costs in implementing and administering this part 3.

(3) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Any unencumbered or unexpended money in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year remains in the fund and is not transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2095, § 4, effective June 1.

25-3.5-317. License - application - inspection - criminal history record check - issuance - investigation - definitions.

(1) An ambulance service license expires after two years. The department shall determine the form and manner of initial and renewal license applications.

(2) (a) To ensure the health, safety, and welfare of ambulance service patients, the department shall inspect an ambulance service, including all vehicles used in providing the ambulance service, in accordance with this part 3 and board rules adopted by the board pursuant to this part 3 and as the department deems necessary. If the department finds one or more violations as a result of an inspection, the ambulance service shall submit to the department in writing, in the form and manner determined by the department, a plan detailing the measures that the ambulance service will take to correct the violations found.

(b) The department shall keep confidential all medical records and personally identifying information obtained during an inspection of an ambulance service.

(3) (a) (I) When submitting an application for a license pursuant to this section, or within ten days after a change in owner or operator of an ambulance service, each owner or operator of an ambulance service shall submit a complete set of the owner's or operator's fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a state and national fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the fingerprints to the federal bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting fingerprint-based criminal history record checks.

(II) Each owner or operator of an ambulance service is responsible for paying the fee established by the Colorado bureau of investigation for conducting the fingerprint-based criminal history record check to the bureau.

(III) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an individual performed pursuant to this subsection (3) reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that individual to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d), performed using state judicial department records.

(b) The department may deny a license or renewal of a license if the results of a criminal history record check of an owner or operator demonstrate that the owner or operator has been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of ambulance service patients.

(c) (I) If an ambulance service applying for an initial license is temporarily unable to satisfy all of the requirements for licensure, the department may issue a provisional license to the ambulance service; except that the department shall not issue a provisional license to an ambulance service if operation of the ambulance service will adversely affect the health, safety, or welfare of the ambulance service's patients.

(II) The department may require an ambulance service applying for a provisional license to demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that the ambulance service is taking sufficient steps to satisfy all of the requirements for full licensure. A provisional license is valid for ninety days and may be renewed one time at the department's discretion.

(4) (a) In investigating alleged violations of this part 3 or rules adopted pursuant to this part 3, the department may administer oaths to, or take affirmations of, witnesses, and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of all relevant records and documents.

(b) Upon the failure of a witness to comply with a subpoena, the department may apply to a district court for an order requiring the person to appear before the department or an administrative law judge, to produce the relevant records or documents, or to give testimony or evidence related to the matter under investigation. When applying for a district court order, the department shall apply to the district court of the county in which the subpoenaed person resides or conducts business. The court may punish a failure to comply with a subpoena issued by the department as a contempt of court.

(5) A person acting as a witness or consultant to the department, a witness testifying, or a person, including an employer, that reports misconduct to the department under this section is immune from liability in any civil action brought for acts occurring while testifying, producing evidence, or reporting misconduct under this section if the person was acting in good faith and with a reasonable belief of the facts testified to, produced as part of evidence, or reported.

(6) All records, documents, testimony, or evidence obtained pursuant to this section remains confidential except to the extent necessary to support the administrative action taken by the department, to refer the matter to another local government, state, or federal agency with regulatory authority, or to refer the matter to a law enforcement agency for criminal prosecution.

(7) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Operator" means an individual designated by an ambulance service as responsible for the day-to-day operations of the ambulance service.

(b) "Owner" means an officer, director, general partner, limited partner, or other individual with a financial or equity ownership interest of fifty percent or more of an ambulance service.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2096, § 4, effective June 1. L. 2025: (3)(a)(III) and (7) added, (SB 25-146), ch. 342, p. 1856, § 8, effective June 2.

25-3.5-318. License denial, suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew.

(1) In denying a license application, the department shall issue its denial in accordance with article 4 of title 24.

(2) (a) The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license of an ambulance service that is out of compliance with the requirements of this part 3 or rules adopted pursuant to this part 3. Except as provided in subsection (2)(b) of this section, before taking final action to suspend or revoke a license, the department shall conduct a hearing on the matter in accordance with article 4 of title 24.

(b) The department may summarily suspend a license before a hearing in accordance with section 24-4-104 (4)(a).

(3) After conducting a hearing pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section and in accordance with article 4 of title 24, the department may revoke or refuse to renew an ambulance service license if an owner or operator of the ambulance service has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the ambulance service's patients.

(4) (a) The department may impose intermediate restrictions or conditions on an ambulance service, which restrictions or conditions may require the ambulance service to:

(I) Retain a consultant to address corrective measures;

(II) Be monitored by the department for a specific period;

(III) Provide additional training to its employees, contractors, owners, or operators;

(IV) Comply with a directed written plan to correct the violation in accordance with procedures established pursuant to section 25-27.5-108 (2)(b); or

(V) Pay a civil penalty of up to five hundred dollars per violation.

(b) (I) With respect to any civil penalties that the department assesses against an ambulance service pursuant to subsection (4)(a)(V) of this section, the department, after providing the ambulance service with notice and an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, shall transmit any penalties collected from the ambulance service to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the general fund.

(II) Upon request of the ambulance service assessed civil penalties pursuant to this subsection (4), the department shall grant a stay of payment of the civil penalties until final disposition of the intermediate restrictions or conditions imposed on the ambulance service pursuant to this subsection (4).

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2097, § 4, effective June 1.

PART 4

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-401. Responsibility for coordination.

(1) The telecommunications subsystem shall be used to maintain effective interface with the other components of the system, which shall include but not be limited to the following:

(a) To dispatch the ambulance;

(b) To maintain contact while en route to the scene of the emergency;

(c) To provide for triage at the scene of the emergency;

(d) To provide for treatment while en route to the primary emergency care center;

(e) To arrange for transfer to advanced emergency care centers.

(2) (a) The department of personnel, in consultation with the office of information technology created in the office of the governor, shall coordinate the telecommunications subsystem with the existing state telecommunications network to the extent possible.

(b) Repealed.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1284, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 81: IP(1) amended, p. 2028, § 29, effective June 7; (2)(b) repealed, p. 2028, § 31, effective July 14. L. 83: (2)(a) amended, p. 889, § 5, effective July 1. L. 84: IP(1) amended, p. 1121, § 26, effective June 7. L. 95: (2)(a) amended, p. 663, § 96, effective July 1. L. 2001: (2)(a) amended, p. 125, § 6, effective March 23. L. 2006: (2)(a) amended, p. 1736, § 25, effective June 6.

Cross references: (1) For provisions concerning telecommunications coordination within state government and the state telecommunications network, see part 5 of article 37.5 of title 24.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1995 act amending subsection (2)(a), see section 112 of chapter 167, Session Laws of Colorado 1995.

25-3.5-402. Local government participation.

The department of personnel shall consult with local government entities to ensure that provision is made for their entry into the statewide telecommunications subsystem and that their present resources are being fully utilized.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1284, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 889, § 6, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 1541, § 129, effective June 1.

25-3.5-403. Poison information center - state funding. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1056, § 3, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1665, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1995. (See L. 94, p. 1665.)

PART 5

DOCUMENTATION SUBSYSTEM

25-3.5-501. Records - ambulance services to report - access to patient information.

(1) Each ambulance service shall prepare and transmit copies of uniform and standardized records, as specified by regulation adopted by the department, concerning the transportation and treatment of patients in order to evaluate the performance of the emergency medical services system and to plan systematically for improvements in said system at all levels.

(2) The record forms adopted by the department may distinguish between rural ambulance service and urban ambulance service and between mobile intensive care units and basic ambulance service.

(3) The department shall make individualized patient information from its EMS agency patient care database available to health information organization networks for uses allowed under the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", as amended, Pub.L. 104-191. The department shall contract with health information organization networks regarding accessing patient information and limiting the use of information to purposes allowed under the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", as amended.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1284, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 270, § 84, effective May 23. L. 2018: (3) added, (HB 18-1032), ch. 63, p. 612, § 2, effective August 8.

25-3.5-502. Forms and reports - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1285, § 2, effective January 1, 1978. L. 78: Entire section amended, p. 271, § 85, effective May 23. L. 2022: (2) added by revision, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2102, §§ 13, 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, p. 2102.)

PART 6

LOCAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

25-3.5-601. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly recognizes that an efficient and reliable statewide emergency medical and trauma network would serve not only to promote the health, safety, and welfare of Colorado residents, but would also, by increasing safety throughout the state, indirectly serve to facilitate tourism and economic development in the state.

(2) The general assembly also finds that accident victims are often transported over state highways and that an improved response to accidents through an efficient and reliable statewide emergency medical and trauma network impacts both directly and indirectly on the maintenance and supervision of the public highways of this state.

(3) Therefore, it is the purpose of this part 6 to enhance emergency medical and trauma services statewide by financially assisting local emergency medical and trauma service providers who operate or wish to operate in the counties in their efforts to improve the quality and effectiveness of local emergency medical and trauma services, including emergency medical and trauma equipment and communications, and by supporting the overall coordination of such efforts by the department.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1148, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2758, § 421, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 532, § 10, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-3.5-602. Definitions.

As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Council" means the state emergency medical and trauma services advisory council created in section 25-3.5-104.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "EMTS" means emergency medical and trauma services.

(4) "Local emergency medical and trauma service providers" includes, but is not limited to, local governing boards, training centers, hospitals, special districts, and other private and public service providers that have as their purpose the provision of emergency medical and trauma services.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1149, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2758, § 422, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1), (3), and (4) amended, p. 532, § 11, effective July 1.

Cross references: (1) For additional definitions applicable to this article 3.5, see § 25-3.5-703.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-3.5-603. Emergency medical services account - creation - allocation of money - rules.

(1) (a) There is hereby created a special account within the highway users tax fund established under section 43-4-201, to be known as the emergency medical services account, which consists of all money transferred into the account in accordance with section 42-3-304 (21), fees collected under section 25-3.5-203 for provisional certifications or licenses of emergency medical service providers, and fees collected under section 25-3.5-1103 for provisional registration of emergency medical responders.

(b) All moneys in and state FTE funded by the emergency medical services account shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly.

(c) At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the emergency medical services account shall remain therein and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(d) (I) For state fiscal years commencing on or before July 1, 2024, and on or after July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the emergency medical services account to the emergency medical services account.

(II) Notwithstanding subsections (1)(b) and (1)(c) of this section, for the state fiscal year commencing on July 1, 2025, in accordance with section 24-36-114 (1), the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the emergency medical services account to the general fund.

(III) Repealed.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2005, p. 280, § 13, effective August 8, 2005.)

(3) The general assembly shall appropriate money in the emergency medical services account:

(a) (I) To the department for distribution as grants to local emergency medical and trauma service providers pursuant to the emergency medical and trauma services (EMTS) grant program set forth in section 25-3.5-604.

(II) Of the amount appropriated under subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a) for grants:

(A) One hundred thousand dollars shall remain in the account for unexpected emergencies that arise after the deadline for grant applications has passed. The department and the council shall promulgate any rules necessary to define the expenditures of such emergency funds.

(B) The department shall award a minimum of one hundred fifty thousand dollars to offset the training costs of emergency medical service providers, emergency medical dispatchers, emergency medical services instructors, emergency medical services coordinators, and other personnel who provide emergency medical services. Of said one hundred fifty thousand dollars, no less than eighty percent shall be used in the training of emergency medical service providers.

(b) (I) To the department for distribution for each Colorado county within a RETAC no less than fifteen thousand dollars and seventy-five thousand dollars to each RETAC, in accordance with section 25-3.5-605 for planning and, to the extent possible, coordination of emergency medical and trauma services in the county and between counties when such coordination would provide for better service geographically. In the event that a RETAC is composed of less than five counties as of July 1, 2002, the council shall recommend that for each Colorado county within such RETAC, the RETAC shall receive fifteen thousand dollars in accordance with section 25-3.5-605 for planning and, to the extent possible, coordination of emergency medical and trauma services in the county and between counties when such coordination would provide for better service geographically. Any RETAC may apply for additional moneys and may receive such moneys if the request is approved by the council, so long as the moneys are used in accordance with section 25-3.5-605 for planning and, to the extent possible, coordination of emergency medical and trauma services in the county and between counties when such coordination would provide for better service geographically.

(II) A county may request to the council that the county's representative fifteen thousand dollars be divided between two different RETACs pursuant to section 25-3.5-704 (2)(c)(IV)(B).

(c) To the direct and indirect costs of planning, developing, implementing, maintaining, and improving the statewide emergency medical and trauma services system. These costs include:

(I) Providing technical assistance and support to local governments, local emergency medical and trauma service providers, and RETACs operating a statewide data collection system, coordinating local and state programs, providing assistance in selection and purchasing of medical and communication equipment, administering the EMTS grant program, establishing and maintaining scope of practice for certified or licensed emergency medical service providers, and administering a registration program for emergency medical responders; and

(II) The costs of the department of revenue in collecting the additional motor vehicle registration fee pursuant to section 42-3-304 (21), C.R.S.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1149, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1143, § 2, effective May 29. L. 94: (1)(a) and (2)(c)(III) amended, p. 2559, § 61, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2000: IP(2), (2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(II)(A), (2)(b), IP(2)(c), (2)(c)(I), and (2)(c)(II) amended and (3) added, p. 533, § 12, effective July 1. L. 2005: (1)(a) and (3)(c)(II) amended, p. 1183, § 33, effective August 8; (1)(b) and (2) amended, p. 280, § 13, effective August 8. L. 2009: (1)(a) amended, (HB 09-1275), ch. 278, p. 1245, § 2, effective May 19. L. 2010: (3)(c)(I) amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1947, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(a), IP(3), IP(3)(a)(II), (3)(a)(II)(B), IP(3)(c), and (3)(c)(I) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1437, § 21, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1)(a) and (3)(c)(I) amended, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1310, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2019: (1)(a), IP(3), and (3)(c)(I) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3529, § 18, effective May 31. L. 2025: (1)(c) amended and (1)(d) added, (SB 25-317), ch. 385, p. 2159, § 39, effective June 3.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (3) was originally enacted as subsection (2.5) in Senate Bill 00-180 but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(2) Subsection (1)(d)(III)(B) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(d)(III), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 2159.)

Cross references: (1) For the definition of "RETAC" and additional definitions applicable to this article 3.5, see § 25-3.5-703.

(2) For the legislative declaration in SB 25-317, see section 1 of chapter 385, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-3.5-604. EMTS grant program - EMS account - role of council and department - rules - awards.

(1) (a) The council shall make recommendations to the department concerning the application for and distribution of moneys from the EMS account for the development, maintenance, and improvement of emergency medical and trauma services in Colorado and for the establishment of priorities for emergency medical and trauma services grants.

(b) Any rules that relate to the distribution of grants shall provide that awards shall be made on the basis of a substantiated need and that priority shall be given to those applicants that have underdeveloped or aged emergency medical and trauma services equipment or systems.

(c) The department, upon recommendations from the council, shall allocate moneys pursuant to section 25-3.5-603.

(2) (a) Applications for grants shall be made to the department commencing January, 2001, and each January thereafter, except as otherwise provided in section 25-3.5-603 (3).

(b) The department shall review each application and make awards in accordance with the rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.

(c) Grants awarded under this section shall require local matching funds, unless such requirement is waived by the council upon demonstration that local sources of matching funds are not available.

(3) Grants shall be awarded July 1 of each year.

(4) The council shall review the adequacy of funding for each RETAC for the period beginning July 1, 2002. The review shall be completed by December 31, 2005. The council may recommend any necessary changes to the department as a result of the review conducted pursuant to this subsection (4).

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1150, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1145, § 3, effective May 29. L. 2000: (1), (2)(a), and (2)(b) amended and (4) added, p. 535, § 13, effective July 1.

Editor's note: "EMS account" referenced in subsection (1) refers to the "emergency medical services account" created in § 25-3.5-603.

25-3.5-605. Improvement of county emergency medical and trauma services - eligibility for county funding - manner of distributing funds.

(1) Moneys in the emergency medical services account shall be apportioned pursuant to subsection (2.5) of this section.

(2) In order to qualify for money under this section, a county must:

(a) Comply with all provisions of part 3 of this article 3.5 regarding the authorization to operate ambulance services in the county;

(b) Require all licensed ambulance services to utilize the statewide emergency medical and trauma services uniform prehospital care reporting system operated by the department;

(c) Repealed.

(d) Ensure that all money received under this section is expended on developing and updating the emergency medical and trauma services plan and other emergency medical and trauma services needs of the county such as:

(I) Training and certification or licensure of emergency medical service providers;

(II) Assisting local emergency medical and trauma providers in applying for grants under section 25-3.5-604;

(III) Improving the emergency medical and trauma services system on a county wide or regional basis and implementing the county emergency medical and trauma services plan.

(e) Repealed.

(2.5) (a) On or before October 1, 2003, and on or before October 1 each year thereafter, each RETAC shall submit to the council an annual financial report that details the expenditure of moneys received. Such report shall be in a format specified by the council and the department. In instances where the council finds such report inadequate, the RETAC shall resubmit the report to the council by December 1 of the same year.

(b) On or before July 1, 2003, and on or before July 1 each odd-numbered year thereafter, each RETAC shall submit to the council a biennial plan that details the RETAC's EMTS plan and any revisions pursuant to section 25-3.5-704 (2)(c)(I)(B). If the RETAC includes a county that has been divided geographically pursuant to section 25-3.5-704 (2)(c)(IV), the plan shall include an evaluation of such division. Such plan shall be in a format specified by the council and the department. In instances where the council finds such plan inadequate, the RETAC shall resubmit the plan to the council by September 14 of the same year.

(c) On or before October 15, 2003, and on or before October 15 each odd-numbered year thereafter, the council shall submit to the department a plan for all RETACs in the state. On or before November 1, 2003, and on or before November 1 each odd-numbered year thereafter, the department, in consultation with the council, shall approve a plan for all RETACs in the state.

(3) Funds distributed to counties and RETACs pursuant to this section shall be used in planning the improvement of existing county emergency medical and trauma service programs and shall not be used to supplant moneys already allocated by the county for emergency medical and trauma services.

(4) (a) Failure to comply with the requirements of subsection (2) of this section shall render a county ineligible to receive moneys from the emergency medical services account until the following January.

(b) At the end of any fiscal year, moneys which are not distributed to a county shall remain in the emergency medical services account until the following January.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1151, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1145, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2002: (1), (2), and (3) amended and (2.5) added, p. 697, § 3, effective May 29. L. 2005: (1) amended, p. 281, § 14, effective August 8. L. 2012: IP(2), IP(2)(d), and (2)(d)(1) amended, (HB 12-1059), ch. 271, p. 1438, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2019: IP(2), IP(2)(d), and (2)(d)(I) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3530, § 19, effective May 31. L. 2022: (2)(a) amended, (SB 22-225), ch. 291, p. 2102, § 14, effective July 1, 2024.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(c) and subsection (2)(e)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(e), effective October 1, 2002. (See L. 2002, p. 697.)

25-3.5-606. Annual report.

No later than January 1, 1991, and prior to November 1 of each year thereafter, the department, in cooperation with the council, shall submit a report to the health, environment, welfare, and institutions committees and the joint budget committee of the general assembly on the moneys credited to the emergency medical services account and on the expenditure of such moneys during the preceding fiscal year. Such report shall contain a listing of the grant recipients, proposed projects, and a statement of the short-term and long-term planning goals of the department and the council to further implement the provisions of this part 6.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1152, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. § 1147, § 5, effective May 29. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 537, § 15, effective July 1; entire section amended, p. 461, § 3, effective August 2.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 00-180 and House Bill 00-1297 were harmonized.

25-3.5-607. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1152, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1147, § 6, effective May 29. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 170, § 1, effective April 8.

PART 7

STATEWIDE TRAUMA SYSTEM

Editor's note: This part 7 was repealed and reenacted in 1994 and was subsequently repealed and reenacted in 1995, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 7 prior to 1995, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

25-3.5-701. Short title.

This part 7 shall be known and may be cited as the "Statewide Trauma Care System Act".

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1351, § 3, effective July 1.

25-3.5-702. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that trauma is the greatest single cause of death and disability in Colorado for persons under the age of forty-five years and that trauma care is a unique type of emergency medical service.

(2) The general assembly further finds that a trauma system task force made up of various emergency health and trauma care entities submitted a report to the general assembly in 1993 indicating a compelling need to develop and implement a statewide trauma care system in order to assure that appropriate resources are available to trauma victims from the point of injury through rehabilitative care. In addition, a statewide system is essential to provide Colorado residents and visitors with a greater probability of surviving a life-threatening injury and to reduce trauma-related morbidity and mortality in this state.

(3) The general assembly, therefore, declares that it is necessary to enact legislation directing the board of health to adopt rules that govern the implementation and oversight of the trauma care system. The general assembly further declares that to ensure the availability and coordination of resources necessary to provide essential care, it is necessary to enact legislation that directs the department of public health and environment to collaborate with existing agencies and organizations, including governing bodies for counties and cities and counties, in implementing and monitoring a statewide trauma care system.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1351, § 3, effective July 1.

25-3.5-703. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 537, § 16, effective July 1, 2000.)

(2) "Board" means the state board of health.

(3) Repealed.

(3.5) "Council" means the state emergency medical and trauma services advisory council created by section 25-3.5-104.

(4) "Designation" means the process undertaken by the department to assign a status to a health-care facility based on the level of trauma services the facility is capable of and committed to providing to injured persons. Facilities may be designated at one of the following levels:

(a) Nondesignated, which is for facilities that do not meet the criteria required for level I to V facilities, but that receive and are accountable for injured persons, which accountability includes having a transfer agreement to transfer persons to level I to V facilities as determined by rules promulgated by the board;

(a.5) Level V, which is for basic trauma care in rural areas, including resuscitation, stabilization, and arrangement for the transfer of all patients with potentially life- or limb-threatening injuries, consistent with triage and transport protocols as recommended by the council and adopted by the board. Level V facilities shall transfer patients within their own region or to a higher level facility in another region, as described in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this subsection (4).

(b) Level IV, which is for basic trauma care, including resuscitation, stabilization, and arrangement for appropriate transfer of persons requiring a higher level of care based upon patient criticality and triage practices within each facility, which are consistent with triage criteria and transport protocols as recommended by the council and adopted by the board. These facilities must transfer appropriate patients to a higher level facility within their own region or to a higher level facility in another region, as described in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this subsection (4).

(c) Level III, which is for general trauma care, including resuscitation, stabilization, and assessment of injured persons, and either the provision of care for the injured person or arrangement for appropriate transfer based upon patient criticality and triage practices within each facility, which are consistent with triage criteria and transport protocols as recommended by the council and adopted by the board. The facilities must transfer appropriate patients to a higher level facility within its own region or to a higher level facility in another region, as described in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this subsection (4).

(d) Level II, which is for major trauma care based upon patient criticality and triage practices within each facility, which are consistent with triage criteria and transport protocols as recommended by the council and adopted by the board. This type of facility may serve as a resource for lower level facilities when a level I facility, as described in paragraph (e) of this subsection (4), is not available within its region, but it is not a facility required to conduct research or provide comprehensive services through subspecialty units such as, but not limited to, burn units, spinal cord injury centers, eye trauma centers, and reimplantation centers.

(e) Level I, which is for comprehensive trauma care, including the acute management of the most severely injured patients, which is a facility that may serve as the ultimate resource for lower level facilities or as the key resource facility for a trauma area and which is a facility that provides education in trauma-related areas for health-care professionals and performs trauma research;

(f) Regional pediatric trauma center, which is a facility that provides comprehensive pediatric trauma care, including acute management of the most severely injured pediatric trauma patients, and is a facility that may serve as an ultimate resource for lower level facilities on pediatric trauma care, and which is a facility that performs pediatric trauma research and provides pediatric trauma education for health-care professionals. No facility shall be deemed a regional pediatric trauma center unless the facility predominately serves children and is a facility where at least eighty-five percent of hospital admissions are for individuals who are under eighteen years of age. A separate administrative unit within a general hospital or hospital system shall not be deemed a regional pediatric trauma center.

(5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 537, § 16, effective July 1, 2000.)

(6) "Interfacility transfer" means the movement of a trauma victim from one facility to another.

(6.5) "Key resource facility" means a level I or level II certified trauma facility that provides consultation and technical assistance to a RETAC, as such term is defined in subsection (6.8) of this section, regarding education, quality, training, communication, and other trauma issues described in this part 7 that relate to the development of the statewide trauma care system.

(6.8) "Regional emergency medical and trauma services advisory council" or "RETAC" means the representative body appointed by the governing bodies of counties or cities and counties for the purpose of providing recommendations concerning regional area emergency medical and trauma service plans for such counties or cities and counties.

(7) Repealed.

(8) "Statewide trauma registry" means a statewide database of information concerning injured persons and licensed facilities receiving injured persons, which information is used to evaluate and improve the quality of patient management and care and the quality of trauma education, research, and injury prevention programs. The database integrates medical and trauma systems information related to patient diagnosis and provision of care. Such information includes epidemiologic and demographic information.

(9) "Trauma" means an injury or wound to a living person caused by the application of an external force or by violence. Trauma includes any serious life-threatening or limb-threatening situations.

(10) "Trauma care system" means an organized approach to providing quality and coordinated care to trauma victims throughout the state on a twenty-four-hour per day basis by transporting a trauma victim to the appropriate trauma designated facility.

(11) "Trauma transport protocols" means written standards adopted by the board that address the use of appropriate resources to move trauma victims from one level of care to another on a continuum of care.

(12) "Triage" means the assessment and classification of an injured person in order to determine the severity of trauma injury and to prioritize care for the injured person.

(13) "Verification process" means a procedure to evaluate a facility's compliance with trauma care standards established by the board and to make recommendations to the department concerning the designation of a facility.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1352, § 3, effective July 1. L. 99: (4) amended, p. 412, § 1, effective April 22. L. 2000: (1), (4)(a), (4)(b), (4)(c), (4)(d), (4)(f), (5), and (6.5) amended and (3.5), (4)(a.5), and (6.8) added, pp. 537, 538, §§ 16, 17, effective July 1; (3) and (7) repealed, p. 547, § 26, effective January 1, 2001.

25-3.5-704. Statewide emergency medical and trauma care system - development and implementation - duties of department - rules.

(1) The department shall develop, implement, and monitor a statewide emergency medical and trauma care system in accordance with the provisions of this part 7 and with rules adopted by the board. Pursuant to section 24-50-504 (2), the department may contract with any public or private entity in performing any of its duties concerning education, the statewide trauma registry, and the verification process as set forth in this part 7.

(2) The board shall adopt rules for the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system, including but not limited to the following:

(a) Minimum services in rendering patient care. These rules ensure the appropriate access through designated centers to the following minimum services:

(I) Prehospital care;

(II) Hospital care;

(III) Rehabilitative care;

(IV) Injury prevention;

(V) Disaster medical care;

(VI) Education and research; and

(VII) Trauma communications.

(b) Transport protocols. The board shall set forth trauma transport protocols in these rules, which include but are not limited to a requirement that a facility that receives an injured person provide the appropriate available care, which may include stabilizing an injured person before transferring that person to the appropriate facility based on the person's injury. These rules ensure that when the most appropriate trauma facility for an injured person is not easily accessible in an area, that person will be transferred as soon as medically feasible to the nearest appropriate facility, which may be in or out of the state. These rules shall conform with applicable federal law governing the transfer of patients.

(c) Regional emergency medical and trauma advisory councils - plans established - process.

(I) These rules provide for the implementation of regional emergency medical and trauma system plans that describe methods for providing the appropriate service and care to persons who are ill or injured in areas included under a regional emergency medical and trauma system plan. In these rules, the board shall specify that:

(A) The governing body of each county or city and county throughout the state shall establish a regional emergency medical and trauma advisory council (RETAC) with the governing body of four or more other counties, or with the governing body of a city and county, to form a multicounty RETAC. The number of members on a RETAC shall be defined by the participating counties. Membership shall reflect, as equally as possible, representation between hospital and prehospital providers and from each participating county and city and county. There shall be at least one member from each participating county and city and county in the RETAC. Each county within a RETAC shall be located in reasonable geographic proximity to the other counties and city and counties within the same RETAC. In establishing a RETAC, the governing body shall obtain input from health-care facilities and providers within the area to be served by the RETAC. If the governing body for a county or city and county fails to establish a RETAC by July 1, 2002, two counties with a combined population of at least seven hundred fifty thousand residents may apply to the council for establishment of a RETAC of fewer than four counties. The council shall conduct a hearing with all counties that may be affected by the establishment of a RETAC with fewer than four counties before deciding whether to grant such application. The decision on such an application shall be completed within sixty days after the date of application. For all other counties that do not qualify as a two-county RETAC and that have not established a RETAC by July 1, 2002, the council shall designate an established RETAC to serve as the county's or city and county's RETAC.

(B) No later than July 1, 2003, each RETAC with approval from the governing bodies for a multicounty RETAC shall submit a regional emergency medical and trauma system plan to the council for approval by the department. If the governing body for a county or city and county fails to submit a plan, if a county or city and county is not included in a multicounty plan, or, if a multicounty plan is not approved pursuant to a procedure established by the board for approving plans, the department shall design a plan for the county, city and county, or multicounty area.

(II) In addition to any issues the board requires to be addressed, every regional emergency medical and trauma system plan shall address the following issues:

(A) The provision of minimum services and care at the most appropriate facilities in response to the following factors: Facility-established triage and transport plans; interfacility transfer agreements; geographical barriers; population density; emergency medical services and trauma care resources; and accessibility to designated facilities;

(B) The level of commitment of counties and city and counties under a regional emergency medical and trauma system plan to cooperate in the development and implementation of a statewide communications system and the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system;

(C) The methods for ensuring facility and county or city and county adherence to the regional emergency medical and trauma system plan, compliance with board rules and procedures, and commitment to the continuing quality improvement system described in paragraph (h) of this subsection (2);

(D) A description of public information, education, and prevention programs to be provided for the area;

(E) A description of the functions that will be contracted services; and

(F) The identification of regional emergency medical and trauma system needs through the use of a needs assessment instrument developed by the department; except that the use of such instrument shall be subject to approval by the counties and city and counties included in a RETAC.

(III) The board shall specify in regional emergency medical and trauma system plan rules the time frames for approving regional emergency medical and trauma system plans and for resubmitting plans, as well as the number of times the plans may be resubmitted by a governing body before the department designs a plan for a multicounty area. The department shall provide technical assistance to any RETAC for preparation, implementation, and modification, as necessary, of regional emergency medical and trauma system plans.

(IV) (A) A county may request that the county be included in two separate RETACs because of geographical concerns. The council shall review and approve any request that a county be divided prior to inclusion within two separate RETACs if the county demonstrates such a division will not adversely impact the emergency medical and trauma needs for the county, that such a division is beneficial to both RETACs, and that such division does not create a RETAC with fewer than five contiguous counties, except for RETACs that contain two counties with a combined population of at least seven hundred fifty thousand residents pursuant to sub-subparagraph (A) of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (c).

(B) A county that is included in two separate RETACs may request that the council allocate any portion of the fifteen thousand dollars received by a RETAC, pursuant to section 25-3.5-603, between the two separate RETACs.

(d) Designation of facilities. The designation rules shall provide that every facility in this state required to be licensed in accordance with article 3 of this title and that receives ambulance patients shall participate in the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system. Each such facility shall submit an application to the department requesting designation as a specific level trauma facility or requesting nondesignation status. A facility that is given nondesignated status shall not represent that it is a designated facility, as prohibited in section 25-3.5-707. The board shall include provisions for the following:

(I) The criteria to be applied for designating and periodically reviewing facilities based on level of care capability providing trauma care. In establishing such criteria, the board shall take into consideration recognized national standards including, but not limited to, standards on trauma resources for optimal care of the injured patient adopted by the American college of surgeons' committee and the guidelines for trauma care systems adopted by the American college of emergency physicians.

(II) A verification process;

(III) The length of a designation period;

(IV) The process for evaluating, reviewing, and designating facilities, including an ongoing periodic review process for designated facilities, which process shall take into account the national standards referenced in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (d). Each facility shall be subject to review in accordance with rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph (d). In the event a certified facility seeks to be designated at a different level or seeks nondesignation status, the facility shall comply with the board's procedures for initial designation.

(V) Disciplinary sanctions, which shall be limited to the revocation of a designation, temporary suspension while the facility takes remedial steps to correct the cause of the discipline, redesignation, or assignment of nondesignation status to a facility;

(VI) A designation fee established in accordance with section 25-3.5-705; and

(VII) An appeals process concerning department decisions in connection with evaluations, reviews, designations, and sanctions.

(e) Communications system.

(I) The communications system rules shall require that a regional emergency medical and trauma system plan ensure citizen access to emergency medical and trauma services through the 911 telephone system or its local equivalent and that the plan include adequate provisions for:

(A) Public safety dispatch to ambulance service and for efficient communication from ambulance to ambulance and from ambulance to a designated facility;

(B) Efficient communications among the trauma facilities and between trauma facilities and other medical care facilities;

(C) Efficient communications among service agencies to coordinate prehospital, day-to-day, and disaster activities; and

(D) Efficient communications among counties and RETACs to coordinate prehospital, day-to-day, and disaster activities.

(II) In addition, the board shall require that a regional emergency medical and trauma system plan identify the key resource facilities for the area. The key resource facilities shall assist the RETAC in resolving trauma care issues that arise in the area and in coordinating patient destination and interfacility transfer policies to assure that patients are transferred to the appropriate facility for treatment in or outside of the area.

(f) Statewide trauma registry.

(I) The registry rules shall require the department to establish and oversee the operation of a statewide trauma registry. The rules shall allow for the provision of technical assistance and training to designated facilities within the various trauma areas in connection with requirements to collect, compile, and maintain information for the statewide central registry. Each licensed facility, clinic, or prehospital provider that provides any service or care to or for persons with trauma injury in this state shall collect the information described in this subparagraph (I) about any such person who is admitted to a hospital as an inpatient or transferred from one facility to another or who dies from trauma injury. The facility, clinic, or prehospital provider shall submit the following information to the registry:

(A) Admission and readmission information;

(B) Number of trauma deaths;

(C) Number and types of transfers to and from the facility or the provider; and

(D) Injury cause, type, and severity.

(II) In addition to the information described in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (f), facilities designated as level I, II, or III shall provide such additional information as may be required by board rules.

(III) The registry rules shall include provisions concerning access to information in the registry that does not identify patients or physicians. Any data maintained in the registry that identifies patients or physicians shall be strictly confidential and shall not be admissible in any civil or criminal proceeding.

(g) Public information, education, and injury prevention. The department and county, district, and municipal public health agencies may operate injury prevention programs, but the public information, education, and injury prevention rules shall require the department and county, district, and municipal public health agencies to consult with the state and regional emergency medical and trauma advisory councils in developing and implementing area and state-based injury prevention and public information and education programs including, but not limited to, a pediatric injury prevention and public awareness component. In addition, the rules shall require that regional emergency medical and trauma system plans include a description of public information and education programs to be provided for the area.

(h) (I) Continuing quality improvement system (CQI). These rules require the department to oversee a continuing quality improvement system for the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system. The board shall specify the methods and periods for assessing the quality of regional emergency medical and trauma systems and the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system. These rules must include the following requirements:

(A) That RETACs assess periodically the quality of their respective regional emergency medical and trauma system plans and that the state assess periodically the quality of the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system to determine whether positive results under regional emergency medical and trauma system plans and the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system can be demonstrated;

(B) That all facilities comply with the trauma registry rules;

(C) That reports concerning regional emergency medical and trauma system plans include results for the emergency medical and trauma area, identification of problems under the regional emergency medical and trauma system plan, and recommendations for resolving problems under the plan. In preparing these reports, the RETACs shall obtain input from facilities, counties included under the regional emergency medical and trauma system plan, and service agencies.

(D) That the names of patients or information that identifies individual patients shall be kept confidential and shall not be publicly disclosed without the patient's consent;

(E) That the department be allowed access to prehospital, hospital, and coroner records of emergency medical and trauma patients to assess the continuing quality improvement system for the area and state-based injury prevention and public information and education programs pursuant to subsection (2)(g) of this section. All information provided to the department shall be confidential pursuant to this subsection (2)(h). To the greatest extent possible, patient-identifying information shall not be gathered. If patient-identifying information is necessary, the department shall keep such information strictly confidential, and such information may only be released outside of the department upon written authorization of the patient. The department shall prepare an annual report that includes an evaluation of the statewide emergency medical and trauma services system. Such report shall be distributed to all designated trauma centers, ambulance services, and service agencies.

(F) That nothing in this subsection (2)(h)(I) prohibits the department from providing information to health information organization networks from its EMS agency patient care database including access to individualized patient information in accordance with section 25-3.5-501 (3).

(II) Data or information related to the identification of individual patient's, provider's, or facility's care outcomes collected as a result of the continuing quality improvement system and records or reports collected or compiled as a result of the continuing quality improvement system are confidential and are exempt from the open records law in part 2 of article 72 of title 24. Data, information, records, or reports are not subject to subpoena or discovery and are not admissible in any civil action, except pursuant to a court order that provides for the protection of sensitive information about interested parties. Nothing in this subsection (2)(h)(II):

(A) Precludes the patient or the patient's representative from obtaining the patient's medical records as provided in section 25-1-801;

(B) Shall be construed to allow access to confidential professional review committee records or reviews conducted under part 2 of article 30 of title 12; or

(C) Prohibits the department from providing information to health information organization networks from its EMS agency patient care database including individualized patient information in accordance with section 25-3.5-501 (3).

(III) That reports concerning regional emergency medical and trauma system plans include results for the emergency medical and trauma area, identification of problems under the regional emergency medical and trauma system plan, and recommendations for resolving problems under the plan. In preparing these reports, the RETACs shall obtain input from facilities, counties included under the regional emergency medical and trauma system plan, and service agencies.

(i) Trauma care for pediatric patients. The trauma care for pediatric patient rules shall provide for the improvement of the quality of care for pediatric patients.

(3) The board shall adopt rules that take into consideration recognized national standards for emergency medical and trauma care systems, such as the standards on trauma resources for optimal care of the injured patient adopted by the American college of surgeons' committee on trauma and the guidelines for emergency medical and trauma care systems adopted by the American college of emergency physicians and the American academy of pediatrics.

(4) The board shall adopt and the department shall use only cost-efficient administrative procedures and forms for the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system.

(5) In adopting its rules, the board shall consult with and seek advice from the council, as defined in section 25-3.5-703 (3.5), where appropriate, and from any other appropriate agency. In addition, the board shall obtain input from appropriate health-care agencies, institutions, facilities, and providers at the national, state, and local levels and from counties and city and counties.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1354, § 3, effective July 1. L. 96: (1) amended, p. 1471, § 19, effective June 1. L. 99: IP(2) and (2)(h) amended, p. 413, § 2, effective April 22. L. 2002: (1), IP(2), (2)(c), IP(2)(d), (2)(d)(IV), (2)(d)(V), (2)(e), (2)(f)(III), (2)(g), IP(2)(h)(I), (2)(h)(I)(A), (2)(h)(I)(C), (2)(h)(III), (3), (4), and (5) amended and (2)(h)(I)(E) added, p. 699, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2003: (2)(d)(I) and (2)(d)(IV) amended, p. 2057, § 1, effective May 22; (2)(h)(I)(E) amended, p. 2007, § 85, effective May 22. L. 2004: (1) amended, p. 1693, § 27, effective July 1, 2005. L. 2005: IP(2)(d) amended, p. 281, § 15, effective August 8. L. 2007: (2)(h)(I)(E) amended, p. 2041, § 66, effective June 1. L. 2010: (2)(g) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2092, § 88, effective August 11. L. 2017: IP(2)(h)(I) and (2)(h)(I)(E) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 93, § 5, effective March 16. L. 2018: (2)(h)(I)(F) added and (2)(h)(II) amended, (HB 18-1032), ch. 63, p. 613, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1) amended, (SB 19-044), ch. 38, p. 131, § 2, effective August 2; (2)(h)(II)(B) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1701, § 153, effective October 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-044, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-3.5-705. Creation of fee - creation of trauma system cash fund.

(1) The board is authorized, by rule, to establish a schedule of fees based on the direct and indirect costs incurred in designating facilities. In addition, the department is authorized to collect the appropriate fee on the schedule. The board may adjust fees in amounts necessary to cover such costs. The fees collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited in the trauma system cash fund created by subsection (2) of this section.

(2) There is hereby created in the state treasury a statewide trauma care system cash fund. All moneys in the fund shall be subject to appropriation by the general assembly for allocation to the department to administer the trauma system. Any moneys in the fund not appropriated shall remain in the fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall remain in the fund.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1359, § 3, effective July 1.

25-3.5-706. Immunity from liability.

The department, the board, the council as defined in section 25-3.5-703 (3.5), a RETAC as defined in section 25-3.5-703 (6.8), the emergency medical practice advisory council created in section 25-3.5-206, key resource facilities, any other public or private entity acting on behalf of or under contract with the department, and counties and cities and counties shall be immune from civil and criminal liability and from regulatory sanction for acting in compliance with the provisions of this part 7. Nothing in this section shall be construed as providing any immunity to such entities or any other person in connection with the provision of medical treatment, care, or services that are governed by the medical malpractice statutes, article 64 of title 13, C.R.S.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1360, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 545, § 19, effective July 1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1260), ch. 403, p. 1948, § 12, effective July 1.

25-3.5-707. False representation as trauma facility - penalty.

(1) No facility, or agent or employee of a facility, shall represent that the facility functions as a level I, II, III, IV, or V trauma facility unless the facility possesses a valid certificate of designation issued pursuant to section 25-3.5-704 (2)(d). In addition, no facility, provider, or person shall violate any rule adopted by the board.

(2) Any facility, provider, or person who violates the provisions of subsection (1) of this section is subject to a civil penalty, which the board shall establish by rule, but which shall not exceed five hundred dollars. The penalty shall be assessed and collected by the department. Before a fee is collected, a facility, provider, or person shall be provided an opportunity for review of the assessed penalty. The procedures for review shall be in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and board rules. Any penalty collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the statewide trauma care system cash fund created in section 25-3.5-705.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1360, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 545, § 20, effective July 1.

25-3.5-708. Financing for statewide trauma system.

(1) The implementation of the statewide trauma system shall be subject to the availability of:

(a) Federal transportation highway safety seed moneys that the department of transportation transfers to the department of public health and environment pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement between the two agencies;

(b) Moneys from the emergency medical services account within the highway users tax fund that are unexpended portions of state administrative funds that may be allocated pursuant to section 25-3.5-603 (2)(c). Nothing in this paragraph (b) shall be construed to authorize moneys that may be allocated pursuant to section 25-3.5-603 (2)(a)(I) or (2)(b) to be used for the financing of the administration of the statewide trauma system.

(c) Moneys from the statewide trauma care system cash fund created in section 25-3.5-705.

(2) In addition to any funds available pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the executive director of the department of public health and environment is hereby authorized to accept any grants, donations, gifts, or contributions from any other private or public entity for the purpose of implementing this part 7.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1360, § 3, effective July 1.

25-3.5-709. Annual report.

No later than January 1, 1999, and prior to November 1 of each year thereafter, the department, in cooperation with the council, as defined in section 25-3.5-703 (3.5), shall submit a report to the health, environment, welfare, and institutions committees and the joint budget committee of the general assembly on the quality of the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system. Such report shall include an evaluation of each component of the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system and any recommendation for legislation concerning the statewide emergency medical and trauma care system or any component thereof.

Source: L. 95: Entire part R&RE, p. 1361, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 545, § 21, effective July 1; entire section amended, p. 462, § 4, effective August 2.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 00-180 and House Bill 00-1297 were harmonized.

PART 8

TOBACCO EDUCATION, PREVENTION, AND CESSATION PROGRAMS

25-3.5-801. Short title.

This part 8 shall be known and may be cited as the "Tobacco Education, Prevention, and Cessation Act".

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 613, § 13, effective May 18.

25-3.5-802. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that:

(a) The use of all types of tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, results in a high incidence of addiction, disease, illness, and death;

(b) Persons who begin using and become addicted to tobacco products in their youth often face a lifetime of struggle and recurring illness in coping with and attempting to overcome addiction to tobacco products;

(c) Experimentation with tobacco products by youth is often a first step toward more serious drug experimentation and creates a greater likelihood that the youth who experiment with tobacco will at some point be addicted to even more harmful substances;

(d) Implementation of aggressive tobacco and substance abuse prevention, education, and cessation programs for school-age children is necessary to assist young people in avoiding and ending tobacco use;

(e) School districts, schools, and other entities that provide tobacco and substance abuse prevention, education, and cessation programs for school-age children should reach out to parents and encourage them to participate, either as students or role models, in implementing said programs.

(2) The general assembly finds that persons with behavioral or mental health disorders are more likely to abuse tobacco products than any other segment of society. The general assembly further finds that the unusually heavy pattern of tobacco abuse engaged in by persons with behavioral or mental health disorders requires special treatment strategies that are not provided by other alcohol, drug, or tobacco abuse programs or substance use disorder treatment programs. It is therefore the general assembly's intent that the programs funded pursuant to this part 8 include comprehensive programs to prevent and treat tobacco addiction among persons with behavioral or mental health disorders.

(3) The general assembly also finds that:

(a) Each year, thousands of people in this state die from diseases that have been clinically proven to be caused by or directly related to tobacco use;

(b) Once a person starts using tobacco, he or she usually becomes addicted to the nicotine contained in the tobacco, which makes it terribly difficult for the person to quit using tobacco even when the person is aware of the significant health risks that accompany tobacco use;

(c) Studies show that a child is at a substantially greater risk of starting to use tobacco if the child's parents or older siblings use tobacco. Therefore, reducing tobacco use by adults may significantly reduce the risk that children will begin using tobacco.

(d) Annual direct medical costs from tobacco use in Colorado currently exceed one billion dollars;

(e) Comprehensive tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs may result in millions of dollars in savings to the state and individual residents of the state for generations.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 613, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2005: (3)(d) amended, p. 932, § 22, effective June 2. L. 2017: (2) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1324, § 189, effective May 25.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act amending subsection (3)(d), see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-3.5-803. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Division" means the division within the department of public health and environment responsible for prevention services.

(2) "Entity" means any local government, county, district, or municipal public health agency, political subdivision of the state, county department of human or social services, state agency, state institution of higher education that offers a teacher education program, school, school district, or board of cooperative services or any private nonprofit or not-for-profit community-based organization. "Entity" also means a for-profit organization that applies for a grant for the sole purpose of providing a statewide public information campaign concerning tobacco use prevention and cessation.

(3) "Master settlement agreement" means the master settlement agreement, the smokeless tobacco master settlement agreement, and the consent decree approved and entered by the court in the case denominated State of Colorado, ex rel. Gale A. Norton, Attorney General v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.; American Tobacco Co., Inc.; Brown &Williamson Tobacco Corp.; Liggett & Myers, Inc.; Lorillard Tobacco Co., Inc.; Philip Morris, Inc.; United States Tobacco Co.; B.A.T. Industries, P.L.C.; The Council For Tobacco Research--U.S.A., Inc.; and Tobacco Institute, Inc., Case No. 97 CV 3432, in the district court for the city and county of Denver.

(4) "Program" means the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation grant program created in section 25-3.5-804.

(4.5) "Review committee" means the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation grant program review committee created in section 25-3.5-804 (5)(a).

(5) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 614, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2005: (2) amended, p. 932, § 23, effective June 2. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1970, § 85, effective August 5. L. 2010: (2) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2092, § 89, effective August 11. L. 2018: (2) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 441, § 100, effective August 8. L. 2025: (4.5) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2078, § 212, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-3.5-804. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - review committee - grants - reimbursement for expenses - rules.

(1) There is hereby created the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation grant program to provide funding for community-based and statewide tobacco education programs designed to reduce initiation of tobacco use by children and youth, promote cessation of tobacco use among youth and adults, and reduce exposure to secondhand smoke. Any such tobacco programs may be presented in combination with other substance abuse programs. The program shall be administered by the division within the department and coordinated with efforts pursuant to article 7 of title 44. The state board shall award grants to selected entities from money appropriated to the department from the tobacco education programs fund created in section 24-22-117.

(2) The state board shall adopt rules that specify, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

(a) The procedures and timelines by which an entity may apply for program grants;

(b) Grant application contents;

(c) Criteria for selecting those entities that shall receive grants and determining the amount and duration of said grants;

(d) Reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this part 8.

(3) (a) The division shall review the applications received pursuant to this part 8 and make recommendations to the state board regarding those entities that may receive grants and the amounts of the grants. On and after October 1, 2005, the review committee shall review the applications received pursuant to this part 8 and submit to the state board and the director of the department recommended grant recipients, grant amounts, and the duration of each grant. Within thirty days after receiving the review committee's recommendations, the director shall submit the director's recommendations to the state board. The review committee's recommendations regarding grantees of the Tony Grampsas youth services grant program, created in section 26-6.8-102, pursuant to section 25-3.5-805 (5) shall be submitted to the state board and the department of human services. Within thirty days after receiving the review committee's recommendations, the department of human services shall submit its recommendations to the state board. The state board has the final authority to approve the grants under this part 8. If the state board disapproves a recommendation for a grant recipient, the review committee may submit a replacement recommendation within thirty days. In reviewing grant applications for programs to provide tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs for persons with behavioral or mental health disorders, the division or the review committee shall consult with the programs for public psychiatry at the university of Colorado health sciences center, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health Colorado, and the department of human services.

(b) The state board shall award grants to the selected entities, specifying the amount and duration of the award. No grant awarded pursuant to this part 8 shall exceed three years without renewal. Of the amount awarded each year pursuant to the provisions of this part 8, the state board shall award at least one-third of the amount to entities that provide tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs, solely or in combination with substance abuse programs, to school-age children.

(4) In implementing the program, the division shall survey the need for trained teachers, health professionals, and others involved in providing tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs. To the extent the division determines there is a need, the division may provide technical training and assistance to entities that receive program grants pursuant to this part 8.

(5) (a) There is hereby created in the division the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation grant program review committee. The review committee is responsible for ensuring that program priorities are established consistent with the Colorado tobacco prevention and control strategic plan, overseeing program strategies and activities, and ensuring that the program grants are in compliance with section 25-3.5-805.

(b) The review committee shall consist of the following sixteen members:

(I) The director of the department or the director's designee;

(II) Five members who shall be appointed by the director of the department, one of whom shall include the director of the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation program within the division and four of whom shall be staff of the program with expertise in tobacco prevention among youth, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, tobacco cessation, or public education;

(III) Eight members who shall be appointed by the state board as follows:

(A) One member who is a member of the state board;

(B) One member who is a representative of a local public health agency;

(C) One member who is a representative of a statewide association representing physicians;

(D) One member who is a representative of an association representing family physicians;

(E) One member who is a representative of the Colorado department of education;

(F) One member who is a representative of the university of Colorado health sciences center who has expertise in evaluation;

(G) One member who represents a sociodemographic disadvantaged population in Colorado; and

(H) One member who is a representative of a statewide nonprofit organization with a demonstrated expertise in and commitment to tobacco control;

(IV) The president of the senate shall appoint one member of the senate;

(V) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint one member of the house of representatives.

(c) (I) Except as provided in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (c), members of the review committee shall serve three-year terms; except that of the members initially appointed to the review committee, five members appointed by the state board shall serve two-year terms. Members of the review committee appointed pursuant to subparagraph (III) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (5) shall not serve more than two consecutive terms.

(II) The terms of the members appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives and the president of the senate and who are serving on March 22, 2007, shall be extended to and expire on or shall terminate on the convening date of the first regular session of the sixty-seventh general assembly. As soon as practicable after such convening date, the speaker and the president shall appoint or reappoint members in the same manner as provided in subparagraphs (IV) and (V) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (5). Thereafter, the terms of members appointed or reappointed by the speaker and the president shall expire on the convening date of the first regular session of each general assembly, and all subsequent appointments and reappointments by the speaker and the president shall be made as soon as practicable after such convening date. The person making the original appointment or reappointment shall fill any vacancy by appointment for the remainder of an unexpired term. Members shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and shall continue in office until the member's successor is appointed.

(d) The composition of the review committee shall reflect, to the extent practical, Colorado's ethnic, racial, and geographic diversity.

(e) Except as otherwise provided in section 2-2-326, members of the review committee shall be reimbursed from money deposited in the tobacco education programs fund created in section 24-22-117 for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties pursuant to this part 8.

(f) The review committee shall elect from its membership a chair and a vice-chair of the committee.

(g) The division shall provide staff support to the review committee.

(h) If a member of the review committee has an immediate personal, private, or financial interest in any matter pending before the review committee, the member shall disclose the fact and shall not vote upon such matter.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 615, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2005: (1) amended, p. 911, § 16, effective June 2; (1) and (3)(a) amended and (5) added, p. 932, § 24, effective June 2. L. 2007: (5)(c) amended, p. 187, § 23, effective March 22. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1970, § 86, effective August 5. L. 2013: (3)(a) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 590, § 23, effective July 1. L. 2014: (5)(e) amended, (SB 14-153), ch. 390, p. 1964, § 21, effective June 6. L. 2017: (3)(a) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1324, § 190, effective May 25. L. 2018: (3)(a) amended, (SB 18-091), ch. 35, p. 387, § 23, effective August 8; (1) amended, (SB 18-036), ch. 34, p. 377, § 6, effective October 1. L. 2023: (5)(e) amended, (SB 23-210), ch. 251, p. 1430, § 5, effective May 24. L. 2025: (3)(a) amended, (SB 25-197), ch. 256, p. 1287, § 10, effective August 6; (5)(a) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2078, § 213, effective August 6. L. 2026: (3)(a) amended, (SB 26-169), ch. 311, p. 1808, § 41, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1) by House Bill 05-1261 and House Bill 05-1262 were harmonized.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act amending subsections (1) and (3)(a) and enacting subsection (5), see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsection (3)(a), see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

(2) For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-091, see section 1 of chapter 35, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. For the legislative declaration in SB 25-197, see section 1 of chapter 256, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-3.5-805. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - requirements.

(1) An entity that applies for a grant pursuant to the provisions of this part 8 shall in the application demonstrate that the tobacco education, prevention, or cessation program provides at least one of the following:

(a) Education designed for school-age children that, at a minimum, addresses tobacco use prevention and cessation strategies and the dangers of tobacco use; or

(b) Education programs, including but not limited to school, work site, mass media, and health-care setting programs, designed to prevent or reduce the use of all types of tobacco products or help reduce exposure to secondhand smoke; or

(c) Counseling regarding the use of all types of tobacco products; or

(d) Programs that address prevention and cessation of the abuse of various types of drugs, with an emphasis on prevention and cessation of tobacco use; or

(e) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2005, p. 935, § 25, effective June 2, 2005.)

(f) Tobacco use and substance abuse prevention and cessation services addressed to specific population groups such as adolescents and pregnant women and provided within specific ethnic and low-income communities; or

(g) Training of teachers, health professionals, and others in the field of tobacco use and prevention; or

(h) Tobacco addiction prevention and treatment strategies that are designed specifically for persons with behavioral or mental health disorders; or

(i) Activities to prevent the sale or furnishing by other means of cigarettes or tobacco products to minors; or

(j) Programs that are designed to eliminate health disparities among segments of the population that have higher than average tobacco burdens.

(1.5) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, an entity may apply for a grant for the purpose of evaluating the entire statewide program or individual components of the program.

(2) If the entity applying for a grant pursuant to the provisions of this part 8 is a school district or board of cooperative services, in addition to the information specified in subsection (1) of this section, the entity shall demonstrate in the application that the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation program to be operated with moneys received from the grant is a program that has not been previously provided by the school district or board of cooperative services. The entity shall also demonstrate that the program is specifically designed to appeal to and address the concerns of the age group to which the program will be presented.

(3) In adopting criteria for awarding grants, the state board shall adopt such criteria as will ensure that the implementation of a comprehensive program is consistent with the Colorado tobacco prevention and control strategic plan, that tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs are available throughout the state, and that the programs are available to serve persons of all ages.

(4) At least fifteen percent of the moneys annually awarded to grantees pursuant to this section shall be for the purposes of providing funding to eliminate health disparities among minority populations and high-risk populations that have higher-than-average tobacco burdens.

(5) Up to fifteen percent of the moneys annually awarded pursuant to this section shall be allocated to grantees of the Tony Grampsas youth services program, section 26-6.8-102, C.R.S., for proven tobacco prevention and cessation programs.

(6) The majority of moneys annually awarded to grantees that qualify pursuant to subsections (1), (2), and (5) of this section shall be for evidence-based programs and programs that prevent and reduce tobacco use among youth and young adults.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 616, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2005: Entire section amended, p. 935, § 25, effective June 2. L. 2013: (5) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 590, § 24, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1)(h) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1325, § 191, effective May 25.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsection (5), see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-3.5-806. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - reporting requirements.

(1) In adopting rules specifying the reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this part 8, the state board shall ensure that such reports, at a minimum, include:

(a) An evaluation of the implementation of the program, including but not limited to the number of persons served and the services provided;

(b) The results achieved by the program, specifying the goals of the program and the criteria used in measuring attainment of the goals;

(c) An explanation of how the results achieved by the program contribute to the achievement of the program goals as stated in section 25-3.5-802.

(2) The division shall compile the annual reports received from entities pursuant to this section.

(3) (a) The division shall annually review the reports received from entities receiving grants pursuant to this part 8 and shall make recommendations to the state board concerning whether the amount received by an entity should be continued, reduced, or increased. The division may also recommend that the grant for an entity be immediately terminated or not renewed if the tobacco education, prevention, and cessation program funded by the grant does not demonstrate a sufficient level of success, as determined by the division.

(b) The division may contract with one or more public or private entities to review and compile the reports received pursuant to this section and prepare the recommendations pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3).

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 617, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2015: (2) amended, (SB 15-189), ch. 104, p. 304, § 4, effective April 16.

25-3.5-807. Tobacco program fund - created. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 618, § 13, effective May 18. L. 2003: (2)(a) amended, p. 465, § 10, effective March 5; (2)(a) amended, p. 2564, § 7, effective June 5. L. 2004: (2)(a) amended and (2)(b) repealed, pp. 1709, 1713, §§ 7, 16, effective June 4. L. 2005: Entire section repealed, p. 912, § 17, effective June 2.

25-3.5-807.5. Transfer of balance of tobacco program fund - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 624, § 21, effective April 20.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2009. (See L. 2009, p. 624.)

25-3.5-808. Administration - limitation.

The prevention services division of the department may receive up to five percent of the moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly from the tobacco education programs fund created in section 24-22-117, C.R.S., for the actual costs incurred in administering the program, including the hiring of sufficient staff within the division to effectively administer the program and reimbursement of review committee members pursuant to section 25-3.5-804 (5).

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 936, § 26, effective June 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005.

25-3.5-809. Tobacco education, prevention, and cessation programs - funding.

The programs under this part 8 shall be funded by moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly to the department from the tobacco education programs fund created in section 24-22-117, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 912, § 18, effective June 2.

Editor's note: This section was originally numbered as § 25-3.5-808 in House Bill 05-1261 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-3.5-810. Nicotine products education, prevention, and cessation programs.

The education, prevention, and cessation programs that are funded with money transferred to the tobacco education programs fund in accordance with section 24-22-118 (2) may also apply to nicotine products.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1427), ch. 248, p. 1211, § 23, effective January 1, 2021.

Editor's note: Section 27 of chapter 248 (HB 20-1427), Session Laws of Colorado 2020, provides that this section takes effect on the date of the governor's proclamation or January 1, 2021, whichever is later, only if, at the November 2020 statewide election, a majority of voters approve the ballot issue referred in accordance with § 39-28-401. The ballot issue, referred to the voters as proposition EE, was approved on November 3, 2020, and was proclaimed by the Governor on December 31, 2020. The vote count for the measure was as follows:

FOR: 2,134,608

AGAINST: 1,025,182

PART 9

QUALITY MANAGEMENT

25-3.5-901. Short title.

This part 9 shall be known and may be cited as the "Carol J. Shanaberger Act".

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-162), ch. 335, p. 1489, § 1, effective June 5.

25-3.5-902. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the implementation of quality management functions to evaluate and improve prehospital emergency medical service patient care is essential to the operation of emergency medical services organizations. For this purpose, it is necessary that the collection of information by prehospital medical directors and emergency medical services organizations be reasonably unfettered so that a complete and thorough evaluation and improvement of the quality of patient care can be accomplished. To this end, quality management information relating to the evaluation or improvement of the quality of prehospital emergency medical services is confidential, subject to section 25-3.5-904 (3), and persons performing quality management functions are granted qualified immunity as specified in section 25-3.5-904 (4). It is the intent of the general assembly that nothing in this section revise, amend, or alter part 2 of article 30 or article 240 of title 12.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-162), ch. 335, p. 1489, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1701, § 154, effective October 1.

25-3.5-903. Definitions.

As used in this part 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Emergency medical services organization" means:

(a) Local emergency medical and trauma service providers, as defined in section 25-3.5-602 (4), excluding a health-care facility licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a) that has a quality management program pursuant to section 25-3-109;

(b) Regional emergency medical and trauma services advisory councils, as defined in section 25-3.5-703 (6.8) and established under section 25-3.5-704 (2)(c); and

(c) Public safety answering points, as defined in section 29-11-101 (23), performing emergency medical dispatch.

(2) "Prehospital medical director" or "medical director" means a licensed physician who supervises certified or licensed emergency medical service providers who provide prehospital care.

(3) "Quality management assessment" means a review and assessment of the performance of prehospital care provided by emergency medical service providers operating under a medical director.

(4) (a) "Quality management program" means a program established under this part 9 that is designed to perform quality management assessments for the purpose of improving patient care and includes:

(I) Quality assurance and risk management activities;

(II) Peer review of emergency medical service providers; and

(III) Other quality management functions.

(b) "Quality management program" does not include review or assessment of the licensing, use, or maintenance of vehicles used by an emergency medical services organization.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-162), ch. 335, p. 1490, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2019: (2) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3530, § 20, effective May 31. L. 2020: (1)(c) amended, (HB 20-1293), ch. 267, p. 1297, § 13, effective July 10.

25-3.5-904. Quality management programs - creation - assessments - confidentiality of information - exceptions - immunity for good faith participants.

(1) Each emergency medical services organization that institutes a quality management program to conduct quality management assessments shall include in that program at least the following components:

(a) Periodic review of treatment protocols, compliance with treatment protocols, and prehospital emergency medical care provided to patients;

(b) Peer review of emergency medical service providers, including review of their qualifications and competence and quality and appropriateness of patient care;

(c) The collection of data if required pursuant to section 25-3.5-704 (2)(h)(II);

(d) A general description of the types of cases, problems, or risks to be reviewed and the process used for identifying potential risks;

(e) Identification of the personnel or committees responsible for coordinating quality management activities and the means of reporting within the quality management program;

(f) A description of the method for systematically reporting information to the organization's medical director;

(g) A description of the method for investigating and analyzing causes of individual problems and patterns of problems;

(h) A description of possible corrective actions to address the problems, including education, prevention, and minimizing potential problems or risks; and

(i) A description of the method for following up in a timely manner on corrective action to determine the effectiveness of the action.

(2) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b) or (3) of this section, information required to be collected and maintained, including information from the prehospital care reporting system that identifies an individual, and records, reports, and other information obtained and maintained in accordance with a quality management program established pursuant to this section are confidential and shall not be released except to the department in cases of an alleged violation of board rules pertaining to emergency medical service provider certification or licensure or except in accordance with section 25-3.5-205 (4).

(b) (I) An emergency medical services organization or prehospital medical director may share quality management records related to peer review of an emergency medical service provider with another emergency medical services organization or a licensed or certified health-care facility that has a quality management program under this section or section 25-3-109, as applicable, without violating the confidentiality requirements of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) and without waiving the privilege specified in subsection (3) of this section, if the emergency medical service provider seeks to subject himself or herself to, or is currently subject to, the authority of the emergency medical services organization or health-care facility.

(II) A health-care facility licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a) that has a quality management program pursuant to section 25-3-109 may share quality management records related to peer review of an emergency medical service provider with an emergency medical services organization or prehospital medical director if the emergency medical service provider seeks to subject himself or herself to, or is currently subject to, the authority of the emergency medical services organization or prehospital medical director without violating the confidentiality requirements of this subsection (2) and section 25-3-109 (3) and without waiving the privilege specified in subsection (3) of this section and section 25-3-109 (4).

(c) The confidentiality of information provided for in this section is not impaired or otherwise adversely affected solely because the prehospital medical director or emergency medical services organization submits the information to a nongovernmental entity to conduct studies that evaluate, develop, and analyze information about emergency medical care operations, practices, or any other function of emergency medical care organizations. The records, reports, and other information collected or developed by a nongovernmental entity remain protected as provided in paragraph (a) of this subsection (2). In order to adequately protect the confidentiality of the information, the findings, conclusions, or recommendations contained in the studies conducted by a nongovernmental entity are not deemed to establish a standard of care for emergency medical care organizations.

(3) (a) The records, reports, and other information described in subsection (2) of this section are not subject to subpoena and are not discoverable or admissible as evidence in any civil or administrative proceeding. A person who participates in the reporting, collection, evaluation, or use of quality management information with regard to a specific circumstance shall not testify about his or her participation in any civil or administrative proceeding.

(b) This subsection (3) does not apply to:

(I) Any civil or administrative proceeding, inspection, or investigation as otherwise provided by law by the department or other appropriate regulatory agency having jurisdiction for disciplinary or licensing sanctions;

(II) A person giving testimony concerning facts of which he or she has personal knowledge acquired independently of the quality management program or function;

(III) The availability, as provided by law or the rules of civil procedure, of factual information relating solely to the individual in interest in a civil suit by the person, next friend, or legal representative, but factual information does not include opinions or evaluations performed as a part of the quality management program;

(IV) A person giving testimony concerning an act or omission that he or she observed or in which he or she participated, notwithstanding any participation by him or her in the quality management program;

(V) A person giving testimony concerning facts he or she had recorded in a medical record relating solely to the individual in interest in a civil suit.

(4) A person, acting in good faith, within the scope and functions of a quality management program, and without violating any applicable laws, who participates in the reporting, collection, evaluation, or use of quality management information or performs other functions as part of a quality management program with regard to a specific circumstance is immune from liability in any civil action based on his or her participation in the quality management program brought by an emergency medical service provider or person to whom the quality management information pertains. This immunity does not apply to any negligent or intentional act or omission in the provision of care.

(5) Nothing in this section:

(a) Affects or prevents the voluntary release of any quality management record or information by a prehospital medical director or emergency medical services organization; except that no patient-identifying information may be released without the patient's consent;

(b) Limits any statutory or common-law privilege, confidentiality, or immunity; or

(c) Affects a person's ability to access his or her medical records as provided in section 25-1-801 or the right of any family member or other person to obtain medical record information upon the consent of the patient or his or her authorized representative.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-162), ch. 335, p. 1490, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2019: (2)(a) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3530, § 21, effective May 31.

PART 10

STATEWIDE MARIJUANA EDUCATION CAMPAIGN

25-3.5-1001. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Many substance abuse, public health, education, regulatory, and law enforcement professionals are concerned about the impact that the legalization of retail marijuana will have on children, youth, and adults in the state;

(b) Many of these professionals believe that the legalization of retail marijuana may result in:

(I) An increase in the abuse of marijuana by adults and youth;

(II) A greater need for early intervention services due to increased use of marijuana by youth and adults;

(III) A belief among children and youth that the risks associated with marijuana use are low;

(IV) Health impacts in connection with exposure to secondhand smoke;

(V) An increase in the instances of impaired driving and the associated increase in crashes;

(VI) New health concerns regarding pregnant or nursing women who use marijuana or who are exposed to secondhand smoke from marijuana; and

(VII) Other potential concerns that have not yet been identified.

(c) Mass-reach health communications strategies have been found to be effective in reducing tobacco and alcohol use among adults and youth, in increasing the use of cessation services, and in limiting tobacco and alcohol initiation by youth; and

(d) There is substantial evidence that mass media campaigns and community coalitions are effective in preventing marijuana use.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that to protect and improve the health of the citizens of the state, it is a prudent use of state resources to require the Colorado department of public health and environment to implement a campaign to increase the awareness of and education about the impacts of marijuana use.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1609, § 5, effective July 1.

25-3.5-1002. Definitions.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Division" means the division within the department of public health and environment responsible for prevention services.

(2) "Retail marijuana" means marijuana that is legal for adults to purchase and use pursuant to section 16 of article XVIII of the state constitution.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1610, § 5, effective July 1.

25-3.5-1003. Eighteen-month public awareness and education campaign - legalization of marijuana - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1610, § 5, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2016. (See L. 2014, p. 1610.)

25-3.5-1004. Ongoing prevention and education campaign - training - marijuana.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, beginning in the 2014-15 state fiscal year, the division shall develop, implement, and evaluate an ongoing statewide prevention and education campaign to address the long-term marijuana education needs in the state. In the prevention and education messaging, the division shall provide information to:

(a) The general public regarding the law surrounding the legal use of retail marijuana;

(b) People in the retail marijuana industry regarding restricting youth access to retail marijuana;

(c) Retail marijuana users and other relevant populations identified as high-risk regarding the potential risks associated with the use of marijuana; and

(d) The general public regarding the dangers associated with the over-consumption of marijuana-infused products.

(2) In furtherance of the goals of the ongoing marijuana prevention and education campaign, the division may use television messaging, radio broadcasts, print media, digital strategies, or any other form of messaging deemed necessary and appropriate by the division to reach the target audiences of the campaign.

(3) In furtherance of the goals of the ongoing marijuana prevention and education campaign, the department of public health and environment shall provide at least five regional training sessions during the 2014-15 fiscal year for community partners to implement youth health development strategies.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1611, § 5, effective July 1.

25-3.5-1005. Website - primary state resource for information.

(1) In furtherance of the goals of the eighteen-month public awareness and education campaign created in section 25-3.5-1003, as it existed prior to its repeal in 2016, and the ongoing prevention and education campaign created in section 25-3.5-1004, the division shall create a website that will serve as the state portal for the most accurate and timely information regarding the health effects of marijuana use and the laws regarding marijuana use. The division shall ensure that the website links to the information made available by local governments that have passed additional restrictions on the use of retail marijuana and links to the website of every state agency that contains relevant information regarding retail marijuana, including any youth prevention campaign managed by a state agency.

(2) The division shall implement a marketing campaign to generate public awareness of the website as the primary state resource for information regarding the legalization and use of retail marijuana in the state.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1611, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1407, § 82, effective May 25.

25-3.5-1006. Align marijuana messaging - integration of information across state agencies.

(1) The division shall integrate information from each state agency involved in providing retail marijuana information, including the department of human services, the department of transportation, the department of revenue, the department of law, the department of public safety, and the department of education, to align the messaging, branding, and education provided by each agency for the eighteen-month public education and awareness campaign required pursuant to section 25-3.5-1003, as it existed prior to its repeal in 2016, the ongoing prevention and education campaign required pursuant to section 25-3.5-1004, and the website required pursuant to section 25-3.5-1005.

(2) The division shall provide data, training, educational materials, and resources on effective prevention strategies to local community coalitions and programs addressing marijuana prevention.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1612, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1407, § 83, effective May 25; (1) amended, (HB 17-1295), ch. 258, p. 1076, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1) by SB 17-294 and HB 17-1295 were harmonized.

25-3.5-1007. Evaluation of marijuana campaigns.

(1) The department shall contract with a respected evaluation partner to develop and implement a three-year evaluation plan assessing the reach and impact of the eighteen-month public education and awareness campaign required pursuant to section 25-3.5-1003, as it existed prior to its repeal in 2016, and the ongoing prevention and education campaign required pursuant to section 25-3.5-1004. The evaluation must also assess the department's success in educating the citizens of the state regarding the legal parameters of the use of retail marijuana and preventing negative health impacts from the legalization of retail marijuana.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2017.)

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-215), ch. 352, p. 1612, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1407, § 84, effective May 25.

PART 11

EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONDERS

25-3.5-1101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that:

(a) The department has responsibility for oversight of the emergency medical and trauma services system and the certification or licensure of emergency medical service providers. Emergency medical service providers are certified or licensed by the department to provide treatment and transport to the sick and injured.

(b) Emergency medical responders are the part of the emergency medical and trauma services system who answer emergency calls, provide effective and immediate care to ill and injured patients, prepare the scene for the arrival of the ambulance and emergency medical service providers, and provide assistance to emergency medical service providers as directed;

(c) Most emergency medical responders perform their duties in an ethical and professional manner;

(d) It is in the interests of the citizens of this state that a voluntary process exists whereby individuals may register their training and status as an emergency medical responder with the state; and

(e) It is in the public interest to place the voluntary registration of emergency medical responders within the state department that has statutory responsibility for the statewide emergency medical and trauma services system.

(2) Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to:

(a) Transfer the oversight of emergency medical responders, formerly known as first responders, from the department of public safety to the department of public health and environment; and

(b) Fund the oversight of the voluntary registration program through the highway users tax fund established in section 42-3-304 (21), C.R.S., in order to avoid cost-prohibitive registration fees.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1311, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2019: (1)(a) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3530, § 22, effective May 31.

25-3.5-1102. Definitions.

As used in this part 11:

(1) "Emergency medical responder" means an individual who has successfully completed the training and examination requirements for emergency medical responders and who provides assistance to the injured or ill until more highly trained and qualified personnel arrive.

(2) "Physician" means a person licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12, in good standing, who authorizes and directs, through protocols and standing orders, the performance of students-in-training enrolled in department-recognized emergency medical responder education programs.

(3) "Registered emergency medical responder" means an individual who has successfully completed the training and examination requirements for emergency medical responders, who provides assistance to the injured or ill until more highly trained and qualified personnel arrive, and who is registered with the department pursuant to this part 11.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1312, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2019: (2) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1701, § 155, effective October 1.

25-3.5-1103. Registration - rules - funds.

(1) On and after July 1, 2017, the department shall administer a voluntary registration program for emergency medical responders. A person shall not hold himself or herself out as a registered emergency medical responder, providing care or services as identified in national guidelines for emergency medical response as approved by the department, unless the person meets the requirements set forth in this part 11; except that a person may function as a good samaritan pursuant to section 13-21-116, C.R.S.

(2) The board shall adopt rules for the administration of the emergency medical responder registration program, which rules shall include, at a minimum, the following:

(a) Requirements for emergency medical responder registration, which include certification of the applicant through a nationally recognized emergency responder certification organization approved by the department;

(b) The period of time for which the registration as an emergency medical responder is valid;

(c) Registration renewal requirements;

(d) Training requirements for new and renewing registrants;

(e) Provisions governing national and state criminal history record checks for new and renewing registrants and the use of the results of the checks by the department to determine the action to take on a registration application. Notwithstanding section 24-5-101, C.R.S., these provisions must allow the department to consider whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude and the pertinent circumstances connected with the conviction and to make a determination whether any such conviction disqualifies the applicant from registration.

(f) Disciplinary sanctions, which may include provisions for the denial, revocation, probation, and suspension, including summary suspension, of registration and of education program recognition; and

(g) An appeal process consistent with sections 24-4-104 and 24-4-105, C.R.S., that is applicable to department decisions in connection with sanctions.

(3) Rules promulgated by the department of public safety remain in effect until superceded by rules duly adopted pursuant to this part 11.

(4) (a) The department may issue a provisional registration to an applicant for registration as an emergency medical responder who requests issuance of a provisional registration and who pays a fee authorized under rules adopted by the board. A provisional registration is valid for not more than ninety days.

(b) The department may not issue a provisional registration unless the applicant satisfies the requirements for registration established in rules of the board. If the department finds that an emergency medical responder who has received a provisional registration has violated any requirements for registration, the department may revoke the provisional registration and prohibit the registration of the emergency medical responder.

(c) The department may issue a provisional registration to an applicant whose fingerprint-based criminal history record check has not yet been completed. The department shall require the applicant to submit to a name-based judicial record check prior to issuing a provisional registration.

(d) The board shall adopt rules as necessary to implement this subsection (4), including rules establishing a fee to be charged to applicants seeking a provisional registration. The department shall deposit any fee collected for a provisional registration in the emergency medical services account created in section 25-3.5-603.

(5) (a) The department shall acquire a fingerprint-based criminal history record check from the Colorado bureau of investigation to investigate the holder of or applicant for an emergency medical responder registration. The department may acquire a name-based judicial record check for a registrant or an applicant. Notwithstanding subsection (5)(b) of this section, if a person submitted to a fingerprint-based criminal history record check at the time of initial registration or registration renewal, the person is not required to submit to a subsequent fingerprint-based criminal history record check.

(b) If, at the time of application for registry or for renewal, an individual has lived in the state for three years or less, the department shall require the applicant to submit to a federal bureau of investigation fingerprint-based national criminal history record check; except that the department may acquire a national name-based judicial record check for an applicant. The department is the authorized agency to receive and disseminate information regarding the result of any national criminal history record check.

(c) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of a person performed pursuant to this subsection (5) reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that person to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d).

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1312, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2019: (5)(c) added, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 553, § 38, effective April 18. L. 2022: (4)(c) and (5) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 526, § 40, effective April 21.

25-3.5-1104. Training programs - rules.

(1) The board shall adopt rules regarding the recognition by the department of education programs that provide initial training and continued competency education for emergency medical responders.

(2) The receipt of a certificate or other document of course completion issued by an education program or national certification organization is not deemed state licensure, approval, or registration.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1314, § 3, effective August 10.

25-3.5-1105. Investigation and discipline.

(1) The department may administer oaths, take affirmations of witnesses, and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of all relevant records and documents to investigate alleged misconduct by registered emergency medical responders.

(2) Upon failure of a witness to comply with a subpoena, the department may apply to a district court for an order requiring the person to appear before the department or an administrative law judge, to produce the relevant records or documents, or to give testimony or evidence touching the matter under investigation or in question. When seeking an order, the department shall apply to the district court of the county in which the subpoenaed person resides or conducts business. The court may punish such failure as a contempt of court.

(3) A registered emergency medical responder, the employer of a registered emergency medical responder, or a physician shall report to the department any misconduct by a registered emergency medical responder that is known or reasonably believed by the person to have occurred.

(4) A person acting as a witness or consultant to the department, a witness testifying, and a person or employer who reports misconduct to the department under this section is immune from liability in any civil action brought for acts occurring while testifying, producing evidence, or reporting misconduct under this section if the individual or employer was acting in good faith and with a reasonable belief of the facts. A person or employer participating in good faith in an investigation or an administrative proceeding pursuant to this section is immune from any civil or criminal liability that may result from such participation.

(5) Records, documents, testimony, or evidence obtained under this section are confidential except to the extent necessary to support the administrative action taken by the department, to refer the matter to another regulatory agency, or to refer the matter to a law enforcement agency for criminal prosecution.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (HB 16-1034), ch. 324, p. 1314, § 3, effective August 10.

PART 12

COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE REFERRAL AND EDUCATION SERVICES (CARES) PROGRAM

25-3.5-1201. Short title.

The short title of this part 12 is the "Community Assistance Referral and Education Services (CARES) Program Act".

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1064, § 4, effective June 8.

25-3.5-1202. Definitions.

As used in this part 12, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Authorized entity" means:

(a) A licensed ambulance service;

(b) A fire department of a town, city, or city and county;

(c) A fire protection district, ambulance district, health assurance district, health service district, or metropolitan district or a special district authority; or

(d) A health-care business entity, including a licensed or certified health-care facility that is subject to regulation under article 3 of this title.

(2) "Medical direction" means the supervision over and direction of individuals who perform acts on behalf of a CARES program by a physician or advanced practice registered nurse who is licensed in Colorado and in good standing and who is identified as being responsible for assuring the competency of those individuals in the performance of acts on behalf of the CARES program.

(3) "Program" or "CARES program" means a community assistance referral and education services program established in accordance with this part 12.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1064, § 4, effective June 8.

25-3.5-1203. Community assistance referral and education services programs - authorization - scope.

(1) To improve the health of residents within its jurisdiction, prevent illness and injury, or reduce the incidence of 911 calls and hospital emergency department visits made for the purpose of obtaining nonemergency, nonurgent medical care or services, an authorized entity may establish a community assistance referral and education services program to provide community outreach and health education to residents within the authorized entity's jurisdiction.

(2) (a) On or after July 1, 2018, an authorized entity that operates or plans to operate a CARES program in Colorado shall notify the department of its CARES program in the form and manner required by the department.

(b) The department shall maintain a list of all authorized entities that operate a CARES program and make the list accessible to the public.

(c) An authorized entity operating a CARES program shall not assert that it is licensed or certified by the department.

(3) Subject to medical direction, an authorized entity operating a program may, within the scope of practice of its practitioners:

(a) Provide the following services:

(I) Health education and information available on relevant services; and

(II) Referrals for and information concerning low-cost medication programs and alternative resources to the 911 system;

(b) To provide services in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) and to ensure nonduplication of the services, collaborate with appropriate community resources, including:

(I) Health-care facilities licensed or issued a certificate of compliance pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 or subject to regulation by the department pursuant to article 1 or 3 of this title;

(II) Primary care providers;

(III) Other health-care professionals; or

(IV) Social services agencies.

(4) (a) An authorized entity operating a CARES program shall not provide services that would require a license or certification pursuant to part 13 of this article or article 3 or 3.5 of this title.

(b) In the form and manner prescribed by the department and before referring a service or provider to a recipient of a CARES program service, an authorized entity operating a CARES program shall disclose, at a minimum, in writing, the following information to the recipient:

(I) Any relationship that the CARES program has with an individual or entity to which it refers a recipient of CARES program service; and

(II) Whether the authorized entity directs, controls, schedules, or trains any provider to which it refers a recipient of CARES program services.

(5) The department may investigate an authorized entity as it deems necessary to ensure:

(a) The protection of the health, safety, and welfare of a recipient of CARES program services; and

(b) That the authorized entity is not providing services through its CARES program that require a license or certification pursuant to part 13 of this article or article 3 or 3.5 of this title.

(6) A person working directly or indirectly for a CARES program, whether as an employee or a contractor, may only provide services consistent with the requirements of subsection (3) of this section; except that nothing in this section prohibits a licensed, certified, or registered health-care or mental health provider or certified or licensed emergency medical service provider from acting or providing services within the provider's scope of practice if necessary to respond to an emergent situation.

(7) Repealed.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1064, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2019: (6) amended, (SB 19-242), ch. 396, p. 3531, § 23, effective May 31.

Editor's note: Subsection (7)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (7), effective July 1, 2021. (See L. 2016, p. 1064.)

25-3.5-1204. Reports.

(1) (a) If an authorized entity develops a program under this article, the authorized entity shall report to the department, in the form and manner determined by the department, on the progress of the program on or before December 31 in the year following the year in which the program commenced and on or before December 31 of each subsequent year in which the program continues to operate.

(b) An authorized entity's report must include:

(I) The number of residents who have used program services and the types of program services used;

(II) A measurement of any reduction in the use of the 911 system for nonemergency, nonurgent medical assistance by residents within the authorized entity's jurisdiction; and

(III) A measurement of any reduction in visits to the emergency department in a hospital for nonemergency, nonurgent medical assistance by residents within the authorized entity's jurisdiction.

(c) An authorized entity's report pursuant to this section must not include any personally identifiable information concerning a program client or prospective client.

(2) On or before March 31 of each year, the department shall compile annual reports received from authorized entities in the previous year into a single report and post the report on its website.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1066, § 4, effective June 8.

PART 13

COMMUNITY INTEGRATED HEALTH-CARE SERVICE AGENCIES

25-3.5-1301. Definitions - rules.

As used in this part 13, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) Except as provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section, "community integrated health-care service" has the meaning set forth in section 25-3.5-103 (4.3).

(b) "Community integrated health-care service" includes:

(I) Mobile integrated health care; and

(II) The provision of certain care and services, as determined by rule by the board, by practitioners other than community paramedics.

(1.5) "Community integrated health-care service agency" or "agency" means a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, nonprofit entity, special district, governmental unit or agency, or licensed or certified health-care facility that is subject to regulation under article 1.5 or 3 of this title 25 that manages and offers, directly or by contract, community integrated health-care services.

(2) "Manager" or "administrator" means any person who controls and supervises or offers or attempts to control and supervise the day-to-day operations of a community integrated health-care service agency.

(3) "Medical direction" means the supervision over and direction of individuals who perform acts on behalf of an agency by a physician or advanced practice registered nurse who is licensed in Colorado, is in good standing, and is identified as being responsible for assuring the competency of those individuals in the performance of acts on behalf of the agency; except that, if the agency hires or contracts with a community paramedic, only a licensed physician in good standing may provide medical direction.

(4) "Owner" means an officer, director, general partner, limited partner, or other person having a financial or equity interest of twenty-five percent or greater.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1067, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2025: (1) amended and (1.5) added, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1700, § 3, effective August 6.

25-3.5-1302. Community integrated health-care service agency license required - rules - civil and criminal penalties - liability insurance.

(1) On or after July 1, 2018, a person shall not operate or maintain a community integrated health-care service agency unless the person has submitted to the department a completed application for licensure as a community integrated health-care service agency. On or after December 31, 2018, a person shall not operate or maintain an agency without a community integrated health-care service agency license issued by the department.

(2) (a) A person who violates subsection (1) of this section:

(I) Is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars; and

(II) May be subject to a civil penalty assessed by the department, after conducting a hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., of up to ten thousand dollars for each violation of this section. The department shall transmit all fines collected pursuant to this subparagraph (II) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the moneys to the general fund.

(b) An owner, manager, or administrator of an agency is subject to the penalties in this subsection (2) for any violation of subsection (1) of this section.

(3) A license applicant shall submit to the department, in the manner determined by the board by rule, proof that the agency and any staff that it employs or contracts is covered by general liability insurance in an amount determined by the board by rule, but not less than the amount calculated in accordance with section 24-10-114 (1)(a)(I) and (1)(b), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1067, § 4, effective June 8.

25-3.5-1303. Minimum standards for community integrated health-care service agencies - adult protective services data system check - rules.

(1) In addition to the services that the board, by rule, authorizes a community integrated health-care service agency to perform, an agency may perform any of the services that may be provided through a CARES program pursuant to section 25-3.5-1203 (3) and the tasks and procedures that a community paramedic is authorized to perform within the community paramedic's scope of practice in accordance with section 25-3.5-206 and rules adopted pursuant to that section. The board shall adopt rules providing minimum standards for the operation of an agency within the state. The rules must include the following:

(a) A requirement that the agency have medical direction;

(b) Inspection of agencies by the department or the department's designated representative;

(c) Minimum educational, training, and experience standards for the administrator and staff of an agency, including a requirement that the administrator and staff be of good moral character;

(d) (I) Fees for agency applications and licensure based on the department's direct and indirect costs in implementing this part 13. The department shall transmit the fees to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the community integrated health care service agencies cash fund created in section 25-3.5-1304.

(II) The department shall collect fees from any entity that applies to operate a community integrated health-care service agency, including an agency wholly owned and operated by a governmental unit or agency. The department shall transmit the fees to the state treasurer who shall credit the fees to the community integrated health care service agencies cash fund created in section 25-3.5-1304.

(e) The amount of general liability insurance coverage that an agency shall maintain and the manner in which an agency shall demonstrate proof of insurance to the department. The board may establish by rule that an agency may obtain a surety bond in lieu of liability insurance coverage.

(f) Establishing occurrence reporting requirements pursuant to section 25-1-124;

(g) Requirements for retaining records, including the time that agencies must maintain records for inspection by the department; and

(h) A requirement that agencies report to the department on an annual basis.

(2) On and after January 1, 2019, prior to employment, a community integrated health-care service agency shall submit the name of a person who will be providing direct care, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (3.5), to an at-risk adult, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (1.5), as well as any other required identifying information, to the department of human services for a check of the Colorado adult protective services data system, pursuant to section 26-3.1-111, to determine if the person is substantiated in a case of mistreatment of an at-risk adult.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1068, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2017: (2) added, (HB 17-1284), ch. 272, p. 1504, § 10, effective May 31. L. 2025: IP(1) amended, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1700, § 4, effective August 6.

25-3.5-1304. Community integrated health care service agencies cash fund - created.

There is created the community integrated health care service agencies cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The department shall transmit fees collected pursuant to this part 13 to the state treasurer for deposit in the fund. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for the department's direct and indirect costs in implementing and administering this part 13. Any unencumbered or unexpended money in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1069, § 4, effective June 8.

25-3.5-1305. License - application - inspection - record check - issuance - definition.

(1) A community integrated health-care service agency license expires after one year. The department shall determine the form and manner of initial and renewal license applications.

(2) (a) The department shall inspect an agency as it deems necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of agency patients or clients. An agency shall submit in writing, in a form and manner prescribed by the department, a plan detailing the measures that the agency will take to correct violations found by the department as a result of an inspection.

(b) The department shall keep all medical records and personally identifying information obtained during an inspection of an agency confidential. All records and information obtained by the department through an inspection are exempt from disclosure pursuant to sections 24-72-204, C.R.S., and 25-1-124.

(3) (a) (I) With the submission of an application for a license pursuant to this section, each owner, manager, and administrator of an agency applying for an initial or renewal license shall submit a complete set of the owner's, manager's, or administrator's fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a state and national fingerprint-based criminal history record check utilizing the records of the Colorado bureau of investigation and the federal bureau of investigation. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the results of a criminal history record check to the department.

(II) Each owner, manager, or administrator of an agency is responsible for paying the fee established by the Colorado bureau of investigation for conducting the fingerprint-based criminal history record check to the bureau.

(III) The department may acquire a name-based judicial record check, performed using state judicial department records, for an owner, manager, or administrator.

(IV) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an individual performed pursuant to this subsection (3) reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that individual to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d), performed using state judicial department records.

(b) (I) The department may deny a license or renewal of a license if the results of a record check of an owner, manager, or administrator demonstrates that the owner, manager, or administrator has been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of community integrated health-care service patients or clients.

(II) As used in this subsection (3)(b), "convicted" includes an entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere.

(c) If an agency applying for an initial license is temporarily unable to satisfy all of the requirements for licensure, the department may issue a provisional license to the agency; except that the department shall not issue a provisional license to an agency if operation of the agency will adversely affect the health, safety, or welfare of the agency's patients or clients. The department may require an agency applying for a provisional license to demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that the agency is taking sufficient steps to satisfy all of the requirements for full licensure. A provisional license is valid for ninety days and may be renewed one time at the department's discretion.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1069, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2019: (3)(a)(IV) added, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 553, § 39, effective April 18. L. 2022: (3)(a)(III), (3)(a)(IV), and (3)(b) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 527, § 41, effective April 21. L. 2025: (3)(a)(III) and (3)(a)(IV) amended, (SB 25-146), ch. 342, p. 1856, § 9, effective June 2; (2)(a), (3)(a)(I), (3)(b), and (3)(c) amended, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1700, § 5, effective August 6.

25-3.5-1306. License denial - suspension - revocation - definition - penalty.

(1) Upon denial of an application for an initial license, the department shall notify the applicant in writing of the denial by mailing a notice to the applicant at the address shown on the application. If an applicant, within sixty days after receiving the notice of denial, petitions the department to set a date and place for a hearing, the department shall grant the applicant a hearing to review the denial in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license of a community integrated health-care service agency that is out of compliance with the requirements of this part 13 or rules promulgated pursuant to this part 13. Before taking final action to suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license, the department shall conduct a hearing on the matter in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. The department may implement a summary suspension before a hearing in accordance with section 24-4-104 (4)(a), C.R.S.

(3) (a) After conducting a hearing on the matter in accordance with article 4 of title 24, the department may revoke or refuse to renew an agency license if the owner, manager, or administrator of the agency has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the agency's patients or clients.

(b) As used in this subsection (3), "convicted" includes an entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere.

(4) The department may impose intermediate restrictions or conditions on an agency that may require the agency to:

(a) Retain a consultant to address corrective measures;

(b) Be monitored by the department for a specific period;

(c) Provide additional training to its employees, owners, managers, or administrators;

(d) Comply with a directed written plan to correct the violation, in accordance with the procedures established under section 25-27.5-108 (2)(b); or

(e) Pay a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars per violation. The department, after providing the agency with the opportunity for a hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., on any penalties assessed, shall transmit all penalties collected pursuant to this paragraph (e) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the general fund. The agency may request, and the department shall grant, a stay in payment of a civil penalty until final disposition of the restriction or condition.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1070, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2025: (3) amended, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1701, § 6, effective August 6.

25-3.5-1307. Repeal of part - review of functions.

This part 13 is repealed, effective September 1, 2034. Before the repeal, this part 13 is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part added, (SB 16-069), ch. 260, p. 1071, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (SB 25-192), ch. 324, p. 1699, § 2, effective August 6.

PART 14

STOP THE BLEED SCHOOL CONTROL KITS

25-3.5-1401. Stop the bleed school control kits - report - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1213), ch. 187, p. 911, § 1, effective May 15.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2.5) was numbered as subsection (2)(d) in HB 23-1213 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(2) Subsection (7) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 911.)

DISEASE CONTROL

ARTICLE 4

Disease Control

PART 1
SANITARY REGULATIONS

25-4-101. Premises sanitation - food defined.

25-4-102. Sanitary regulations.

25-4-103. Construction requirements.

25-4-104. Protection from dirt.

25-4-105. Toilet rooms and lavatories.

25-4-106. Nuisances - petty offense.

25-4-107. Rooms not used for sleeping.

25-4-108. Work by persons with contagious diseases - forbidden.

25-4-109. Enforcement.

25-4-110. Prosecutions - disposition of fines.

25-4-111. Penalty.

25-4-112. Rules.

PART 2
PRENATAL EXAMINATIONS

25-4-201. Blood testing during pregnancy - HIV - syphilis - rules.

25-4-202. Tests approved by department. (Repealed)

25-4-203. Birth certificate - blood test.

25-4-204. Penalty.

25-4-205. District attorneys to prosecute.

PART 3
BLINDNESS IN NEWLY BORN

25-4-301. Inflammation of eyes.

25-4-302. Duties of department. (Repealed)

25-4-303. Duty to treat eyes. (Repealed)

25-4-304. Duties of county, district, or municipal public health director. (Repealed)

25-4-305. Penalty. (Repealed)

PART 4
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

25-4-401. Legislative declaration.

25-4-402. Definitions.

25-4-403. Eligibility - nondiscrimination.

25-4-404. Rules.

25-4-405. Reporting requirements - immunity.

25-4-406. Reports - confidentiality.

25-4-407. Reporting requirements - research exemption.

25-4-408. Infection control - duties.

25-4-409. Minors - treatment - consent.

25-4-410. Patient consent - rights of patients, victims, and pregnant women.

25-4-411. Confidential counseling and testing sites - legislative declaration.

25-4-412. Public safety - public health procedures - orders for compliance - petitions - hearings.

25-4-413. Emergency public health procedures - injunctions.

25-4-414. Penalties.

PART 5
TUBERCULOSIS

25-4-500.3. Definitions.

25-4-501. Tuberculosis declared to be an infectious and communicable disease.

25-4-502. Tuberculosis to be reported.

25-4-503. Examination of sputum. (Deleted by amendment)

25-4-504. Statistical case register. (Deleted by amendment)

25-4-505. Laboratories to report. (Deleted by amendment)

25-4-506. Investigation and examination of suspected or known tuberculosis cases.

25-4-507. Isolation order - enforcement - court review.

25-4-508. Inspection of records.

25-4-509. Violations - penalty.

25-4-510. Jurisdiction.

25-4-511. Duties of board of health and department - confidentiality of records - rules.

25-4-512. Nondiscrimination in the provision of general services.

25-4-513. Funding.

PART 6
RABIES CONTROL

25-4-601. Definitions.

25-4-602. Notice to health department or officer if animal affected or suspected of being affected by rabies.

25-4-603. Report of person bitten by animal to health department or health officer.

25-4-604. Animal attacking or biting person to be confined - examination.

25-4-605. Animals bitten by animals known or suspected of having rabies to be confined.

25-4-606. Animals to be confined to prevent spread of rabies.

25-4-607. Order of board of health requiring inoculation of animals - veterinarian waiver of order.

25-4-608. Notice of order requiring inoculation of animals.

25-4-609. Effect of order requiring inoculation of animals.

25-4-610. Uninoculated animals not to run at large - impounding and disposition of animals.

25-4-611. Report to state department.

25-4-612. Enforcement of part 6.

25-4-613. Liability for accident or subsequent disease from inoculation.

25-4-614. Penalties.

25-4-615. Further municipal restrictions not prohibited.

PART 7
PET ANIMAL AND PSITTACINE BIRD FACILITIES

25-4-701. Definitions.

25-4-702. Board to establish rules - department to administer.

25-4-703. License required - fee. (Repealed)

25-4-704. Hobby breeders of psittacine birds. (Repealed)

25-4-705. Importation for resale prohibited - when. (Repealed)

25-4-706. Pet animal and psittacine bird dealers - duties. (Repealed)

25-4-707. Psittacine birds - sale or transfer - requirements. (Repealed)

25-4-708. Nonpsittacine birds - when regulated. (Repealed)

25-4-709. Quarantine.

25-4-710. Right of entry - inspections.

25-4-711. Suspension or revocation of license. (Repealed)

25-4-712. Unlawful acts.

25-4-713. Penalty for violations.

25-4-714. Exemptions from part 7. (Repealed)

25-4-715. Repeal of sections - review of functions. (Repealed)

PART 8
PHENYLKETONURIA

25-4-801 to

25-4-804. (Repealed)

PART 9
SCHOOL ENTRY IMMUNIZATION

25-4-901. Definitions.

25-4-902. Immunization prior to attending school - standardized immunization information.

25-4-902.5. Immunization prior to attending a college or university - tuberculosis screening process development.

25-4-903. Exemptions from immunization - rules.

25-4-904. Rules - immunization rules - rule-making authority of state board of health.

25-4-904.5. Annual alignment evaluation.

25-4-905. Immunization of indigent children.

25-4-906. Certificate of immunization - forms.

25-4-907. Noncompliance.

25-4-908. When exemption from immunization not recognized.

25-4-909. Vaccine-related injury or death - limitations on liability - legislative declaration.

25-4-910. Immunization data collection.

25-4-911. Vaccinated children standard - legislative declaration.

25-4-912. Confidentiality.

PART 10
NEWBORN SCREENING AND GENETIC COUNSELING AND EDUCATION ACT

25-4-1001. Short title.

25-4-1002. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1002.5. Definitions.

25-4-1003. Powers and duties of executive director - newborn screening programs - genetic counseling and education programs - rules.

25-4-1004. Newborn screening - rules.

25-4-1004.3. Newborn heart defect screening - pulse oximetry - rules - definition.

25-4-1004.5. Follow-up testing and treatment - second screening - fee - rules.

25-4-1004.7. Newborn hearing screening - advisory committee - report - rules.

25-4-1005. Exceptions.

25-4-1006. Cash funds.

PART 11
KENNELS

25-4-1101 to

25-4-1111. (Repealed)

PART 12
STREPTOCOCCUS CONTROL

25-4-1201. Powers and duties of executive director.

25-4-1202. Streptococcus cash fund.

PART 13
RETAIL FOOD STORE SANITATION ACT

25-4-1301. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1302. Definitions.

25-4-1303. Labeling - product modules - take-home containers.

25-4-1304. Bulk food protection.

25-4-1305. Bulk food display.

25-4-1306. Dispensing utensils.

25-4-1307. Materials.

25-4-1308. Food-contact surfaces.

25-4-1309. Non-food-contact surfaces.

25-4-1310. Accessibility.

25-4-1311. Equipment sanitization.

25-4-1312. Violation - penalty.

25-4-1313. Rules and regulations.

25-4-1314. Limitation.

PART 14
HIV INFECTION AND ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME ASSISTANCE

25-4-1401. Drug assistance program - program fund - HIV medications rebate fund - created - legislative declaration - no entitlement created.

25-4-1402. Definitions.

25-4-1403. Colorado HIV and AIDS prevention grant program.

25-4-1404. Grant program - rules - advisory committee - conflict of interest.

25-4-1405. AIDS and HIV prevention fund - administration - limitation.

PART 15
BREAST CANCER SCREENING

25-4-1501. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1502. Definitions.

25-4-1503. Fund created.

25-4-1504. Allocation of fund.

25-4-1505. Powers and duties of department and advisory board.

25-4-1506. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

PART 16
FOOD PROTECTION ACT

25-4-1601. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1602. Definitions.

25-4-1603. Licensing, certification, and food protection agency.

25-4-1604. Powers and duties of department - reciprocal license - rules - definition.

25-4-1605. Submission of plans for approval - required.

25-4-1606. Licensure - exception.

25-4-1607. Fees - rules - legislative declaration.

25-4-1607.5. Retail food establishment regulation - fees - investigations - stakeholder process.

25-4-1607.7. Health inspection results - development of a uniform system - communication to the public.

25-4-1607.9. Department targets - audits - reporting.

25-4-1608. Food protection cash fund - creation.

25-4-1609. Disciplinary actions - closure - revocation - suspension - review. (Repealed)

25-4-1609.5. Grievance process.

25-4-1610. Unlawful acts.

25-4-1611. Violation - penalties. (Repealed)

25-4-1611.5. Violations - penalties - review.

25-4-1612. Judicial review.

25-4-1613. General fund moneys - repeal. (Repealed)

25-4-1614. Home kitchens - exemption - food inspection - short title - applicability - definitions - rules.

25-4-1614.5. Cottage foods cash fund created.

25-4-1615. Pet dogs in retail food establishments - prohibited - exceptions.

25-4-1616. Donation and resale of safe food encouraged.

25-4-1617. Animal shares and meat sales by farmers and ranchers - short title - definitions.

25-4-1618. Grocery store labeling practices encouraged.

PART 17
INFANT IMMUNIZATION ACT

25-4-1701. Short title.

25-4-1702. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1703. Definitions.

25-4-1704. Infant immunization program - delegation of authority to immunize minor.

25-4-1705. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties - rules.

25-4-1706. Infant immunization program - eligibility.

25-4-1707. Moneys targeted for medical assistance for infants - reimbursement.

25-4-1708. Immunization fund - created - transfer.

25-4-1709. Limitations on liability - repeal.

25-4-1710. Report to the general assembly. (Repealed)

25-4-1711. Infant immunization advisory committee - creation. (Repealed)

PART 18
SHELLFISH DEALER CERTIFICATION ACT

25-4-1801. Short title.

25-4-1802. Legislative declaration.

25-4-1803. Definitions.

25-4-1804. Department designated as certifying and inspecting agency.

25-4-1805. Powers and duties of department - rules.

25-4-1806. Shellfish dealers - certificate required - application - fees.

25-4-1807. Record-keeping requirements.

25-4-1808. Unlawful acts.

25-4-1809. Inspections - investigations - access - subpoena.

25-4-1810. Enforcement.

25-4-1811. Disciplinary actions - denial of certification.

25-4-1812. Civil penalties.

25-4-1813. Criminal penalties.

PART 19
GULF WAR SYNDROME REGISTRY

25-4-1901. Short title.

25-4-1902. Definitions.

25-4-1903. Gulf war syndrome registry - creation - reporting.

25-4-1904. Gulf war syndrome advisory committee - creation. (Repealed)

25-4-1905. Confidentiality of information collected.

25-4-1906. Gulf war syndrome registry fund.

PART 20
HEPATITIS C EDUCATION AND SCREENING PROGRAM

25-4-2001. Short title.

25-4-2002. Legislative declaration.

25-4-2003. Definitions.

25-4-2004. Powers and duties of executive director - hepatitis C program.

25-4-2005. Hepatitis C testing - recommendations - definitions - rules.

PART 21
BODY ARTISTS

25-4-2101. Powers and duties of department - rules.

25-4-2102. Penalties for violations.

25-4-2103. Parental consent for minors.

PART 22
HEALTH DISPARITIES GRANT PROGRAM

25-4-2201. Legislative declaration.

25-4-2202. Definitions.

25-4-2203. Health disparities and community grant program - human-animal bond - rules - evaluation - definitions.

25-4-2204. Office of health equity - creation.

25-4-2205. Powers and duties of the office of health equity - rules - working group.

25-4-2206. Health equity commission - creation - repeal.

25-4-2207. Interagency health disparities leadership council - creation. (Repealed)

25-4-2208. Necessary document program - report - appropriation - gifts, grants, or donations - definition.

25-4-2209. Culturally relevant and affirming health-care training - health-care providers - grants - definitions.

PART 23
COLORADO IMMUNIZATION FUND

25-4-2301. Colorado immunization fund - supplemental tobacco litigation settlement moneys account - creation.

PART 24
IMMUNIZATION REGISTRY ACT

25-4-2401. Short title.

25-4-2402. Legislative declaration.

25-4-2403. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties - immunization tracking system - rules - definitions.

25-4-2404. Vaccines - access to the public - definitions.

PART 25
CERVICAL CANCER IMMUNIZATION ACT

25-4-2501. Short title.

25-4-2502. Definitions.

25-4-2503. Cervical cancer immunization program - rules.

25-4-2504. Public awareness campaign - fund.

PART 26
ADULT IMMUNIZATION ACT

25-4-2601. Short title.

25-4-2602. Legislative declaration.

25-4-2603. Definitions.

25-4-2604. Rules - adult immunization rules - rule-making authority of state board of health.

25-4-2605. Limitations on liability - repeal.

PART 1

SANITARY REGULATIONS

25-4-101. Premises sanitation - food defined.

Every building, room, basement, enclosure, or premises occupied, used, or maintained as a bakery, confectionery, cannery, packing house, slaughterhouse, creamery, cheese factory, restaurant, hotel, grocery, meat market factory, shop, or warehouse, or any public place or manufacturing place used for the preparation, manufacture, packing, storage, sale, or distribution of any food, as defined in this section, which is intended for sale shall be properly and adequately lighted, drained, plumbed, and ventilated and shall be conducted with strict regard to the influence of such conditions upon the health of operatives, employees, clerks, or other persons therein employed and the purity and wholesomeness of the food therein produced, prepared, manufactured, packed, stored, sold, or distributed. For the purposes of this part 1, "food" includes all articles used for food, drink, confectionery, or condiment, whether simple, mixed, or compound, and all substances or ingredients used in the preparation thereof.

Source: L. 13: p. 510, § 1. C.L. § 1015. CSA: C. 69, § 21. CRS 53: § 66-13-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-1.

Cross references: For safety inspections, see articles 1 and 4 of title 9; for the "Custom Processing of Meat Animals Act", see article 33 of title 35.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Impact of the Uniform Commercial Code on Colorado Law", see 42 Den. L. Ctr. J. 67 (1965).

25-4-102. Sanitary regulations.

The floors, sidewalls, ceilings, furniture, receptacles, utensils, dishes, implements, and machinery of every restaurant, hotel kitchen, and establishment or place where such food intended for sale is produced, prepared, manufactured, packed, stored, sold, or distributed and all cars, trucks, and vehicles used in the transportation of such food products shall at no time be kept or permitted to remain in an unclean, unhealthful, or unsanitary condition. For the purpose of this part 1, unclean, unhealthful, and unsanitary conditions shall be deemed to exist if food in the process of production, preparation, manufacture, packing, storage, sale, distribution, or transportation is not securely protected from flies, dust, dirt, and all other foreign or injurious contamination, as far as may be necessary by all reasonable means; or if the refuse, dirt, or waste products incident to the manufacture, preparation, packing, selling, distributing, or transportation of such food are not removed daily; or if all trucks, trays, boxes, buckets, or other receptacles or the chutes, platforms, racks, tables, shelves, and knives, saws, cleavers, or other utensils, or the machinery used in moving, handling, cutting, chopping, mixing, canning, or other processes are not thoroughly cleaned daily; or if the clothing of operatives, employees, clerks, or other persons therein employed is unclean; or if all dishes, cups, glasses, knives, forks, and spoons are not thoroughly washed in hot or running water and rinsed after each usage; or if dishes, cups, or glasses are used which are so cracked, chipped, or broken as to be detrimental to health; or if all ice-cream cones and straws are not securely covered.

Source: L. 13: p. 511, § 2. L. 21: p. 675, § 1. C.L. § 1016. CSA: C. 69, § 22. CRS 53: § 66-13-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-2.

25-4-103. Construction requirements.

The sidewalls, floors, and ceilings of every bakery, confectionery, creamery, cheese factory, and hotel or restaurant kitchen and every building, room, basement, or enclosure occupied or used for the preparation, manufacture, packing, storage, sale, or distribution of food shall be so constructed that they can easily be kept clean.

Source: L. 13: p. 511, § 3. C.L. § 1017. CSA: C. 69, § 23. CRS 53: § 66-13-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-3.

25-4-104. Protection from dirt.

All such factories, buildings, and other places containing food shall be provided with proper doors and screens necessary and adequate to protect against the contamination of the product from flies, dust, or dirt.

Source: L. 13: p. 511, § 4. L. 21: p. 676, § 2. C.L. § 1018. CSA: C. 69, § 24. CRS 53: § 66-13-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-4.

25-4-105. Toilet rooms and lavatories.

Every such building, room, basement, enclosure, or premises occupied, used, or maintained for the production, preparation, manufacture, canning, packing, storage, sale, or distribution of such food shall have adequate and convenient toilet rooms or lavatories. The toilet rooms shall be separate and apart from the rooms where the process of production, preparation, manufacture, packing, storing, canning, selling, and distributing is conducted. The floors of such toilet rooms shall be of cement, tile, wood, brick, or other nonabsorbent material and shall be washed and scoured daily. Such toilets shall be furnished with separate ventilating flues and pipes discharging into soil pipes or shall be on the outside of and well removed from the building. Lavatories and washrooms shall be maintained in a sanitary condition.

Source: L. 13: p. 511, § 5. C.L. § 1019. CSA: C. 69, § 25. CRS 53: § 66-13-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-5.

25-4-106. Nuisances - petty offense.

If any such building, room, basement, enclosure, or premises occupied, used, or maintained for the purposes stated in sections 25-4-101 to 25-4-105 or if the floors, sidewalls, ceilings, furniture, receptacles, utensils, implements, appliances, or machinery of any such establishment shall be constructed, kept, maintained, or permitted to remain in a condition contrary to any of the provisions of sections 25-4-101 to 25-4-105, the same is declared a nuisance. Any toilet room, lavatory, or washroom which shall be constructed, kept, maintained, or permitted to remain in a condition contrary to the requirements of section 25-4-105 is declared a nuisance. Any car, truck, or vehicle used in the moving or transportation of any food product which shall be kept or permitted to remain in an unclean, unhealthful, or unsanitary condition is declared a nuisance. Whoever unlawfully maintains, or allows or permits to exist, a nuisance as defined in this section commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 13: p. 512, § 6. L. 21: p. 677, § 3. C.L. § 1020. CSA: C. 69, § 26. CRS 53: § 66-13-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-6. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3233, § 448, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-4-107. Rooms not used for sleeping.

It is unlawful for any person to sleep or to allow or permit any person to sleep in any workroom of a bakeshop, kitchen, dining room, confectionery, creamery, cheese factory, or other place where food is prepared for sale, served, or sold unless all foods therein handled are at all times in hermetically sealed packages.

Source: L. 13: p. 512, § 7. C.L. § 1021. CSA: C. 69, § 27. CRS 53: § 66-13-7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-7.

25-4-108. Work by persons with contagious diseases - forbidden.

It is unlawful for any employer to permit any person who works in food preparation and is affected with any contagious or infectious disease that is spread by food to work, or for any person so affected to work, in any capacity in which there is a likelihood that the employee would contaminate food or food-contact surfaces with pathogenic organisms or transmit disease to other persons.

Source: L. 13: p. 512, § 8. C.L. § 1022. CSA: C. 69, § 28. CRS 53: § 66-13-8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-8. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 467, § 1, effective April 9.

25-4-109. Enforcement.

(1) It is the duty of the department of public health and environment to enforce this part 1, and, for that purpose, the department has full power at all times to enter every such building, room, basement, enclosure, or premises occupied or used or suspected of being occupied or used for the production, preparation, or manufacture for sale, or the storage, sale, distribution, or transportation of such food, to inspect the premises and all utensils, fixtures, furniture, and machinery used pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (1). Any refusal to permit such inspection shall be deemed a violation of this part 1. If upon inspection any such food producing or distributing establishment, conveyance, or employer, employee, clerk, driver, or other person is found to be violating any of the provisions of this part 1, or if the production, preparation, manufacture, packing, storage, sale, distribution, or transportation of such food is being conducted in a manner detrimental to the health of the employees and operatives or to the character or quality of the food therein produced, prepared, manufactured, packed, stored, sold, distributed, or conveyed, the department of public health and environment shall issue a written order to the person, firm, or corporation responsible for the violation or condition to abate such condition or violation or to make such changes or improvements as may be necessary to abate them within a reasonable time. Notice of such order may be served by delivering a copy thereof to said person, firm, or corporation or by sending a copy thereof by registered mail, and the receipt thereof through the post office shall be prima facie evidence that notice of said order has been received.

(2) Such person, firm, or corporation has the right to appear in person or by attorney before the department of public health and environment, or the person appointed by it for such purpose, within the time limited in the order and shall be given an opportunity to be heard and to show why such order or instructions should not be obeyed. Such hearing shall be under such rules and regulations as may be prescribed by the department. If after such hearing it appears that the provisions or requirements of this part 1 have not been violated, said order shall be rescinded. If it appears that the requirements or provisions of this part 1 are being violated and that the person, firm, or corporation notified is responsible therefor, said previous order shall be confirmed or amended, as the facts shall warrant, and shall thereupon be final, but such additional time as is necessary may be granted within which to comply with said final order. If such person, firm, or corporation is not present or represented when such final order is made, notice thereof shall be given as provided in subsection (1) of this section. Upon failure of the parties to comply with the first order of the department within the time prescribed when no hearing is demanded or upon failure to comply with the final order within the time specified, the department of public health and environment shall certify the facts to the district attorney of the county in which such violation occurred, and such district attorney shall proceed against the parties for the fines and penalties provided by this part 1 and also for the abatement of the nuisance. The proceedings prescribed in this section for the abatement of nuisance as defined in section 25-4-106 shall not in any manner relieve the violator from prosecution in the first instance for any such violation or from the penalties for such violation prescribed by section 25-4-111.

Source: L. 13: p. 513, § 9. L. 21: p. 677, § 4. C.L. § 1023. CSA: C. 69, § 29. CRS 53: § 66-13-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-9. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2758, § 423, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-110. Prosecutions - disposition of fines.

All fines collected under the provisions of this part 1 shall be paid to the county treasurer of the county in which the prosecution is brought, and it is the duty of the district attorneys in the respective counties to prosecute all persons violating or refusing to obey the provisions of this part 1.

Source: L. 13: p. 514, § 10. C.L. § 1024. CSA: C. 69, § 30. CRS 53: § 66-13-10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-10.

25-4-111. Penalty.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this part 1 or refuses to comply with any lawful order or requirement of the department of public health and environment, duly made in writing as provided in section 25-4-109 commits a petty offense. Each day of noncompliance after the expiration of the time limit for abating unsanitary conditions and completing improvements to abate such conditions, as ordered by the department of public health and environment, constitutes a separate offense.

Source: L. 13: p. 514, § 11. L. 21: p. 679, § 5. C.L. § 1025. CSA: C. 69, § 31. CRS 53: § 66-13-11. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-13-11. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2759, § 424, effective July 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3234, § 449, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: (1) For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-112. Rules.

The state board of health, created in section 25-1-103, may adopt rules as necessary for the implementation of this article.

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 467, § 2, effective April 9.

PART 2

PRENATAL EXAMINATIONS

25-4-201. Blood testing during pregnancy - HIV - syphilis - rules.

(1) Repealed.

(2) (a) If a person who is pregnant enters a hospital for delivery and has not been tested for HIV during the pregnancy or there is no available record of testing, the hospital shall notify the person who is pregnant that the person will be tested for HIV unless the person objects and declines the test. If the person declines to be tested, the hospital shall document that fact in the person's medical record.

(b) Each licensed health-care provider authorized to provide care to a person who is pregnant in this state shall, for all persons who are pregnant under the care of the licensed health-care provider, take, or cause to be taken, a blood sample and submit the blood sample to an approved laboratory for a standard serological test for HIV. If the person declines to be tested, the licensed health-care provider shall document that fact in the person's medical record.

(3) (a) On or before January 1, 2025, the state board of health created in section 25-1-103 shall promulgate rules concerning prenatal testing standards for syphilis, including frequency of testing.

(b) At least once every three years, the department of public health and environment shall review the rules promulgated pursuant to this section for alignment with national prenatal testing recommendations for sexually transmitted infections as well as the department of public health and environment's infection control duties established in section 25-4-408. Before each review of the rules, the department of public health and environment shall make relevant stakeholders aware of the review, including health-care providers and local public health agencies.

Source: L. 39: p. 413, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 170(1). CRS 53: § 66-11-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-11-1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 467, § 3, effective April 9. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (HB 24-1456), ch. 425, p. 2912, § 2, effective June 5.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (1), effective January 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 2912.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1456, see section 1 of chapter 425, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-4-202. Tests approved by department. (Repealed)

Source: L. 39: p. 413, § 2. CSA: C. 78, § 170(2). CRS 53: § 66-11-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-11-2. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2760, § 425, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section repealed, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 468, § 4, effective April 9.

25-4-203. Birth certificate - blood test.

In reporting every birth and stillbirth, physicians and others required to make such reports shall state on the certificate whether a blood test for syphilis and HIV has been made upon a specimen of blood taken from the woman who bore the child for which a birth or stillbirth certificate is filed and the approximate date when the specimen was taken. In no event shall the birth certificate state the result of the test.

Source: L. 39: p. 413, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 170(3). CRS 53: § 66-11-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-11-3. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 468, § 5, effective April 9.

Cross references. For a certificate of birth, see § 25-2-112.

25-4-204. Penalty.

Any licensed physician and surgeon or other person engaged in attendance upon a pregnant woman during the period of gestation or at delivery or any representative of a laboratory who violates the provisions of this part 2 is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars. Every licensed physician and surgeon or other person engaged in attendance upon a pregnant woman during the period of gestation or at delivery who requests such specimen in accordance with the provisions of section 25-4-201 and whose request is refused is not guilty of a misdemeanor.

Source: L. 39: p. 414, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 170(4). CRS 53: § 66-11-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-11-4.

25-4-205. District attorneys to prosecute.

The district attorneys in the several districts in the state shall prosecute for violation of this part 2 as for other crimes and misdemeanors.

Source: L. 39: p. 414, § 5. CSA: C. 78, § 170(5). CRS 53: § 66-11-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-11-5.

PART 3

BLINDNESS IN NEWLY BORN

25-4-301. Inflammation of eyes.

(1) Any inflammation, swelling, or unusual redness in either one or both eyes of any infant, either apart from or together with any unnatural discharge from the eyes of such infant, independent of the nature of the infection, if any, occurring at any time within two weeks after the birth of such infant shall be known as "inflammation of the eyes of the newly born" (ophthalmia neonatorum).

(2) It is the duty of any physician, nurse, or other person who assists or is in charge at the birth of an infant or is charged with the care of the infant after birth to treat the eyes of the infant with a prophylaxis in accordance with current standard of care. Such treatment shall be given as soon as practicable after the birth of the infant and always within one hour. If any redness, swelling, inflammation, or gathering of pus appears in the eyes of such infant, or upon the lids or about the eyes, within two weeks after birth, any person charged with care of the infant shall report the same to some competent practicing physician or advanced practice registered nurse within six hours after its discovery.

(3) Nothing in this section requires medical treatment for the minor child of any person who is a member of a well-recognized church or religious denomination and whose religious convictions, in accordance with the tenets or principles of his or her church or religious denomination, are against medical treatment for disease.

Source: L. 37: p. 618, § 1. CSA: C. 22, § 69. CRS 53: § 66-6-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-6-1. L. 2012: (2) and (3) added, (HB 12-1058), ch. 71, p. 244, § 1, effective March 24.

25-4-302. Duties of department. (Repealed)

Source: L. 37: p. 618, § 2. CSA: C. 22, § 70. CRS 53: § 66-6-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-6-2. L. 77: (1)(d) and (1)(e) amended, p. 284, § 49, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(1) and (1)(c) amended, p. 2760, § 426, effective July 1. L. 2010: (1)(c) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2093, § 90, effective August 11. L. 2012: Entire section repealed, (HB 12-1058), ch. 71, p. 244, § 2, effective March 24.

25-4-303. Duty to treat eyes. (Repealed)

Source: L. 37: p. 619, § 3. CSA: C. 22, § 71. CRS 53: § 66-6-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-6-3. L. 77: Entire part added, p. 284, § 50, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2760, § 427, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire section repealed, (HB 12-1058), ch. 71, p. 245, § 3, effective March 24.

25-4-304. Duties of county, district, or municipal public health director. (Repealed)

Source: L. 37: p. 619, § 4. CSA: C. 22, § 72. CRS 53: § 66-6-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-6-4. L. 2010: IP(1) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2093, § 91, effective August 11. L. 2012: Entire section repealed, (HB 12-1058), ch. 71, p. 245, § 4, effective March 24.

25-4-305. Penalty. (Repealed)

Source: L. 37: p. 620, § 5. CSA: C. 22, § 73. CRS 53: § 66-6-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-6-5. L. 77: Entire section amended, p. 285, § 51, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire section repealed, (HB 12-1058), ch. 71, p. 245, § 5, effective March 24.

PART 4

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

Editor's note: This part 4 was numbered as article 9 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. It was repealed and reenacted in 2016, resulting in the addition, relocation, or elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 4 prior to 2016, consult the 2015 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 4, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

25-4-401. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly declares that:

(a) Sexually transmitted infections, regardless of the mode of transmission, impact the public health of the state and are a matter of statewide concern;

(b) Coloradans have a right to receive accurate, confidential, and timely information to make informed decisions that promote their individual physical and mental health and well-being. This right applies to all Coloradans, regardless of geographic location, ethnic or racial background, income, ability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.

(c) Positive, stigma-free messages and comprehensive, evidence-based information must be available to create healthy, safe relationships and a healthier Colorado; and

(d) It is the responsibility of any individual who has knowledge or reasonable grounds to suspect that he or she has a sexually transmitted infection to not intentionally transmit the infection to another individual.

(2) The general assembly further declares that:

(a) Reporting sexually transmitted infections to public health agencies is essential to enable a better understanding of the scope of exposure and the impact of the exposure on the community and to optimize means of sexually transmitted infection control;

(b) Efforts to control sexually transmitted infections include public education, counseling, voluntary testing, linkage to treatment, prevention, and access to services;

(c) Restrictive enforcement measures may be used only when necessary to protect the public health;

(d) Having a sexually transmitted infection, being presumed to have one, or seeking testing for the presence of such an infection must not serve as the basis for discriminatory actions or prevent access to services; and

(e) It is the policy of the state to encourage voluntary testing for sexually transmitted infections and promote linkage to care without perpetuating stigma.

(3) Therefore, the general assembly further declares that the purpose of this part 4 is to protect the public health, empower individuals to take personal responsibility for their sexual health, and to prevent infections that may be sexually transmitted.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 895, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(b) amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 895, § 34, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-406 (2), 25-4-1401, and 25-4-1408.5 as they existed prior to 2016.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-4-402. Definitions.

As used in this part 4:

(1) "Executive director" means the executive director of the state department.

(2) "Health-care provider" means a person whose vocation or profession is related to the maintenance of individuals' health or anyone who provides diagnostic screening tests, medical treatment, or other medical services.

(3) "Health officer" means the executive director of the state department, the chief medical officer appointed pursuant to section 25-1-105, or a local director.

(4) "HIV" means human immunodeficiency virus.

(5) "Local director" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25-1-502 for "public health director".

(6) "Local public health agency" means a county or district public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506 or a local department of public health.

(7) "Medical emergency" means an acute injury, illness, or exposure that poses an immediate risk to a person's life or long-term health, such that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in placing the person's health in serious jeopardy, including a serious impairment to bodily function or a serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part.

(7.5) "Mental health professional" means:

(a) A psychologist, a social worker, a marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, an unlicensed psychotherapist, or an addiction counselor licensed, registered, certified, or otherwise regulated pursuant to article 245 of title 12; or

(b) A psychologist candidate, a clinical social worker candidate, a marriage and family therapist candidate, a licensed professional counselor candidate, or an addiction counselor candidate registered pursuant to section 12-245-304 (3), 12-245-404 (4), 12-245-504 (4), 12-245-604 (4), or 12-245-804 (3.7), respectively.

(8) "Minor", unless otherwise specified, means a person who is under eighteen years of age.

(9) "Public safety workers" includes law enforcement officers, peace officers, emergency service providers, and firefighters.

(10) "Sexually transmitted infection" refers to chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV, and relevant types of hepatitis, as well as any other sexually transmitted infection, regardless of mode of transmission, as designated by the state board by rule upon making a finding that the particular sexually transmitted infection is contagious.

(11) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(12) "State department" means the state department of public health and environment established in section 25-1-102.

(13) "Test" means any diagnostic, screening, or other test that may be provided in a health-care or community-based environment.

(14) "Victim" has the same meaning as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (5), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 896, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2023: (7.5) added, (HB 23-1031), ch. 57, p. 203, § 1, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-401 as it existed prior to 2016.

25-4-403. Eligibility - nondiscrimination.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 4 to the contrary, programs and services that provide for the investigation, identification, testing, preventive care, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections are available regardless of a person's actual or perceived race, creed, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical disability, familial status, marital status, or immigration status.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 897, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 895, § 35, effective September 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

Because having AIDS or seeking testing for the presence of such infection should not serve as a basis for discriminatory actions, information concerning the plaintiff's health and possible HIV infection was not of legitimate public concern. Publication of such information by the plaintiff's employer was sufficient to support a claim for invasion of privacy. Borquez v. Robert C. Ozer, P.C., 923 P.2d 166 (Colo. App. 1995), aff'd in part, rev'd in part on other grounds, 940 P.2d 371 (Colo. 1997) (decided prior to 2016 repeal and reenactment).

25-4-404. Rules.

(1) The state board, with sufficient involvement and consultation from the state department, the community, and other interested stakeholders, shall adopt rules it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this part 4, including rules addressing the control and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The rules are binding on all public health agencies, health officers, and other persons affected by this part 4. The rules must include, at a minimum:

(a) The information that must be reported pursuant to section 25-4-405 and the form, manner, and time frame in which it must be reported; and

(b) The performance standards for anonymous and confidential HIV counseling and testing sites established pursuant to section 25-4-411. Standards must include performance standards for notifying and counseling a person who is diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection and for notification of his or her partner or partners.

(2) The state department shall create and maintain guidelines, subject to approval by the state board, concerning the public health procedures described in sections 25-4-412 and 25-4-413.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 897, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-405. Reporting requirements - immunity.

(1) (a) In accordance with sections 12-240-139, 25-1-122, 25-4-404, and 25-4-406, and except as provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section, for every individual known to the person or entity to have a diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection or to have a positive test for a sexually transmitted infection, the following persons and entities shall report any information required by rule of the state board to the state department or local public health agency, in a form and within a time period designated by rule of the state board:

(I) Every health-care provider in the state;

(II) Persons who test, diagnose, or treat sexually transmitted infections in a hospital, clinic, correctional institution, community-based organization, nonclinical setting, or other private or public institution; or

(III) A laboratory or a person performing a test for a case of a sexually transmitted infection.

(b) The reporting requirement specified in subsection (1)(a) of this section does not apply to a mental health professional who is not engaged in testing a patient for, diagnosing a patient with, or treating a patient with a sexually transmitted infection, regardless of whether the mental health professional knows the patient has a sexually transmitted infection.

(2) The reports submitted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section must include the name, date of birth, sex at birth, gender identity, address, and phone number of the individual with the sexually transmitted infection, and the name, address, and phone number of the person making the report. The report must also include any test results and the name, address, and phone number of the health-care provider and any other person or agency that referred the specimen for testing.

(3) (a) A person who, in good faith, complies with the reporting and treatment requirements of this part 4 is immune from civil and criminal liability for such actions.

(b) Immunity from liability pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) does not apply to a negligent act or omission on the part of the health-care provider.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 898, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: IP(1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1702, § 156, effective October 1. L. 2023: (1) amended, (HB 23-1031), ch. 57, p. 203, § 2, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-402, 25-4-1402, 25-4-1403, and 25-4-1404 as they existed prior to 2016.

ANNOTATION

Because having AIDS or seeking testing for the presence of such infection should not serve as a basis for discriminatory actions, information concerning the plaintiff's health and possible HIV infection was not of legitimate public concern. Publication of such information by the plaintiff's employer was sufficient to support a claim for invasion of privacy. Borquez v. Robert C. Ozer, P.C., 923 P.2d 166 (Colo. App. 1995), aff'd in part, rev'd in part on other grounds, 940 P.2d 371 (Colo. 1997).

25-4-406. Reports - confidentiality.

(1) The public health reports required pursuant to section 25-4-405 and any records resulting from compliance with that section held by the state department and county and district public health agencies, or any health-care provider, facility, third-party payer, physician, clinic, laboratory, blood bank, health records database, or other agency, are confidential information. The information shall only be released, shared with any agency or institution, or made public, upon subpoena, search warrant, discovery proceedings, or otherwise, under the following circumstances:

(a) For statistical purposes, but only in a manner such that an individual cannot be identified from the information released;

(b) To the extent necessary to enforce the provisions of this part 4 and related rules concerning the treatment, control, prevention, and investigation of sexually transmitted infections by public health officers;

(c) To health-care providers and medical personnel in a medical emergency to the extent necessary to protect the health or life of the named party;

(d) To agencies responsible for receiving or investigating reports of child abuse or neglect in accordance with the provisions of the "Child Protection Act of 1987", part 3 of article 3 of title 19, C.R.S., if an officer or employee of the state department or a local public health agency makes a report of child abuse or neglect; or

(e) Pursuant to section 18-3-415.5, C.R.S., to a district attorney for the information specified in said section, or, for the purposes of a sentencing hearing, oral and documentary evidence limited to whether a person who has been bound over for trial for any sexual offense, as described in section 18-3-415.5, C.R.S., was provided with notice or discussion that he or she had tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection and the date of such notice or discussion.

(1.5) In accordance with subsection (1)(a) of this section, for statistical purposes, the state department shall make available to county and district public health agencies de-identified case rate data for syphilis that is specific to the county or district, which data must remain confidential pursuant to this section.

(2) An officer or employee of the state department or a local public health agency must not be examined in any judicial, executive, legislative, or other proceedings as to the existence or content of any individual's report by such department pursuant to this part 4 or as to the existence of the content of the reports received pursuant to section 25-4-405 or the result of an investigation conducted pursuant to section 25-4-408. The provisions of this subsection (2) do not apply to administrative or judicial proceedings held pursuant to section 25-4-412 or 25-4-413.

(3) Information in medical records concerning the diagnosis and treatment of a sexually transmitted infection is considered medical information, is not part of public health reports, and is protected from unauthorized disclosure pursuant to the provisions of section 18-4-412, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 898, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2024: IP(1) amended and (1.5) added, (HB 24-1456), ch. 425, p. 2913, § 3, effective June 5.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-1402, 25-4-1403, and 25-4-1404 as they existed prior to 2016.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1456, see section 1 of chapter 425, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Because reports and records concerning persons who are diagnosed with AIDS, HIV-related illness, or HIV infection are strictly confidential under this section and may be released only under specified circumstances, information concerning the plaintiff's health and possible HIV infection was not of legitimate public concern. Publication of such information by the plaintiff's employer was sufficient to support a claim for invasion of privacy. Borquez v. Robert C. Ozer, P.C., 923 P.2d 166 (Colo. App. 1995), aff'd in part, rev'd in part on other grounds, 940 P.2d 371 (Colo. 1997).

25-4-407. Reporting requirements - research exemption.

(1) The state board shall approve an exemption from the reporting requirements of section 25-4-405 for a research activity that meets all of the following criteria:

(a) The research activity is fully described by a research protocol;

(b) The research activity is subject to review by and is governed by the federal department of health and human services;

(c) The research activity has as protocol objectives either:

(I) The investigation of the effectiveness of a medical therapy or vaccine to prevent infection; or

(II) Basic medical research into the cellular mechanisms that cause sexually transmitted infections;

(d) The research activity is reviewed and approved by a duly constituted institutional review board in accordance with the regulations established by the secretary of the federal department of health and human services;

(e) The research for the research activity has provided information that demonstrates that the research will be facilitated by an exemption specified in this section; and

(f) The research activity has been determined to have a potential health benefit.

(2) The research exemption authorized in this section does not alter the reporting requirements of persons and researchers who are otherwise required to make reports when engaged in any treatment or testing outside the scope of or prior to enrollment in an approved research protocol, including required reporting of other reportable diseases.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 899, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-408. Infection control - duties.

(1) It is the duty of the executive director, health officers, or local directors to investigate sexually transmitted infections and to use appropriate means to prevent the spread of such sexually transmitted infections.

(2) As part of infection control efforts, it is the duty of the executive director, health officers, and local directors to provide public information; risk-reduction education; voluntary testing; counseling; age-appropriate, medically accurate, and culturally responsive educational materials for school use; and professional education for public safety workers and health-care providers.

(3) The state department shall provide current, evidence-based, and medically accurate programs under which the state department and local public health agencies may perform the following tasks:

(a) Provide and disseminate to health-care providers digital, written, and verbal presentations describing the epidemiology, prevention, testing, diagnosis, treatment, medical services, counseling, and other aspects of sexually transmitted infections;

(b) Provide consultation to agencies and organizations, including those employing public safety workers, regarding appropriate policies for prevention, testing, education, confidentiality, and control of sexually transmitted infections;

(c) Conduct health information programs to inform the general public of the medical and psychosocial aspects of sexually transmitted infections, including updated information on how these infections are transmitted and may be prevented. The state department shall provide and distribute to the residents of the state, at no charge, printed and electronic information and instructions concerning the risks from sexually transmitted infections, the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and the necessity for testing.

(d) Update and provide educational information concerning sexually transmitted infections that employers may use in the workplace;

(e) Provide and implement medically accurate and culturally appropriate educational risk-reduction programs for specific populations at higher risk for infection; and

(f) Update and provide accurate, age-appropriate, and culturally responsive sexually transmitted infection prevention curricula for use at the discretion of secondary and middle schools in the state.

(4) When investigating sexually transmitted infections, the state department and local public health agencies, within their respective jurisdictions, may inspect and have access to medical and laboratory records relevant to their investigation.

(5) Every person who is confined, detained, or imprisoned in a state, county, or city hospital; an institution for persons with behavioral or mental health disorders; a home for dependent children; a correctional facility; or any other private or charitable institution where a person may be confined, detained, or imprisoned by order of a court of this state must be examined for and, if diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, referred for treatment of such sexually transmitted infection, in accordance with current standards of care, by the health authorities having jurisdiction over the given institution. The managing authorities of any such institution shall make available to the health authorities whatever portion of their respective institution as may be necessary for a clinic or hospital for treatment of a person's sexually transmitted infection with current and evidence-based standards of care in a professional manner.

(6) (a) When a public safety worker, emergency or other health-care provider, first responder, victim of crime, or a staff member of a correctional facility, the state department, or a local public health agency has been exposed to blood or other bodily fluids for which there is an evidence-based reason to believe it may result in exposure to a sexually transmitted infection, the state department or local public health agency, within their respective jurisdictions, shall assist in the evaluation and treatment of any involved persons by:

(I) Accessing information on the incident and any persons involved to determine whether a potential exposure to infection occurred;

(II) When the potential for exposure has been determined by the state department or a local public health agency, examining and testing any involved persons to determine infection;

(III) Communicating relevant information and laboratory test results on involved persons directly to the involved person or to his or her attending health-care provider, if the confidentiality of such information and test results are acknowledged by the recipient and adequately protected, as provided for in section 25-4-406; and

(IV) Providing timely counseling to any involved persons on the potential health risks resulting from exposure to infection; prophylaxis and treatment of infections until cured, where possible; treatment to prevent progression of such infections; measures for preventing transmission to others; and the necessity of regular medical evaluations.

(b) For the purposes of this subsection (6), the employer of an involved person shall comply with the provisions of section 25-4-406 and ensure that relevant information and laboratory test results on the involved person are kept confidential.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 900, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: (5) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1325, § 192, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-404, 25-4-405, 25-4-408, and 25-4-1405 as they existed prior to 2016.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-4-409. Minors - treatment - consent.

(1) (a) A health-care provider or facility, if consulted by a patient who is a minor, shall perform, at the minor's request, a diagnostic examination for a sexually transmitted infection. The health-care provider or facility shall treat the minor for a sexually transmitted infection, if necessary; discuss, administer, dispense, or prescribe preventive measures or medications, where applicable; and include appropriate therapies and prescriptions.

(b) If a minor requests a diagnostic examination, care, prevention services, or treatment for a sexually transmitted infection, the health-care provider who provides such services is not civilly or criminally liable for performing the service, but the immunity from liability does not apply to any negligent act or omission by the health-care provider.

(2) The consent of a parent or legal guardian is not a prerequisite for a minor to receive a consultation, an examination, preventive care, or treatment for sexually transmitted infections. For the purposes of this section, health care provided to a minor is confidential, and information related to that care must not be divulged to any person other than the minor; except that the reporting required pursuant to the "Child Protection Act of 1987", part 3 of article 3 of title 19, still applies. If the minor is thirteen years of age or younger, the health-care provider may involve the minor's parent or legal guardian. A health-care provider shall counsel the minor on the importance of bringing the minor's parent or legal guardian into the minor's confidence regarding the consultation, exam, or treatment.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 902, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(a) and (2) amended, (SB 21-016), ch. 428, p. 2835, § 2, effective July 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-402 as it existed prior to 2016.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Consent to Treatment and Access to Minors' Medical Records", see 17 Colo. Law. 1323 (1988).

25-4-410. Patient consent - rights of patients, victims, and pregnant women.

(1) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1), a health-care provider, hospital, clinic, laboratory, or other private or public institution shall not test, or cause by any means to have tested, any specimen of a patient for a sexually transmitted infection without the knowledge and consent of the patient, which is satisfied as follows:

(I) The patient signs a general consent form for treatment;

(II) The patient is provided with a verbal consultation about sexually transmitted infections, testing, and reporting requirements; and

(III) The patient is provided with the opportunity to opt out of testing, following the verbal consultation.

(b) Knowledge and consent for testing need not be given in the following circumstances:

(I) When a public safety worker, emergency or other health-care provider, first responder, victim of crime, or a staff member of a correctional facility, the state department, or a local public health agency is exposed to blood or other bodily fluids under circumstances that pose an evidence-based risk of transmission of a sexually transmitted infection;

(II) When a patient's medical condition is such that knowledge and consent cannot be obtained;

(III) When the testing is done as part of a seroprevalence survey, but only if all personal identifiers are removed from the specimens prior to the laboratory testing;

(IV) When the patient to be tested is sentenced to and in the custody of the department of corrections or is committed to the Colorado mental health institute at Pueblo and confined to the forensic ward or the minimum or maximum security ward of the institute; and

(V) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 25-4-201, when a pregnant woman presents in labor in a hospital, and the results of syphilis and HIV tests are not on record, a rapid test will be performed to determine whether to provide prophylaxis to prevent transmission of sexually transmitted infections to the infant.

(c) A health-care provider shall notify a patient who was tested for a sexually transmitted infection without his or her knowledge and consent pursuant to section 25-4-408. The notification must be prompt, personal, and confidential and inform the individual that a test sample was taken and that the results of the test may be obtained upon his or her request.

(2) It is the duty of every health-care provider in the state who, during the course of an examination, discovers the existence of a sexually transmitted infection, or who treats a patient for such an infection, to inform the person of the interpretations of laboratory results and counsel the person on measures for preventing transmission to others; prophylaxis and treatment of infections until cured, where possible; treatment to prevent progression of such infections; and the necessity of regular medical evaluations. Such information and laboratory test results are considered medical information and are protected from unauthorized disclosure.

(3) A pregnant woman seeking prenatal care must be informed that syphilis and HIV testing are part of standard prenatal testing and given the opportunity to decline such tests pursuant to section 25-4-201. A pregnant woman must be informed that test results inform the decision as to whether to provide prophylaxis and prevent transmission of a sexually transmitted infection to her infant.

(4) When an adult or minor has been exposed to blood or other bodily fluids as a result of a sexual offense involving sexual penetration, as defined in section 18-3-401 (6), C.R.S., for which there is an evidence-based reason to believe that the sexual offense may have resulted in exposure to a sexually transmitted infection, the state department or local public health agency, within their respective jurisdictions, shall assist in the evaluation and treatment of any involved person by:

(a) Accessing information on the incident and any persons involved to determine whether a potential exposure to a sexually transmitted infection occurred;

(b) When potential for exposure has been confirmed by the state department or a local public health agency, examining and testing any involved person to determine whether or not an involved person has been infected;

(c) Communicating relevant information and laboratory test results on the involved person to his or her attending health-care provider or directly to the involved person if the confidentiality of the information and test results are acknowledged by the recipient and adequately protected, as determined by the state department or local public health agency; and

(d) Providing immediate counseling to any involved person on the potential health risks and available post-exposure treatment.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 903, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) is similar to former § 25-4-408 as it existed prior to 2016.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Consent to Treatment and Access to Minors' Medical Records", see 17 Colo. Law. 1323 (1988). For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

Plaintiff's claim for invasion of privacy arising out of unauthorized blood testing for HIV not precluded by former section 24-4-1405 (8)(b). By its grant of immunity in certain circumstances, the general assembly has recognized that civil actions may occur. Further, by granting such immunity in the absence of providing a specific civil remedy, the general assembly has not evinced any intent to preclude a person from bringing a civil action. In the absence of such, the common law provides the mechanism for enforcing the violation. Doe v. High-Tech Inst., Inc., 972 P.2d 1060 (Colo. App. 1998) (decided prior to 2016 repeal and reenactment).

25-4-411. Confidential counseling and testing sites - legislative declaration.

(1) Confidential HIV counseling and testing services are the preferred screening services for the detection of a possible infection. However, the state department shall, consistent with generally accepted practices for the protection of the public health and safety, conduct an anonymous HIV counseling and testing program at selected sites. The state department may operate sites or separately contract through local public health agencies to conduct HIV testing in conjunction with counseling and testing sites, subject to maintaining standards for performance as set by rule of the state board pursuant to section 25-4-404.

(2) (a) The disclosure of a person's name, address, phone number, birth date, or other personally identifying information is not required as a condition to be tested for HIV at an anonymous testing site. Any provision of this part 4 that requires or can be construed as requiring a person seeking testing to report or disclose such information does not apply to persons seeking to be tested at an anonymous testing site created pursuant to this section.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (2)(a) of this section, the age, gender, or gender identity of a person seeking to be tested at a testing site may be required.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 905, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1405.5 as it existed prior to 2016.

25-4-412. Public safety - public health procedures - orders for compliance - petitions - hearings.

(1) An order or restrictive measure directed to a person with a sexually transmitted infection must only be used as the last resort when other measures to protect the public health have failed, including all reasonable efforts, which must be documented, to obtain the voluntary cooperation of the person who may be subject to the order or restrictive measure. The order or restrictive measure must be applied serially with the least intrusive measures used first. The state department or local public health agency has the burden of proof to show that specified grounds exist for the issuance of the order or restrictive measure and that the terms and conditions imposed are no more restrictive than necessary to protect the public health.

(2) When the executive director or the local director, within his or her respective jurisdiction, knows or has reason to believe, because of evidence-based, medical, or epidemiological information, that a person has a sexually transmitted infection and poses a credible risk to the public health, he or she may issue an order to:

(a) Require the person to be examined and tested to determine whether he or she has acquired a sexually transmitted infection;

(b) Require him or her to report to a qualified health-care provider for counseling regarding sexually transmitted infections, information on treatment, and how to avoid transmitting sexually transmitted infections to others; or

(c) Direct a person with a sexually transmitted infection to cease and desist from specific conduct that poses risks to the public health, but only if the executive director or local director has determined that clear and convincing evidence exists to believe that such person has been ordered to report for counseling or has received counseling by a qualified health-care provider and continues to demonstrate behavior that poses an evidence-based risk to the public health.

(3) (a) If a person violates a cease-and-desist order issued pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (2) of this section and it is shown that the person poses an evidence-based risk to the public health, the executive director or the local director may enforce the cease-and-desist order by imposing such restrictions upon the person as are necessary to prevent the specific conduct that risks the public health. Restrictions may include required participation in evaluative, therapeutic, and counseling programs.

(b) Any restriction must be in writing, setting forth the name of the person to be restricted; the initial period of time that the restrictive order is effective, not to exceed three months; the terms of the restrictions; and any other conditions necessary to protect the public health. Restrictions must be imposed in the least restrictive manner necessary to protect the public health.

(c) The executive director or local director who issues an order pursuant to this subsection (3) shall review petitions for reconsideration from the person affected by the order. Restriction orders issued by local directors shall be submitted for review and approval by the executive director.

(4) (a) (I) Upon the issuance of an order by the state department or a local public health agency pursuant to subsection (2) or (3) of this section, the state department or local public health agency shall give notice promptly, personally, and confidentially to the person who is the subject of the order. The notice must state the grounds and provisions of the order and notify the person who is the subject of the order that he or she has the right to refuse to comply with the order, that he or she has the right to be present at a judicial hearing in the district court to review the order, and that he or she may have an attorney appear on his or her behalf at the hearing. If a respondent to any such action cannot afford an attorney, one shall be appointed for him or her at the commencement of the court process.

(II) If the person who is the subject of the order refuses to comply with the order and refuses to voluntarily cooperate with the executive director or local director, the executive director or local director may petition the district court for an order of compliance with the order. The executive director or local director shall request that the county or city and county attorney, or district public health agency, file such petition in the district court. However, if the county or city and county attorney, or district public health agency, refuses to act, the executive director may file such petition and be represented by the attorney general.

(III) If an order of compliance is requested, the court shall hear the matter within fourteen days following the request. Notice of the place, date, and time of the hearing must be by personal service or, if the person who is the subject of the order is not available, mailed by prepaid certified mail, return receipt requested, at the person's last-known address. Proof of mailing by the state department or local public health agency is sufficient notice under this section. The state department or local public health agency has the burden of proof to show by clear and convincing evidence that the specified grounds exist for the issuance of the order, the need for compliance, and the terms and conditions imposed in the order are no more restrictive than necessary to protect the public health.

(IV) An officer or employee of the state department or a local public health agency must not be examined in any judicial, legislative, executive, or other proceedings as to the existence or content of any individual's report, other than the respondent in a proceeding authorized by this section, made by such department or agency pursuant to this part 4; the existence of the content of the reports received pursuant to section 25-4-405; or the result of an investigation conducted pursuant to section 25-4-408.

(V) Upon the conclusion of the hearing, the court shall issue appropriate orders affirming, modifying, or dismissing the original order.

(b) If the executive director or local director does not petition the district court for an order of compliance within thirty days after the person who is the subject of the order refuses to comply, the person may petition the district court for dismissal of the order. If the district court dismisses the order, the fact that the order was issued must be expunged from the records of the state department or the local public health agency.

(5) Any hearing conducted pursuant to this section must be closed and confidential, and any transcripts or records related to the hearing are also confidential.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 905, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: (4)(a)(IV) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1408, § 85, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-406 (1) and 25-4-1406 as they existed prior to 2016.

25-4-413. Emergency public health procedures - injunctions.

(1) When the procedures set forth in section 25-4-412 have been exhausted or cannot be satisfied and the executive director or a local director, within his or her respective jurisdiction, knows or has reason to believe, based on accurate, evidence-based, and medical and epidemiological information, that a person has acquired a sexually transmitted infection and that the person presents an imminent risk to the public health, the executive director or the local director may bring an action in district court, pursuant to rule 65 of the Colorado rules of civil procedure, to enjoin the person from engaging in or continuing to engage in specific conduct that poses an evidence-based risk to the public health. The executive director or the local director shall request the district attorney to file such an action in the district court. However, if the district attorney refuses to act, the executive director may file the action and be represented by the attorney general. The court is authorized to hold an ex parte proceeding when necessary.

(2) (a) Under the circumstances outlined in subsection (1) of this section, in addition to the injunction order, the district court may issue other appropriate court orders, including an order to take the person into custody for a period not to exceed seventy-two hours and place him or her in a facility designated or approved by the executive director. A custody order issued for the purpose of counseling and testing to determine whether the person has a sexually transmitted infection must provide for the immediate release from custody of a person who tests negative and may provide for counseling or other appropriate measures to be imposed on a person who tests positive.

(b) The state department or local public health agency shall give notice of the order, promptly, personally, and confidentially, to the person who is the subject of the order. The order must state the grounds and provisions of the order and notify the person that he or she has the right to refuse to comply with the order, that he or she has the right to be present at a hearing to review the order, and that he or she may have an attorney appear on his or her behalf at the hearing. If a respondent to any such action cannot afford an attorney, one shall be appointed for him or her at the commencement of the proceedings.

(c) If the person contests testing or treatment, invasive medical procedures shall not be carried out prior to a hearing held pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(3) An order issued by a district court pursuant to subsection (2) of this section is subject to review in a court hearing. Notice of the place, date, and time of the court hearing shall be given promptly, personally, and confidentially to the person who is the subject of the court order. The court shall conduct the hearing no later than forty-eight hours after the issuance of the order. The person has the right to be present at the hearing and have an attorney appear on his or her behalf at the hearing. If a respondent to any such action cannot afford an attorney, one shall be appointed for him or her at the beginning of the injunction process. Upon the conclusion of the hearing, the court shall issue appropriate orders affirming, modifying, or dismissing the original order.

(4) The state department or local public health agency has the burden of proof to show by clear and convincing evidence that evidence-based grounds exist for the issuance of any court order made pursuant to subsection (2) or (3) of this section.

(5) A hearing conducted by the district court pursuant to this section must be closed and confidential, and any transcripts or records relating to the hearing are also confidential.

(6) An order entered by the district court pursuant to subsection (2) or (3) of this section must impose terms and conditions no more restrictive than necessary to protect the public health.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 907, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-406 (1) and 25-4-1407 as they existed prior to 2016.

25-4-414. Penalties.

(1) A health-care provider, laboratory employee, or other person who is required to make a report pursuant to section 25-4-405 and who fails to make such a report commits a civil infraction and, upon conviction, shall be punished by a fine of one hundred dollars.

(2) A health-care provider, officer or employee of the state department, officer or employee of a local public health agency, or person, firm, or corporation that violates section 25-4-406 by breaching the confidentiality requirements of such section commits a class 2 misdemeanor.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part R&RE, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 909, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3234, § 450, effective March 1, 2022. L. 2022: (1) amended, (HB 22-1229), ch. 68, p. 346, § 31, effective March 1.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former §§ 25-4-407 and 25-4-1409 as they existed prior to 2016.

(2) Section 47 of chapter 68 (HB 22-1229), Session Laws of Colorado 2022, provides that the act amending subsection (1) is effective March 1, 2022, but the governor did not approve the act until April 7, 2022.

PART 5

TUBERCULOSIS

Editor's note: This part 5 was numbered as article 12 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. The substantive provisions of this part 5 were repealed and reenacted in 1967, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 5 prior to 1967, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

25-4-500.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Active tuberculosis" means a diagnosis of tuberculosis demonstrated by clinical, bacteriologic, or diagnostic imaging evidence, or a combination thereof. A person who has been diagnosed as having active tuberculosis and has not completed a course of antituberculosis treatment is still considered to have active tuberculosis and may be infectious.

(2) "Board of health" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(3) "Contact" means a person who has shared the same air space with a person who has active tuberculosis.

(4) "Contagious" means having a disease that may be transmitted from one living person to another through direct or indirect contact.

(5) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(6) "Health officer" means the executive director of the department, the state chief medical officer, and county or district public health directors.

(7) "Infectious" means contagious.

(8) "Isolation" means separation of a person infected, or suspected to be infected, with tuberculosis from other persons to prevent the spread of tuberculosis.

(9) "Latent tuberculosis infection" means that tuberculosis organisms are present in a person's body, but the person does not have tuberculosis or symptoms, nor is the person infectious. Such a person usually has a positive reaction to the tuberculin skin test.

(10) "Local health officer" means the chief medical health officer of a county, district, or municipal public health agency or the health officer for a public health nursing service.

(11) "Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis" means tuberculosis caused by tuberculosis organisms that are resistant to at least the drugs isoniazid and rifampin.

(12) "Screening" means measures used to identify persons who have active tuberculosis or latent tuberculosis infection.

(13) "State chief medical officer" means the chief medical officer of the department, as described in section 25-1-105, or the executive director of the department.

(14) "Suspected case of active tuberculosis", "suspected case of tuberculosis", "suspected tuberculosis", or "suspected tuberculosis case" means a diagnosis of tuberculosis is being considered for a person, whether or not antituberculosis therapy has been started.

(15) "Tubercle bacilli" means tuberculosis organisms.

(16) "Tuberculosis" means a potentially fatal contagious disease caused by the bacterial microorganisms of the mycobacterium tuberculosis complex that can affect almost any part of the body but most commonly affects the lungs.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 313, § 1, effective April 7; (13) amended, p. 1906, § 99, effective August 5. L. 2009: (6) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 472, § 13, effective April 9. L. 2010: (10) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2093, § 92, effective August 11.

25-4-501. Tuberculosis declared to be an infectious and communicable disease.

It is hereby declared that tuberculosis is an infectious and communicable disease, that it endangers the population of this state, and that the treatment and control of such disease is a state and local responsibility. It is further declared that the emergence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis requires that this threat be addressed with a coherent and consistent strategy in order to protect the public health. To the end that tuberculosis may be brought better under control and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis prevented, it is further declared that the department and local public health agencies shall, within available resources, cooperatively promote control and treatment of persons suffering from tuberculosis.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 723, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-1. L. 73: p. 695, § 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2762, § 432, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1313, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 313, § 1, effective April 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-502. Tuberculosis to be reported.

(1) Every attending physician and other persons either treating or having knowledge of active or suspected tuberculosis in this state shall make a report to the department in accordance with section 25-1-122 (1) on every person known by said physician or other person to have active or suspected tuberculosis.

(2) Any health-care facility or other similar private or public institution in this state shall make a report to the department in accordance with section 25-1-122 (1) on every person having active or suspected tuberculosis who comes into its care or observation.

(3) All clinical laboratories rendering diagnostic service shall report to the department in accordance with section 25-1-122 (1), within twenty-four hours after diagnosis, the full name and other available data relating to the person whose sputa or other specimens submitted for examination reveal the presence of tubercle bacilli.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 723, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-2. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 946, § 5, effective May 6. L. 94: (1) and (2) amended, p. 2762, § 433, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 315, § 1, effective April 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-503. Examination of sputum. (Deleted by amendment)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 724, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-3. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2762, § 434, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 315, § 1, effective April 7.

Editor's note: This section was deleted by amendment in 2008. (See L. 2008, p. 315.)

25-4-504. Statistical case register. (Deleted by amendment)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 724, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-4. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2763, § 435, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 315, § 1, effective April 7.

Editor's note: This section was deleted by amendment in 2008. (See L. 2008, p. 315.)

25-4-505. Laboratories to report. (Deleted by amendment)

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 724, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-5. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2763, § 436, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 316, § 1, effective April 7.

Editor's note: This section was deleted by amendment in 2008. (See L. 2008, p. 316.)

25-4-506. Investigation and examination of suspected or known tuberculosis cases.

(1) The state chief medical officer and all local health officers are directed to use every available means to investigate immediately and ascertain the existence of all reported or suspected cases of active tuberculosis within the health officer's jurisdiction, to determine the sources of such infections, and to identify and evaluate the contacts of such cases and offer treatment as appropriate. In carrying out such investigations, such health officer is invested with full powers of inspection and examination of all persons known to be infected with active tuberculosis and is directed to make or cause to be made such examinations as are deemed necessary of persons who, on reasonable grounds, are suspected of having active tuberculosis in an infectious form.

(2) Whenever a health officer determines on reasonable grounds that an examination of any person is necessary for the preservation and protection of the public health, the health officer shall issue a written order directing medical examination, setting forth the name of the person to be examined, the time and place of the examination, and such other terms and conditions as the health officer may deem necessary. A copy of such order shall be served upon the person. Such an examination may be made by a licensed physician or advanced practice registered nurse of the person's own choice under such terms and conditions as the health officer shall specify.

(3) Any person who depends exclusively on prayer for healing in accordance with the teachings of any well-recognized religious sect, denomination, or organization, and claims exemptions on such grounds, shall nevertheless be subject to examination, and the provisions of this part 5 regarding compulsory reporting of communicable diseases and isolations shall apply where there is probable cause to suspect that such person has active tuberculosis. Such person shall not be required to submit to any medical treatment or to go to or be confined in a hospital or other medical institution if the person can safely be isolated in the person's own home or other suitable place of the person's choice.

(4) A health officer may conduct screening programs of populations that are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis or having latent tuberculosis infection and offer treatment as appropriate. Such screening programs may be implemented by a local health officer with the approval of the state chief medical officer.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 724, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-6. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 1313, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2004: (1)(a) amended, p. 1201, § 66, effective August 4. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 316, § 1, effective April 7; (2) amended, p. 132, § 14, effective January 1, 2009.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (2) by House Bill 08-1061 and House Bill 08-1199 were harmonized, effective January 1, 2009.

25-4-507. Isolation order - enforcement - court review.

(1) (a) Whenever a health officer determines that isolation of a person in a particular tuberculosis case is necessary for the preservation and protection of the public health, the health officer shall make an isolation order in writing.

(b) When a health officer is determining whether to issue an isolation order for a person, the health officer shall consider, but is not limited to, the following factors:

(I) Whether the person has active tuberculosis;

(II) If the person is violating the rules promulgated by the board of health or the orders issued by the appropriate health officer to comply with rules or orders; and

(III) Whether the person presents a substantial risk of exposing other persons to an imminent danger of infection.

(c) All isolation orders shall set forth the name of the person to be isolated and the initial period, not to exceed six months, during which the order shall remain effective, the place of isolation, and such other terms and conditions as may be immediately necessary to protect the public health. The isolation order shall advise the person being detained that he or she has the right to request release from detention by contacting a person designated in the order and that the detention shall not continue for more than five business days after the request for release, unless the detention is authorized by court order. The health officer shall serve a copy of the isolation order upon the person. The person shall be reexamined at the time the initial order expires to ascertain whether or not the tuberculous condition continues to be infectious. When it has been medically determined that the person no longer has active tuberculosis, the person shall be relieved from all further liability or duty imposed by this part 5, and the health officer shall rescind the order.

(d) A health officer may detain a person who is the subject of an isolation order issued pursuant to this subsection (1) without a prior court order. The health officer may detain the person in a hospital or other appropriate place for examination or treatment.

(2) In a case of a person with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, the health officer may issue an isolation order to such person if it is determined that the person has ceased taking prescribed medications against medical advice. Such order may be issued even if the person is no longer contagious so long as the person has not completed an entire course of therapy.

(3) (a) If a person detained pursuant to an isolation order requests to be released, the detaining authority shall release the person not later than five business days after the person requests the release, absent a court order authorizing detention. Upon receipt of a request for release, the detaining authority shall apply for a court order authorizing continued detention of the person. The detaining authority shall make the application within seventy-two hours after the person requests release or, if the seventy-two-hour period ends on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, by the end of the first business day following the Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. The application shall include a request for an expedited hearing.

(b) In any court proceeding to enforce an isolation order, the health officer shall prove the particular circumstances constituting the necessity for the detention by clear and convincing evidence. Any person who is subject to an isolation order has the right to be represented by counsel and, upon request, counsel shall be provided to the person.

(c) The request for release or filing of an application for a court order to continue an isolation order shall not stay the isolation order.

(d) In reviewing the application to continue the isolation order, the court shall not conduct a de novo review. The court shall consider the existing administrative record and any supplemental evidence the court deems relevant.

(e) Upon completion of the hearing, the court shall issue an order continuing, modifying, or dismissing the isolation order.

(f) A hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be closed and confidential, and any transcripts relating to the hearing shall be confidential.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 725, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-7. L. 2002: (3) added, p. 1314, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 317, § 1, effective April 7. L. 2009: (1)(c) amended and (1)(d) and (3) added, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, pp. 472, 473, §§ 14, 15, effective April 9.

25-4-508. Inspection of records.

Authorized department personnel may inspect and have access to all medical records of all medical practitioners, hospitals, institutions, and clinics, both public and private, where persons with known or suspected tuberculosis are treated and shall provide consultation services regarding the control of tuberculosis and the care of persons having tuberculosis to health-care providers or any other persons having responsibility for the care of persons with tuberculosis. Authorized department personnel shall also have access to laboratory records of persons tested for tuberculosis.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 725, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-8. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 947, § 6, effective May 6. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2763, § 437, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 318, § 1, effective April 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-509. Violations - penalty.

(1) Any person who, after service upon him or her of an order of a health officer directing his or her isolation or examination as provided in sections 25-4-506 and 25-4-507, violates or fails to comply with the order commits a petty offense.

(2) Any person, firm, or corporation that fails to make the reports required by this part 5 or knowingly makes any false report is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.

(3) Upon the receipt of information that any examination, isolation, or treatment order made and served as provided in this part 5 has been violated, the health officer shall advise the district attorney of the judicial district in which such violation occurred of the pertinent facts relating to the violation.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 725, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-9. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 318, § 1, effective April 7. L. 2021: (1) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3234, § 451, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-4-510. Jurisdiction.

District courts shall have original jurisdiction under this part 5.

Source: L. 67: R&RE, p. 726, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-10. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 318, § 1, effective April 7.

Editor's note: This section was not amended in 2008, although it was contained in a 2008 act that amended this entire part 5.

25-4-511. Duties of board of health and department - confidentiality of records - rules.

(1) The board of health is authorized to adopt such rules as are deemed necessary, appropriate, and consistent with good medical practice in the state of Colorado for the treatment and control of persons with tuberculosis.

(2) Subject to available appropriations, the department may contract with local public health agencies to provide assistance with tuberculosis treatment and control. The department shall retain the authority to, when necessary:

(a) Direct any program of investigation and examination of suspected tuberculosis cases, including persons who have had contact with a person who has suspected or confirmed active tuberculosis, and the administration of antituberculosis chemotherapy or the treatment of a latent tuberculosis infection on an outpatient basis where appropriate;

(b) Perform such other duties and have such other powers with relation to the provisions, objects, and purposes of this part 5 as the board of health shall prescribe.

(3) Except as otherwise provided by law, all records kept by the department and by local public health agencies and all records retained in a county coroner's office in accordance with section 30-10-606 (4)(c), C.R.S., as a result of the investigation of tuberculosis shall be kept strictly confidential and shall only be shared to the extent necessary for the investigation, treatment, control, and prevention of tuberculosis; except that every effort shall be made to limit disclosure of personal identifying information to the minimal amount necessary to accomplish the public health purpose.

Source: L. 73: p. 695, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-11. L. 94: (1)(a), IP(2), and (3) amended, p. 2763, § 438, effective July 1. L. 2002: (2)(a) and (2)(b) amended, p. 1314, § 4, effective August 7. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 318, § 1, effective April 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1)(a), the introductory portion to subsection (2), and subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-512. Nondiscrimination in the provision of general services.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 5 to the contrary, programs and services that provide for the investigation, identification, testing, preventive care, or treatment of tuberculosis shall be available to a person regardless of his or her race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

Source: L. 73: p. 696, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-12. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1314, § 5, effective August 7. L. 2006 1st Ex. Sess.: (1)(c) amended and (2) added, p. 26, § 4, effective July 31. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 319, § 1, effective April 7.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

25-4-513. Funding.

The department shall provide funding to local public health agencies for tuberculosis treatment and control and shall consider the number of active, suspected, and latent tuberculosis cases undergoing therapy in each agency's jurisdiction when determining funding levels.

Source: L. 73: p. 696, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-12-13. L. 2008: Entire part amended, p. 320, § 1, effective April 7.

PART 6

RABIES CONTROL

25-4-601. Definitions.

As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "County board of health" means the body acting as the county or district board of health under the provisions of section 25-1-508.

(2) "Health department" means the department of public health and environment or any county or district public health agency organized and maintained under the provisions of part 5 of article 1 of this title.

(3) "Health officer" means the person appointed as the public health director of a district, county, city, or town under the provisions of section 25-1-509.

(4) "Inoculation against rabies" means the administration of the antirabies vaccine as approved by the department of public health and environment or the county or district department of health.

(5) "Owner" means any person who has a right of property in a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal, or who keeps or harbors a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal, or who has it in his care or acts as its custodian.

Source: L. 63: p. 545, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-1. L. 91: (2) and (5) amended, p. 947, § 7, effective May 6. L. 94: (4) amended, p. 2764, § 439, effective July 1. L. 2008: (1), (2), and (3) amended, p. 2053, § 7, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (4), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-602. Notice to health department or officer if animal affected or suspected of being affected by rabies.

Whenever a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal is affected by rabies or suspected of being affected by rabies or has been bitten by an animal known or suspected to be affected by rabies, the owner of the dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal, or any person having knowledge thereof, shall forthwith notify the health department or health officer in the county, city, or town in which such animal is located, stating precisely where such animal may be found.

Source: L. 63: p. 546, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-2. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 947, § 8, effective May 6.

25-4-603. Report of person bitten by animal to health department or health officer.

Every physician after his first professional attendance upon a person bitten by a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal, or any person having knowledge thereof, shall report to the health department or health officer in accordance with the provisions of section 25-1-122 (1).

Source: L. 63: p. 546, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-3. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 947, § 9, effective May 6.

25-4-604. Animal attacking or biting person to be confined - examination.

The health department or health officer shall serve notice upon the owner of a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal which has attacked or bitten a person to confine the animal at the expense of the owner upon his premises or at a pound or other place designated in the notice for a period designated by the department of public health and environment. The health department, health officer, or his representative shall be permitted by the owner of such dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal to examine the animal at any time within the period of confinement to determine whether such animal shows symptoms of rabies. No person shall obstruct or interfere with the authorized person in making such examination.

Source: L. 63: p. 546, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-4. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 948, § 10, effective May 6. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2764, § 440, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-605. Animals bitten by animals known or suspected of having rabies to be confined.

The health department or health officer shall serve notice in writing upon the owner of a dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal known to have been bitten by an animal known or suspected of having rabies requiring the owner to immediately treat and confine such animal by procedures outlined by the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 63: p. 546, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-5. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 948, § 11, effective May 6. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2765, § 441, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-606. Animals to be confined to prevent spread of rabies.

Whenever the board of health of a health department or the county board of health has reason to believe or has been notified by the department of public health and environment that there is imminent danger that rabies may spread within that county or district, such board shall serve public notice by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in such county or district covered by such department requiring the owners of dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals specified to confine such dogs, cats, pet animals, or mammals for such period as may be necessary to prevent the spread of rabies in such county or district.

Source: L. 63: p. 546, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-6. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 948, § 12, effective May 6. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2765, § 442, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-607. Order of board of health requiring inoculation of animals - veterinarian waiver of order.

(1) (a) When it is deemed advisable in the interest of public health and safety, the board of health of an organized health department or a county board of health may order that all dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals in the county or district be vaccinated against rabies, such vaccination to be performed by a licensed veterinarian or under the indirect supervision, as defined in section 12-315-104 (10.5), of a licensed veterinarian. The veterinarian signing a rabies vaccination certificate shall ensure that the person who administered the vaccine is identified on the certificate and has been appropriately trained in vaccine storage, handling, and administration and in the management of adverse events.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1), a board of health of an organized health department or a county board of health shall not order the inoculation of dogs, cats, or ferrets against rabies any more frequently than is recommended in the "Compendium of Animal Rabies Control" as promulgated by the national association of state public health veterinarians.

(2) A veterinarian, with the written consent of an animal's owner, may issue a written waiver pursuant to the rules of the health department, exempting an animal from a rabies vaccination order if the veterinarian, in his or her professional opinion, determines that the rabies inoculation is contraindicated due to the animal's medical condition.

(3) (a) The executive director of the health department shall enact rules allowing for the exemption of an animal from a rabies vaccination due to the medical condition of the animal.

(b) The owner of an animal seeking an exemption from a rabies vaccination for his or her animal must provide the veterinarian with written consent for the exemption.

(c) A veterinarian supplying a waiver exempting an animal from a rabies vaccination, county, district, and municipal health departments, their assistants and employees, the health department, health officers, and anyone enforcing this part 6 shall not be liable for any subsequent accident, disease, injury, or quarantine that may occur as a result of an animal exempted from a rabies vaccination pursuant to the rules of the health department.

(4) A waiver executed pursuant to this section shall be accepted and recognized by any local or regional authority issuing licenses for the ownership of animals.

Source: L. 63: p. 547, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-7. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 948, § 13, effective May 6. L. 99: Entire section amended, p. 275, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 1629, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2010: (3)(c) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2093, § 93, effective August 11. L. 2022: (1)(a) amended, (HB 22-1235), ch. 442, p. 3120, § 29, effective August 10.

25-4-608. Notice of order requiring inoculation of animals.

The order of a board of health of a health department or a county board of health requiring inoculation of all dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals shall not become effective until twenty-four hours after notice of adoption of the order requiring inoculation of all dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals has been published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county or district.

Source: L. 63: p. 547, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-8. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 949, § 14, effective May 6.

25-4-609. Effect of order requiring inoculation of animals.

Sections 25-4-610 and 25-4-611 shall be in force and effect only in those counties, districts, or portions of counties or districts where an order requiring inoculation of all dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals is in effect.

Source: L. 63: p. 547, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-9. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 949, § 15, effective May 6.

25-4-610. Uninoculated animals not to run at large - impounding and disposition of animals.

It is unlawful for any owner of any dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal which has not been inoculated as required by the order of the county board of health or board of health of a health department to allow it to run at large. The health department or health officer may capture and impound any such dog, cat, other pet animal, or other mammal found running at large and dispose of such animal in accordance with local program policy. Such power to impound and dispose shall extend to any and all animals unclaimed and found or suspected to be affected by rabies, whether wild or domestic. The division of parks and wildlife shall cooperate with and aid the health department or health officer in the enforcement of this section as it affects animals found or suspected to be affected by rabies when such animals are in its care, jurisdiction, or control.

Source: L. 63: p. 547, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-10. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 949, § 16, effective May 6.

25-4-611. Report to state department.

Each health department or health officer shall furnish information to the department of public health and environment concerning all cases of rabies and the prevalence of rabies within the county at any time such information is requested by the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 63: p. 548, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-11. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-11. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2765, § 443, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-612. Enforcement of part 6.

The health officer or health department shall enforce the provisions of this part 6, and the sheriff and his deputies and the police officers in each incorporated municipality and the division of parks and wildlife shall be aides and are instructed to cooperate with the health department or health officer in carrying out the provisions of this part 6.

Source: L. 63: p. 548, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-12. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-12.

25-4-613. Liability for accident or subsequent disease from inoculation.

The health departments, their assistants and employees, the department of public health and environment, health officers, or anyone enforcing the provisions of this part 6 shall not be held responsible for any accident or subsequent disease that may occur in connection with the administration of this part 6.

Source: L. 63: p. 548, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-13. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-13. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2765, § 444, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-614. Penalties.

Any person who refuses to comply with or who violates any of the provisions of this part 6 commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 63: p. 548, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-14. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-14. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3234, § 452, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-4-615. Further municipal restrictions not prohibited.

(1) Nothing in this part 6 shall be construed to limit the power of any municipality within this state to prohibit dogs from running at large, whether or not they have been inoculated as provided in this part 6; and nothing in this part 6 shall be construed to limit the power of any municipality to regulate and control and to enforce other and additional measures for the restriction and control of rabies.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a municipality shall not require a dog, cat, or ferret to be inoculated against rabies any more frequently than is recommended in the "Compendium of Animal Rabies Control" as promulgated by the national association of state public health veterinarians, and a veterinarian may issue a written waiver exempting an animal from a rabies vaccination order as provided in section 25-4-607.

Source: L. 63: p. 548, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-25-15. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-23-15. L. 99: Entire section amended, p. 275, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 1630, § 2, effective May 29.

Cross references: For control and licensing of dogs by counties, see part 1 of article 15 of title 30, and for other municipal restrictions, see § 31-15-401 (1)(b) and (1)(m)(I).

PART 7

PET ANIMAL AND PSITTACINE BIRD FACILITIES

Editor's note: This part 7 was numbered as article 19 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. The substantive provisions of this part 7 were repealed and reenacted in 1983, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 7 prior to 1983, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

Cross references: For the "Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act", see article 80 of title 35.

25-4-701. Definitions.

As used in this part 7, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the state board of health.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Pet animal facility" means any place or premises used in whole or in part for the keeping of pet animals for the purpose of adoption, breeding, boarding, grooming, handling, selling, sheltering, trading, or transferring such animals.

(4) "Psittacine birds" includes all birds of the order psittaciformes.

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1059, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section R&RE, p. 1296, § 1, effective July 1; (2) amended, p. 2619, § 31, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-4-701 as it existed prior to 1983.

(2) Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 94-023 and House Bill 94-1029 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-702. Board to establish rules - department to administer.

(1) The board may establish rules that are necessary to carry out the provisions of this part 7. Such rules shall set forth procedures to be followed by pet animal facilities in the event of an outbreak of disease or quarantine. Such rules may include provisions pertaining to the breeding and sale of psittacine birds that are necessary to prevent or minimize the danger of transmission of psittacosis to handlers, the general public, and other pet birds.

(2) This part 7 shall be administered by the department; except that county, district, and municipal public health agencies and animal control personnel may be authorized by the department to assist it in performing its powers and duties pursuant to this part 7.

(3) (Deleted by amendment, L. 94, p. 1296, § 2, effective July 1, 1994.)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1060, § 1, effective March 1. L. 87: (3) amended, p. 971, § 81, effective March 13. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1296, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2010: (2) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2093, § 94, effective August 11.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-705 as it existed prior to 1983.

25-4-703. License required - fee. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1060, § 1, effective March 1 .

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal in 1994, this section was similar to former §§ 25-4-704 and 25-4-706 as they existed prior to 1983.

(2) Section 25-4-715 provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 688.)

25-4-704. Hobby breeders of psittacine birds. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1061, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section repealed, p. 1313, § 17, effective July 1.

25-4-705. Importation for resale prohibited - when. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1061, § 1, effective March 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal in 1994, this section is similar to former § 25-4-703 as it existed prior to 1983.

(2) Section 25-4-715 provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 688.)

25-4-706. Pet animal and psittacine bird dealers - duties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1062, § 1, effective March 1.

Editor's note: Section 25-4-715 provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 688.)

25-4-707. Psittacine birds - sale or transfer - requirements. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1062, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section repealed, p. 1313, § 17, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Prior to its repeal in 1994, this section was similar to former § 25-4-702 as it existed prior to 1983.

25-4-708. Nonpsittacine birds - when regulated. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1063, § 1, effective March 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal in 1994, this section was similar to former § 25-4-717 as it existed prior to 1983.

(2) Section 25-4-715 provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 688.)

25-4-709. Quarantine.

If at any time it appears to the department that any pet animal is, or was during its lifetime, infected with a disease dangerous to the public health, it may place an embargo on said pet animal and may trace, or cause to be traced, the whereabouts of said animal and determine the identity and whereabouts of any other animals which may have been exposed to such disease. If the department determines that the interest of the public health requires, it may: Cause any pet animal facility to be quarantined for such time as the department determines to be necessary to protect the public health; prohibit the sale or importation into this state of such pet animals from such places or areas where such danger exists; and require the euthanasia and the proper disposal of infected animals.

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1063, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1297, § 3, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-710 as it existed prior to 1983.

25-4-710. Right of entry - inspections.

It is lawful for any employee of the department, any employee of any county, district, or municipal public health agency or animal control agency authorized by the department, or any authorized official of the United States department of agriculture when conducting an official disease investigation of a pet animal facility to enter such facility and to inspect the same, any animals, or any health or transaction records relating to the investigation.

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1063, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1297, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2094, § 95, effective August 11.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-711 as it existed prior to 1983.

25-4-711. Suspension or revocation of license. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1063, § 1, effective March 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal in 1994, this section was similar to former §§ 25-4-713 and 25-4-715 as they existed prior to 1983.

(2) Section 25-4-715 provided for the repeal of this section effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 688.)

25-4-712. Unlawful acts.

(1) It is unlawful for any person:

(a) To make a material misstatement or provide false information to the department during an official disease investigation;

(b) To violate a provision of this part 7 or a rule promulgated pursuant to this part 7;

(c) To aid or abet another in a violation of this part 7 or a rule promulgated pursuant to this part 7;

(d) To refuse to permit entry or inspection in accordance with section 25-4-710.

(e) to (k) (Deleted by amendment, L. 94, p. 1298, § 5, effective July 1, 1994.)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1063, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1298, § 5, effective July 1.

25-4-713. Penalty for violations.

(1) Any person who violates any of the provisions of this part 7 is guilty of a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 94, p. 1299, § 6, effective July 1, 1994.)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1064, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1299, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 1536, § 265, effective October 1. L. 2021: (1) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3235, § 453, effective March 1, 2022.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-716 as it existed prior to 1983.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

25-4-714. Exemptions from part 7. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part R&RE, p. 1065, § 1, effective March 1. L. 94: Entire section repealed, p. 1313, § 17, effective July 1.

25-4-715. Repeal of sections - review of functions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 88: Entire section added, p. 930, § 14, effective April 28. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 688, § 54, effective April 20. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1299, § 7, effective July 1. L. 97: Entire section repealed. p. 1023, § 43, effective August 6.

PART 8

PHENYLKETONURIA

25-4-801 to 25-4-804. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2018: Entire part repealed, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2212, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) This part 8 was numbered as article 27 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 8 prior to its repeal in 2018, consult the 2017 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) §§ 25-4-801, 25-4-802 (2), and 25-4-803 were amended by SB 18-096, effective August 8, 2018. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of this part 8 by HB 18-1006, effective July 1, 2018.

PART 9

SCHOOL ENTRY IMMUNIZATION

Editor's note: This part 9 was numbered as article 40 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. The substantive provisions of this part 9 were repealed and reenacted in 1978, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 9 prior to 1978, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

25-4-901. Definitions.

As used in this part 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) Repealed.

(1.5) "Child" means any student less than eighteen years of age.

(1.6) "Immunization record" means a paper or electronic document from the records of a licensed physician, a physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), an advanced practice registered nurse, or a public health official that includes the dates and types of immunizations administered to a student.

(1.7) "Nonmedical exemption" means an immunization exemption based upon a religious belief whose teachings are opposed to immunizations or a personal belief that is opposed to immunizations.

(1.8) "Official certificate of immunization" means one of the following forms of documentation that includes the dates and types of immunizations administered to a student:

(a) Information from an immunization record transferred by a licensed physician, a physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), an advanced practice registered nurse, a public health official, or a school official onto a paper or electronic version of the official certificate of immunization form created and maintained by the department of public health and environment; or

(b) An electronic file or a hard copy of an electronic file provided to the school directly from the immunization tracking system established pursuant to section 25-4-2403.

(2) (a) "School" means, except as otherwise provided in subsection (2)(b) of this section, a public, private, or parochial nursery school, day care center, child care facility or child care center as defined in section 26-6-903 or 26.5-5-303, family child care home, foster care home, head start program, kindergarten, elementary or secondary school through grade twelve, or college or university.

(b) "School" does not include:

(I) A public services short-term child care facility as defined in section 26.5-5-303;

(I.5) A guest child care facility as defined in section 26.5-5-303 or a ski school as defined in section 26.5-5-307 (7); or

(II) College or university courses of study that are offered off-campus, or are offered to nontraditional adult students, as defined by the governing board of the institution, or are offered at colleges or universities that do not have residence hall facilities.

(3) "Student" means any person enrolled in a Colorado school or child care center as defined in subsection (2) of this section. "Student" does not include a child who enrolls and attends a licensed child care center, as defined in section 26.5-5-303, which is located at a ski area, for up to fifteen days or less in a fifteen-consecutive-day period, no more than twice in a calendar year, with each fifteen-consecutive-day period separated by at least sixty days.

Source: L. 78: Entire part, R&RE, p. 427, § 1, effective April 4. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 931, § 1, effective April 16. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1273, § 1, effective April 9. L. 96: (2) amended, p. 266, § 20, effective July 1. L. 98: (1) amended and (1.5) added, p. 19, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2007: (1)(b) amended, p. 664, § 7, effective April 26; (2) amended, p. 867, § 5, effective May 14. L. 2016: (2)(b)(I) and (2)(b)(I.5) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 770, § 60, effective June 6; (2)(a) and (3) amended, (HB 16-1425), ch. 308, p. 1239, § 1, effective June 10. L. 2020: (1.7) added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 579, § 2, effective June 26. L. 2022: (2)(a), (2)(b)(I), (2)(b)(I.5), and (3) amended, (HB 22-1295), ch. 123, p. 846, § 71, effective July 1. L. 2025: (1) repealed and (1.6) and (1.8) added, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 274, § 10, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-901 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-4-902. Immunization prior to attending school - standardized immunization information.

(1) A student shall not attend any school in the state of Colorado on or after the dates specified in section 25-4-906 (4) unless the student or the student's parent or legal guardian has presented one of the following to the appropriate school official:

(a) An up-to-date official certificate of immunization stating that the student has received immunization against communicable diseases as specified by the state board of health in rules adopted in accordance with section 25-4-904 (1); or

(b) Repealed.

(c) A certificate of medical exemption, a certificate of completion of the online education module, or a certificate of nonmedical exemption in compliance with section 25-4-903. A certificate of medical exemption, a certificate of completion of the online education module, or a certificate of nonmedical exemption is only valid if completed in compliance with section 25-4-903.

(1.5) A student is not required to comply with subsection (1) of this section if the student is participating in a nonpublic home-based educational program pursuant to section 22-33-104.5; except that:

(a) A school district may require compliance with subsection (1) of this section pursuant to section 22-33-104.5 (3)(g); and

(b) (I) A school district may require compliance with subsection (1) of this section if the student participating in a nonpublic home-based educational program attends a school of the school district for a portion of the school day;

(II) An institute charter school may require compliance with subsection (1) of this section if the student participating in a nonpublic home-based educational program attends the institute charter school for a portion of the school day; or

(III) A private school may require compliance with subsection (1) of this section if the student participating in a nonpublic home-based educational program attends the private school for a portion of the school day.

(2) If the student's official certificate of immunization is not up to date according to the requirements of the state board of health, the parent or guardian of the student or, if the student is emancipated or eighteen years of age or older, the student shall submit to the school, within thirty days after receiving direct personal notification that the official certificate of immunization is not up to date, documentation indicating that the next required immunization has been given and that includes a written plan for completion of all required immunizations. The scheduling of immunizations in the written plan shall follow medically recommended minimum intervals approved by the state board of health. If the student begins but does not continue or complete the written plan, the school shall suspend or expel the student pursuant to this part 9.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a school shall enroll a student who is in out-of-home placement within five school days after receiving the student's education information and records as required in section 22-32-138, regardless of whether the school has received the items specified in subsection (1) of this section. Upon enrolling the student, the requirements of subsections (1) and (2) of this section apply, and the school shall notify the student's legal guardian that, unless the school receives the student's official certificate of immunization or a certificate of exemption within fourteen days after the student enrolls, the school will suspend the student until such time as the school receives the official certificate of immunization or certificate of exemption.

(4) (a) On or before January 15, 2021, the department of public health and environment shall develop and provide to the department of education and the department of human services a standardized document regarding childhood immunizations. The department of education and the department of human services shall post the standardized immunization document on their websites on or before January 31, 2021, and on or before January 31 each year thereafter. The standardized document must be updated annually and must include, but need not be limited to:

(I) A list of the immunizations required for enrollment in a school and the age at which the immunization is required;

(II) A list of immunizations currently recommended for children and the recommended age at which each immunization should be given, as specified by the state board of health in rules adopted in accordance with section 25-4-904 (1);

(III) A place on the document where a school can include the school's specific immunization and exemption rates for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine and for every other vaccine for the school's enrolled student population for the prior school year compared to the vaccinated children standard described in section 25-4-911; and

(IV) A statement that the school is required to collect and report the information pursuant to this subsection (4)(a) and that the school does not control the school's specific immunization and exemption rates or establish the vaccinated children standard described in section 25-4-911.

(b) On or before April 15, 2026, and on or before April 15 each year thereafter, a school shall include on the document described in subsection (4)(a) of this section the school's specific immunization and exemption rates for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine for the school's enrolled student population for the prior school year compared to the vaccinated children standard described in section 25-4-911. The school may include on the document the school's specific immunization and exemption rates for any other vaccine for the school's enrolled student population for the prior school year. The school shall directly distribute the document to the parent or legal guardian of each student enrolled in its school, emancipated students, or students eighteen years of age or older, consistent with section 25-4-903 (5).

(5) The document created pursuant to subsection (4) of this section shall comply with the provisions of section 25-4-903 (4) regarding allowable exemptions from required immunizations.

(6) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, a school district that is exercising its authority pursuant to section 22-33-104.5 (3)(g) or an independent school organized pursuant to section 22-33-104 (2)(b) where students are enrolled but do not attend is entitled to only:

(a) A student's immunization records, as provided by the parent or legal guardian; or

(b) A statement signed by a parent or legal guardian that the student is exempt from immunization.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 427, § 1, effective April 4. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2766, § 448, effective July 1. L. 95: Entire section amended, p. 916, § 14, effective May 25. L. 97: Entire section amended, p. 408, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2008: (3) added, p. 472, § 4, effective April 17; (1)(a) amended, p. 132, § 15, effective January 1, 2009. L. 2010: (1)(a) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2094, § 96, effective August 11; (4) and (5) added, (SB 10-056), ch. 50, p. 192, § 5, effective August 11. L. 2016: (1) amended, (HB 16-1425), ch. 308, p. 1239, § 2, effective June 10. L. 2020: (1) and (4) amended and (1.5) and (6) added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 580, § 3, effective June 26. L. 2025: IP(1), (1)(a), (2), (3), (4)(a)(II), and (4)(b) amended and (1)(b) repealed, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 275, § 11, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-902 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2008 act enacting subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 147, Session Laws of Colorado 2008. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-4-902.5. Immunization prior to attending a college or university - tuberculosis screening process development.

(1) Except as provided in section 25-4-903, a student shall not attend any college or university in the state of Colorado on or after the dates specified in section 25-4-906 (4) unless the student can present to the appropriate official of the school an official certificate of immunization from a licensed physician, licensed physician assistant authorized under section 12-240-107 (6), licensed advanced practice registered nurse, or authorized representative of the department of public health and environment or county, district, or municipal public health agency stating that the student has received immunization against communicable diseases as specified by the state board of health.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 94, p. 695, §2, effective April 19, 1994.)

(3) (a) Each college and university in Colorado may work to create a tuberculosis screening process with the goal of making the process as uniform as possible for all colleges and universities in the state. The department of public health and environment may attend and participate in any meetings held by the universities and colleges regarding the screening process. The screening process may include a tuberculosis risk questionnaire, a tuberculosis education policy, a clinical review process for each completed questionnaire, and follow-up testing procedures for students who are determined to be at risk for tuberculosis. On or before January 1, 2009, the colleges and universities that work to create a tuberculosis screening process pursuant to this subsection (3) shall report to the health and human services committees of the senate and the house of representatives, or their successor committees, regarding any legislative recommendations necessary regarding a tuberculosis screening process.

(b) This subsection (3) shall not apply to a university or college that provides course work solely online.

Source: L. 91: Entire section added, p. 931, § 2, effective April 16. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 695, § 2, effective April 19; (1) amended, p. 2766, § 449, effective July 1. L. 2008: (3) added, p. 982, § 1, effective July 1; (1) amended, p. 132, § 16, effective January 1, 2009. L. 2010: (1) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2094, § 97, effective August 11. L. 2016: (1) amended, (SB 16-158), ch. 204, p. 728, § 18, effective August 10. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1702, § 157, effective October 1. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 276, § 12, effective April 10.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 94-045 and House Bill 94-1029 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 16-158, see section 1 of chapter 204, Session Laws of Colorado 2016.

25-4-903. Exemptions from immunization - rules.

(1) (Deleted by amendment, L. 97, p. 409, § 2, effective July 1, 1997.)

(2) Unless a student is exempted pursuant to this section, the parent or legal guardian of a student shall have the student immunized, or, if a student is emancipated or eighteen years of age or older, the student shall have themself immunized. A student is exempted from receiving the required immunizations in the following manner:

(a) By submitting to the student's school a completed certificate of medical exemption from a licensed physician, physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), or advanced practice registered nurse that the physical condition of the student is such that one or more specified immunizations would endanger the student's life or health or are medically contraindicated due to other medical conditions; or

(b) (I) By submitting to the student's school either a completed certificate of completion of the online education module or a completed certificate of nonmedical exemption signed by one parent or legal guardian, an emancipated student, or a student eighteen years of age or older that the parent, legal guardian, or student is an adherent to a religious belief whose teachings are opposed to immunizations or has a personal belief that is opposed to immunizations.

(II) (A) A complete certificate of completion of the online education module is acquired upon completing the online education module described in subsection (2.7) of this section.

(B) A complete certificate of nonmedical exemption must include the signature of a person who is authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice to the student for whom the certificate of nonmedical exemption is sought. Nothing in this subsection (2)(b)(II)(B) requires a person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice to sign a certificate of nonmedical exemption. Notwithstanding any law or rule to the contrary, a body that regulates the professional conduct of a person who is authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice to the student for whom the certificate is sought shall not order a disciplinary action against the person because the person authorized to sign the certificate signed such certificate pursuant to this subsection (2)(b)(II)(B). It is unlawful for the employer or a professional organization to retaliate against a person because the person authorized to sign a certificate signed such certificate pursuant to this subsection (2)(b)(II)(B).

(2.2) (a) (I) A licensed physician, physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), or advanced practice registered nurse shall provide a copy of a completed certificate of medical exemption to the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older.

(II) The certificate of completion of the online education module must be immediately available to download or print upon completion of the online education module. The certificate of completion of the online education module developed by the department of public health and environment must include the same information as the certificate of nonmedical exemption pursuant to subsection (2.3) of this section.

(III) A person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice to the student for whom the certificate of nonmedical exemption is sought and who signs the certificate of nonmedical exemption form shall provide a copy of a completed certificate of nonmedical exemption to the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older.

(b) (I) A licensed physician, physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), or advanced practice registered nurse shall submit the medical exemption data to the immunization tracking system created in section 25-4-2403.

(II) A person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice to the student for whom the certificate of nonmedical exemption is sought and who signs the certificate of nonmedical exemption shall submit the nonmedical exemption data to the immunization tracking system created in section 25-4-2403.

(III) Notwithstanding subsections (2.2)(b)(I) and (2.2)(b)(II) of this section, a licensed physician, a physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), an advanced practice registered nurse, or a person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within the person's scope of practice is not subject to a regulatory sanction for failing to submit medical exemption or nonmedical exemption data to the immunization tracking system.

(2.3) (a) On or before January 1, 2021, the department of public health and environment shall develop and post on its website a standardized certificate of medical exemption form and a standardized certificate of nonmedical exemption form. The department of public health and environment shall post any updated form on its website.

(b) At a minimum, the forms developed by the department of public health and environment must:

(I) Include a notice that informs the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older of the option to exclude the student's medical or nonmedical exemption information from the immunization tracking system established in section 25-4-2403;

(II) Be limited to requests for information related to collecting data pertaining to a medical or nonmedical exemption, including but not limited to:

(A) The student's immunization information and the vaccine or vaccines for which the exemption applies; and

(B) Whether a medical exemption or a nonmedical exemption is claimed;

(III) Not require the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older to provide any demographic data except the student's name, date of birth, sex, and school's name and location and the parent's or legal guardian's name;

(IV) Include references to scientifically based information regarding the benefits and risks of immunizations; and

(V) Not require the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older to provide any information that would identify the religious faith or describe the reasons for the personal belief of the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older who is claiming a nonmedical exemption. The existing immunization tracking system established in section 25-4-2403 must not receive or store any information that would identify the religious faith or the reasons for the personal belief of the student's parent or legal guardian, the emancipated student, or the student eighteen years of age or older who is claiming the exemption.

(c) The forms developed by the department of public health and environment must not require a parent or legal guardian, emancipated student, or student eighteen years of age or older to sign or indicate agreement with any language regarding immunizations that may be contrary to a religious belief or personal belief that is opposed to immunizations in order to complete the form.

(2.5) The state board of health shall promulgate rules regarding:

(a) Immunization information, including exemption rates, that is available to the public through the department, including evidence-based research, resources and information from credible scientific and public health organizations, peer-reviewed studies, and an online learning module; and

(b) The frequency of submission of exemption forms.

(2.7) (a) The online learning module administered by the department of public health and environment pursuant to subsection (2.5)(a) of this section must:

(I) Include medical and scientific data that is evidence-based and peer reviewed by credible scientific and public health organizations concerning both the benefits and risks of immunizations and evidence-based practices. The module must fairly present both the benefits and risks of immunizations and include data concerning the risk of immunization injury.

(II) Be interactive; and

(III) Include other criteria adopted by the department of public health and environment.

(b) The online learning module must not require a parent or legal guardian, emancipated student, or student eighteen years of age or older to sign or indicate agreement with any language regarding immunizations that may be contrary to a religious belief or personal belief that is opposed to immunizations in order to complete the online learning module.

(3) The state board of health may provide, by regulation, for further exemptions to immunization based upon sound medical practice.

(4) All information distributed to parents by school districts regarding immunization shall inform them of their rights under subsection (2) of this section.

(5) In addition to the requirements pursuant to section 25-4-902 (4)(b), each school shall make the immunization and exemption rates of their enrolled student population publicly available upon request.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 428, § 1, effective April 4. L. 91: (1) and (2) amended, p. 932, § 3, effective April 16. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 380, § 3, effective April 12. L. 97: Entire section amended, p. 409, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2)(a) amended, p. 132, § 17, effective January 1, 2009. L. 2014: (2.5) and (5) added, (HB 14-1288), ch. 240, p. 887, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2016: (2)(a) amended, (SB 16-158), ch. 204, p. 728, § 19, effective August 10. L. 2019: (2)(a) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1702, § 158, effective October 1. L. 2020: (2) and (5) amended and (2.2), (2.3), and (2.7) added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 582, § 4, effective June 26. L. 2025: IP(2), (2)(a), (2)(b)(II)(B), (2.2)(a)(III), (2.2)(b)(II), and (2.2)(b)(III) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 277, § 13, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-903 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 14-1288, see section 1 of chapter 240, Session Laws of Colorado 2014. For the legislative declaration in SB 16-158, see section 1 of chapter 204, Session Laws of Colorado 2016. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-4-904. Rules - immunization rules - rule-making authority of state board of health.

(1) (a) The state board of health shall establish rules for administering this part 9. In order to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases and the effects of serious diseases, the state board of health rules shall:

(I) Establish the immunizations that are required and the manner and frequency of their administration, taking into consideration recommendations of the advisory committee on immunization practices of the centers for disease control and prevention in the federal department of health and human services and, as appropriate, recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians; and

(II) Conform to recognized standard medical practices.

(b) The rules may also require the reporting of statistical information and names of noncompliers by the schools.

(c) The department of public health and environment shall administer and enforce the immunization requirements.

(2) All rule-making authority granted to the state board of health under this article 4 is granted on the condition that the general assembly reserves the power to delete or rescind any rule of the board. All rules adopted pursuant to this section are subject to section 24-4-103.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 428, § 1, effective April 4. L. 80: (2) amended, p. 788, § 23, effective June 5. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2767, § 450, effective July 1. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-091), ch. 28, p. 169, § 6, effective August 10. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 278, § 14, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-905 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-904.5. Annual alignment evaluation.

The department of public health and environment shall annually evaluate the state's immunization practices, including an examination of updated best practices and guidelines recommended by the advisory committee on immunization practices of the centers for disease control and prevention in the federal department of health and human services and, as appropriate, by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians. The state board of health shall review the department of public health and environment's annual evaluation and may update the state's immunization practices pursuant to the department of public health and environment's annual evaluation.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 585, § 5, effective June 26. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 278, § 15, effective April 10.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-4-905. Immunization of indigent children.

(1) The county, district, or municipal public health agency; a public health or school nurse under the supervision of a licensed physician or physician assistant authorized under section 12-240-107 (6); or the department of public health and environment, in the absence of a county, district, or municipal public health agency or public health nurse, shall provide, at public expense to the extent that funding is available, immunizations required by this part 9 to each child whose parents or guardians cannot afford to have the child immunized or, if emancipated, who cannot themself afford immunization and who has not been exempted. The department of public health and environment shall provide all vaccines necessary to comply with this section as far as funding will permit. Nothing in this section precludes the department of public health and environment from distributing vaccines to physicians, physician assistants authorized under section 12-240-107 (6), advanced practice registered nurses, or others as required by law or the rules of the department. An indigent child shall not be excluded, suspended, or expelled from school unless the immunizations have been available and readily accessible to the child at public expense.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 9 to the contrary, programs and services that provide immunizations to children for communicable diseases shall be made available to a child regardless of the child's race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 428, § 1, effective April 4. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2767, § 451, effective July 1. L. 2006, 1st Ex. Sess.: Entire section amended, p. 26, § 5, effective July 31. L. 2008: (1) amended, p. 133, § 18, effective January 1, 2009. L. 2010: (1) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2094, § 98, effective August 11. L. 2016: (1) amended, (SB 16-158), ch. 204, p. 728, § 20, effective August 10. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1703, § 159, effective October 1. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 279, § 16, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-906 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 16-158, see section 1 of chapter 204, Session Laws of Colorado 2016.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

25-4-906. Certificate of immunization - forms.

(1) The department of public health and environment shall provide official certificates of immunization to the schools, private physicians, and county, district, and municipal public health agencies. Upon the commencement of the gathering of epidemiological information pursuant to section 25-4-2403 to implement the immunization tracking system, such form shall include a notice that informs a parent or legal guardian that the parent or legal guardian has the option to exclude their infant's, child's, or student's immunization information from the immunization tracking system created in section 25-4-2403. A school official may accept any immunization record as proof of immunization if the information is transferred to the official certificate of immunization.

(2) (a) (I) Except as provided in subsection (2)(a)(II) of this section, each school shall maintain on file an official certificate of immunization for every student enrolled in the school.

(II) In lieu of an official certificate of immunization, a licensed children's residential camp may maintain on file an out-of-state immunization record for an out-of-state camper attending the residential camp.

(b) (I) When a student withdraws, transfers, is promoted, or otherwise leaves a school, the school shall:

(A) Upon request, return the official certificate of immunization to the parent or guardian of a student or, if a student is emancipated or eighteen years of age or older, to the student; or

(B) Transfer the official certificate of immunization with the student's school record to the new school.

(II) Upon a college or university student's request, the college or university shall forward the official certificate of immunization as specified by the student.

(3) The department of public health and environment may examine, audit, and verify the records of immunizations maintained by each school.

(4) All students enrolled in any school in Colorado on and after August 15, 1979, shall furnish the required official certificate of immunization or shall be suspended or expelled from school. Students enrolling in school in Colorado for the first time on and after July 1, 1978, shall provide an official certificate of immunization or shall be excluded from school except as provided in section 25-4-903.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 429, § 1, effective April 4. L. 91: (2) and (4) amended, p. 932, § 4, effective April 16. L. 92: (2) amended, p. 1273, § 2, effective April 9. L. 94: (1) and (3) amended, p. 2767, § 452, effective July 1. L. 98: (1) amended, p. 19, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2001: (1) amended, p. 825, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2007: (1) amended, p. 665, § 8, effective April 26. L. 2010: (1) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2095, § 99, effective August 11. L. 2025: (1), (2), and (4) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 279, § 17, effective April 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-907 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-907. Noncompliance.

(1) A school official of each school shall suspend or expel from school, pursuant to the provisions of section 22-33-105, C.R.S., or the provisions established by the school official of a college or university or private school, any student not otherwise exempted under this part 9 who fails to comply with the provisions of this part 9. No student shall be suspended or expelled for failure to comply with the provisions of this part 9 unless there has been a direct personal notification by the appropriate school authority to the student's parent or guardian or to the emancipated student or the student eighteen years of age or older of the noncompliance with this part 9 and of such person's rights under sections 25-4-902, 25-4-902.5, and 25-4-903.

(2) Repealed.

(3) Any student expelled for failure to comply with the provisions of this part 9 shall not be included in calculating the dropout rate for the school from which such student was expelled or the school district in which such student was enrolled prior to being expelled. Such student shall be included in the annual report of the number of expelled students prepared pursuant to section 22-33-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 429, § 1, effective April 4. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 933, § 5, effective April 16. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2768, § 453, effective July 1. L. 97: Entire section amended, p. 410, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2010: (2) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2095, § 100, effective August 11. L. 2025: (2) repealed, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 280, § 18, effective April 10.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-908. When exemption from immunization not recognized.

If at any time there is, in the opinion of the state department of public health and environment or the county, district, or municipal public health agency, danger of an epidemic from any of the communicable diseases for which an immunization is required pursuant to the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to section 25-4-904, no exemption or exception from immunization against such disease shall be recognized. Quarantine by the state department of public health and environment or the county, district, or municipal public health agency is hereby authorized as a legal alternative to immunization.

Source: L. 78: Entire part R&RE, p. 429, § 1, effective April 4. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2768, § 454, effective July 1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2095, § 101, effective August 11.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-904 as it existed prior to 1978.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-909. Vaccine-related injury or death - limitations on liability - legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that immunization of the population of this state is vital to the health of Colorado citizens and has demonstrated such finding by requiring such immunization pursuant to the provisions of sections 25-4-901 to 25-4-908.

(2) An individual who administers a vaccine that is required under this part 9 to an infant or child shall not be held liable for injuries sustained pursuant to the vaccine if:

(a) The vaccine was administered using generally accepted clinical methods;

(b) The vaccine was administered according to the schedule of immunization as published by the centers for disease control and prevention in the United States department of health and human services or the schedule of immunizations established by rule of the state board of health; and

(c) There were no clinical symptoms nor clinical history present under which prudent health-care professionals would not have administered such vaccine.

(3) An action shall not be maintained for a vaccine-related injury or death until action for compensation for such alleged injury has been exhausted under the terms of the "National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. secs. 300aa-10 to 300aa-33, as such law is from time to time amended.

(4) If the injury or death which is sustained does not fall within the parameters of the vaccine injury table as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 300aa-14, as enacted on November 14, 1986, a rebuttable presumption is established that the injury sustained or the death was not due to the administration of vaccine. Such presumption shall be overcome by a preponderance of the evidence.

Source: L. 88: Entire section added, p. 624, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2026: IP(2) and (2)(b) amended, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 112, § 8, effective March 27.

Cross references: For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1988 Update on Colorado Tort Reform Legislation — Part I", see 17 Colo. Law. 1790 (1988).

25-4-910. Immunization data collection.

(1) The department of public health and environment, in consultation with other state departments, shall establish a joint policy on immunization data collection and sharing.

(2) The department of public health and environment shall provide assistance to schools with the analysis and interpretation of the immunization data.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1288), ch. 240, p. 887, § 3, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 14-1288, see section 1 of chapter 240, Session Laws of Colorado 2014.

25-4-911. Vaccinated children standard - legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares it is necessary to establish a vaccinated children standard, whereby the immunization rate goal for every school is ninety-five percent of the student population to be vaccinated according to the school immunization schedule established by the state board of health pursuant to section 25-4-904. Achieving this immunization rate goal will help reduce the spread of infectious diseases and protect the health of all people in the school community, including the students who cannot be immunized for medical reasons.

(2) In order to achieve the immunization rate goal described in subsection (1) of this section, the department of public health and environment shall collaborate with local public health agencies and schools to provide information and technical assistance regarding best practices to educate and engage with students and families about vaccines, the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases, and where vaccines are administered.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 585, § 6, effective June 26.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-4-912. Confidentiality.

All immunization and exemption data that is submitted to the immunization tracking system created in section 25-4-2403 is subject to the confidentiality provisions contained in section 25-4-2403.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 586, § 7, effective June 26.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

PART 10

NEWBORN SCREENING AND GENETIC COUNSELING AND EDUCATION ACT

25-4-1001. Short title.

This part 10 shall be known and may be cited as the "Newborn Screening and Genetic Counseling and Education Act".

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1300, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1002. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Recent newborn screening innovations are considered among the greatest public health achievements of the twenty-first century;

(b) Scientific research has demonstrated that newborn screening not only saves lives and improves developmental outcomes but also contributes to cost savings for families, health-care systems, and the state;

(c) Newborn screening includes conditions for which diagnosis and treatment must be implemented in a timely manner in order to achieve maximum benefit for the child;

(d) Newborn screening is an appropriate public health function to provide necessary educational services to health-care providers, families, and communities so that appropriate resources and information are available;

(e) Newborn screening is a public health function that identifies newborns at risk of certain conditions or hearing loss, as well as newborns who do not receive screening, and appropriately connects them to care;

(f) An effective newborn screening program is dependent upon a strong system of education and coordination among primary care providers, hospitals, specialty care providers, patient and family support organizations, public health laboratory staff, and public health professionals;

(g) State policy regarding newborn screening and genetic counseling and education should be made with full public knowledge, in light of expert opinion, and should be constantly reviewed to consider changing medical knowledge and ensure full public protection;

(h) Participation of persons in newborn screening programs or genetic counseling programs in this state should be wholly voluntary, and all information obtained from persons involved in these programs in the state must be held strictly confidential. Family participation in the follow-up support and assistance services is voluntary.

(i) Hearing loss occurs in newborn infants more frequently than any other health condition for which newborn infant screening is required;

(j) Eighty percent of the language ability of a child is established by the time the child is eighteen months of age, and it is vitally important to support the healthy development of language skills;

(k) Early detection, early intervention, and treatment of hearing loss in a child are highly effective in facilitating a child's healthy development in a manner consistent with the child's age and cognitive ability;

(l) Children with hearing loss who do not receive early intervention and treatment frequently require special educational services, which, for the vast majority of children in the state with hearing needs, are publicly funded; and

(m) Appropriate testing and identification of newborn infants with hearing loss will facilitate early intervention and treatment and will therefore serve the public purposes of promoting the healthy development of children and reducing the need for additional public expenditures.

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1300, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2212, § 2, effective July 1.

25-4-1002.5. Definitions.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Birthing facility" means a general hospital or birthing center licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "State board" means the state board of health in the department.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2222, § 9, effective July 1.

25-4-1003. Powers and duties of executive director - newborn screening programs - genetic counseling and education programs - rules.

(1) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall have the authority to:

(a) Establish and administer state programs for newborn screening and genetic counseling and education;

(b) Promulgate rules, regulations, and standards for the provision of newborn screening programs and genetic counseling and education programs;

(c) Designate such personnel as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this part 10, disburse and collect such funds as are available to the administration of this part 10, and fix reasonable fees to be charged for services pursuant to this part 10;

(d) Gather and disseminate information to further the public's understanding of newborn screening and genetic counseling and education programs;

(e) Establish systems for recording information obtained in newborn screening and genetic counseling and education programs.

(2) The executive director of the department shall comply with the following provisions:

(a) Newborn screening shall be provided in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible and newborn screening and diagnostic services should be carried out under adequate standards of supervision and quality control;

(b) No program for genetic counseling shall require mandatory participation, restriction of childbearing, or be a prerequisite to eligibility for, or receipt of, any other service or assistance from, or to participation in, any other program;

(c) Genetic counseling services shall be available to persons in need, such counseling shall be nondirective, and such counseling shall emphasize informing the client and not require restriction of childbearing;

(d) The extremely personal decision to bear children shall remain the free choice and responsibility of the individual, and such free choice and responsibility shall not be restricted by any of the genetic services of the state;

(e) All information gathered by the department or by other agencies, entities, and individuals conducting programs and projects on newborn screening and genetic counseling and education, other than statistical information and information that the parent or guardian of a newborn allows to be released through the parent's or guardian's informed consent, is confidential. Public and private access to newborn patient data is limited to data compiled without the newborn's name. The information gathered pursuant to this subsection (2)(e) does not restrict the department from performing follow-up services with newborns, their parents or guardians, and health-care providers.

(f) Information on the operation of all programs on newborn screening and genetic counseling and education within the state, except for confidential information obtained from participants in such programs, shall be open and freely available to the public;

(g) All participants in programs on genetic counseling and education shall be informed of the nature of possible risks involved in participation in such a program or project, and shall be informed of the nature and cost of available therapies or maintenance programs for those affected by hereditary disorders, and shall be informed of the possible benefits and risks of such therapies and programs;

(h) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require any hospital or other health facility or any physician or other health professional to provide genetic counseling beyond the usual and customary and accepted practice nor shall any hospital or other health facility be held liable for not providing such genetic counseling.

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1300, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(1), IP(2), and (2)(e) amended, p. 2768, § 455, effective July 1. L. 2018: IP(2) and (2)(e) amended, (SB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2213, § 3, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portions to subsections (1) and (2) and subsection (2)(e), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1004. Newborn screening - rules.

(1) (a) Repealed.

(b) Infants born in the state of Colorado shall be tested for the following conditions: Phenylketonuria, hypothyroidism, abnormal hemoglobins, galactosemia, cystic fibrosis, biotinidase deficiency, and such other conditions as the state board may determine meet the criteria set forth in subsection (1)(c) of this section. The birthing facility where the infant is born shall forward all appropriate specimens to the laboratory operated or designated by the department. The physician, nurse, midwife, or other health professional attending a birth outside a birthing facility is responsible for collecting and forwarding the specimens. The laboratory shall forward the results of the testing directly to the physician, primary care provider, or other health-care provider as needed for the provision of such information to the parent, parents, or guardians of the child. The results of any testing or follow-up testing pursuant to section 25-4-1004.5 may be sent to the immunization tracking system authorized by section 25-4-2403 and accessed by the physician or other primary health-care provider. The state board may discontinue testing for any condition listed in this subsection (1)(b) if, upon consideration of criteria set forth in subsection (1)(c) of this section, the state board finds that the public health is better served by not testing infants for that condition. Testing under this subsection (1)(b) is not required if the parent or legal guardian objects.

(c) The state board shall use the following criteria to determine whether to test infants for conditions that are not specifically enumerated in this subsection (1):

(I) The condition for which the test is designed presents a significant danger to the health of the infant or his family and is amenable to treatment;

(II) The incidence of the condition is sufficiently high to warrant screening;

(III) The test meets commonly accepted clinical standards of reliability, as demonstrated through research or use in another state or jurisdiction; and

(IV) The cost-benefit consequences of screening are acceptable within the context of the total newborn screening program.

(1.5) If the department deems that new conditions for which an infant must be tested should be added, the department shall report the added conditions to the general assembly during its presentation in accordance with the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2. The department shall also notify the joint budget committee and the health and human services committee of the senate and the health, insurance, and environment committee and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, within sixty days after the department recommends a new condition and include the added conditions in the department's annual budget request submitted to the general assembly each November 1.

(2) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall assess a fee that is sufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs of the testing required by this section and to accomplish the other purposes of this part 10. Birthing facilities may assess a reasonable fee to be charged the parent, parents, or guardians of the infant to cover the costs of handling the specimens, the reimbursement of laboratory costs, and the costs of providing other services, including the connection of follow-up services and care to infants identified as at risk through screening, necessary to implement the purposes of this part 10.

(3) The state board shall promulgate rules concerning the requirements of the newborn screening program for genetic and metabolic disorders, including:

(a) In addition to those conditions listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section, any other conditions for which testing must occur;

(b) Obtaining samples or specimens from newborn infants required for the tests prescribed by the state board; and

(c) The handling and delivery of samples or specimens for testing and examination.

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1302, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2) amended, p. 1070, § 1, effective May 20. L. 87: (1) amended, p. 1128, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 1009, § 1, effective July 1. L. 91: (1) amended, p. 949, § 17, effective May 6. L. 94: (1)(b) and (2) amended, p. 2769, § 456, effective July 1. L. 96: (1)(b) amended, p. 1107, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1)(b) amended, p. 654, § 2, effective April 26. L. 2018: (1)(b), IP(1)(c), and (2) amended and (1.5) and (3) added, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2214, § 4, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(a), effective April 1, 1989. (See L. 88, p. 1009.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1)(b) and (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1004.3. Newborn heart defect screening - pulse oximetry - rules - definition.

(1) (a) On and after January 1, 2016, a birthing facility that is below seven thousand feet of elevation shall test all infants born in the facility for critical congenital heart defects using pulse oximetry.

(b) Upon receipt of the confirmation of the appropriate algorithm for the pulse oximetry reading from the newborn screening committee, the newborn screening committee shall evaluate whether pulse oximetry testing in birthing facilities at or above seven thousand feet elevation meets the criteria in section 25-4-1004. Upon confirmation from the committee that the criteria have been met, the state board of health shall promulgate rules to ensure that all newborns born at or above seven thousand feet elevation are screened for critical congenital heart defects.

(c) The critical congenital heart defect screening using pulse oximetry must be performed on every newborn prior to the newborn's release from the birthing facility.

(2) Each birthing facility shall report the results of the pulse oximetry screenings to the department of public health and environment. The state board of health may promulgate rules for the implementation of this section.

(3) As used in this section, a "birthing facility" means a general hospital or birthing center licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 and that provides birthing and newborn care services.

Source: L. 2015: Entire section added, (HB 15-1281), ch. 241, p. 893, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2016: (1)(b) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 770, § 61, effective June 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 15-1281, see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2015.

25-4-1004.5. Follow-up testing and treatment - second screening - fee - rules.

(1) Repealed.

(2) (a) Repealed.

(b) The executive director of the department shall increase the newborn screening fee as provided in section 25-4-1004 (2) so that the fee is sufficient to include the costs of providing first and second specimen tests with second-tier testing if necessitated by the results of the screening in order to reduce the number of false positive tests and to provide follow-up and referral services to families with a newborn whose test results under a newborn screening indicate a genetic or metabolic disorder.

(c) The state board shall promulgate rules to establish and maintain appropriate follow-up services on positive screen cases in order that measures may be taken to prevent death or intellectual or other permanent disabilities. The follow-up services must include identification of newborns at risk for genetic and metabolic conditions, coordination among medical providers and families, connecting newborns who screen positive to timely intervention and appropriate referrals to specialists for follow-up and diagnostic testing, and additional duties as determined by the department.

(3) (a) Infants born in the state of Colorado who receive newborn screening pursuant to section 25-4-1004 (1) must have a second specimen taken to screen for the following conditions:

(I) Phenylketonuria;

(II) Hypothyroidism;

(III) Galactosemia;

(IV) Cystic fibrosis; and

(V) Such other conditions as the state board may determine meet the criteria set forth in section 25-4-1004 (1)(c) and require a second screening for accurate test results.

(b) The state board is authorized to promulgate rules and standards for the implementation of the second specimen testing specified in this subsection (3), including:

(I) Identification of those conditions for which a second specimen shall be required;

(II) The age of the infant at which the second screening may be administered;

(III) The method by which the parent or parents of a newborn shall be advised of the necessity for a second specimen test;

(IV) The procedure to be followed in administering the second specimen test;

(V) Any exceptions to the necessity for a second specimen test and the procedures to be followed in such cases; and

(VI) The standards of supervision and quality control that shall apply to second specimen testing.

(b.5) The laboratory operated by the laboratory services division in the department, or the laboratory designated by the department, as applicable, must remain open a minimum of six days per week every week of the year.

(c) On and after July 1, 2018, the executive director of the department of public health and environment may adjust the newborn screening fee set forth in section 25-4-1004 (2) so that the fee is sufficient to cover the costs associated with the second screening described in this subsection (3). Money in the newborn screening and genetic counseling cash funds is exempt from section 24-75-402 through July 1, 2021.

(4) The provisions of section 25-4-1003 (2) shall apply to second newborn screenings.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 833, § 1, effective April 28. L. 96: (1)(f), (3), and (4) added, p. 1108, §§ 2, 3, effective July 1. L. 2018: (1) repealed, (2)(b), IP(3)(a), (3)(a)(V), IP(3)(b), and (3)(c) amended, and (2)(c) and (3)(b.5) added, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2215, § 5, effective July 1; (1)(b) amended, (SB 18-096), ch. 44, p. 473, § 14, effective August 8.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(a), effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 94, p. 833.)

(2) Subsection (1)(b) was amended in SB 18-096, effective August 8, 2018. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of subsection (1) by HB 18-1006, effective July 1, 2018.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-096, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-4-1004.7. Newborn hearing screening - advisory committee - report - rules.

(1) Repealed.

(2) (a) (I) There is hereby established an advisory committee on hearing in newborn infants for the purpose of reviewing information and statistics gathered during the newborn hearing screening program and providing recommendations to birthing facilities, other health-care institutions, the department, and the public concerning, but not necessarily limited to:

(A) Best practices for hearing screening of newborn infants, which practices must be objective and physiologically based and must not include a requirement that the initial newborn hearing screening be performed by an audiologist; and

(B) Repealed.

(C) Guidelines and best practices for reporting and the means to assure that identified children receive referral for appropriate follow-up services.

(II) The advisory committee on hearing in newborn infants must consist of at least nine members. The executive director of the department shall appoint members to the advisory committee. Members appointed to the committee must have training, experience, or interest in the area of hearing loss in children and should include representatives from rural and urban areas of the state, a parent who has a child with hearing loss, a representative of a patient and family support organization, a representative of a hospital, a representative from an organization representing culturally deaf persons, an American sign language expert who has experience in evaluation and intervention of infants and young children, and physicians and audiologists with specific expertise in hearing loss in infants.

(III) The members of the advisory committee on hearing in newborn infants shall serve without compensation.

(IV) Repealed.

(b) Repealed.

(3) (a) It is the intent of the general assembly that infants born in the state be screened for hearing loss using procedures recommended by the advisory committee on hearing in newborn infants, created in subsection (2) of this section. Toward that end, every licensed or certified birthing facility shall educate the parents of infants born in such birthing facilities of the importance of screening the hearing of newborn infants and follow-up care. Education is not considered a substitute for the hearing screening described in this section. Screening for hearing loss under this subsection (3)(a) is not required if the parent or legal guardian objects.

(b) and (c) Repealed.

(4) (a) Repealed.

(b) Such rules, if promulgated, shall address those hospitals with a low volume of births, as determined by the state board of health based upon recommendations by the advisory committee on hearing in newborn infants, which may arrange otherwise for newborn infant hearing screening.

(5) A physician, nurse, midwife, or other health professional attending a birth outside a hospital or institution shall make every professional effort, as defined by the board, including following up at scheduled postpartum appointments, to ensure that the hearing screening is performed within thirty days of the birth and shall provide information, as established by rule of the department, to parents regarding the importance of the screening. The physician, nurse, midwife, or other health professional who performs the screening shall provide a report of any screening to the parent or guardian of the infant, the primary care provider of the infant, and the department. Screening for hearing loss under this subsection (5) is not required if the parent or legal guardian objects.

(6) The department shall encourage the cooperation of county, district, and municipal public health agencies, health-care clinics, school districts, and any other appropriate resources to promote the screening of newborn infants' hearing for those infants born outside a hospital or institution.

(7) Upon receipt of sufficient financial resources in the newborn hearing screening cash fund, as determined by the department, to support a new information technology system for the purpose of managing the newborn hearing screening program, the department shall procure an information technology system and promulgate rules in order to implement the system.

(8) (a) The state board of health shall promulgate rules that require each of the following with information pertinent to this section to report the results of individual screening to the department:

(I) A birthing facility; or

(II) Another facility or provider.

(b) The rules must include a requirement that the birthing facility include the results of the hearing screening in the electronic medical record of the newborn. The information system required in subsection (7) of this section must allow the results of outpatient rescreenings to be reported to the department and to the parent or guardian of the newborn.

(9) (a) The state board of health shall promulgate rules to establish and maintain appropriate follow-up services for newborns at risk of hearing loss. The follow-up services must include identification of newborns at risk for hearing loss, coordination among medical and audiology providers and families, connecting newborns to timely intervention, appropriate referrals to specialists for follow-up and diagnostic testing, and additional duties as determined by the department.

(b) The follow-up services must provide the parents with information and resources so that the parents can, in a timely manner, locate appropriate diagnostic and treatment services for the newborn.

(c) The department shall also provide appropriate training, on a periodic basis, to birthing facilities and midwives on the department's screening program.

(d) The information gathered by the department, other than statistical information and information that the parent or guardian of a newborn allows to be released through the parent's or guardian's informed consent, is confidential. Public access to newborn patient data is limited to data compiled without the newborn's name. Audiologists and other health professionals providing diagnostic services to newborns and their families may access the information, on a newborn-specific basis, for the purpose of entering follow-up information. The information gathered in accordance with this subsection (9)(d) does not restrict the department from performing follow-up services with newborns, their parents or guardians, and health-care providers.

(10) (a) The department shall develop and publish materials on its website for use in educating and training on cytomegalovirus, referred to as "CMV", that include the following:

(I) The estimated incidence of CMV;

(II) The transmission of CMV to pregnant women or women who may become pregnant;

(III) Birth defects caused by congenital CMV;

(IV) Methods of diagnosing congenital CMV;

(V) Available preventive measures to avoid the infection in women who are pregnant or may become pregnant;

(VI) Resources and evidence-based treatment as they become available for families of children born with CMV; and

(VII) Any federal or state requirements regarding testing for CMV.

(b) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall provide technical assistance and training regarding CMV to health-care facilities and health-care providers upon request.

(11) The executive director of the department may assess a fee that is sufficient to cover the ongoing direct and indirect costs of all initial newborn hearing screening and follow-up services and to accomplish the other purposes of this section, which fee shall be deposited into the newborn hearing screening cash fund created in section 25-4-1006 (3). Birthing facilities may assess a reasonable fee to be charged the parent or guardian of the newborn to cover the costs of providing services necessary to implement the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1118, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2)(a)(I), (2)(b), (3)(a), IP(3)(b), and (4)(a) amended and (2)(a)(IV), (3)(b)(I) to (3)(b)(IV), and (3)(c) repealed, p. 252, §§ 3, 4, 5, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2)(b) amended, p. 1906, § 100, effective August 5. L. 2010: (6) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2096, § 102, effective August 11. L. 2013: (2)(b) repealed, (SB 13-163), ch. 79, p. 252, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2018: (1), (2)(a)(I)(B), (3)(b), and (4)(a) repealed, IP(2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(C), (2)(a)(II), (3)(a), and (5) amended, and (7) to (11) added, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2217, § 6, effective July 1.

25-4-1005. Exceptions.

Nothing in the provisions of this part 10 shall be construed to require the testing or medical treatment for the minor child of any person who has personal objection to the administration of the tests or treatment or of any person who is a member of a well-recognized church or religious denomination and whose religious convictions in accordance with the tenets or principles of the church or religious denomination are against medical treatment for disease or physical defects.

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1302, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2221, § 7, effective July 1.

25-4-1006. Cash funds.

(1) All money received from fees collected pursuant to this part 10, except for the money received pursuant to section 25-4-1004.7, shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit it to the newborn screening and genetic counseling cash funds, which funds are hereby created. Such money shall be utilized for expenditures authorized or contemplated by and not inconsistent with the provisions of this part 10 relating to newborn screening, follow-up care, and genetic counseling and education programs and functions. All money credited to the newborn screening and genetic counseling cash funds shall be used as provided in this part 10 and shall not be deposited in or transferred to the general fund of this state or any other fund.

(2) Repealed.

(3) There is hereby created the newborn hearing screening cash fund for the purpose of covering the ongoing direct and indirect costs associated with the administration of the newborn hearing screening program. All money collected pursuant to section 25-4-1004.7 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit it to the newborn hearing screening cash fund. The money in the cash fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the cash fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund. In addition, the general assembly may appropriate money from the general fund to the department to implement the newborn hearing screening program.

(4) Money in the newborn screening and genetic counseling cash funds and the newborn hearing screening cash fund is exempt from section 24-75-402 through July 1, 2021.

Source: L. 81: Entire part added, p. 1302, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: Entire section amended, p. 1011, § 1, effective May 23. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 834, § 2, effective April 28. L. 2015: (2) repealed, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 961, § 73, effective August 5. L. 2018: (1) amended and (3) and (4) added, (HB 18-1006), ch. 368, p. 2221, § 8, effective July 1.

PART 11

KENNELS

25-4-1101 to 25-4-1111. (Repealed)

Source: L. 94: Entire part repealed, p. 1313, § 17, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 11 was added in 1983. For amendments to this part 11 prior to its repeal in 1994, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

Cross references: For provisions concerning the regulation of pet animal facilities and psittacine bird facilities, see part 7 of this article 4 and article 80 of title 35.

PART 12

STREPTOCOCCUS CONTROL

25-4-1201. Powers and duties of executive director.

(1) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall have the authority to:

(a) Establish and administer a culture-testing program to test for streptococcus;

(b) Designate such personnel as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this part 12, disburse and collect such funds as are available for the administration of this part 12, and fix reasonable fees to be charged for services pursuant to this part 12.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 766, § 1, effective April 5. L. 94: IP(1) amended, p. 2769, § 458, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1202. Streptococcus cash fund.

(1) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall establish the fees to be collected for any streptococcus culture test performed by the department.

(2) (a) All moneys collected pursuant to this part 12 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the streptococcus cash fund, which fund is hereby created. All moneys credited to the streptococcus cash fund shall be subject to appropriation by the general assembly to be used as provided in this section and shall not be deposited in or transferred to the general fund of this state or to any other fund.

(b) Repealed.

(3) (a) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall propose, as part of the annual budget request of the department of public health and environment, an adjustment in the amount of the fee for the streptococcus culture test which the department is authorized by law to collect. The budget request and the adjusted fees for the streptococcus culture test shall reflect direct and indirect costs.

(b) Based upon the appropriation made by the general assembly, the executive director of the department of public health and environment shall adjust the streptococcus fee so that the revenue generated from said fee approximates the department's direct and indirect costs. Such fee shall remain in effect for the fiscal year for which the budget request applies.

(c) Beginning July 1, 1984, and each July 1 thereafter, whenever moneys appropriated to the department of public health and environment for its activities pursuant to this part 12 for the prior fiscal year are unexpended, said moneys shall be made a part of the appropriation to the department for the next fiscal year, and such amount shall not be raised from fees collected by such department. If a supplemental appropriation is made to the department for such activities, the streptococcus fee of the department, when adjusted for the fiscal year next following the year in which the supplemental appropriation was made, shall be adjusted by an additional amount which is sufficient to compensate for such supplemental appropriation. Moneys to be appropriated annually to the department in the general appropriation bill for the purposes of this part 12 shall be designated as cash funds and shall not exceed the amount anticipated to be raised from such fee collected by the department.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 766, § 1, effective April 5. L. 94: (1) and (3) amended, p. 2770, § 459, effective July 1. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 624, § 22, effective April 20. L. 2015: (2)(b) repealed, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 961, § 74, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

PART 13

RETAIL FOOD STORE SANITATION ACT

25-4-1301. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby declares that the sanitary protection of bulk foods and the sanitary maintenance of equipment used to display and dispense bulk foods are matters of statewide concern and are affected with a public interest and that the provisions of this part 13 are enacted in the exercise of the police powers of this state for the purpose of protecting the health, peace, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 883, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1302. Definitions.

As used in this part 13, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Bulk foods" means unpackaged or unwrapped foods, either processed or unprocessed, in aggregate containers from which quantities desired by the consumer are withdrawn. "Bulk foods" does not include fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, nuts in the shell, salad bars, bulk pet foods, potentially hazardous foods, and bulk nonfood items.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Display area" means a location, including physical facilities and equipment, where bulk foods are offered for customer self-service.

(4) "Potentially hazardous foods" includes any food that consists in whole or in part of milk or milk products, eggs, meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, edible crustacea, or other food products or ingredients, including synthetic ingredients, in a form capable of supporting rapid and progressive growth of infectious or toxigenic microorganisms. This term does not include refrigerated, clean, whole, uncracked, odor-free shell eggs.

(5) "Product module" means a food-contact container (multiuse or single-service) designed for customer self-service of bulk foods by either direct or indirect means.

(6) "Servicing area" means a designated location equipped for cleaning, sanitizing, drying, or refilling product modules or for preparing bulk foods.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 883, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: (4) amended, p. 1154, § 1, effective April 21. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2770, § 460, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1303. Labeling - product modules - take-home containers.

(1) Product modules shall be labeled with either:

(a) The manufacturer's or processor's bulk food container labeling plainly in view; or

(b) A counter card, a counter sign, or any other appropriate device bearing prominently and conspicuously the common name of the product, a list of ingredients in their proper order of predominance, and a declaration of artificial color or flavor and chemical preservatives if contained in the product.

(2) Any unpackaged bulk food need not comply with the labeling requirements of this section if the unpackaged bulk food is manufactured on the premises of a store or manufactured by the same store at a different location and if the manufactured bulk food is offered for retail sale on the store's premises and if there are no state requirements.

(3) Labels or marking pens shall be available to customers to identify their take-home containers with the common name of the product unless the product is readily identifiable on sight.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 884, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1304. Bulk food protection.

(1) Bulk foods and product modules shall be protected from contamination during display, customer self-service, refilling, and storage.

(2) Containers of bulk pet foods and bulk nonfood items shall be separated from product modules by a barrier or open space.

(3) Bulk foods returned to stores by customers shall not be offered for resale.

(4) Only containers provided by stores in their display areas shall be filled with bulk foods; except that any customer may fill or refill his own container with vended or dispensed water; however, the risk that the customer's own container is unsafe, unpure, contaminated, or in a nonsterile condition when it is filled or refilled by the customer, shall be borne solely by the customer, and, except for warranties, no liability shall attach thereto to the manufacturer, seller, or dispenser of such container.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 884, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: (4) amended, p. 1154, § 2, effective April 21.

25-4-1305. Bulk food display.

(1) Bulk foods shall be dispensed only from product modules which are protected by close-fitting, individual covers. If any product module is to be opened by customers, the cover shall be self-closing and shall remain closed when not in use.

(2) Customer access to bulk foods in product modules shall be limited and controlled to avoid the introduction of contaminants. All product modules shall have an access height of thirty inches or more above the floor and a depth of eighteen inches or less.

(3) Potentially hazardous foods shall not be made available for customer self-service.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 884, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1306. Dispensing utensils.

(1) Manual handling of bulk foods by customers during dispensing shall be discouraged. Mechanical dispensing devices shall be used, including gravity dispensers, pumps, extruders, and augers. Manual dispensing utensils shall also be used, including tongs, scoops, ladles, and spatulas.

(2) If the dispensing devices and utensils listed in subsection (1) of this section do not discourage manual customer handling of bulk foods, such bulk foods must be wrapped or sacked prior to display.

(3) Manual dispensing utensils shall be protected against becoming contaminated and serving as vehicles for introducing contamination into bulk foods. A tether of easily cleanable material shall be attached to such a utensil and shall be of such length that the utensil cannot contact the floor. A sleeve or protective housing attached or adjacent to the display unit shall be available for storing a utensil when not in use.

(4) Ladles and spatulas shall be stored in bulk foods with handles extending to the outside of product modules. Handles shall not prevent lids from being self-closing.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1307. Materials.

Product modules and utensils shall be constructed of safe materials and shall be corrosion resistant, nonabsorbent, smooth, easily cleanable, and durable under conditions of normal use. Wood shall not be used as a food-contact surface.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1308. Food-contact surfaces.

Product modules, lids, dispensing units, and utensils shall be designed and fabricated to meet the requirements for food-contact surfaces, as provided in section 25-4-1307.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1309. Non-food-contact surfaces.

Surfaces of product module display units, tethers, and display equipment which are not intended for food contact but which are exposed to splash, food debris, or other soiling shall be designed and fabricated to be smooth, cleanable, durable under conditions of normal use, and free of unnecessary ledges, projections, and crevices. The materials for non-food-contact surfaces shall be nonabsorbent or made nonabsorbent by being finished and sealed with a cleanable coating.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1310. Accessibility.

Individual product modules shall be designed to be easily removable from a display unit for servicing unless the product modules are so designed and fabricated that they can be effectively cleaned and sanitized when necessary through a manual in-place cleaning procedure that will not contaminate or otherwise adversely affect bulk foods or equipment in any adjoining display areas.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1311. Equipment sanitization.

(1) Tongs, scoops, ladles, spatulas, and other appropriate utensils and tethers used by customers shall be cleaned and sanitized at least daily or at more frequent intervals based on the type of bulk food and the amount of food particle accumulation or soiling.

(2) When soiled, product modules, lids, and other equipment shall be cleaned and sanitized prior to restocking or at intervals of a schedule based on the type of bulk food and the amount of food particle accumulation.

(3) Food-contact surfaces shall be cleaned and sanitized immediately if contamination is observed or suspected.

(4) Facilities and equipment shall be available, either in a servicing area or in place, to provide for the proper cleaning and sanitizing of all food-contact surfaces, including product modules, lids, and dispensing utensils.

(5) Take-home containers, including but not limited to bags, cups, and lids, which are provided in a display area for customer use shall be stored and dispensed in a sanitary manner.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 885, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1312. Violation - penalty.

Any retail food store owner violating any of the provisions of this part 13 commits a petty offense. It is the duty of the district attorneys of the several districts of this state to prosecute for violations of this part 13 as for other crimes and misdemeanors.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 886, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3235, § 454, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-4-1313. Rules and regulations.

The department has the power to promulgate rules and regulations for the implementation of this part 13.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 886, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1314. Limitation.

The provisions of this part 13 shall be expressly limited to retail food store outlets.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 886, § 1, effective July 1.

PART 14

HIV INFECTION AND ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME ASSISTANCE

Editor's note: This part 14 was added in 1987. It was amended with relocations in 2016, resulting in the addition, relocation, or elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 14 prior to 2016, consult the 2015 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 14, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

Law reviews: For article, "Medical and Legal Aspects of AIDS", see 15 Colo. Law. 812 (1986); for article, "AIDS: Malpractice and Transmission Liability", see 58 U. Colo. L. Rev. 63 (1986-87); for article, "The Legal Risks of AIDS: Moving Beyond Discrimination", see 18 Colo. Law. 605 (1989); for comment, "Liability Without Fault and the AIDS Plague Compel a New Approach to Cases of Transfusion - Transmitted Disease", see 61 U. Colo. L. Rev. 81 (1990); for article, "Employees, Privacy Rights and AIDS", see 19 Colo. Law. 1839 (1990).

25-4-1401. Drug assistance program - program fund - HIV medications rebate fund - created - legislative declaration - no entitlement created.

(1) (a) The general assembly recognizes that:

(I) Medical science is making strides in treating individuals who have AIDS or HIV;

(II) There are effective biomedical strategies to reduce new HIV infections;

(III) Individuals at risk of HIV may also be at risk of other infectious diseases that can exacerbate the outcomes of an HIV infection;

(IV) Individuals of lower income face barriers accessing biomedical interventions, particularly if they lack health insurance coverage or if their health insurance includes unaffordable premiums or cost-sharing requirements; and

(V) Both the public health and quality of life would benefit from providing assistance with such costs and encouraging prompt and sustained treatment, eventually preventing further transmission of HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections through prevention, cure, or viral suppression.

(b) Therefore, the general assembly declares that the purpose of this section is to implement the drug assistance program for qualifying individuals of lower income who have medical or preventive needs concerning AIDS or HIV, viral hepatitis, or a sexually transmitted infection.

(c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to establish any entitlement to services from the department of public health and environment.

(2) (a) Subject to available appropriations, the department of public health and environment is authorized to implement and administer a drug assistance program, referred to in this section as the "state program", to provide assistance with indicated screening, general medical, preventive, and pharmaceutical costs for eligible individuals.

(b) The general assembly may annually appropriate moneys from the general fund to assist with indicated screening, general medical, preventive, and pharmaceutical costs for individuals participating in the state program.

(c) The state program is also funded with federal funds available under the federal "Ryan White C.A.R.E. Act of 1990", as amended.

(d) (I) The HIV medications rebate fund, referred to in this subsection (2)(d) as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of any money received based on charges in excess of a federal price agreement and any additional money the general assembly appropriates to the fund. The general assembly shall continuously appropriate money in the fund to the department of public health and environment for use for the state program. Any money remaining in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(II) The fund is not subject to the limit on uncommitted reserves in a cash fund established in section 24-75-402 (3).

(e) For activities of the state program funded by the drug assistance program fund that exceed the appropriation from the drug assistance program fund, if there are sufficient uncommitted moneys in the AIDS and HIV prevention fund, the program may use moneys appropriated for the implementation and administration of the state program from the AIDS and HIV prevention fund as authorized by section 25-4-1405.

(3) To be eligible to participate in the state program, an individual must:

(a) Have a medical indication for treatment or prevention of HIV or AIDS, viral hepatitis, or another sexually transmitted infection;

(b) Have a prescription from an authorized provider for a pharmaceutical product or combination of pharmaceutical products, as applicable, that are included on the drug formulary for the state program; and

(c) Meet income eligibility requirements as determined by the department of public health and environment in consultation with the subcommittee of the advisory group on AIDS policy established in subsection (5) of this section.

(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 14 to the contrary, if a person meets the eligibility requirements set forth in subsection (3) of this section, he or she is eligible for programs and services that provide for the investigation, identification, testing, preventive care, or treatment of HIV infection or AIDS regardless of his or her race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

(5) A subcommittee of an advisory group convened by the governor to make recommendations for HIV and AIDS policy in the state shall serve in an advisory role to the department of public health and environment in implementing the state program and shall provide advice and recommendations to the department of public health and environment concerning:

(a) Which pharmaceutical products should be listed on the drug formulary for the state program;

(b) Income and other eligibility requirements for the state program; and

(c) The uses of funding for the state program pursuant to paragraphs (a) to (e) of subsection (2) of this section.

(6) If at any time the department of public health and environment, in consultation with the subcommittee of the advisory group on HIV and AIDS policy established in subsection (5) of this section, determines that the drug assistance program is reaching the program's fiscal limitations, the department, in consultation with the subcommittee, shall implement a policy of giving preference to the highest-priority applicants of lower income, who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements in subsection (3) of this section, for enrollment into the program in the following rank order:

(a) Individuals diagnosed with HIV or AIDS;

(b) Individuals in need of treatment to prevent HIV infection;

(c) Individuals diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections that can be prevented or cured through currently available pharmaceutical treatments;

(d) Individuals diagnosed with viral hepatitis;

(e) Individuals with emerging care, treatment, or prevention needs concerning HIV, viral hepatitis, or other sexually transmitted infections.

(7) (a) The drug assistance program fund is created in the state treasury. The principal of the fund consists of tobacco litigation settlement moneys transferred by the state treasurer to the fund pursuant to section 24-75-1104.5 (1.7)(f), C.R.S. Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department of public health and environment may expend moneys from the fund for the state program. Any unexpended or unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(b) The department of public health and environment and the advisory group shall determine how the moneys appropriated for the state program pursuant to this subsection (7) are to be used.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part amended with relocations, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 909, § 2, effective July 1; (7)(a) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 466, § 14, effective July 1. L. 2020: (2)(d) amended, (HB 20-1419), ch. 282, p. 1379, § 1, effective July 13.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-4-1411 as it existed prior to 2016.

(2) Amendments to § 25-4-1411 (6)(a) by HB 16-1408 were harmonized with and relocated to subsection (7)(a) as it was amended by SB 16-146.

Cross references: For the federal "Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act of 1990", also referred to as the "Ryan White C.A.R.E. Act of 1990", see Pub.L. 101-381, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 300ff et seq.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "2006 Immigration Legislation in Colorado", see 35 Colo. Law. 79 (Oct. 2006).

25-4-1402. Definitions.

As used in this section and sections 25-4-1403 to 25-4-1405, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Program" means the Colorado HIV and AIDS prevention grant program created in section 25-4-1403.

(2) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part amended with relocations, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 911, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1412 as it existed prior to 2016.

25-4-1403. Colorado HIV and AIDS prevention grant program.

(1) There is hereby created in the department the Colorado HIV and AIDS prevention grant program to address local community needs in the areas of medically accurate HIV and AIDS prevention and education through a competitive grant process. The department shall administer the program.

(2) Grant applicants must be nonprofit organizations that are governed by a board of directors and have the benefit of tax-exempt status pursuant to section 501 (c)(3) of the federal "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", or are county, district, or municipal public health agencies.

(3) (a) Preference shall be given to grant applicants that have as one of their primary purposes HIV and AIDS prevention and education.

(b) Grants may be given to organizations that conduct HIV prevention in conjunction with other comorbidities secondary to HIV infections.

(4) Grant applications must include, but need not be limited to:

(a) A statement of the local HIV and AIDS prevention or education issue to be addressed, a description of the constituency that shall be served or targeted, and how the constituency will benefit;

(b) A description of the goals and objectives of the grant applicant in submitting an application under the program; and

(c) A description of the activities planned to accomplish the goals and objectives of the grant applicant and of the outcome measures that will be used by the grant applicant.

(5) Grants must only be given for medically accurate HIV and AIDS prevention and education programs that are based in behavioral and social science theory and research and shall not be used to contribute to existing scholarships, directly to endowments, fund-raising events, annual fund drives, or debt reduction.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part amended with relocations, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 912, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1413 as it existed prior to 2016.

Cross references: For the federal "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", see 26 U.S.C. § 501 et seq.

25-4-1404. Grant program - rules - advisory committee - conflict of interest.

(1) (a) The program shall fund medically accurate HIV and AIDS prevention and education programs through a competitive grant process that is overseen by the HIV and AIDS prevention grant program advisory committee, which is hereby created and referred to in this section as the "advisory committee". The advisory committee consists of seven members appointed by the executive director of the department as follows:

(I) One member who is recommended by the department's health equity commission;

(II) Four members who are recommended by a statewide collaborative group that assists the department in the department's comprehensive plan for HIV and AIDS prevention;

(III) One member who has expertise in HIV and AIDS prevention and education; and

(IV) One member who represents a clinic that receives moneys under part 3 of the federal "Ryan White C.A.R.E. Act of 1990", as amended.

(b) The composition of the advisory committee shall reflect, to the extent practical, Colorado's ethnic, racial, and geographic diversity.

(c) The grants administered pursuant to section 25-4-1403 are only subject to the restrictions provided for in this section and section 25-4-1403 and are not subject to the same restrictions as grants provided with federal moneys for HIV and AIDS prevention. The state board, upon recommendations of the advisory committee, shall adopt rules that specify, but need not be limited to, the following:

(I) The procedures and timelines by which an entity may apply for program grants;

(II) Grant application contents, in addition to those specified in section 25-4-1403 (4);

(III) Criteria for selecting the entities that receive grants and determining the amount and duration of the grants;

(IV) Reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this section; and

(V) The qualifications of an adequate proposal.

(2) The advisory committee shall review the applications received pursuant to this section and submit to the state board and the executive director of the department recommended grant recipients, recommended grant amounts, and the duration of each recommended grant. In making recommendations for grants, the advisory committee shall consider the distribution of federal funds in the areas of HIV and AIDS prevention, education, and treatment. Within thirty days after receiving the advisory committee's recommendations, the executive director shall submit his or her recommendations to the state board. The state board has the final authority to approve the grants administered under this section and section 25-4-1403. If the state board disapproves a recommendation for a grant recipient, the advisory committee may submit a replacement recommendation within thirty days after disapproval. In making grant recommendations, the advisory committee shall follow the purpose of the program as outlined in section 25-4-1403. The state board shall award grants to the entities selected by the advisory committee, specifying the amount and duration of each grant award. In reviewing and approving grant applications, the advisory committee and the state board shall ensure that grants are distributed statewide and address the needs of both urban and rural residents of Colorado.

(3) If a member of the advisory committee has an immediate personal, private, or financial interest in any matter pending before the advisory committee, the member shall disclose the fact and shall not vote upon the matter.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part amended with relocations, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 912, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2025: (1)(a)(I) amended, (SB 25-300), ch. 428, p. 2452, § 40, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1414 as it existed prior to 2016.

Cross references: For the federal "Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act of 1990", also referred to as the "Ryan White C.A.R.E. Act of 1990", see Pub.L. 101-381, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 300ff et seq.

25-4-1405. AIDS and HIV prevention fund - administration - limitation.

(1) There is hereby created in the state treasury the AIDS and HIV prevention fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", which consists of moneys that may be appropriated to the fund by the general assembly. The moneys in the fund are subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation of the program. Any moneys in the fund not expended for the purpose of the program may be invested by the state treasurer as provided by law. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of moneys in the fund must be credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remain in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or another fund.

(2) Pursuant to section 24-75-1104.5 (1.7)(g), C.R.S., and except as otherwise provided in section 24-75-1104.5 (5), C.R.S., for the 2016-17 fiscal year and for each fiscal year thereafter so long as the state receives moneys pursuant to the master settlement agreement, the state treasurer shall annually transfer to the fund three and one-half percent of the total amount of the moneys received by the state pursuant to the master settlement agreement, not including attorney fees and costs, during the preceding fiscal year. The state treasurer shall transfer the amount specified in this subsection (2) from moneys credited to the tobacco litigation settlement cash fund created in section 24-22-115, C.R.S.

(3) The department may receive up to five percent of the moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly to the department from the fund created in subsection (1) of this section for the actual costs incurred in administering the program.

Source: L. 2016: Entire part amended with relocations, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 914, § 2, effective July 1; (2) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 467, § 15, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-4-1415 as it existed prior to 2016.

(2) Amendments to § 25-4-1415 (2) by HB 16-1408 were harmonized with and relocated to subsection (2) as it was amended by SB 16-146.

PART 15

BREAST CANCER SCREENING

Cross references: For provisions relating to mandatory insurance coverage for mammography screening, see § 10-16-104 (18)(b.5).

25-4-1501. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the incidence of breast cancer in women of this state is a significant health problem that can and should be reduced through early detection and treatment. Accordingly, it is the intention of the general assembly in enacting this part 15 to provide breast cancer screening where it is not otherwise readily available for reasons of cost or distance to suitable medical facilities.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1013, § 1, effective April 7.

25-4-1502. Definitions.

As used in this part 15, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (Deleted by amendment, L. 95, p. 487, § 2, effective July 1, 1995.)

(2) "Board" means the state board of health.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3.5) "Diagnostic screening" means the use of procedures including physical examinations, radiologic imaging, surgical techniques, and any new technologies approved by the board for detecting whether abnormalities of the breast are malignant or benign.

(4) "Fund" means the breast cancer screening fund established in section 25-4-1503.

(5) "Screening" means the conduct of physical examinations, visual inspections, or other medical tests exclusively for the purpose of ascertaining the existence of any physiological abnormality which might be indicative of the presence of disease. "Screening" includes diagnostic screening services.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1013, § 1, effective April 7. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2775, § 469, effective July 1. L. 95: (1) and (5) amended and (3.5) added, p. 487, § 2, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1503. Fund created.

(1) There is established in the state treasury the breast cancer screening fund, which is subject to annual appropriation to the department for the purposes of this part 15. The fund shall be credited with such appropriations as the general assembly may make from the general fund for the purposes of this part 15, money received by the department pursuant to section 25-4-1505 (2) and (4), and money transferred to the fund pursuant to section 25.5-5-308 (9)(h). In accordance with section 24-36-114, all interest derived from the deposit and investment of the fund is credited to the general fund.

(2) All moneys credited to the breast cancer screening fund which are not expended during the fiscal year shall be retained in the fund for its future use and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1014, § 1, effective April 7. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1296, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2024: (1) amended, (SB 24-086), ch. 413, p. 2843, § 1, effective June 5.

25-4-1504. Allocation of fund.

(1) All moneys in the fund shall be used by the department for the following purposes:

(a) The creation and development of a breast cancer screening program, undertaken by private contract for services or operated by the department, that will improve the availability of breast cancer screening and which may include the purchase, maintenance, and staffing of a truck, a van, or any other vehicle suitably equipped to perform breast cancer screening;

(a.5) To provide such further breast cancer diagnostic screening services, as may be indicated;

(b) The creation and operation of a referral service for the benefit of women for whom further examination or treatment is indicated by the breast cancer screening.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1014, § 1, effective April 7. L. 94: (1)(a) amended, p. 2775, § 470, effective July 1. L. 95: (1)(a) amended and (1)(a.5) added, p. 488, § 3, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1)(a), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1505. Powers and duties of department and advisory board.

(1) The executive director of the department shall appoint an advisory board which shall recommend guidelines for the services of the program and such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effect the purposes of this part 15. Members of the advisory board shall be persons interested in health care and the promotion of breast cancer screening drawn from both the private and public sectors. The board of health shall have the authority to approve recommendations of the advisory board and the authority to promulgate rules and regulations recommended by the advisory board.

(2) The department is authorized to accept any grant or award of funds from the federal government or private sources for the furtherance of the purposes of this part 15. Any moneys thus received shall be credited to the fund. Any expenses incurred in the solicitation of donations to the fund shall be paid from the fund.

(3) Any program of breast cancer screening conducted pursuant to this part 15 shall be conducted so as to make such screening available to persons who are at or below two hundred fifty percent of the federal poverty line and who are at least forty years of age but less than sixty-five years of age.

(4) The department may adopt a schedule of fees to be charged for breast cancer screening. The schedule of fees shall be determined so as to make such screening available to the largest possible number of women. The department shall, where practical, collect any available insurance proceeds or other reimbursement payable on behalf of any recipient of a breast cancer screening under this part 15 and may adjust the schedule of fees to reflect insurance contributions. All fees collected shall be credited to the fund.

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1014, § 1, effective April 7. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2775, § 471, effective July 1. L. 95: (4) amended, p. 488, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2005: (3) amended, p. 941, § 28, effective June 2. L. 2010: (3) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 109, effective August 11.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005.

25-4-1506. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

Source: L. 88: Entire part added, p. 1015, § 1, effective April 7. L. 92: Entire section repealed, p. 1296, § 2, effective May 29.

PART 16

FOOD PROTECTION ACT

Editor's note: This part 16 was added in 1991. This part 16 was repealed and reenacted in 1998, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 16 prior to 1998, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

Law reviews: For article, "What's in the Package: Food, Beverage, and Dietary Supplement Law and Litigation Part I", see 43 Colo. Law. 77 (July 2014).

25-4-1601. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that it is in the public interest for the department of public health and environment to establish minimum standards and rules for retail food establishments in Colorado and to provide authority for the uniform statewide administration, implementation, interpretation, and enforcement of such minimum standards and rules. Such standards and rules are established to:

(a) Ensure the safety of food prepared, sold, or served in retail food establishments;

(b) Maximize public health protection;

(c) Identify hazards and potential sources of contamination and take measures to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the physical, chemical, or biological agents in food prepared, sold, or served in retail food establishments; and

(d) Improve the sanitary condition of all retail food establishments, reduce food-borne illness outbreaks, and control the spread of food-borne disease from retail food establishments.

(2) This part 16 is deemed an exercise of the police powers of the state for the protection of the health and social welfare of the people of the state of Colorado.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1244, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: IP(1) amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1151, § 1, effective May 15.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1601 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1602. Definitions.

As used in this part 16, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Automated food merchandising enterprise" means the collective activity of the supplying or preparing of food or drink for automated food merchandising machines.

(1.5) "Caterer" means a retail food establishment that:

(a) Only provides food or beverages prepared in bulk at one location for service in individual portions or buffets that are not available for individual purchase at another location; or

(b) Provides food or beverage preparation or service on public or private premises not under the ownership or control of the caterer.

(2) "Certificate of license" means a grant to operate a retail food establishment without a fee, under the conditions set forth in section 25-4-1607 (9).

(2.5) "County or district public health agency" means a county or district health department or a county or municipal board of health.

(2.7) "Denver retail food license" has the meaning set forth in section 29-11.6-102 (1).

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment and its authorized employees.

(4) "Food" means any raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice, beverage, or ingredient used or intended for use or for sale in whole or in part for human consumption.

(5) "Fund" means the food protection cash fund created in section 25-4-1608.

(5.5) "Grocery store" means a retail food establishment that only offers prepackaged, commercially prepared food and beverages, including those that are required to be refrigerated or frozen and are time or temperature controlled for safety for retail sale to consumers, for off-premises consumption.

(5.7) "Grocery store with deli" means a retail food establishment that:

(a) Offers prepackaged, commercially prepared food for off-premises consumption; and

(b) Prepares or serves food in individual portions for immediate on-premises or off-premises consumption.

(6) "HACCP plan" means a written document setting forth the formal procedures for following hazard analysis critical control point principles.

(6.5) (a) "Imminent health hazard" means a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operation to prevent injury or illness based on the number of potential injuries or illnesses and the nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury or illness.

(b) "Imminent health hazard" includes an emergency such as a fire, flood, extended interruption of electrical or water service, sewage backup, misuse of poisonous or toxic materials, onset of an apparent food-borne illness outbreak, grossly unsanitary occurrence or condition, or other circumstance that may endanger public health.

(7) "Inspection" means an inspection of a retail food establishment conducted by the department or a county or district board of health to ensure compliance by such establishment with rules promulgated by the department pursuant to this part 16.

(8) "License" means a grant to a licensee to operate a retail food establishment.

(9) "Licensee" means a person that is licensed or who holds a certificate of license pursuant to this part 16 and is responsible for the lawful operation of a retail food establishment.

(9.5) "Limited food service establishment" means a retail food establishment that offers limited service, including:

(a) Preparing or serving food that does not require time or temperature control for safety;

(b) Providing self-service beverages;

(c) Offering prepackaged, commercially prepared food and beverages that require time or temperature control for safety; or

(d) Reheating commercially prepared foods that require time or temperature control for safety.

(10) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1151, § 2, effective May 15, 2009.)

(10.5) "Mobile food establishment" has the meaning set forth in section 29-11.6-102 (6).

(11) "Modified atmosphere packaging" means the reduction of the amount of oxygen in a package by mechanically evacuating the oxygen, displacing the oxygen with another gas or combination of gases, or otherwise controlling the oxygen content to a level below that normally found in the surrounding atmosphere, which is twenty-one percent oxygen.

(12) "Nonpotentially hazardous" means any food or beverage that, when stored under normal conditions without refrigeration, will not support the rapid and progressive growth of microorganisms that cause food infections or food intoxications.

(13) "Person" means a natural person, partnership, association, company, corporation, or organization or a manager, agent, servant, officer, or employee of any of such entities.

(13.5) "Restaurant" means a retail food establishment that prepares and serves food in individual portions or buffets for immediate on-premises or off-premises consumption.

(14) "Retail food establishment" means a retail operation that stores, prepares, or packages food for human consumption or serves or otherwise provides food for human consumption to consumers directly or indirectly through a delivery service, whether such food is consumed on or off the premises or whether there is a charge for such food. "Retail food establishment" does not mean:

(a) Any private home;

(b) Private boarding houses;

(c) Hospital and health facility patient feeding operations licensed by the department;

(d) Child care centers and other child care facilities licensed by the department of human services;

(e) Hunting camps and other outdoor recreation locations where food is prepared in the field rather than at a fixed base of operation;

(f) Food or beverage wholesale manufacturing, processing, or packaging plants, or portions thereof, that are subject to regulatory controls under state or federal laws or regulations;

(g) Motor vehicles used only for the transport of food;

(h) Establishments preparing and serving only hot coffee, hot tea, instant hot beverages, and nonpotentially hazardous doughnuts or pastries obtained from sources complying with all laws related to food and food labeling;

(i) Establishments that handle only nonpotentially hazardous prepackaged food and operations serving only commercially prepared, prepackaged foods requiring no preparation other than the heating of food within its original container or package;

(j) Farmers' markets and roadside markets that offer only uncut fresh fruit and vegetables for sale;

(k) Automated food merchandising enterprises that supply only prepackaged nonpotentially hazardous food or drink or food or drink in bottles, cans, or cartons only, and operations that dispense only chewing gum or salted nuts in their natural protective covering;

(l) The donation, preparation, sale, or service of food by a nonprofit or charitable organization in conjunction with an event or celebration if such donation, preparation, sale, or service of food:

(I) Does not exceed the duration of the event or celebration or a maximum of fifty-two days within a calendar year; and

(II) Takes place in the county in which such nonprofit or charitable organization resides or is principally located;

(m) A home, commercial, private, or public kitchen in which a person produces food products sold directly to consumers pursuant to the "Colorado Cottage Foods Act", section 25-4-1614.

(15) "Safe food" means food that does not contain any poisonous, deleterious, or disease-causing substance or microorganisms that may render such food injurious to human health.

(16) "Special event" means an organized event or celebration at which retail food establishments prepare, serve, or otherwise provide food for human consumption.

(17) "Uniform statewide administration, implementation, interpretation, and enforcement" means the application of the rules adopted by the state board of health and the policy guidance of the department by state and county or district public health agencies responsible for implementation of the rules and policies. The uniform application shall not preclude county or district public health agencies from implementing administrative efficiencies or practices if the practices do not conflict with the state board of health rules or department policies.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1245, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (2.5) and (17) added and (7) and (10) amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1151, § 2, effective May 15. L. 2010: (2.5) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 110, effective August 11. L. 2012: (14)(m) added, (SB 12-048), ch. 16, p. 41, § 4, effective March 15; (6.5) added, (HB 12-1097), ch. 78, p. 259, § 1, effective April 6. L. 2019: (6.5) amended, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 42, § 1, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2025: (1.5), (5.5), (5.7), (9.5), (10.5), and (13.5) added, (SB 25-285), ch. 296, p. 1510, § 1, effective August 6; (2.7) and (10.5) added, (HB 25-1295), ch. 214, p. 973, § 2, effective January 1, 2026.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-4-1602 as it existed prior to 1998.

(2) Subsection (10.5) was amended in SB 25-285. Those amendments are superseded by the amendment of subsection (10.5) in HB 25-1295, effective January 1, 2026.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act adding subsection (14)(m), see section 1 of chapter 16, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-4-1603. Licensing, certification, and food protection agency.

The department is hereby designated the state licensing, certification, and food protection agency for the purpose of protecting the public health and ensuring a safe food supply in this state. In addition to such designation, the department is hereby authorized to regulate and control retail food establishments, promulgate rules governing the operation of such establishments, and uniformly enforce and administer this part 16.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1247, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1152, § 3, effective May 15.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1603 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1604. Powers and duties of department - reciprocal license - rules - definition.

(1) The department has the following powers and duties:

(a) To grant or refuse licenses and certificates of license pursuant to section 25-4-1606 or to suspend or revoke licenses and certificates of license pursuant to section 25-4-1611.5;

(b) (I) To promulgate rules for adoption by the state board of health pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., for the uniform statewide administration, implementation, interpretation, and enforcement of this part 16 and, as necessary, to ensure a safe food supply in retail food establishments. Such rules may include provisions for the initial and periodic medical examination by the department or other competent medical authority of all employees of retail food establishments and shall include provisions specifying and regulating the places and conditions under which food shall be prepared for consumption, a uniform code of sanitary rules, and such other rules as the department deems necessary. Such rules may be modified and changed from time to time.

(II) For purposes of this paragraph (b), a "uniform code of sanitary rules" means rules for the preparation, sale, and serving of food, including but not limited to general overall retail food establishment and equipment design and construction; sanitary maintenance of equipment, utensils, and facilities for food preparation, service, and storage; wholesomeness of food and drink; source and protection of food and water; disposal of liquid and solid wastes; and other rules for the effective administration and enforcement of this part 16.

(c) To hear and determine all complaints against licensees or grantees of certificates of license and to administer oaths and issue subpoenas to require the presence of any person necessary to the determination of any such hearing;

(d) To uniformly enforce this part 16 and the rules promulgated pursuant to this section;

(e) To enter retail food establishments during business hours and at other times during which activity is evident to conduct inspections and other interventions related to food safety and the protection of public health;

(f) To develop and enforce uniform statewide standards of program conduct and performance to be followed and adhered to by employees of the department and county or district boards of health;

(g) To provide technical assistance, equipment and product review, training and standardization, program evaluation, and other services necessary to assure the uniform statewide administration, implementation, interpretation, and enforcement of this part 16 and rules promulgated under this part 16;

(h) To review and approve HACCP plans submitted for evaluation to verify and ensure that food handling risks are reduced to prevent food-borne illness outbreaks;

(i) To delegate to any county or district board of health the powers and duties described in paragraphs (a), (c), (d), (e), and (h) of this subsection (1) at the request of such county or district board of health.

(2) (a) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to the city and county of Denver, which, by ordinance, may provide for the licensure of retail food establishments.

(b) The city and county of Denver shall permit a licensee to operate a mobile food establishment within the jurisdiction of the city and county of Denver in accordance with section 29-11.6-104 (1).

(3) The department shall consider an owner or operator of a mobile food establishment with a Denver retail food license to have a valid license to operate the mobile food establishment within the jurisdiction of another local government in accordance with section 29-11.6-104 (2).

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1247, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1)(b)(I), (1)(d), (1)(f), (1)(g), and (1)(i) amended and (2) added, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1152, § 4, effective May 15. L. 2019: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 42, § 2, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2025: (2) amended and (3) added, (HB 25-1295), ch. 214, p. 973, § 3, effective January 1, 2026.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1604 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1605. Submission of plans for approval - required.

(1) An owner or operator of a retail food establishment shall submit plans and specifications to the department or a county or district board of health in the jurisdiction in which a retail food establishment is to be constructed or extensively remodeled before such construction or extensive remodeling is begun or any existing structure is converted for use as a retail food establishment. Such plans and specifications shall be submitted for review and approval, in such form as the department requires or approves, to ensure that the retail food establishment layout, equipment, and food handling procedures are conducive to providing a safe food product. Each plan and specification submission shall be accompanied by the fees set forth in section 25-4-1607. The department and a county or district board of health shall treat the plans and specifications as confidential trade secret information. The plans and specifications shall indicate the proposed layout, arrangement, mechanical plants, construction materials of work areas, and the location, type, and model of proposed fixed equipment and facilities.

(2) The construction, extensive remodeling, or conversion of any retail food establishment shall be in accordance with the plans and specifications submitted to and approved by the department or a county or district board of health. The department or a county or district board of health shall conduct preopening inspections of retail food establishments to assure compliance with the approved plans, as circumstances require.

(3) An owner or operator of a retail food establishment shall submit an HACCP plan to the department or a county or district board of health for review and approval before beginning a modified atmosphere packaging process or other food preparation method that does not meet rules promulgated by the department. HACCP plans shall be submitted in such form as the department requires or approves. The submission shall ensure that food handling risks are reduced to prevent food-borne illness and outbreaks. The department and any county or district board of health shall treat HACCP plans as confidential trade secret information.

(4) The department or a county or district board of health shall respond to any plans and specifications submitted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and to any HACCP plan submitted pursuant to subsection (3) of this section within fourteen working days after receipt. If a submitted HACCP plan or other plan or specification is deemed inadequate, the department or a county or district board of health shall respond in writing to the submitter of the plans or specifications with a statement describing how such deficiencies may be corrected.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1248, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1153, § 5, effective May 15.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1606 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1606. Licensure - exception.

(1) An application for a license or a certificate of license shall be filed with the department or a county or district board of health before any person may operate a retail food establishment in this state. The application shall be on a form supplied by the department and shall include such information as the department may require.

(2) Before granting any license or certificate of license, the department or a county or district board of health may conduct an inspection of the retail food establishment to determine compliance with the rules promulgated by the department. If the applicant appears to be in compliance with the rules and with the applicable provisions of this part 16, the department or a county or district board of health shall approve the application for a license or certificate of license.

(2.5) If the applicant is found to be in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c) during a preoperational inspection, and the applicant is unable to correct the violation while the inspector is on site, a reinspection shall be conducted for the purpose of granting a license or certificate of license.

(3) Every license and certificate of license granted pursuant to this section shall specify the date granted, the period of coverage, the name of the licensee, and the name and address of the licensed establishment. All licenses shall be conspicuously displayed at all times in the licensed establishment.

(4) Licenses and certificates of license shall be valid for one calendar year or such portion thereof as remains after the granting of a license or certificate. When a license or certificate is valid for only a portion of a calendar year, there shall be no reduction of the fees required by section 25-4-1607. All licenses and certificates of license shall expire December 31 of the year in which they were granted and renewal applications shall be filed with the department during December of each year. Once a license or certificate of license has been granted, the department or a county or district board of health shall not refuse to renew such license or certificate unless the licensee has engaged in an unlawful act set forth in section 25-4-1610 or is in violation of any rules promulgated pursuant to this part 16.

(5) Subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall not apply in the city and county of Denver, which, by ordinance, may provide for the licensure of retail food establishments.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1249, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1), (2), and (4) amended and (2.5) added, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1154, § 6, effective May 15. L. 2016: (2) and (2.5) amended, (HB 16-1401), ch. 367, p. 1542, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2019: (2.5) amended, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 43, § 3, effective January 1, 2020.

25-4-1607. Fees - rules - legislative declaration.

(1) Repealed.

(1.1) (a) For calendar years 2026, 2027, and 2028 and for each subsequent calendar year thereafter, each retail food establishment in this state must be assessed an annual license fee as follows:

(I) A restaurant or caterer shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

Seating Capacity | 1/1/2026 | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
0 to 100​ | $ 481 | $ 567 | $ 682
101 to 200​ | $ 538 | $ 634 | $ 763
Over 200​ | $ 581 | $ 687 | $ 826

(II) A limited food service establishment shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

1/1/2026 | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
$ 338 | $ 394 | $ 475

(III) A grocery store shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

Square Footage | 1/1/2026 | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
Less than 15,001 | $ 244 | $ 282 | $ 340
Over 15,000​ | $ 441 | $ 519 | $ 624

(IV) A grocery store with deli shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

Square Footage​ | 1/1/2026 | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
Less than 15,001 | $ 469 | $ 552 | $ 664
Over 15,000 | $ 894 | $ 1,062 | $ 1,276

(V) A retail food establishment offering food at a temporary living quarter for workers associated with oil and gas operations shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

1/1/2026​ | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
$ 1,063 | $ 1,264 | $ 1,519

(VI) A mobile food establishment shall be assessed the applicable annual fee on or after the dates listed in the following schedule:

Mobile Type | 1/1/2026 | 1/1/2027 | 1/1/2028
Full Service | $ 481 | $ 567 | $ 682
Prepackaged Food | $ 338 | $ 394 | $ 475

(VII) The fee amounts listed for calendar year 2028 in this subsection (1.1)(a) apply to calendar year 2029 and to each subsequent calendar year thereafter until a new fee schedule is established.

(b) (I) A retail food establishment is subject to only one of the fees set forth in subsection (1.1)(a) of this section.

(II) A county or district public health agency shall establish the license fees for a retail food establishment at a special event.

(c) Repealed.

(d) (I) Retail food establishment license fees shall be imposed pursuant to this subsection (1.1); except that:

(A) The city and county of Denver may establish fees by ordinance; and

(B) A county or district board of health may establish fees that are lower than the fees listed in subsection (1.1)(a) of this section if the county or district board of health is in compliance with this part 16.

(II) Except as provided in subsection (1.1)(d)(I) of this section, the fees set forth in subsection (1.1)(a) of this section or by ordinance of the city and county of Denver must:

(A) Be the only annual license fees charged by the state or by a county, district, local, or regional inspection authority; and

(B) Cover all inspections required for a retail food establishment throughout an annual license period.

(1.5) Repealed.

(2) At the time a plan is submitted for review, an application fee of one hundred fifty-five dollars shall be paid to the department or a county or district board of health. The fee for plan review and preopening inspection of a new or remodeled retail food establishment must be the actual cost of such review and must not exceed nine hundred dollars. Such costs must be payable at the time the plan is approved and an inspection is completed to determine compliance.

(3) At the time an equipment review is submitted, an application fee of one hundred fifty-five dollars shall be paid to the department. The fee for equipment review by the department to determine compliance with applicable standards must be the actual cost of such review and must not exceed seven hundred seventy-five dollars. Such costs must be payable when the review is completed.

(4) The fee for an HACCP plan review must not exceed six hundred twenty dollars. Costs shall be paid at the time the plan is approved and an inspection is completed.

(5) The fee for services requested by a person seeking department or county or district board of health review of a potential retail food establishment site must be one hundred twenty dollars or the actual cost of such review, whichever is greater. One hundred twenty dollars of such fee shall be billed at the time the review is requested, and the remainder must be payable when services are completed.

(6) The fee for food protection services provided to special events shall not exceed the actual cost of such services and shall be paid by the organizer of such special event when services are completed.

(7) The fee for any requested service not specifically set forth in this section shall not exceed the actual cost of such service.

(8) The actual cost of a service shall be established by the department or a county or district board of health, whichever provided the service.

(9) (a) A certificate of license may be issued to and in the name and address of any:

(I) Public or nonpublic school for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade or any portion thereof;

(II) Penal institution;

(III) Nonprofit organization that provides food solely to people who are food insecure, including, but not limited to, a soup kitchen, food pantry, or home delivery service; and

(IV) Local government entity or nonprofit organization that donates, prepares, or sells food at a special event, including, but not limited to, a school sporting event, firefighters' picnic, or church supper, that takes place in the county in which the local government entity or nonprofit organization resides or is principally located.

(b) No institution or organization listed in paragraph (a) of this subsection (9) shall pay any fee imposed on a retail food establishment pursuant to this section.

(10) (a) County or district boards of health created in part 5 of article 1 of this title 25 shall collect fees under this section if the county or district boards of health are authorized by the department to enforce this part 16 and any rules promulgated pursuant to this part 16.

(b) Repealed.

(11) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1155, § 7, effective May 15, 2009.)

(12) Notwithstanding the amount specified for any fee in this section, the state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of one or more of the fees if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of one or more of the fees is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the state board of health by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of one or more of the fees as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

(13) Legislative declaration - disposition of fee revenue.

(a) The general assembly does not intend for the fees paid by retail food establishments as outlined in subsections (1) and (1.1) of this section to subsidize inspection or other costs associated with entities exempt from fees under subsection (9)(a) of this section.

(b) Counties may only spend the increased revenue from the increase of retail food establishment fees on retail food health-related activities.

(14) Repealed.

Source: L. 98: (12) added, p. 1334, § 46, effective June 1; entire part R&RE, p. 1250, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1)(a), (1)(b), and (1)(c) amended, p. 2050, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1)(a), (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(e)(II), (2) to (5), (8), (10), and (11) amended and (1)(c.5) added, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1155, § 7, effective May 15. L. 2016: (1) and (9)(a) amended and (1.5), (13), and (14) added, (HB 16-1401), ch. 367, p. 1543, § 2, effective August 10; IP(1), IP(1.5)(a), (1.5)(a)(VI), IP(1.5)(b), and (1.5)(b)(VI) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 798, § 125, effective August 10. L. 2017: IP(1.5)(b) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1408, § 86, effective May 25; IP(1), (1)(e)(I), (1.5)(d), and (13)(b) amended, (SB 17-244), ch. 344, p. 1815, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2020, 1st Ex. Sess.: (10) amended, (SB 20B-001), ch. 2, p. 15, § 6, effective December 7. L. 2025: IP(1), (1)(e)(I)(B), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (13) amended, (1)(f) and (1.1) added, and (1.5) and (14) repealed, (SB 25-285), ch. 296, p. 1511, § 2, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 25-4-1607 as it existed prior to 1998.

(2) Subsection (12) was enacted as subsection (3) in SB 98-194 and was renumbered in the 1998 Colorado Revised Statutes for ease of location in the section as repealed and reenacted by SB 98-189.

(3) Subsection (14), as enacted by HB 16-1401, provides that the fee increases in subsections (1) and (1.5), as amended in and enacted by HB 16-1401, do not take effect until certain conditions are met and that the executive director of the department of public health and environment shall notify the revisor of statutes in writing when those conditions have been satisfied. The revisor of statutes received the notice specified in subsection (14)(c) on January 29, 2019.

(4) Subsection (1.5)(b)(VI) provided for the repeal of subsection (1.5)(b)(VI), effective January 1, 2017. (See L. 2016, p. 1543.)

(5) Subsection (10)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (10)(b), effective December 31, 2022. (See L. 2020, 1st Ex. Sess., p. 15.)

(6) Subsections (1)(f) and (1.1)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (1) and (1.1)(c), respectively, effective January 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 1511.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20B-001, see section 1 of chapter 2, Session Laws of Colorado 2020, First Extraordinary Session.

25-4-1607.5. Retail food establishment regulation - fees - investigations - stakeholder process.

(1) The executive director of the department or his or her designee shall convene a stakeholder group, including representatives from Colorado associations representing county or district public health agencies, county commissioners, retail food establishments, and any other party that represents a retail food establishment and expresses interest in participating.

(2) The department shall keep and maintain a list of stakeholders.

(3) The department shall convene the first meeting with the stakeholders no later than June 15, 2015, and as needed thereafter. After submission of the report described in subsection (5) of this section, the department shall meet with the stakeholders at least once every three years.

(4) The department shall meet with the stakeholders to study retail food establishments, retail food establishment license fees, and retail food inspection programs, including:

(a) Incidents of, and trends in, food-borne illnesses, including the correlation to inspections;

(b) Uniform statewide administration, implementation, interpretation, and enforcement of the inspection program to include, at a minimum:

(I) Training;

(II) Application;

(III) Communication to the public;

(IV) Guidance documents; and

(V) Inspection frequency, including compliance strategies;

(c) Potential regulatory changes;

(d) Collaboration with the industry;

(e) A requested annual license fee adjustment with appropriate documentation, including costs of providing an inspection;

(f) An annual license fee charged for parochial, public, or private schools; charitable organizations and benevolent, nonprofit retail food establishments that assist elderly, incapacitated, or disadvantaged persons; and nonprofit or charitable organizations that donate, prepare, sell, or serve food in conjunction with an event or celebration;

(g) Alternative administrative actions;

(h) The current annual license fee structure and license categories;

(i) The review of risk-based inspection schedules; and

(j) The actual cost of inspections.

(5) On or before December 1, 2015, and every three years thereafter, the executive director of the department or his or her designee shall prepare a report of the findings and conclusions of the study and shall present the report to all stakeholders and others upon request.

Source: L. 2015: Entire section added, (HB 15-1226), ch. 238, p. 881, § 2, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 15-1226, see section 1 of chapter 238, Session Laws of Colorado 2015.

25-4-1607.7. Health inspection results - development of a uniform system - communication to the public.

(1) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2025).

(2) The department or a local public health agency contracted by the department to perform inspections and enforce regulations regarding retail food establishments shall only utilize the system developed and approved by the department to communicate inspection results.

(3) The system developed and approved by the department to communicate inspection results may only be revised through the triennial stakeholder process required by section 25-4-1607.5.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1401), ch. 367, p. 1548, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2019: (3) added, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 43, § 4, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (SB 25-285), ch. 296, p. 1517, § 3, effective August 6.

25-4-1607.9. Department targets - audits - reporting.

(1) The department shall respond to all plans and specifications and HACCP plan reviews within fourteen business days after receipt, as required by section 25-4-1605 (4).

(2) The department shall ensure significant statewide compliance with the federal food and drug administration's voluntary national retail food regulatory program standards by verifying that:

(a) At least seventy percent of Colorado's retail food program staff meet the national criteria for appropriate training and education to adequately perform required inspections; and

(b) At least seventy percent of Colorado's retail food program staff meet the national criteria regarding the focus of inspections on critical item risk factors, the correction of documented deficiencies, and the focus of inspections on the highest-risk establishments.

(3) To verify compliance with this section:

(a) The department shall audit any local public health agency that conducts inspections within its jurisdiction; and

(b) Local public health agencies shall audit the department regarding the jurisdictions where the department conducts inspections.

(4) The results of the audits conducted pursuant to subsection (3) of this section must be documented and reported during each stakeholder process held pursuant to section 25-4-1607.5.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1401), ch. 367, p. 1548, § 4, effective August 10; entire section amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 799, § 126, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1) and IP(2) amended, (SB 25-285), ch. 296, p. 1517, § 4, effective August 6.

25-4-1608. Food protection cash fund - creation.

(1) Fees collected by the department pursuant to section 25-4-1607 and penalties collected pursuant to section 25-4-1611.5 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the food protection cash fund, which fund is hereby created in the state treasury. The general assembly shall appropriate the moneys in the fund to the department for the payment of salaries and expenses necessary for the administration of this part 16.

(2) Fifty-five dollars of each fee collected by the department or a county or district board of health pursuant to section 25-4-1607 (1) and (1.1)(a) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fee to the food protection cash fund created in subsection (1) of this section. This portion of the fee shall be used by the department to conduct the duties and responsibilities set forth in section 25-4-1604 (1)(a), (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(f), (1)(g), and (1)(i). The remainder of the fee shall be retained by the county or district board of health for deposit in the appropriate county or district public health agency fund in accordance with section 25-1-511 or, if the fee is collected by the department, it shall be deposited pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, and used to pay a portion of the cost of conducting a retail food establishment protection program.

(3) Any interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the food protection cash fund shall be credited to such fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered moneys remaining in such fund at the end of a fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not revert or be transferred to the general fund or any other fund of the state.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1244, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2003: (2) amended, p. 2051, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 2053, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1157, § 8, effective May 15. L. 2017: (2) amended, (SB 17-244), ch. 344, p. 1816, § 2, effective August 9. L. 2019: (1) amended, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 43, § 5, effective January 1, 2020. L. 2025: (2) amended, (SB 25-285), ch. 296, p. 1518, § 5, effective August 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1605 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1609. Disciplinary actions - closure - revocation - suspension - review. (Repealed)

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1253, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1157, § 9, effective May 15. L. 2012: (2) amended, (HB 12-1097), ch. 78, p. 259, § 2, effective April 6. L. 2016: (1) and (2) amended and (2.5) added, (HB 16-1401), ch. 367, p. 1549, § 5, effective August 10. L. 2019: Entire section repealed, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 43, § 6, effective January 1, 2020.

25-4-1609.5. Grievance process.

(1) If a licensee believes that a county or district public health agency is taking regulatory action outside the scope of its authority, the licensee may file a written complaint with the department within thirty days after the licensee's knowledge of the regulatory action.

(2) Within forty-five days after receipt of a written complaint pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the department shall convene a dispute resolution panel that consists of one person from the department, one person from the retail food industry, and one person from a county or district public health agency who is not within the jurisdiction of the licensee requesting resolution. The dispute resolution panel shall allow the licensee and the county or district public health agency to provide information related to the grievance. The dispute resolution panel shall make findings concerning the grievance and shall recommend to the county or district public health agency a resolution to the dispute. The county or district public health agency shall implement the recommendations within thirty days after receipt of the findings and recommendations from the dispute resolution panel. If the parties to the grievance resolve the complaint prior to review by the dispute resolution panel, the parties shall notify the department in writing and the grievance shall be dismissed.

(3) If the county or district public health agency fails to implement the recommendations of the dispute resolution panel within thirty days after receipt of the recommendations, the county or district public health agency shall provide the licensee with the opportunity to request an administrative hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1157, § 10, effective May 15.

25-4-1610. Unlawful acts.

(1) It is unlawful for:

(a) Any person to begin the construction or extensive remodeling of a retail food establishment unless such person has received department or county or district board of health approval of plans and specifications for such construction or remodeling pursuant to section 25-4-1605;

(b) Any person to operate a retail food establishment without a valid license or certificate of license from the department or a county or district public health agency having jurisdiction over such establishment, including continuing to operate a retail food establishment that has had its license or certificate of license suspended in accordance with section 25-4-1611.5;

(c) Any person to violate this part 16 and any rules promulgated pursuant to this part 16;

(d) Any person or retail food establishment to refuse to permit entry to such establishment in accordance with sections 25-4-1604 (1)(e) and 25-4-1606 (2);

(e) Any retail food establishment to sell or serve food prepared in a private home to any person;

(f) Any person to fail to pay a civil penalty assessed by the department or a county or district board of health.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1254, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: (1)(a), (1)(b), and (1)(f) amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1158, § 11, effective May 15. L. 2019: (1)(b) amended, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 44, § 7, effective January 1, 2020.

25-4-1611. Violation - penalties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1254, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1158, § 12, effective May 15. L. 2012: (3) amended, (HB 12-1097), ch. 78, p. 260, § 3, effective April 6. L. 2019: Entire section repealed, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 44, § 8, effective January 1, 2020.

Editor's note: Prior to its repeal in 2020, this section was similar to former § 25-4-1608 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1611.5. Violations - penalties - review.

(1) If the department or a county or district public health agency finds that a licensee or other person operating a retail food establishment was provided with written notification of a violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(a), (1)(b), (1)(d), (1)(e), or (1)(f) and was given a reasonable time to comply but remained in noncompliance, the person is subject to a civil penalty of not less than two hundred fifty dollars and not more than one thousand dollars, assessed by the department or county or district public health agency.

(2) (a) (I) Upon a finding by the department or a county or district public health agency that an establishment is in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c), and that the violations are sufficient to require the department or county or district public health agency to conduct a reinspection, the department or county or district public health agency shall provide the establishment with a reasonable time to comply and conduct a reinspection.

(II) For the purposes of this subsection (2)(a), the determination of whether a violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c) is sufficient to require reinspection under this section shall be done in a manner consistent with the uniform system to communicate inspection results to the public developed in accordance with section 25-4-1607.7.

(b) If, at the time of the first reinspection, the establishment is in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c) and the violations are sufficient to require reinspection, the department or county or district public health agency shall conduct a second reinspection after providing the establishment a reasonable time to comply.

(c) If, at the time of the second reinspection, the establishment remains in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c) and the violations are sufficient to require reinspection, the department or county or district public health agency shall conduct a third reinspection after providing the establishment a reasonable time to comply.

(d) If, at a third reinspection, the establishment remains in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c), the department or county or district public health agency may assess a civil penalty, not to exceed one thousand dollars, and may suspend the license of the licensee pursuant to this section.

(e) If an establishment is found to be in violation of section 25-4-1610 (1)(c) during four out of five inspections during a twelve-month period and the violations are sufficient to require reinspection, the department or county or district public health agency may assess a civil penalty, not to exceed one thousand dollars, and may suspend the license of the licensee pursuant to this section.

(3) A maximum of three civil penalties may be assessed against a licensee or other person operating an establishment in any twelve-month period. Whenever a third civil penalty is assessed in a twelve-month period, the department or county or district public health agency may initiate proceedings to suspend or revoke the license of the licensee pursuant to this section.

(4) Neither the department nor county or district public health agency shall assess a civil penalty pursuant to this section if a disciplinary action is pending against the same licensee under this section.

(5) (a) All penalties collected by the department pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the food protection cash fund created in section 25-4-1608.

(b) Penalties collected by a county or district public health agency shall be deposited in the appropriate county or district public health agency fund in accordance with section 25-4-1608.

(6) To obtain compliance with this part 16, the department or county or district public health agency may allow the owner of an establishment to use any assessed penalty fee to pay for unpaid license fees, employee training, or the cost of needed improvements to the establishment.

(7) In addition to the remedies provided in this part 16 and other remedies provided by law, the department or county or district public health agency is authorized to apply to the county or district court with jurisdiction for the county where an establishment is located for a temporary or permanent injunction, and such court shall have jurisdiction to issue an injunction restraining any person from violating section 25-4-1610.

(8) The department or county or district public health agency may issue a cease-and-desist administrative order if a person or licensee has been issued a civil penalty in accordance with subsection (2) of this section and remains in noncompliance.

(9) (a) The department or county or district public health agency may suspend or revoke a license or certificate of license for any violation of this part 16, any rule adopted pursuant to this part 16, or any of the terms, conditions, or provisions of the license or certificate of license in accordance with section 24-4-104.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (9)(c) of this section, the suspension of a license or certificate of license may not exceed three days and may commence only:

(I) After all reinspections required by subsection (2) of this section have been completed;

(II) If the licensee remains in violation; and

(III) After the licensee has been provided written notification of the grievance process available pursuant to section 25-4-1609.5.

(c) In cases of imminent health hazard, the suspension of a license or certificate of license may commence immediately.

(d) When a license or certificate of license is suspended under this subsection (9), no part of the fees paid for a license may be returned to the licensee.

(10) An establishment that has been issued a cease-and-desist order or had its license suspended or revoked in accordance with subsection (8) or (9) of this section, as applicable, may not reinitiate operations without the prior approval of the department or county or district public health agency.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1014), ch. 11, p. 46, § 9, effective January 1, 2020.

25-4-1612. Judicial review.

Any person adversely affected or aggrieved by a department decision to refuse to grant a license or certificate of license may seek judicial review in the district court having jurisdiction over the retail food establishment for which the application for license or certificate of license was made. Any other final order or determination by the department or a county or district board of health pursuant to this part 16 shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 98: Entire part R&RE, p. 1256, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1160, § 13, effective May 15.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-4-1609 as it existed prior to 1998.

25-4-1613. General fund moneys - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (SB 09-223), ch. 255, p. 1160, § 14, effective May 15.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2013. (See L. 2009, p. 1160.)

25-4-1614. Home kitchens - exemption - food inspection - short title - applicability - definitions - rules.

(1) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Cottage Foods Act". The purposes of this section are to allow for the sale and consumption of homemade foods and to encourage the expansion of agricultural sales by farmers' markets, farms, and home-based producers and accessibility of these resources to informed end consumers by:

(a) Facilitating the purchase and consumption of fresh and local agricultural products;

(b) Enhancing the agricultural economy; and

(c) Providing Colorado citizens with unimpeded access to healthy food from known sources.

(2) (a) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a) is effective until January 1, 2027.] A producer may use his or her home kitchen or a commercial, private, or public kitchen to produce foods for sale only if the producer sells the foods directly to informed end consumers.

(2) (a) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a) is effective January 1, 2027.]

(I) A producer may use their home kitchen or a commercial, private, or public kitchen to produce nonpotentially hazardous foods for sale directly to informed end consumers. These foods include pickled fruits and vegetables, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, honey, jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butter, flour, baked goods, candies, fruit empanadas, tortillas, and other nonpotentially hazardous foods.

(II) A producer may use their home kitchen to produce and sell packaged foods that require time and temperature control for safety, including tamales, burritos, and tortas. A producer may sell one type of food product that requires time and temperature control for safety, with the ability to offer up to five variations of that one type of food product. The producer must specify the individual food products that require time and temperature control for safety and provide a list of such food products to the department or a county, district, or regional health agency upon request. A producer may change the food products that require time and temperature control for safety, as long as the producer is not selling more than five variations of one food product that requires time and temperature control for safety at any given time. The producer must package food products requiring time and temperature control in the producer's home kitchen or a commercial, private, or public kitchen.

(III) A person may sell whole eggs under this section; except that a person may not sell more than two hundred fifty dozen whole eggs per month under this section. A person selling whole eggs must meet the requirements of section 35-21-105.

(IV) The final food product shall not be cooled and reheated before being sold.

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective until January 1, 2027.]

(I) A producer is permitted under this section to sell only a limited range of foods that have been produced, processed, or packaged that are nonpotentially hazardous and do not require refrigeration. These foods include pickled fruits and vegetables, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, honey, jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butter, flour, and baked goods, including candies, fruit empanadas, and tortillas, and other nonpotentially hazardous foods.

(II) A person may sell whole eggs under this section; except that a person may not sell more than two hundred fifty dozen whole eggs per month under this section. A person selling whole eggs must meet the requirements of section 35-21-105, C.R.S.

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective January 1, 2027.]

(I) A producer that sells food that requires time and temperature control for safety shall ensure that any meat or meat product used in the production of food under this section:

(A) Has been federally inspected and bears the mark of inspection; or

(B) Satisfies an exemption from inspection, such as a federal or state exemption for a poultry producer.

(II) If a food product requires time and temperature control for safety, the producer shall follow all cooking, cooling, and holding temperatures as specified in rules adopted by the department pursuant to section 25-4-1604 (1)(b) to protect food safety until the time of sale.

(III) If a producer transports a food product that requires time and temperature control for safety before final delivery to an informed end consumer, the producer shall maintain the food product at an appropriate holding temperature to protect food safety during transport, shall not transport the food product more than once, and shall not transport the food product for longer than two hours.

(IV) A producer shall not make bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods sold under this section.

(c) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(c) is effective until January 1, 2027.] A producer must take a food safety course that includes basic food handling training and is comparable to, or is a course given by, the Colorado state university extension service or a state, county, or district public health agency, and must maintain a status of good standing in accordance with the course requirements, including attending any additional classes if necessary.

(c) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(c) is effective January 1, 2027.]

(I) A producer shall take a food safety course that includes basic food handling training and is comparable to, or is, a course given by the Colorado state university extension service or a state, county, or district public health agency and shall maintain a status of good standing in accordance with the course requirements, including attending additional classes if necessary.

(II) A producer that sells food products that require time and temperature control for safety shall take a food safety course that includes food handling training concerning time and temperature control and acquire and maintain proof of course completion and a status of good standing in accordance with the course requirements, including attending additional classes if necessary. The department may approve courses that provide the training specified in this subsection (2)(c)(II).

(d) The foods produced under this section must:

(I) Be delivered directly from a producer to an informed end consumer;

(II) Be sold only in Colorado; and

(III) Not involve interstate commerce.

(e) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(e) is effective until January 1, 2027.] This section applies only to producers who earn net revenues of ten thousand dollars or less per calendar year from the sale of each eligible food product produced in the producer's home kitchen or a commercial, private, or public kitchen.

(e) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(e) is effective January 1, 2027.] This section applies only to producers that earn gross revenues of one hundred fifty thousand dollars or less per calendar year from the sale of food permitted under this section. The department shall annually adjust the cap for inflation. The department may round the adjusted amount upward to the nearest dollar. Inflation is measured by the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index, or a successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid for by urban consumers. A producer shall not establish, reorganize, or operate multiple entities or contractual arrangements for the purpose of circumventing this revenue cap.

(3) (a) A food product sold under this section must have an affixed label that includes at least:

(I) Identification of the product;

(II) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(a)(II) is effective until January 1, 2027.] The producer's name, the address at which the food was prepared, and the producer's current telephone number or electronic mail address;

(II) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(a)(II) is effective January 1, 2027.] The producer's name, department-issued registration number, the county in which the food was prepared, and the producer's current telephone number or electronic mail address;

(III) The date on which the food was produced;

(IV) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(a)(IV) is effective until January 1, 2027.] A complete list of ingredients; and

(IV) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(a)(IV) is effective January 1, 2027.] A complete list of ingredients;

(V) The following disclaimer: "This product was produced in a home kitchen that is not subject to state licensure or inspection and that may also process common food allergens such as tree nuts, peanuts, eggs, soy, wheat, milk, fish, and crustacean shellfish. This product is not intended for resale."

(VI) [Editor's note: Subsection (3)(a)(VI) is effective January 1, 2027.] A website address provided by the department that includes contact information for consumers to report food-borne illnesses, how to verify a producer's active registration, and how to report issues regarding a producer's registration status.

(b) A food product sold under this section and not labeled in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) is misbranded and is subject to food sampling and inspection pursuant to subsection (4) of this section.

(c) A producer operating under this section shall conspicuously display a placard, sign, or card at the point of sale with the following disclaimer: "This product was produced in a home kitchen that is not subject to state licensure or inspection. This product is not intended for resale."

(4) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (4) is effective until January 1, 2027.] A food product produced pursuant to this section is subject to food sampling and inspection by the department or a county, district, or regional health agency pursuant to section 25-5-406 if it is determined that the food product is misbranded pursuant to subsection (3) of this section or if a consumer complaint has been received or if the product is suspected in an injury or food-borne illness outbreak.

(4) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (4) is effective January 1, 2027.]

(a) A food product produced pursuant to this section is subject to food sampling and inspection by the department or a county, district, or regional health agency pursuant to section 25-5-406 if it is determined that the food product is misbranded pursuant to subsection (3) of this section or if a consumer complaint has been received or if the product is suspected in an injury or food-borne illness outbreak.

(b) If a consumer complaint of food-borne illness has been received, or if a product is suspected in an injury or food-borne illness outbreak, the department or a county, district, or regional health agency may implement local response procedures, including corrective action plans, additional food sampling tests, and additional training requirements for the producer. The department or a county, district, or regional health agency may charge a producer only the direct costs incurred under this subsection (4)(b).

(c) If the department or a county, district, or regional health agency inspects a food product produced pursuant to this section and determines that the food product is misbranded or may cause an injury or food-borne illness outbreak, the department or health agency may:

(I) Impose a fine for a violation of this section, which fine must not exceed a total of one hundred dollars for the violation; and

(II) Recover from the producer the cost of the investigation or inspection, which cost must not exceed one thousand dollars.

(d) If the department or a county, district, or regional health agency determines that, on three separate occasions within twelve months, a producer has misbranded food that requires time and temperature control for safety or failed to comply with requirements related to food that requires time and temperature control for safety, the producer shall not sell foods that require time and temperature control pursuant to this section.

(5) A person who purchases a product made by a producer shall not resell the product.

(6) A person who sells foods pursuant to this act is encouraged to maintain home bakery liability insurance or other adequate liability insurance.

(7) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (7) is effective until January 1, 2027.] Sections 25-4-1604 to 25-4-1613 do not apply to this section.

(7) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (7) is effective January 1, 2027.] Except as provided in subsection (2)(b)(II) of this section, sections 25-4-1604 to 25-4-1613 do not apply to this section.

(8) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (8) is effective until January 1, 2027.] The department or a county, district, or regional health agency may create a voluntary electronic registry of producers if it determines that a registry would be of value to producers and consumers.

(8) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (8) is effective January 1, 2027.]

(a) A producer shall annually register with the department before selling any food under this section. The registration must indicate the types of food the producer anticipates selling under this section. The department shall issue a registration number to each producer.

(b) The department shall create and maintain an electronic registry of producers, update the registry monthly, share the registry with each county or district public health agency, and make the registry available on the department's public-facing website.

(8.5) [Editor's note: Subsection (8.5) is effective January 1, 2027.] This section does not apply to the sale of raw milk; low-acid canned food products; fermented or acidified food products that require time and temperature control for safety; food products that are alcohol beverages or that contain cannabinoids; or food products that are produced with smoking used as a preservation method and not for flavor, reduced oxygen processing, or curing.

(9) As used in this section:

(a) "Home" means a primary residence occupied by the producer producing the food under this section.

(a.5) "Homemade" means food that is prepared in a private home kitchen, or a commercial, private, or public kitchen, when the kitchen is not licensed, inspected, or regulated.

(a.7) "Informed end consumer" means a person who is the last person to purchase any product, who does not resell the product, and who has been informed that the product is not licensed, regulated, or inspected.

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (9)(b) is effective until January 1, 2027.] "Nonpotentially hazardous" has the meaning set forth in section 25-4-1602 (12).

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (9)(b) is effective January 1, 2027.] "Meat or meat products" has the meaning set forth in section 35-33-103 (8).

(c) [Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (9)(c) is effective until January 1, 2027.] "Producer" means a person who prepares nonpotentially hazardous foods in a home kitchen or similar venue for sale directly to consumers pursuant to this section and includes that person's designated representative. A producer may only be:

(c) [Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (9)(c) is effective January 1, 2027.] "Producer" means a person that prepares foods in a home kitchen or similar venue for sale directly to consumers pursuant to this section and includes that person's designated representative. A producer may only be:

(I) An individual who is a resident of Colorado; or

(II) A limited liability company formed in Colorado, consisting of two or fewer members, and of which all members are residents of Colorado.

(10) Repealed.

Source: L. 2012: Entire section added, (SB 12-048), ch. 16, p. 42, § 5, effective March 15. L. 2013: (2)(b), (2)(c), and (3)(a)(II) amended, (HB 13-1158), ch. 100, p. 319, § 3, effective April 4. L. 2015: (2)(b)(I) and (9)(b) amended and (3)(c) and (10) added, (HB 15-1102), ch. 313, p. 1277, § 1, effective August 5; (2)(e) and (9)(c) amended, (SB 15-085), ch. 150, p. 452, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2016: (1), (2), and IP(9)(c) amended, (9)(a.5) and (9)(a.7) added, and (10) repealed, (SB 16-058), ch. 158, p. 498, § 1, effective May 4. L. 2026: (2)(a), (2)(b), (2)(c), (2)(e), (3)(a)(II), (3)(a)(IV), (4), (7), (8), (9)(b), and IP(9)(c) amended and (3)(a)(VI) and (8.5) added, (HB 26-1033), ch. 375, p. 2328, § 2, effective January 1, 2027.

Cross references: For the short title ("Tamale Act") in HB 26-1033, see section 1 of chapter 375, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-1614.5. Cottage foods cash fund created.

(1) The cottage foods cash fund is created in the state treasury. The cottage foods cash fund consists of money credited to the cottage foods cash fund pursuant to sections 25-1.5-303 (5)(e) and 25-27-107.5 (3) and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the cottage foods cash fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the cottage foods cash fund to the cottage foods cash fund.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (HB 26-1033), ch. 375, p. 2332, § 3, effective June 4.

Cross references: For the short title ("Tamale Act") in HB 26-1033, see section 1 of chapter 375, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-1615. Pet dogs in retail food establishments - prohibited - exceptions.

(1) Except as specified in subsection (3) of this section, a person may have a pet dog in an outdoor dining area of a retail food establishment if:

(a) The retail food establishment elects to allow pet dogs in its outdoor dining area;

(b) A separate entrance is present through which the pet dog enters and exits the outdoor dining area without passing through the retail food establishment;

(c) The person does not allow the pet dog on chairs, benches, seats, or other furniture or fixtures;

(d) The outdoor dining area is not used for food or drink preparation; except that an employee of the retail food establishment may refill a beverage glass in the outdoor dining area from a pitcher or other container;

(e) The pet dog is on a leash or confined in a pet carrier and is under the control of a person;

(f) The licensee of the retail food establishment ensures compliance with local ordinances related to sidewalks, public nuisances, and sanitation; and

(g) The retail food establishment is in compliance with any other control measures approved by the county or district public health agency.

(2) A person who brings a pet dog in an outdoor dining area in accordance with this section is responsible for the behavior of that pet dog.

(3) (a) The governing body of a city, county, or city and county may prohibit the presence of pet dogs in outdoor dining areas of retail food establishments located within the governing body's jurisdiction.

(b) A retail food establishment may elect not to allow pet dogs in its outdoor dining area.

(4) Nothing in this section is intended to restrict the presence of a service animal, as defined in section 24-34-301.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-078) ch. 66, p. 267, § 1, effective September 14. L. 2023: (4) amended, (HB 23-1296), ch. 269, p. 1600, § 8, effective May 25.

25-4-1616. Donation and resale of safe food encouraged.

(1) Retail food establishments are encouraged to donate or resell safe food to individuals, to families, or to local nonprofit organizations that distribute food to individuals or families, including by:

(a) Chilling or freezing safe food to allow individuals receiving assistance from the supplemental nutrition assistance program established in part 3 of article 2 of title 26 to purchase prepared meals at discounted prices; and

(b) Attempting to sell or donate safe food through online applications that are dedicated to such purpose.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-090), ch. 127, p. 549, § 1, effective September 14. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (HB 25-1166), ch. 90, p. 372, § 2, effective August 6.

25-4-1617. Animal shares and meat sales by farmers and ranchers - short title - definitions.

(1) Short title. The short title of this section is the "Ranch to Plate Act".

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) (I) "Animal" includes cattle, calves, sheep, elk, bison, goats, hogs, and rabbits.

(II) "Animal" does not include fish.

(b) "Animal share" means an ownership interest of at least one percent in the meat of a live animal.

(c) "Informed end consumer" means a person that is the last person to purchase a product, that does not resell the product, and that has been informed by the seller in compliance with subsection (3)(a) of this section that the product is not regulated or inspected by the department or a county or district public health agency.

(3) Sale exempt from licensure or inspection. Sections 25-4-1604 to 25-4-1613 do not apply to a sale of animals, animal shares, or meat under this section if:

(a) The person making the sale either gives the purchaser a document at, or conspicuously displays a placard, sign, or card at, the point of sale with the following disclaimer: "The seller of this meat is not subject to licensure, and the sale of animals or meat from this seller is not subject to state regulation or inspection by a public health agency. Animals or meat purchased from this seller are not intended for resale."; and

(b) The animal, animal shares, and meat being sold:

(I) Are delivered directly from the seller to an informed end consumer; and

(II) Are sold only in Colorado.

(4) Authorization to sell certain types of meat and animal shares.

(a) A person that satisfies the requirements of subsection (3) of this section may sell:

(I) Rabbit meat to an informed end consumer if the meat is derived from an animal raised by the person and the animal is slaughtered and butchered by the person; or

(II) Animal shares of at least one percent of a live animal to an informed end consumer for future delivery as agreed to between the person and the informed end consumer.

(b) The owner of an animal, an animal share, or meat may have the animal, animal share, or meat commercially slaughtered, butchered, or processed. Processing may include making value-added meat products, such as sausage or jerky.

(5) Resale prohibited. A person that purchases, under this section, animals, animal shares, or meat shall not resell the animals, animal shares, or meat.

(6) Liability. A person that sells, under this section, animals, animal shares, or meat is not liable in a civil action for any damages caused by inadequately cooking or improperly preparing for consumption animals, animal shares, or meat.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-079), ch. 74, p. 295, § 1, effective April 29.

25-4-1618. Grocery store labeling practices encouraged.

(1) On and after January 1, 2026, grocery stores are encouraged to:

(a) Clearly display the ingredients of items of prepared food; and

(b) Use "best if used or frozen by" dates rather than "sell by" dates upon prepared items of food.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1166), ch. 90, p. 373, § 3, effective August 6.

PART 17

INFANT IMMUNIZATION ACT

25-4-1701. Short title.

This part 17 shall be known and may be cited as the "Infant Immunization Act".

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1307, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1702. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that vaccine preventable diseases represent a serious public health threat to the people of this state. It has been well documented that vaccines are an effective way to save lives and prevent debilitating disease. Vaccines are among the most cost-effective components of preventive medical care because for every dollar spent on immunization, ten dollars are saved in later medical expenses.

(2) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that the rate of routine immunization among preschool children appears to be falling steadily. Therefore, it is the purpose of this part 17 to fully immunize all infants, subject to available appropriations, at a level that is age-appropriate as determined by the board of health.

(3) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that the inability of some parents to personally take their children to health-care professionals for the purpose of immunization contributes to the significant number of children who have not been immunized on a timely basis in accordance with this part 17. Therefore, it is the further purpose of this part 17 to provide an alternative method by which such children may be immunized without circumventing parental authority and control.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1307, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (3) added, p. 583, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1703. Definitions.

As used in this part 17, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board of health" means the state board of health.

(2) "Department" means the state department of public health and environment.

(3) "Infant" means any child up to twenty-four months of age or any child eligible for vaccination and enrolled under the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S.

(3.5) "Minor" means any child under eighteen years of age.

(4) "Practitioner" means a duly licensed physician or other person who is permitted and otherwise qualified to administer vaccines under the laws of this state.

(5) "Vaccine" means such vaccines as are determined by the board of health to be necessary to conform to recognized standard medical practices. Such term includes, but is not limited to, the following vaccines:

(a) Diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP);

(b) Polio: Oral polio vaccine (OPV) or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV);

(c) Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR);

(d) Haemophilus influenzae type B conjugate vaccines (HIB).

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1308, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2776, § 474, effective July 1. L. 96: (3.5) added, p. 583, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: (3) amended, p. 2015, § 90, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1704. Infant immunization program - delegation of authority to immunize minor.

(1) There is hereby created in the department an infant immunization program which is established to immunize infants against vaccine preventable disease. Such program shall be implemented on and after January 1, 1993.

(2) Every parent, legal guardian, or person vested with legal custody or decision-making responsibility for the medical care of a minor, or person otherwise responsible for the care of an infant residing in this state, shall be responsible for having such infant vaccinated in compliance with the schedule of immunization established by the board of health; except that, failure to vaccinate a child in accordance with this subsection (2) shall not constitute sufficient grounds for any insurance company to deny a claim submitted on behalf of a child who develops a vaccine preventable disease.

(2.5) (a) Subject to the provisions of this subsection (2.5), a parent, legal guardian, person vested with legal custody of a minor or decision-making responsibility for the medical care of a minor, or such other adult person responsible for the care of a minor in this state, other than any employee of a licensed child care center in which the minor is enrolled, may delegate, verbally or in writing, that person's authority to consent to the immunization of a minor to a stepparent, an adult relative of first or second degree of kinship, or an adult child care provider who has care and control of the minor. Any immunization administered pursuant to a delegation of authority under this subsection (2.5) shall be administered only at a health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private practitioner, or county public health clinic.

(b) If a parent, legal guardian, person vested with legal custody of a minor or decision-making responsibility for the medial care of a minor, or other adult person responsible for the care of a minor in this state verbally delegates his or her authority to consent to the immunization of a minor under this subsection (2.5), the person to whom such authority is thereby delegated shall confirm the verbal delegation in writing and shall verbally relay any relevant health history to the administering practitioner. The practitioner administering the vaccination shall include the written confirmation in the minor's medical record. If a parent, legal guardian, person vested with legal custody of a minor or decision-making responsibility for the medical care of a minor, or other adult person responsible for the care of a minor in this state delegates his or her authority to consent to the immunization of a minor under this subsection (2.5) in writing, such writing shall include the relevant health history, and the practitioner administering the vaccination shall include a copy of the written delegation of authority in the minor's medical record.

(c) A person who consents to the immunization of a minor pursuant to a delegation of authority under this subsection (2.5) shall provide the practitioner with sufficient and accurate health information about the minor for whom the consent is given and, if necessary, sufficient and accurate health information about the minor's family to enable the practitioner to assess adequately the risks and benefits inherent in the proposed immunization and to determine whether the immunization is advisable.

(d) A person may not consent to the immunization of a minor pursuant to this subsection (2.5) if:

(I) The person has actual knowledge that the parent, legal guardian, person vested with legal custody of a minor or decision-making responsibility for the medical care of a minor, or other adult person responsible for the care of a minor in this state has expressly refused to give consent to the immunization; or

(II) The parent, legal guardian, person vested with legal custody of a minor or decision-making responsibility for the medical care of a minor, or other adult person responsible for the care of a minor in this state has told the person that the person may not consent to the immunization of the minor or, in the case of a written authorization, has withdrawn the authorization in writing.

(3) In addition to the immunization obligations set forth in section 25-4-905, relating to the immunization of indigent children, and except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, the department shall provide at public expense, subject to available appropriations, systematic immunizations to those infants that are not exempt from such immunization pursuant to paragraph (a) or (b) of subsection (4) of this section. The manner and frequency of vaccine administration shall conform to recognized standards of medical practice which are necessary for the protection of public health.

(4) An infant shall be exempted from receiving the required immunizations:

(a) Upon submitting certification from a licensed physician or advanced practice registered nurse that the physical condition of the infant is such that one or more specified immunizations would endanger the infant's life or health; or

(b) Upon submitting a statement signed by one parent or guardian that such parent or guardian adheres to a religious belief whose teachings are opposed to immunizations, or that such parent or guardian has a personal belief that is opposed to immunization.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1308, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (2.5) added, p. 583, § 3, effective July 1. L. 98: (2), (2.5)(a), (2.5)(b), and (2.5)(d) amended, p. 1412, § 79, effective February 1, 1999. L. 2008: (4)(a) amended, p. 133, § 19, effective January 1, 2009.

25-4-1705. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties - rules.

(1) The department shall negotiate for the purchase of and shall purchase vaccines to achieve the purposes of this part 17.

(2) The department shall secure and maintain such facilities as may be necessary for the safe and adequate preservation and storage of such vaccines.

(3) The department shall distribute such vaccines, in accordance with rules promulgated by the board of health, without purchase, shipping, handling, or other charges to practitioners who agree not to impose a charge for such vaccine on the infant recipient, the child's parent or guardian, third-party payer, or any other person; except that a practitioner may charge a reasonable administrative fee in connection with the administration of a vaccine. The board of health shall determine the amount of such administrative fee that a practitioner may charge.

(4) The department shall collect epidemiological information and shall establish a system for recording such information pursuant to rules and regulations adopted by the board of health.

(5) The board of health, in consultation with the medical services board in the state department of health care policy and financing and such other persons, agencies, or organizations that the board of health deems advisable, shall formulate and adopt rules governing the implementation and operation of the infant immunization program. The rules must address the following:

(a) The purchase, storage, and distribution of the vaccines by the department;

(b) Requirements that providers, hospitals, and health-care clinics must meet before entering into a contract with the department, making such provider, hospital, or clinic an agent of the department for the purposes of the infant immunization program;

(c) Which vaccines shall be required to be administered, after taking into consideration the recommendations of the advisory committee on immunization practices to the centers for disease control and prevention in the United States department of health and human services, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians;

(d) The route and frequency of the vaccine's administration;

(e) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 655, § 3, effective April 26, 2007.)

(f) The issuance of immunization records to parents or guardians;

(g) The assessment of the vaccination status of infants;

(h) The dissemination of information about the operation of the infant immunization program, including the requirement that such information be distributed by hospitals to parents of newborns.

(6) The department is authorized to accept any gifts or grants or awards of funds from the federal government or private sources for the implementation and operation of the infant immunization program.

(7) The department is authorized to enter into contracts which are necessary for the implementation and operation of the infant immunization program.

(8) County, district, or municipal public health agencies and the department shall use the birth certificate of any infant to enroll such infant in an immunization tracking system established in section 25-4-2403. Such use of the infant's birth certificate shall be considered an official duty of county, district, and municipal public health agencies and the department.

(9) (a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2003, p. 2198, § 1, effective August 6, 2003.)

(b) The department or any person who contracts with the department pursuant to subsection (7) of this section may establish a purchase system as described in section 25-4-2403 for the procurement of vaccines for privately insured persons under federal government contracts.

(10) Physicians, licensed health-care practitioners, clinics, schools, licensed child care providers, hospitals, managed care organizations or health insurers in which a student, as defined in section 25-4-901 (3), or an infant is enrolled as a member or insured, persons that have contracted with the department pursuant to subsection (7) of this section, and public health officials may release any immunization records in their possession, whether or not such records are in the immunization tracking system established in section 25-4-2403, to the persons or entities specified in section 25-4-2403 (1) to provide an accurate and complete immunization record for the child in order to verify compliance with state immunization law.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1309, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(5), (5)(b), and (5)(e)(IV) amended, p. 2776, § 475, effective July 1. L. 98: (5)(e) amended, p. 20, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2001: IP(5) and (5)(e) amended and (9) and (10) added, p. 825, § 4, effective August 8. L. 2002: (5)(e)(III)(A) and (5)(e)(III)(B) amended, p. 1536, § 266, effective October 1. L. 2003: (5)(e)(II)(D) and (5)(e)(IV) amended, p. 710, § 42, effective July 1; (9) amended, p. 2198, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2005: (5)(e)(IV) and (5)(e)(V) amended and (5)(e)(VI) added, p. 419, § 1, effective April 29. L. 2007: (5)(e), (8), and (10) amended, p. 655, § 3, effective April 26. L. 2010: (8) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 111, effective August 11. L. 2013: (9)(b) amended, (SB 13-222), ch. 350, p. 2030, § 2, effective May 28. L. 2026: IP(5) and (5)(c) amended, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 112, § 9, effective March 27.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (5) and subsections (5)(b) and (5)(e)(IV), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsection (9)(b), see section 1 of chapter 350, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

(2) For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-1706. Infant immunization program - eligibility.

Any infant shall be eligible for participation in the infant immunization program; except that, for fiscal year 1992-93, only infants born on or after January 1, 1993, shall be eligible for participation in the infant immunization tracking program.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1311, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1707. Moneys targeted for medical assistance for infants - reimbursement.

The state department of health care policy and financing shall reimburse the department of public health and environment for the costs of vaccinating infants under the infant immunization program who are medicaid eligible pursuant to the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S. Such moneys received from the state department of health care policy and financing shall be credited to the immunization fund.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1311, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2624, § 44, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 2015, § 91, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 658, § 4, effective April 26.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-4-1708. Immunization fund - created - transfer.

(1) (a) There is hereby established in the state treasury a fund to be known as the immunization fund, which fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department of public health and environment for the purposes of:

(I) Purchasing vaccines, including purchasing vaccines through a vaccine purchasing system, if such a system is developed pursuant to section 25-4-2403 (1) and (1.3), which system may include vaccines for privately insured individuals;

(II) Assisting users of the immunization tracking system established in section 25-4-2403 to connect to the system;

(III) Utilizing the reminder and recall process of the immunization tracking system; and

(IV) Implementing, developing, and operating immunization programs.

(b) The fund consists of:

(I) Moneys appropriated by the general assembly from the general fund for immunization programs;

(II) Any gifts, grants, or awards received pursuant to sections 25-4-1705 (6) and 25-4-2403 (9)(c) or for purposes of expanding access to childhood immunizations; and

(III) Moneys received from the state department of health care policy and financing as reimbursement pursuant to section 25-4-1707.

(c) The state treasurer shall credit to the fund all income from the investment of moneys in the fund.

(d) The department shall use the moneys in the immunization fund to pay the department's direct and indirect costs of administering the programs described in paragraph (a) of this subsection (1).

(2) If federal funds are not received to implement and operate the immunization programs created in this part 17 and part 24 of this article 4, any additional general fund money needed shall be addressed through the annual budget process or emergency supplemental process.

(3) All moneys credited to the immunization fund that are not expended during the fiscal year shall be retained in the fund for its future use and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(4) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 658, § 5, effective April 26, 2007.)

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1311, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2776, § 476, effective July 1. L. 2003: (4) added, p. 1543, § 3, effective May 1. L. 2005: (1) amended, p. 1239, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 658, § 5, effective April 26. L. 2013: (1) amended, (SB 13-222), ch. 350, p. 2030, § 3, effective May 28. L. 2025: (5) added, (HB 25-1215), ch. 312, p. 1631, § 7, effective May 30. L. 2026: (2) amended, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 113, § 10, effective March 27.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 1631.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 350, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in HB 25-1215, see section 1 of chapter 312, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

(2) For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-1709. Limitations on liability - repeal.

(1) No person who administers a vaccine required under the provisions of this part 17 shall be held liable for injuries sustained pursuant to such vaccine if:

(a) The vaccine was administered according to the schedule of immunization established by the board of health;

(b) There were no medical contraindications for administering such vaccine; and

(c) The vaccine was administered using generally accepted clinical methods.

(2) An action shall not be maintained for a vaccine-related injury or death until action for compensation for such alleged injury has been exhausted under the terms of the federal "National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. secs. 300aa-10 to 300aa-33, as such law is from time to time amended, provided the federal "National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986" applies to the particular vaccine administered.

(3) If the injury or death which is sustained does not fall within the parameters of the vaccine injury table as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 300aa-14, as enacted on November 14, 1986, a rebuttable presumption is established that the injury sustained or the death was not due to the administration of the vaccine. Such presumption shall be overcome by a preponderance of the evidence.

(4) (a) Where a claim brought on or before January 30, 2029, against a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider arises from injuries resulting from the handling, storage, or distribution of vaccines required by this part 17, the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider is not liable unless the injuries are the result of the negligent failure of an employee of the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider to conform to recognized standards of practice that are necessary for the protection of public health.

(b) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2031.

(4.5) Where a claim brought on or after January 31, 2029, against a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider arises from injuries resulting from the handling, storage, or distribution of vaccines required by this part 17, the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider is not liable unless the injuries are the result of the negligent failure of an employee of the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider to conform to recognized standards of practice that are necessary for the protection of public health.

(5) A practitioner licensed to practice medicine pursuant to article 240 of title 12 or licensed to practice nursing or as a certified midwife pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12 or the health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private practitioner, or county public health clinic at which the immunization was administered that relies on the health history and other information given by a person who has been delegated the authority to consent to the immunization of a minor pursuant to section 25-4-1704 (2.5) is not liable for damages related to an immunization resulting from factual errors in the health history or information given to the practitioner or the health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private practitioner, or county public health clinic at which the immunization was administered by the person when such practitioner or health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private practitioner, or county public health clinic reasonably relies upon the health history information given and exercises reasonable and prudent care in administering the immunization.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1312, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (5) added, p. 585, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2019: (5) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1703, § 160, effective October 1. L. 2020: (5) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 702, § 59, effective July 1. L. 2023: (5) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1548, § 58, effective May 25. L. 2026: (4) amended and (4.5) added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 113, § 11, effective March 27.

Cross references: For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-1710. Report to the general assembly. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 1257, § 148, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-4-1711. Infant immunization advisory committee - creation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, pp. 2625, 2702, §§ 45, 257, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (5) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1995. (See L. 92, p. 1313.)

PART 18

SHELLFISH DEALER CERTIFICATION ACT

25-4-1801. Short title.

This part 18 shall be known and may be cited as the "Shellfish Dealer Certification Act".

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 81, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1802. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that the certification of shellfish dealers and the regulation of premises or places wherein shellfish are handled, stored, and processed for distribution in accordance with the guidelines of the national shellfish sanitation program administered by the United States food and drug administration is necessary to protect the public health; will benefit consumers by ensuring that the sale and distribution of shellfish is from safe sources; will assist retailers by ensuring that shellfish have not been adulterated during processing, shipping, or handling; and will contribute to the economic health of the state by assuring that Colorado certified dealers are permitted to ship their product in interstate commerce.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 81, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1803. Definitions.

As used in this part 18, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Certification" means the issuance of a numbered certificate to a person for a particular activity or group of activities that indicates:

(a) Permission from the department to conduct the activity; and

(b) Compliance with the requirements of the department.

(2) "Certification number" means the unique identification number issued by the department to each dealer for each location.

(3) "Dealer" means a person to whom certification is issued for the activities of shell stock shipper, shucker-packer, repacker, reshipper, depuration processor, or wet storage.

(4) "Department" means the Colorado department of public health and environment and its authorized agents and employees.

(5) "Depuration processor" or "DP" means a person who receives shell stock from approved or restricted growing areas and submits such shell stock to an approved, controlled purification process.

(6) "FDA" means the United States food and drug administration.

(7) "Person" means any individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, personal representative, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, and any partnership, association, corporation, or other entity. "Person" also includes the federal or state government and any other public or private entity.

(8) "Repacker" or "RP" means any person, other than the original certified shucker-packer, who repackages shucked shellfish into other containers.

(9) "Reshipper" or "RS" means a person who purchases shucked shellfish or shell stock from other certified shippers and sells the product without repacking or relabeling to other certified shippers, wholesalers, or retailers.

(10) "Shellfish" means all species of:

(a) Oysters, clams, or mussels, whether:

(I) Shucked or in the shell;

(II) Fresh or frozen; and

(III) Whole or in part; and

(b) Scallops in any form, except when the final product form is the adductor muscle only.

(11) "Shell stock" means live shellfish in the shell.

(12) "Shell stock shipper" or "SS" means a person who grows, harvests, buys, or repacks and sells shell stock. A shell stock shipper is not authorized to shuck shellfish nor to repack shucked shellfish, but may ship shucked shellfish.

(13) "Shucker-packer" or "SP" means a person who shucks and packs shellfish. A shucker-packer may act as a shell stock shipper or reshipper or may repack shellfish originating from other certified dealers.

(14) "Wet storage" means the temporary storage of shell stock from growing areas in the approved classification or in the open status of the conditionally approved classification in containers or floats in natural bodies of water or in tanks containing natural or synthetic seawater.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 81, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1804. Department designated as certifying and inspecting agency.

For the purpose of regulating and controlling shellfish dealers, establishing sanitary conditions therein, and the enforcement and administration of this part 18, the department is hereby authorized as the state certifying and inspection agency pursuant to applicable federal law and rules.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 83, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1805. Powers and duties of department - rules.

(1) The department is hereby authorized to enforce this part 18 and to adopt and enforce reasonable rules and standards to implement this part 18. Such rules and standards shall be consistent with, and no more stringent than, standards adopted pursuant to the national shellfish sanitation program and may include, but shall not be limited to:

(a) Rules governing applications for initial certification and for annual renewal of certifications;

(b) Requirements for comprehensive on-site inspections of the premises and facilities of applicants for certification;

(c) Standards concerning the form and manner of submission of records required for certification and record keeping pursuant to this part 18;

(d) Establishment of fees required for certification and renewal of certification; and

(e) Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of a certificate.

(2) This part 18 shall be administered by the department; except that county, district, and municipal public health agencies may be authorized by the department to assist it in performing its powers and duties pursuant to this part 18.

(3) The department is authorized to conduct hearings in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and to use administrative law judges to conduct such hearings when the use of administrative law judges would result in a net saving of costs to the department.

(4) The department is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with and to accept grants from any agency or political subdivision of this state or any other state, or with any agency of the United States government, subject to limitations set forth elsewhere in law and the state constitution, to carry out the provisions of this part 18.

(5) (a) When the department determines that a dealer's activity constitutes a major public health threat, the department shall:

(I) Suspend or withdraw certification; and

(II) Immediately notify the FDA and the authorities in known states that receive the dealer's shellfish.

(b) The department shall prohibit any dealer whose certification has been suspended or withdrawn from shipping in interstate or intrastate commerce.

(c) When the department recertifies any dealer, the department shall notify the FDA and the authorities in known states that receive the shellfish.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 83, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2010: (2) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 112, effective August 11.

25-4-1806. Shellfish dealers - certificate required - application - fees.

(1) Any person desiring to do business as a shellfish dealer in Colorado shall apply for and obtain a valid shellfish dealer certification issued by the department pursuant to this part 18 and any rules adopted pursuant thereto. Any such application shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee, if any, set by the department.

(2) Each shellfish dealer certification shall expire on June 30 in the year following the year of issuance.

(3) Each certificated shellfish dealer shall report to the department, in the form and manner required by the department, any change in the information provided in the dealer's application or in such reports previously submitted, within thirty days of such change.

(4) Certifications issued pursuant to this part 18 are not transferable.

(5) An application for renewal of a shellfish dealer certification shall be in the form and manner prescribed by the department.

(6) The department shall issue only one certification number to any dealer for any location. A dealer may maintain more than one certification if each business is operated as a separate entity and is not found at the same location.

(7) The certification number issued to any dealer by the department shall be unique. Each certification number shall consist of a one- to five-digit Arabic number preceded by the two-letter state postal abbreviation ("CO") and followed by a two-letter abbreviation for the type of activity or activities the dealer is qualified to perform in accordance with the following terms as defined in section 25-4-1802:

(a) Shell stock shipper (SS);

(b) Shucker-packer (SP);

(c) Repacker (RP);

(d) Reshipper (RS);

(e) Depuration processor (DP); or

(f) Wet storage (WS).

(8) All fees collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the wholesale food manufacturing and storage protection cash fund created in section 25-5-426.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 84, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2003: (8) amended, p. 1462, § 2, effective May 1.

25-4-1807. Record-keeping requirements.

(1) Each certificated shellfish dealer shall keep and maintain records in the form and manner designated by the department.

(2) Records maintained pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be retained at the dealer's address of record for at least one year or for such different period as the department may specify by rule.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 85, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1808. Unlawful acts.

(1) Unless otherwise authorized by law, it is unlawful and a violation of this part 18 for any person to:

(a) Perform any of the acts for which certification as a shellfish dealer is required without possessing a valid certification;

(b) Hold oneself out as being so qualified to perform any of the acts for which certification pursuant to this part 18 is required without possessing a valid certification;

(c) Solicit, advertise, or offer to perform any of the acts for which certification under this part 18 is required without possessing a valid certification to perform such acts;

(d) Refuse or fail to comply with the provisions of this part 18;

(e) Refuse or fail to comply with any rules adopted by the department pursuant to this part 18 or to any lawful order issued by the department;

(f) Refuse to comply with a cease-and-desist order issued pursuant to section 25-4-1810;

(g) Willfully make a material misstatement in the application for a certification or in the application for renewal thereof or to the department during an official investigation;

(h) Impersonate any federal, state, county, city and county, or municipal official or inspector;

(i) Aid or abet another in any violation of this part 18 or of any rule adopted pursuant thereto;

(j) Refuse to permit entry or inspection in accordance with section 25-4-1809;

(k) Allow a certification issued pursuant to this part 18 to be used by an uncertificated person; or

(l) Make any misrepresentation or false promise, through advertisements, employees, agents, or otherwise, in connection with the business operations certificated pursuant to this part 18 or for which an application for a certification is pending.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 85, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1809. Inspections - investigations - access - subpoena.

(1) The department, upon its own motion or upon the complaint of any person, may make any and all investigations necessary to ensure compliance with this part 18.

(2) The department shall have the right of access, at any reasonable time, during regular working hours and at other times during which activity is evident, to any premises for the purpose of any examination or inspection necessary to enforce any of the provisions of this part 18 or the rules or standards adopted thereunder.

(3) Complaints of record made to the department and the results of the department's investigations may, in the discretion of the department, be closed to public inspection, except to the person in interest, as defined in section 24-72-202 (4), C.R.S., or as provided by court order, during the investigatory period and until dismissed or until notice of hearing and charges are served on the person in interest.

(4) (a) The department shall have full authority to administer oaths and take statements, to issue subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, memoranda, papers, and other documents, articles, or instruments, and to compel the disclosure by such witnesses of all facts known to them relative to the matters under investigation.

(b) Upon failure or refusal of any witness to obey any subpoena, the department may petition the district court, and, upon a proper showing, the court may enter an order compelling the witness to appear and testify or produce documentary evidence. Failure to obey such an order of the court shall be punishable as a contempt of court.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 86, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1810. Enforcement.

(1) The department or its designee shall enforce the provisions of this part 18.

(2) (a) If the department has reasonable cause to believe a violation of any provision of this part 18 or any rule adopted pursuant to this part 18 has occurred and immediate enforcement is deemed necessary, it may issue a cease-and-desist order, which shall require a person to cease violating any provision of this part 18 or any rule promulgated pursuant to this part 18.

(b) A cease-and-desist order shall set forth the provisions alleged to have been violated, the facts constituting the violation, and the requirement that all violating actions immediately cease.

(c) (I) At any time after service of the order to cease and desist, the person for whom such order was served may request, at such person's discretion, a prompt hearing to determine whether or not such violation has occurred.

(II) A hearing held pursuant to this paragraph (c) shall be conducted in conformance with the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and shall be determined promptly.

(3) If the department possesses sufficient evidence to indicate that a person has engaged in any act or practice constituting a violation of this part 18 or of any rule adopted under this part 18, the department may apply to any court of competent jurisdiction to temporarily or permanently restrain or enjoin the act or practice in question and to enforce compliance with this part 18 or any rule or order under this part 18. In any such action, the department shall not be required to plead or prove irreparable injury or the inadequacy of the remedy at law. The court shall not require the department to post a bond.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 87, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1811. Disciplinary actions - denial of certification.

(1) The department, pursuant to the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., may issue letters of admonition or may deny, suspend, refuse to renew, restrict, or revoke any certification authorized under this part 18 if the applicant or certificated person has:

(a) Refused or failed to comply with any provision of this part 18, any rule adopted under this part 18, or any lawful order of the department;

(b) Had an equivalent certification denied, revoked, or suspended by any authority;

(c) Refused to provide the department with reasonable, complete, and accurate information when requested by the department; or

(d) Falsified any information requested by the department.

(2) In any proceeding held under this section, the department may accept as prima facie evidence of grounds for disciplinary action any disciplinary action taken against a dealer in another jurisdiction if the violation which prompted the disciplinary action in that jurisdiction would be grounds for disciplinary action under this section.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 87, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1812. Civil penalties.

(1) Any person who violates any provision of this part 18 or any rule adopted pursuant to this part 18 is subject to a civil penalty, as determined by the department. The maximum penalty shall not exceed fifty dollars per violation.

(2) No civil penalty may be imposed unless the person charged is given notice and opportunity for a hearing pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(3) If the department is unable to collect such civil penalty or if any person fails to pay all or a set portion of the civil penalty as determined by the department, the department may bring suit to recover such amount plus costs and attorney fees by action in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(4) Before imposing any civil penalty, the department may consider the effect of such penalty on the ability of the person charged to stay in business.

(5) All penalties collected pursuant to this section by the department shall be transmitted to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the food protection cash fund created in section 25-4-1605.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 88, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-1813. Criminal penalties.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of section 25-4-1808 commits a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 88, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1537, § 267, effective October 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3235, § 455, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

PART 19

GULF WAR SYNDROME REGISTRY

25-4-1901. Short title.

This part 19 shall be known and may be cited as the "Gulf War Syndrome Registry Act".

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 711, § 2, effective May 18.

25-4-1902. Definitions.

As used in this part 19, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Birth defect" means any physical or mental disability, disorder, or condition, including any susceptibility to any illness, disorder, or condition other than normal childhood illnesses, disorders, or conditions.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Family member" means a spouse or a child of a veteran who served in the gulf war.

(4) "Gulf war syndrome" means the wide range of physical and mental conditions, disorders, problems, and illnesses, including birth defects, experienced by veterans and family members that are connected with a veteran's service in the armed forces of the United States during the gulf war.

(5) "Registry" means the gulf war syndrome registry created in section 25-4-1903.

(6) "Veteran" means a person who is a resident of this state, who served on and after August 2, 1990, but prior to December 31, 1991, during the gulf war in the southwest Asia theater of operations, which includes Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the neutral zone between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, and the airspace above these locations.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 712, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2017: (1) and (4) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1325, § 193, effective May 25.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-4-1903. Gulf war syndrome registry - creation - reporting.

(1) There is hereby created a statewide gulf war syndrome registry that shall be established and maintained by the department. The registry shall contain the names of veterans and family members of veterans who have been affected by gulf war syndrome as reported by physicians, health-care professionals, hospitals, or medical facilities as provided in subsection (2) of this section or as reported by veterans on forms prescribed by the department. The registry shall also contain the names of children with cancer or birth defects who have at least one parent that is a veteran of the gulf war, and who submit information to the registry as provided in subsection (4) of this section.

(2) A physician or other qualified health-care professional who has primary responsibility for treating a veteran or a family member of a veteran and who believes the veteran may have been exposed to certain causative agents while serving in the armed forces of the United States during the gulf war shall submit a report to the department on a form provided by the department. If there is no physician or other qualified health-care professional having primary responsibility for treating the veteran or the veteran's family member, the hospital or other medical facility treating the veteran or family member shall submit the report to the department. No report shall be submitted pursuant to this subsection (2) unless consent of the veteran or, if the report involves a family member of the veteran, of the affected family member has been obtained. If the report involves a person who is under the age of eighteen years, consent shall be obtained from a parent or legal guardian of the child.

(3) The form provided by the department to veterans and to physicians or other qualified health-care professionals, hospitals, or other medical facilities shall request the following information:

(a) Symptoms of the veteran or family member of the veteran that may be related to exposure to causative agents during the gulf war;

(b) Diagnoses of the veteran or family member of the veteran;

(c) Methods of treatment prescribed;

(d) Outcome or results of any treatment prescribed.

(4) The department shall contact the families of any child born after August 2, 1990, who is on the state cancer registry or who has been reported to the department as having birth defects to determine whether either of the two biological parents of such child is a veteran of the gulf war. If either parent did serve, the department shall inform the family of the child about the registry. If the family consents, the child's name and any symptoms, diagnoses, methods of treatment, and treatment outcomes shall be listed in the registry.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 712, § 2, effective May 18.

25-4-1904. Gulf war syndrome advisory committee - creation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 713, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2000: (3)(c) amended, p. 463, § 9, effective August 2. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (HB 13-1139), ch. 120, p. 407, § 1, effective August 7.

25-4-1905. Confidentiality of information collected.

(1) The department shall compile, analyze, and evaluate the information and data submitted to the registry.

(2) All information obtained from or concerning a veteran or an individual on the registry shall be confidential; except that release may be made of such information for statistical purposes in a manner such that no individual person can be identified.

(3) A physician or other qualified health-care professional, a hospital, or medical facility that complies with the provisions of this part 19 shall not be held civilly or criminally liable for providing information required by this part 19.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 714, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 462, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2013: (1) amended, (HB 13-1139), ch. 120, p. 409, § 7, effective August 7.

25-4-1906. Gulf war syndrome registry fund.

The department is authorized to accept and expend grants, donations, and gifts-in-kind from private and public sources for the purposes of maintaining and publicizing the registry created in this part 19; except that the registry shall not be implemented until sufficient grants, donations, and gifts are obtained to support its implementation. Once sufficient funds are obtained to implement the registry, the department shall contract with a private entity to perform any of its duties concerning the registry. Any grants, donations, and gifts shall be credited to the gulf war syndrome registry fund, which fund is hereby created in the state treasury. The moneys in said fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the purpose of implementing the gulf war syndrome registry. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any moneys not appropriated shall remain in the fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 714, § 2, effective May 18.

PART 20

HEPATITIS C EDUCATION AND SCREENING PROGRAM

25-4-2001. Short title.

This part 20 shall be known and may be cited as the "Hepatitis C Program Act".

Source: L. 99: Entire part added, p. 1067, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-2002. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that:

(a) Hepatitis C is a silent killer, being largely asymptomatic until irreversible liver damage may have occurred;

(b) Hepatitis C has been characterized by the world health organization as a disease of primary concern to humanity;

(c) Currently, approximately four million five hundred thousand Americans are infected with hepatitis C, and there are approximately thirty thousand new infections occurring each year in the United States;

(d) The center for disease control estimates that approximately twelve thousand individuals die each year due to the consequences of hepatitis C, and this number continues to grow each year;

(e) Hepatitis C is considered such a public health threat that the United States department of health and human services has launched a comprehensive plan to address it, beginning with the identification and notification of the hundreds of thousands of persons inadvertently exposed to hepatitis C through blood transfusion; and

(f) In the absence of a vaccine for hepatitis C, emphasis must be placed on other means of disease awareness and prevention, including but not limited to education of police officers, firefighters, health-care professionals, and the general public. This approach may be the only means of halting the spread of this devastating disease.

(2) The general assembly further declares that the purpose of this part 20 is to create and develop a program that will:

(a) Heighten awareness and enhance knowledge and understanding of hepatitis C by disseminating educational materials and information about services and strategies for detection and treatment to patients and the general public;

(b) Promote public awareness and knowledge about the risk factors, the value of early detection, and the options available for the treatment of hepatitis C;

(c) Utilize any available technical assistance from and any educational and training resources and services that have been developed by organizations with appropriate expertise and knowledge of hepatitis C;

(d) Design a model screening process to provide guidelines for health-care professionals to use to prevent further transmission of the hepatitis C virus and prevent onset of chronic liver disease caused by hepatitis C by detecting and treating chronic hepatitis C virus infection;

(e) Evaluate existing hepatitis C support services in the community and assess the need for improving the quality and accessibility of these services; and

(f) Provide easy access to clear, complete, and accurate hepatitis C and patient referral services information.

(3) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that it is the intent of the general assembly to provide funding for the hepatitis C program created in this part 20 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 1999, and to review the effectiveness of and the necessity for the hepatitis C program in determining the reasonableness and the amount of future funding, if any.

Source: L. 99: Entire part added, p. 1067, § 1, effective July 1.

25-4-2003. Definitions.

As used in this part 20, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "CDC" means the centers for disease control and prevention.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Health-care professional" means any person licensed in this state or any other state to practice medicine, chiropractic, nursing, physical therapy, podiatry, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, or other healing arts. The term includes any professional corporation or other professional entity comprised of such health-care providers as permitted by the laws of this state, as well as certified addiction counselors.

(4) "Hepatitis C" means a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus and is also known as non-A-non-B hepatitis.

(5) "Outreach service" means services including, but not limited to, provision of educational materials and information on screening and provision of counseling services.

(6) "Program" means the hepatitis C program created in this part 20.

(7) "Screening" means administration of an examination or test exclusively for the purpose of ascertaining the existence of any physiological abnormality that might be indicative of the presence of disease.

Source: L. 99: Entire part added, p. 1069, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: (3) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1326, § 194, effective May 25.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-4-2004. Powers and duties of executive director - hepatitis C program.

(1) The executive director of the department shall design and implement a hepatitis C program to:

(a) Coordinate with local public health officials, health-care professionals, public institutions, and community organizations to identify high risk populations, including those associated with currently understood means of transmission, to assist in implementing a model screening process, and to provide information on referral services or to otherwise assist in obtaining treatment for those with hepatitis C infection;

(b) Educate and provide outreach services related to hepatitis C to the general public. At a minimum, public education on these issues shall be designed to:

(I) Provide basic information about the prevalence, transmission, risks, care, and treatment of hepatitis C;

(II) Provide information about co-infection with hepatitis C and the implications of co-infection for other similarly transmitted diseases;

(III) Provide information on screening services available in the community;

(IV) Coordinate with national public education efforts related to the identification and notification of recipients of blood from hepatitis C virus positive donors;

(V) Stimulate interest among and coordinate with community-based organizations to sponsor community forums and to undertake other appropriate community outreach activities; and

(VI) Employ public communication strategies, including the print media, radio, television, video, internet, and any other appropriate form of communication.

(2) The program described in subsection (1) of this section shall be implemented within available appropriations. If available appropriations are inadequate to fund the entire program described in subsection (1) of this section, the program shall be implemented in stages, commencing with the coordination with local public health officials, health-care professionals, public institutions and community organizations, as described in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section, and followed by the education of the general public, as described in paragraph (b) of subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The department is authorized to enter into contracts that are necessary for the implementation and operation of the program.

(4) After implementation of subsection (1) of this section, if funding is available, the executive director of the department shall have the authority to implement a system to:

(a) Collect and analyze reports of cases of hepatitis C, without regard to the distinction between chronic and acute;

(b) Investigate all reported cases of hepatitis C and maintain records of possible sources of transmission;

(c) Prepare a statistical report on the numbers and types of reported hepatitis C cases; and

(d) Report cases to the CDC to the extent permitted by the CDC.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 99: Entire part added, p. 1069, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: (5) repealed, p. 883, § 24, effective August 7.

25-4-2005. Hepatitis C testing - recommendations - definitions - rules.

(1) (a) Repealed.

(b) (I) The state board of health created in section 25-1-103 shall adopt rules establishing standards for hepatitis C screening and diagnostic tests for use by primary health-care providers, physicians, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners who treat patients in an inpatient or outpatient setting. The board shall ensure that the screening and diagnostic test standards align with recommendations of the federal centers for disease control and prevention for hepatitis C screening and diagnostic testing.

(II) The rules adopted by the board pursuant to this subsection (1)(b) shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

(2) If a patient accepts the offer of a hepatitis C screening test and the screening test is reactive, the health-care provider may either offer the patient follow-up health care or refer the individual to a health-care provider who can provide follow-up health care, including a hepatitis C diagnostic test.

(3) The health-care provider shall make the offer of a hepatitis C screening to the patient in a linguistically and culturally appropriate manner, as determined by rules promulgated by the department.

(4) Nothing in this section affects the scope of practice of a health-care provider or diminishes any authority or legal or professional obligation of a health-care provider to offer a hepatitis C screening test or hepatitis C diagnostic test or to provide services or care for the subject of a hepatitis C screening test or hepatitis C diagnostic test.

(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Hepatitis C diagnostic test" means a laboratory test or tests that detect the presence of hepatitis C virus in the blood and provide confirmation of whether the patient has a hepatitis C infection.

(b) "Hepatitis C screening test" means a federal food and drug administration-approved rapid point of care test or other food and drug administration-approved tests that detect the presence of hepatitis C virus antibodies in the blood.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (SB 14-173), ch. 233, p. 863, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1027), ch. 65, p. 280, § 20, effective April 10.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(a), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 280.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 14-173, see section 1 of chapter 233, Session Laws of Colorado 2014.

PART 21

BODY ARTISTS

25-4-2101. Powers and duties of department - rules.

In addition to any other powers and duties, the department of public health and environment shall promulgate rules governing the safe and sanitary practice of body art, the safe and sanitary physical environment where body art is performed, and the safe and sanitary conditions of equipment utilized in body art procedures. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a city, county, or district board of health established pursuant to part 5 of article 1 of this title, or a county or district public health agency established pursuant to part 5 of article 1 of this title, from adopting or enforcing ordinances, resolutions, or rules that impose standards for body art that are at least as stringent as the standards imposed by the rules adopted by the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 765, § 2, effective May 23. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 2053, § 9, effective July 1.

25-4-2102. Penalties for violations.

Upon a finding by the department of public health and environment or a local board of health that a body art facility is in violation of any rule adopted pursuant to section 25-4-2101, the department or local board of health may assess a penalty not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars for each day of a violation. Each day of a violation shall be considered a separate offense. The department or local board of health shall consider the degree of danger to the public caused by the violation, the duration of the violation, and whether such facility has committed any similar violations.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 766, § 2, effective May 23.

25-4-2103. Parental consent for minors.

No body artist shall perform a body art procedure upon a minor unless the body artist has received express consent from the minor's parent or guardian. Failure to obtain such permission before performing body art procedures on a minor shall constitute a petty offense punishable by a fine of two hundred fifty dollars.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 766, § 2, effective May 23.

PART 22

HEALTH DISPARITIES GRANT PROGRAM

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act adding this part 22, see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005.

25-4-2201. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that:

(a) Although Colorado as a whole is a healthy state, African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, who represent over twenty-five percent of the population, are disproportionately impacted by disease, injury, disability, and death;

(b) Compared to the state average:

(I) African Americans have a twenty-five percent higher death rate from heart disease, a twenty-eight percent higher death rate from stroke, a thirty percent higher death rate from breast cancer, a fifty percent higher death rate from colon cancer, and nearly twice the death rate from diabetes;

(II) Hispanics have approximately twice the incidence of cervical cancer, a fifty percent higher death rate from cervical cancer, and approximately twice the death rate from diabetes;

(III) Hispanics are fourteen and one-half percent less likely to be screened for cervical cancer and both African Americans and Hispanics are, respectively, twenty-eight percent and thirty-nine percent less likely to be screened for colon cancer.

(1.5) The general assembly hereby determines and declares that:

(a) Understanding the root causes of health disparities includes recognizing that health starts in our homes, schools, and communities;

(b) Vulnerable populations that are currently identified by race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability status, aging population, and socioeconomic status, among others, experience poorer health status outcomes; and

(c) Mounting evidence demonstrates that factors such as economic, physical, and social environment play a significant role in health, and if addressed, can create better health outcomes.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly hereby declares that it is in the best interests of the state to establish a health disparities and community grant program to provide prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer and cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases to underrepresented populations.

(3) The general assembly finds that modifying the duties and structure of the office of health disparities to become the office of health equity reflects the recent advancements in the field of health by broadening the scope of the office to include the economic, physical, and social environment, and offers a more inclusive approach to eliminating health disparities for all Coloradans.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 941, § 29, effective June 2. L. 2013: (1.5) and (3) added and (2) amended, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 59, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2021: (2) amended, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2840, § 2, effective July 6; (1.5)(b) amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 895, § 36, effective September 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-4-2202. Definitions.

As used in this part 22, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commission" means the health equity commission created in section 25-4-2206.

(2) Repealed.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3.3) "Equity strategic plan" means a strategic plan that identifies for certain state agencies the priorities, obstacles, goals, and timelines necessary to address identified health disparities in each agency's respective area of work and influence.

(3.5) "Health disparities" means differences in health status, access to care, and quality of care as determined by race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability status, aging population, socioeconomic status, and other factors.

(3.7) "Health equity" means achieving the highest level of health for all people and entails focused efforts to address avoidable inequalities by equalizing those conditions for health for all groups, especially for those that have experienced socioeconomic disadvantages or historical injustices.

(4) "Office" means the office of health equity created in section 25-4-2204.

(4.5) "Social determinants of health" means life-enhancing resources, such as food, housing, economic and social relationships, transportation, education, and health care, whose distribution across populations effectively determines the length and quality of life.

(5) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 941, § 29, effective June 2. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 904, § 2, effective May 15. L. 2013: (1) and (4) amended, (2) repealed, and (3.5), (3.7), and (4.5) added, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 60, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2021: (3.3) added, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2840, § 3, effective July 6; (3.5) amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 896, § 37, effective September 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-4-2203. Health disparities and community grant program - human-animal bond - rules - evaluation - definitions.

(1) There is hereby created in the department the health disparities and community grant program, referred to in this section as the "grant program", to provide financial support for statewide initiatives that address prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer and cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases in underrepresented populations; and to positively affect social determinants of health to reduce the risk of future disease and exacerbating health disparities in underrepresented populations. The office shall administer the grant program. The state board shall award grants to selected entities from money transferred to the health disparities grant program fund created in section 24-22-117 (2)(f).

(2) The state board shall adopt rules that specify the following:

(a) The procedures and timelines by which an entity may apply for program grants;

(b) Grant application contents, including:

(I) For money allocated to the health disparities grant program fund pursuant to section 24-22-117 (2)(d)(III), how the program meets at least one of the program criteria specified in section 25-20.5-302 (1), which may include population-based prevention work focused on influencing social determinants of health to advance health equity for underrepresented populations; and

(II) For any additional money appropriated by the general assembly to the health disparities grant program fund created in section 24-22-117 (2)(f) that is not allocated from the prevention, early detection, and treatment fund pursuant to section 24-22-117 (2)(d)(III), the criteria that must be met for a community organization applicant to receive grant money to reduce health disparities in underrepresented communities through policy and systems changes regarding the social determinants of health. The criteria may include specifications concerning how community organizations plan to achieve health equity through strategic planning, building the capacity of staff and volunteers, technical training and assistance within the community organizations, and the evaluation of the community organization's impact on the community.

(c) Criteria for selecting the entities that shall receive grants and determining the amount and duration of the grants;

(d) Reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this section;

(e) Criteria for the office and the state board to determine the effectiveness of the programs that receive grants pursuant to this section.

(3) The commission shall appoint a review committee to review the applications received pursuant to this section and make recommendations to the commission regarding the entities that may receive grants and the amounts of the grants. The commission shall finalize the recommendations for funding and provide them to the state board. Within thirty days after receiving the commission's recommendations, the state board shall award grants to the selected entities, specifying the amount and duration of each award.

(4) (a) Subject to additional appropriations made by the general assembly to the grant program for the purpose of supporting the human-animal bond, the grant program may award grants to entities that support the human-animal bond as a social determinant of health.

(b) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(I) "Human-animal bond" means the mutually beneficial relationship between an individual and a pet animal within the individual's care and custody.

(II) "Pet animal" has the meaning set forth in section 35-80-102 (10).

(5) The department shall evaluate the grant program's effectiveness each grant cycle, which must be a separate evaluation from the evaluation of the cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease prevention, early detection, and treatment program. The department shall prepare a report after each evaluation and make the report publicly available.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 942, § 29, effective June 2. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1747, § 2, effective June 6. L. 2007: (1), (2)(e), and (3) amended, p. 908, § 4, effective May 15. L. 2013: (3) amended, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 60, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2021: (1), IP(2), (2)(b), and (3) amended, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2840, § 4, effective July 6. L. 2026: (5) added, (HB 26-1390), ch. 248, p. 1400, § 1, effective May 29; (4) added, (HB 26-1229), ch. 130, p. 567, § 1, effective August 12.

25-4-2204. Office of health equity - creation.

(1) There is hereby created in the department of public health and environment the office of health equity. The executive director of the department, subject to the provisions of section 13 of article XII of the state constitution, shall appoint the director of the office, who shall be the head of the office.

(2) The office and the director of the office are type 2 entities, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercise their powers and perform their duties and functions specified in this part 22 under the department.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 905, § 3, effective May 15. L. 2013: (1) amended, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 61, § 4, effective August 7. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3368, § 47, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-4-2205. Powers and duties of the office of health equity - rules - working group.

(1) The purpose of the office is to serve in a coordinating, educating, and capacity-building role for state and local public health programs and community-based organizations promoting health equity in Colorado by implementing strategies tailored to address the varying complex causes of health disparities, including the economic, physical, and social environment. The office shall work collaboratively within the department and with affected stakeholders to set priorities, collect and disseminate data, and align resources within the department and across other state agencies.

(2) The office has the following powers, duties, and functions:

(a) Administering and coordinating the health disparities and community grant program created in section 25-4-2203;

(b) Leading and coordinating the department's health equity efforts;

(c) Publishing data reports documenting health disparities and establishing appropriate methods to collect and disaggregate data based on race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity for inclusion in data reports documenting health disparities;

(d) Providing education to the public on health equity, health disparities, and the social determinants of health;

(e) Coordinating the interpretation and translation services within the department and offering technical assistance to other state and local agencies;

(f) Building capacity within communities to offer or expand public health programs to better meet the needs of a diverse population;

(g) Conducting state-level strategic planning on minority health improvement, which includes those individuals who identify as racial and ethnic minorities, who have diagnosed disabilities, and whose sexual orientation or gender identity includes but is not limited to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and nonbinary;

(h) Providing technical assistance to:

(I) The department in carrying out its programs, including data collection and disaggregation of confidential health data, in accordance with federal and state data privacy laws, rules, and regulations and federal contracts, relating to race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity; and

(II) County, district, and municipal public health agencies, community-based organizations, and communities in the state;

(i) Promoting workforce diversity within public health systems;

(j) Coordinating and staffing the health equity commission created in section 25-4-2206;

(k) Repealed.

(l) Building collaborative partnerships with communities to identify and promote health equity strategies; and

(m) Developing communications strategies regarding health equity.

(2.3) (a) The state board shall promulgate rules necessary for the collection of data by the office for purposes of its reporting on health disparities pursuant to subsection (2)(c) of this section, including rules concerning:

(I) The requirement to collect data, to the extent permissible under applicable federal and state data privacy laws, rules, and regulations and federal contracts, from entities identified in subsection (2)(h) of this section that serve individuals who choose to provide the data;

(II) The demographic information to be collected and the time frame for collecting the data to ensure consistency in the collection of data; and

(III) The disaggregation and reporting of confidential health data, in accordance with federal and state data privacy laws, rules, and regulations and federal contracts, to protect sensitive medical information or personally identifying information.

(b) The rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (2.3)(a) of this section must apply to all state and county, district, and municipal public health agencies, as described in section 25-1-506; public health directors, as described in section 25-1-509; and other persons required to collect and report data to the department.

(2.5) (a) (I) On or before July 1, 2022, and continuing every two years thereafter, the department shall conduct an assessment and publish a report concerning health disparities and inequities in Colorado that includes an assessment of the impact of social determinants of health on health disparities and inequities and recommended strategies to begin to address such inequities. The department shall collaborate with the commission, community partners working on health equity issues, local public health agencies, stakeholders from affected communities, data organizations, and other state and local partners in the creation of the report. In addition to providing information to the public about the impact of health disparities and inequities on Coloradans, each state agency that has representation on the commission shall use the report in their plan as described in subsection (2.5)(b)(I) of this section. In each report after the first published report, the department shall report the progress made by the commission pursuant to subsection (2.5)(b) of this section to address the social determinants of health and the strategies used to address health disparities and inequities.

(II) Not later than July 1, 2023, for any report published pursuant to subsection (2.5)(a)(I) of this section that does not include complete reporting on race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity, as that data becomes available, each state agency that is represented on the commission shall provide a supplemental report that includes progress made by the commission to address the social determinants of health and the strategies used to address health disparities and inequities based on race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

(a.5) (I) To assist with the department's assessment and reporting required pursuant to subsection (2.5)(a) of this section concerning health disparities and inequities, not later than November 1, 2022, the commission shall convene a data advisory working group to advise the commission in carrying out its duties under subsections (2)(c) and (2)(h) of this section.

(II) The data advisory working group shall make recommendations to the commission concerning the process for collecting and aggregating nonidentifying demographic data for Colorado residents relating to race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity:

(A) As part of public health programs;

(B) From information collected to evaluate public health conditions in the state; and

(C) From data acquired from data sources or submitted to the department.

(III) The data advisory working group shall include:

(A) One member of the department, appointed by the executive director of the department;

(B) Three serving members of the commission, appointed by the director of the office, with a preference for members having experience in data and reporting, working with county or district public health agencies in data collection, or working with or on behalf of department data collectors or vendors;

(C) One member of a nonprofit organization, appointed by the director of the office, who has experience in administering data collection instruments and reports relating to the COVID-19 virus, vaccines, and health care as it impacts individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or nonbinary and whose work is recognized at the state and national level;

(D) One member of a nonprofit organization, appointed by the director of the office, who has experience in administering data collection instruments and reports relating to the COVID-19 virus, vaccines, and health care as it impacts individuals who have been diagnosed with a disability and whose work is recognized at the state or national level; and

(E) Two members of nonprofit organizations, appointed by the director of the office, who have experience in administering data collection instruments and reports related to individuals who identify as Hispanic or Latino, African American or Black, Asian, American Pacific Islander, and indigenous and whose work is recognized at the state or national level.

(b) Within six months after the publication of the first report required in subsection (2.5)(a) of this section:

(I) The governor shall convene the commission to conduct a strategic planning process and develop an equity strategic plan, to respond to the report, and to ensure that there is coordination in equity-related work across state agencies to address the social determinants of health in each agency's respective areas. The strategic planning process must include input from community stakeholders and policymakers. The department may collaborate with the health disparities and community grant program created in section 25-4-2203 to address issues identified by the equity strategic plan.

(II) Each member of the commission that represents a state agency shall develop a plan to address the social determinants of health relevant to that state agency as they affect health disparities and inequities. Each state agency shall dedicate up to twenty hours of staff time to the development and implementation of the equity strategic plan.

(3) The office shall report to the executive director of the department or his or her designee, at the discretion of the executive director.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 905, § 3, effective May 15. L. 2010: (2)(h) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 113, effective August 11. L. 2013: (1), IP(2), (2)(b), (2)(d), (2)(e), (2)(j), and (3) amended, (2)(k) repealed, and (2)(l) and (2)(m) added, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 61, § 5, effective August 7. L. 2021: (2)(a) amended and (2.5) added, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2841, § 5, effective July 6. L. 2022: (2)(c), (2)(g), (2)(h), and (2.5)(a) amended and (2.3) and (2.5)(a.5) added, (HB 22-1157), ch. 321, p. 2272, § 2, effective June 2.

25-4-2206. Health equity commission - creation - repeal.

(1) There is hereby created in the office the health equity commission. The purpose of the commission is to serve as an advisor to the office on health equity issues, specifically focusing on alignment, education, and capacity-building for state and local health programs and community-based organizations. The commission shall be dedicated to promoting health equity and eliminating health disparities.

(2) (a) The commission consists of the following twenty-three members, who are as follows:

(I) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint one member of the house of representatives;

(II) The president of the senate shall appoint one member of the senate;

(III) The executive director of the department shall appoint ten members who represent, to the extent practical, Colorado's diverse ethnic, racial, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, aging population, socioeconomic, and geographic backgrounds. Each individual appointed to the commission must have demonstrated expertise in at least one, and preferably two, of the following areas:

(A) African American, Black, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native American, Hispanic, Latino, aging population, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, disabled, low socioeconomic status, and geographic community health issues;

(B) Data collection, aggregation, or dissemination;

(C) Education;

(D) Housing;

(E) Healthy community design;

(F) Community engagement;

(G) Local public health;

(H) Nonprofits, foundation, or grant-making;

(I) Environmental health;

(J) Behavioral health;

(J.5) Midwifery; or

(K) The provision of health-care services;

(IV) The executive director of the department, or the executive director's designee, shall serve as an ex officio member of the commission;

(V) The executive director of the department of human services, or the executive director's designee;

(VI) The executive director of the department of health care policy and financing, or the executive director's designee;

(VII) The executive director of the department of labor and employment, or the executive director's designee;

(VIII) The executive director of the department of local affairs, or the executive director's designee;

(IX) The executive director of the department of transportation, or the executive director's designee;

(X) The executive director of the department of public safety, or the executive director's designee;

(XI) The commissioner of education of the department of education, or the commissioner's designee;

(XII) The executive director of the department of corrections, or the executive director's designee;

(XIII) The executive director of the department of higher education, or the executive director's designee;

(XIV) The executive director of the department of early childhood, or the executive director's designee; and

(XV) The commissioner of the behavioral health administration in the department of human services, or the commissioner's designee.

(b) The members of the commission shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. Except as otherwise provided in section 2-2-326, C.R.S., the members of the commission shall serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed by the department for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties pursuant to this part 22.

(c) The members of the commission shall elect a chair and vice-chair from among its membership.

(3) The commission has the following powers and duties:

(a) Providing a formal mechanism for the public to give input to the office;

(b) Advising the department through the office on:

(I) Determining innovative data collection and dissemination strategies;

(II) Aligning the department's health equity efforts and the health disparities and community grant program created in section 25-4-2203;

(III) Strengthening collaborative partnerships with communities impacted by health disparities to identify and promote health equity strategies; and

(IV) Promoting workforce diversity;

(c) Repealed.

(d) Making recommendations to the office and the department on the health disparities and community grant program created in section 25-4-2203, regarding financial support for local and statewide initiatives that address prevention, early detection, needs assessment, and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, including diabetes, and pulmonary disease in minority populations.

(4) (a) The office shall provide staff to the commission.

(b) In addition to any other duties, under the direction of the commission, commission staff shall determine, in accordance with applicable federal and state data privacy laws, rules, and regulations and federal contracts, the scope of data and the manner of data sharing for purposes of required reporting concerning health disparities and inequities pursuant to section 25-4-2205 (2.5), in order to minimize duplication and to protect sensitive or personally identifying information.

(5) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2029. Prior to the repeal of this section, the commission is subject to review as provided in section 2-3-1203.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 906, § 3, effective May 15. L. 2013: (1), (2)(a), IP(3), (3)(a), (3)(b), and (5) amended and (3)(c) repealed, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 62, § 6, effective August 7. L. 2014: (2)(b) amended, (SB 14-153), ch. 390, p. 1964, § 22, effective June 6. L. 2016: (5) amended, (HB 16-1192), ch. 83, p. 235, § 20, effective April 14. L. 2017: (5) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1408, § 87, effective May 25. L. 2021: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(IV), (2)(a)(V), (2)(a)(VI), (3)(b)(II), and (3)(d) amended and (2)(a)(VII), (2)(a)(VIII), (2)(a)(IX), (2)(a)(X), (2)(a)(XI), (2)(a)(XII), and (2)(a)(XIII) added, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2842, § 6, effective July 6; IP(2)(a)(III) amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 896, § 38, effective September 7. L. 2022: (4) amended, (HB 22-1157), ch. 321, p. 2274, § 3, effective June 2. L. 2023: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(XII), and (2)(a)(XIII) amended and (2)(a)(XV) added, (HB 23-1236), ch. 206, p. 1053, § 9, effective May 16; IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(XII), and (2)(a)(XIII) amended and (2)(a)(XIV) added, (HB 23-1235), ch. 434, p. 2554, § 21, effective June 7; (5) amended, (SB 23-151), ch. 204, p. 1041, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2024: IP(2)(a)(III) and (2)(a)(III)(J) amended and (2)(a)(III)(J.5) added, (HB 24-1262), ch. 393, p. 2712, § 6, effective June 4.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021. For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1262, see section 1 of chapter 393, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-4-2207. Interagency health disparities leadership council - creation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 907, § 3, effective May 15. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (HB 13-1088), ch. 25, p. 64, § 7, effective August 7.

25-4-2208. Necessary document program - report - appropriation - gifts, grants, or donations - definition.

(1) As used in this section, "necessary document" means:

(a) A social security card issued pursuant to 42 U.S.C. sec. 405 (c)(2)(G);

(b) One of the following documents issued in Colorado or analogous documents issued in another jurisdiction:

(I) A driver's license issued pursuant to part 1 of article 2 of title 42, C.R.S.;

(II) An identification card issued pursuant to part 3 of article 2 of title 42, C.R.S.; and

(III) A vital statistics certificate or vital statistics report issued pursuant to article 2 of this title; or

(c) Any document required as a condition of issuance of a document specified in paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection (1).

(2) (a) The office shall administer a necessary document program to assist Colorado residents who are victims of domestic violence, are impacted by a natural disaster, earn low incomes, have disabilities, are experiencing homelessness, or are elderly and who are seeking documentation of their identity, status, or citizenship by paying the fees to acquire a necessary document.

(b) (I) On and after July 1, 2027, and to the extent that money appropriated to the office pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section is available, an individual specified in subsection (2)(a) of this section who needs to obtain any necessary documents may obtain the necessary documents without cost to the individual and without a physical voucher at:

(A) Participating division of motor vehicles locations;

(B) Participating mobile units or from authorized representatives that offer driver's licenses, identification card services, vital statistics certificates, vital statistics reports, or related documents as described in subsection (1)(c) of this section; or

(C) Participating vital statistics offices.

(II) An individual may self-attest to the individual's eligibility to receive assistance from the necessary document program.

(c) Nothing in this subsection (2) changes the identity verification requirements that may be required to obtain a necessary document.

(3) (a) The general assembly shall annually appropriate to the office up to three hundred thousand dollars from the general fund. The office shall expend the money for the purposes specified in this section.

(b) The office shall use the money appropriated pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section for the following:

(I) Up to fifteen thousand dollars for the office's direct and indirect costs of administering the necessary document program;

(II) To reimburse the department for fees for the issuance of vital statistics certificates, vital statistics reports, or related documents as described in subsections (1)(b)(III) and (1)(c) of this section; and

(III) To reimburse the department of revenue for the issuance of driver's licenses, identification cards, or related documents as described in subsections (1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(II), and (1)(c) of this section.

(c) (I) The department and the department of revenue shall each submit requests to the office for reimbursement based on the actual number of necessary documents issued by the department or the department of revenue and in the manner determined by the office.

(II) The office shall provide reimbursements to the department and the department of revenue in a manner determined appropriate by the department until the money appropriated to the office pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section is no longer available.

(4) Beginning January 1, 2032, and each five years thereafter, the department shall include, as part of its annual presentation to the general assembly pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2, a report on the total number of necessary documents acquired on an annual basis and any significant technological changes or other developments that affect the need for, or operations of, the necessary document program.

(5) In addition to the money appropriated to the office pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section, the office may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1386), ch. 302, p. 1219, § 1, effective June 10. L. 2021: (4) amended, (SB 21-018), ch. 418, p. 2778, § 1, effective July 2. L. 2025: (2) and (3) amended and (5) added, (SB 25-008), ch. 207, p. 935, § 2, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 25-008, see section 1 of chapter 207, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-4-2209. Culturally relevant and affirming health-care training - health-care providers - grants - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "Priority populations" means people experiencing homelessness; people involved with the criminal justice system; Black people, indigenous people, and people of color; American Indians and Alaska natives; veterans; people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning; people of disproportionately affected sexual orientations and gender identities; people who have AIDS or HIV; older adults; children and families; and people with disabilities, including people who are deaf and hard of hearing, people who are blind and deafblind, people with brain injuries, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, people with other co-occurring disabilities; and other populations as deemed appropriate by the behavioral health administration.

(b) "Program" means the culturally relevant and affirming health-care training grant program created in subsection (2) of this section.

(c) "Provider" means an individual licensed, certified, or registered pursuant to title 12 to provide health-care services and an individual certified or licensed as an emergency medical service provider by the department. "Provider" does not include a veterinarian.

(d) "Regulator" has the same meaning as set forth in section 12-20-102 (14).

(2) (a) On or before January 1, 2023, the office shall create a culturally relevant and affirming health-care training grant program to provide money to nonprofit entities and statewide associations of health-care providers to develop new, culturally responsive training programs to benefit priority populations.

(b) The director of the office shall contract with a third-party administrator to administer the program. The third-party administrator shall:

(I) Issue a grant application for nonprofit entities and statewide associations of health-care providers who wish to participate in the program to develop culturally relevant and affirming health-care training for providers; and

(II) Submit the list of the qualified applicants for the program to the commission for approval.

(3) In order to be qualified to participate in the program, the nonprofit entity and statewide associations of health-care providers must be able to provide culturally relevant and affirming health-care training that:

(a) Teaches providers how to provide effective, equitable, understandable, safe, quality, and respectful care and services that are responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred languages, health literacy, and other communication needs;

(b) Equips providers with the knowledge, skills, and awareness to best serve all patients, regardless of cultural or language background; and

(c) Focuses on:

(I) Culturally responsive and clinically competent care for priority populations; and

(II) Intersectionality, respectful care, implicit biases, and sexual orientation and gender identity data collection.

(4) While creating the list of qualified entities to conduct the culturally relevant and affirming health-care training, the director of the office shall consider the ability of each qualified entity to address the needs of priority populations through its training program.

(5) The commission shall review the list of qualified entities that apply for participation in the grant program, select entities to participate in the grant program, and provide a list of the selected entities to the office.

(6) (a) The office shall provide a list of qualified entities that are selected by the commission, a description of the training offered, and information regarding the grant program to the regulator of each provider.

(b) Each qualified entity that is selected by the commission to provide training is encouraged to work with regulators in each health-care profession to ensure that each provider who completes the training receives continuing education credit where applicable.

(7) For the 2022-23 state fiscal year, the general assembly shall appropriate nine hundred thousand dollars from the general fund to the department for allocation to the office for the purposes of this section, including payment for a third-party administrator. Any unexpended money remaining at the end of the 2022-23 state fiscal year:

(a) Does not revert to the general fund or any other fund;

(b) May be used by the department in subsequent state fiscal years without further appropriation; and

(c) Shall not be used for any other purpose other than the purposes set forth in this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1267), ch. 443, p. 3121, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(a) amended, (HB 23-1236), ch. 206, p. 1053, § 10, effective May 16.

PART 23

COLORADO IMMUNIZATION FUND

25-4-2301. Colorado immunization fund - supplemental tobacco litigation settlement moneys account - creation.

There are hereby created in the state treasury the Colorado immunization fund and an account within the fund to be known as the supplemental tobacco litigation settlement moneys account. The principal of the portion of the fund that is not the account consists of general fund appropriations made by the general assembly to the fund and gifts, grants, or awards received by the department of public health and environment from the federal government or private sources for the fund. The principal of the account consists of tobacco litigation settlement moneys transferred by the state treasurer to the account in accordance with section 24-75-1104.5 (1.7)(h), C.R.S. All interest and income earned on the deposit and investment of moneys in the portion of the fund that is not the account shall be credited to that portion of the fund. All interest and income earned on the deposit and investment of moneys in the account shall be credited to and remain in the account until transferred as required by this section. Except as otherwise provided in this section, and subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department, the department shall expend the principal of the fund and the account only for the purpose of immunization and immunization strategies; except that, at the end of the 2007-08 fiscal year and at the end of any fiscal year thereafter, any unexpended and unencumbered moneys in the portion of the fund that is not the account shall remain in that portion of the fund and may be used by the department through the state immunization program to support infant, child, and adolescent vaccination. All unexpended and unencumbered moneys in the account at the end of any fiscal year remain in the account and shall not be transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 147, § 7, effective March 22. L. 2011: Entire section amended, (SB 11-225), ch. 189, p. 731, § 4, effective May 19. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1247), ch. 53, p. 193, § 4, effective March 22. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (HB 13-1181), ch. 74, p. 238, § 5, effective March 22. L. 2016: Entire section amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 467, § 16, effective July 1.

PART 24

IMMUNIZATION REGISTRY ACT

25-4-2401. Short title.

This part 24 shall be known and may be cited as the "Immunization Registry Act".

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 659, § 6, effective April 26.

25-4-2402. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Immunization is one of the most important ways to protect individuals and communities against serious infectious diseases and their consequences, and widespread immunization has virtually eliminated many serious diseases that were once responsible for millions of infections and thousands of deaths each year.

(b) Although immunization rates of infants, children, adolescents, and adults in Colorado have improved over the last several years, there is a need to continue to improve the rates so that fewer individuals are put at risk from vaccine-preventable diseases.

(c) Timely vaccination of children, adolescents, and adults not only protects them against common, sometimes serious, and potentially fatal diseases, but also serves the community as one of the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for the prevention and spread of these infections, and the vaccines are safe and highly protective, particularly when administered according to recommended schedules.

(d) More than twenty percent of preschool-aged children in Colorado are not fully vaccinated and are at increased risk of contracting and spreading vaccine-preventable diseases.

(e) It is unnecessary for children, adolescents, and adults to be subjected to suffering or death from diseases that are immunization preventable.

(f) In 2005, hospital charges for the care of children with vaccine-preventable diseases exceeded twenty-five million dollars. Additionally, tens of millions of dollars were spent on the costs of the outpatient care of affected children, in addition to the costs of the loss of productivity and absences from work for caregivers due to the absences of children from school.

(g) Over the past three decades, the recommended vaccination schedules for children and adults have become increasingly more complex as vaccines have been combined, new vaccines have been added, and the delivery system has incorporated more manufacturers, distributors, and providers. Additionally, local and national vaccine shortages and distribution errors have resulted in compromised vaccination initiatives.

(h) For Colorado to be consistent with the healthy people 2010 initiative and reach the goal of immunizing ninety percent of all children in the state in a timely and expeditious manner, the Colorado immunization information system must be funded and sustained. The Colorado immunization information system may also provide a secure method for authorized individuals and entities to access information collected by public agencies.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly supports the expansion of the Colorado immunization registry and supports increased access to immunizations for persons in Colorado.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 659, § 6, effective April 26.

25-4-2403. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties - immunization tracking system - rules - definitions.

(1) In order to expand the immunization registry and increase access to immunizations, the department may address:

(a) Mechanisms for:

(I) Maximizing federal funds to purchase, distribute, and deliver vaccines for individuals in Colorado; and

(II) Statewide purchase, distribution, and prioritization of vaccines, including childhood immunizations and the seasonal influenza vaccine;

(b) Methods to reduce the administrative burden of providing immunizations to individuals in Colorado by reviewing current immunization activities and strategies and epidemiological data related to vaccine-preventable diseases and identifying opportunities to implement best practices for immunizations throughout Colorado using innovative strategies that are population-specific, culturally sensitive, and inclusive; address safety issues; and enhance current services;

(c) Options for Colorado to more effectively purchase, distribute, and deliver vaccines to insured, underinsured, and uninsured individuals;

(d) The pursuit of private and public partnerships for funding for the immunization registry infrastructure;

(e) Options for the most effective and cost-effective use of funds that may be available to the department of public health and environment to address vaccine delivery in the state; and

(f) The ability of the department of health care policy and financing to purchase vaccines recommended by ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians through a purchasing system, if developed pursuant to this subsection (1) and subsection (1.3) of this section, for children who are enrolled in the children's basic health plan created in article 8 of title 25.5.

(1.3) (a) The department shall convene a task force of interested stakeholders to consider the issues identified in subsection (1) of this section. The task force must consist of at least the following persons or groups:

(I) Primary care providers, including essential community providers, pediatricians, family physicians, mid-level providers, and practice managers;

(II) Pharmacists from both independent and chain pharmacies;

(III) Local public health providers;

(IV) Child health advocates;

(V) Health insurers and other persons who pay for health-care services;

(VI) A representative from a Colorado-based innovative vaccine company;

(VII) Pharmaceutical manufacturers; and

(VIII) Representatives from the departments of public health and environment and health care policy and financing.

(b) The task force shall make recommendations to the department and the board on the financing, ordering, and delivery of childhood immunizations, including through any of the following methods:

(I) A public-private model of vaccine purchase and delivery;

(II) Just-in-time delivery;

(III) Inventory management, including vaccine choices, combination vaccines, and equivalent vaccines;

(IV) Outbreak response;

(V) Linkage between the immunization tracking system established pursuant to subsection (2) of this section and vaccine inventory;

(VI) Vaccine shortage response;

(VII) Preservation of vaccine delivery in a medical home model of care;

(VIII) Mechanisms for local public health entities to bill health insurance carriers; and

(IX) Continuation and preservation of current models of vaccine purchase, financing, and delivery and the ability of health-care providers to use those current models or any new models that may be developed pursuant to this subsection (1.3) and subsection (1) of this section.

(c) The board may adopt rules as necessary to implement the recommendations of the task force.

(d) No health-care provider is compelled to participate in a vaccine purchasing system, if such system is developed pursuant to this section.

(2) To enable the gathering of epidemiological information and investigation and control of communicable diseases, the department of public health and environment shall maintain a comprehensive immunization tracking system with immunization information gathered by state and local public health officials from the following sources:

(a) Practitioners;

(b) Clinics;

(c) Schools;

(d) Parents, legal guardians, or persons authorized to consent to immunization pursuant to section 25-4-1704;

(e) Individuals;

(f) Managed care organizations or health insurance plans in which an individual is enrolled as a member or insured, if such managed care organization or health insurer reimburses or otherwise financially provides coverage for immunizations;

(g) Hospitals;

(h) The department of health care policy and financing with respect to individuals who are eligible for coverage under the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S.; and

(i) Persons and entities that have contracted with the state pursuant to paragraph (d) of subsection (9) of this section.

(2.5) (a) A practitioner who is a licensed physician, a physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), an advanced practice registered nurse, or a person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within his or her scope of practice shall submit immunization, medical exemption, or nonmedical exemption data to the tracking system.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (2.5)(a) of this section, a practitioner who is a licensed physician, a physician assistant authorized pursuant to section 12-240-107 (6), an advanced practice registered nurse, or a person authorized pursuant to title 12 to administer immunizations within his or her scope of practice is not subject to a regulatory sanction for failing to submit immunization, medical exemption, or nonmedical exemption data to the immunization tracking system.

(3) Records in the immunization tracking system shall be strictly confidential and shall not be released, shared with any agency or institution, or made public upon subpoena, search warrant, discovery proceedings, or otherwise, except under the following circumstances:

(a) Medical and epidemiological information may be released in a manner such that no individual person can be identified.

(b) Immunization records and epidemiological information may be released to the extent necessary for the treatment, control, investigation, and prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases; except that every effort shall be made to limit disclosure of personal identifying information to the minimum amount necessary to accomplish the public health purpose.

(c) Immunization records and epidemiological information may be released to the individual who is the subject of the record, to a parent of a minor individual, to a guardian or person authorized to consent to immunization under section 25-4-1704, to the physician, clinic, hospital, or licensed health-care practitioner treating the person who is the subject of an immunization record, to a school in which such person is enrolled, or any entity or person described in paragraph (f), (h), or (i) of subsection (2) of this section.

(4) An officer, employee, or agent of the department of public health and environment or a county, district, or municipal public health agency shall not be examined in any judicial, executive, legislative, or other proceeding as to the existence or content of any individual's report obtained by such department without consent of the individual or the individual's parent or guardian. However, this subsection (4) shall not apply to individuals who are under isolation, quarantine, or other restrictive action taken pursuant to section 25-1.5-102 (1)(c).

(5) (a) An officer, employee, or agent of the department of public health and environment or any other person who violates this section by releasing or making public confidential immunization records or epidemiological information in the immunization tracking system or by otherwise breaching the confidentiality requirements of this section or releasing such information without authorization commits a class 2 misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-501 (1). The unauthorized release of each record shall constitute a separate offense.

(b) A natural person who, in exchange for money or any other thing of value, violates this section by wrongfully releasing or making public confidential immunization records or epidemiological information in the immunization tracking system or by otherwise breaching the confidentiality requirements of this section or releasing such information without authorization commits a class 2 misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-501 (1).

(c) A business entity who, in exchange for money or any other thing of value, violates this section by wrongfully releasing or making public confidential immunization records or epidemiological information in the immunization tracking system or by otherwise breaching the confidentiality requirements of this section or releasing such information without authorization shall be assessed a civil penalty of ten thousand dollars per sale of information per subject of such information.

(6) (a) The department or the department's contractor may directly contact the individual who is the subject of immunization records or the individual's parent or legal guardian for the purpose of notifying the individual, parent, or legal guardian if immunizations are due or overdue as indicated by ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians. The department or the department's contractor shall contact the individual, parent, or legal guardian if it is necessary to control an outbreak of or prevent the spread of a vaccine-preventable disease pursuant to section 25-1.5-102 (1)(a) or 25-4-908.

(b) A notice given to an individual or a parent or legal guardian of an individual under eighteen years of age pursuant to this subsection (6) shall also inform the individual, parent, or legal guardian of the option to refuse an immunization on the grounds of medical, religious, or personal belief considerations pursuant to section 25-4-903.

(7) An individual or a parent or legal guardian who consents to the immunization of an infant, a child, or a student pursuant to part 9 or 17 of this article 4 or this part 24 may exclude immunization information from the immunization tracking system. The individual, parent, or legal guardian may remove such immunization information from the immunization tracking system at any time. The department of public health and environment shall ensure that the process to exclude immunization information from the system is readily available and not burdensome. The physician, licensed health-care practitioner, clinic, hospital, or county, district, or municipal public health agency shall inform the individual, parent, or legal guardian of the option to exclude such information from such system and the potential benefits of inclusion in such system. In addition, the physician, licensed health-care practitioner, clinic, hospital, or county, district, or municipal public health agency shall inform such parent or legal guardian of a minor individual of the option to refuse an immunization on the grounds of medical, religious, or personal belief considerations pursuant to section 25-4-903. Neither refusing an immunization on the grounds of medical, religious, or personal belief considerations pursuant to section 25-4-903 nor opting to exclude immunization notification information from the immunization tracking system by itself constitutes child abuse or neglect by a parent or legal guardian for the purposes of part 3 of article 3 of title 19.

(8) A person licensed to practice medicine pursuant to article 240 of title 12; a person licensed to practice nursing or as a certified midwife pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12; any other licensed health-care practitioner as defined in section 25-4-1703; providers of county nursing services; staff members of health-care clinics, hospitals, and offices of private practitioners; county, district, and municipal public health agencies; and all persons and entities listed in subsection (2) of this section are authorized to report to the immunization tracking system and to use the reminder and recall process established by the immunization tracking system.

(9) The department of public health and environment may:

(a) Issue immunization records to individuals, parents, or guardians authorized to consent to immunizations;

(b) Assess the vaccination status of individuals;

(c) Accept any gifts or grants or awards of funds from the federal government or private sources for the implementation and operation of the immunization tracking system, which shall be credited to the immunization fund created in section 25-4-1708; and

(d) Enter into contracts that are necessary for the implementation and operation of the immunization tracking system. A person who enters into a contract pursuant to this paragraph (d) shall only use the information gathered from the immunization tracking system in accordance with this part 24 and shall be subject to all applicable state and federal laws regarding the confidentiality of information.

(9.5) The department may negotiate for and purchase vaccines adopted by the board by rule or recommended by ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians.

(10) County, district, and municipal public health agencies and the department of public health and environment shall use the birth certificate of any person to enroll the person in an immunization tracking system. The use of the birth certificate shall be considered an official duty of local health departments and the department of public health and environment.

(11) Physicians, licensed health-care practitioners, clinics, schools, licensed child care providers, hospitals, managed care organizations or health insurance plans in which an individual is enrolled as a member or insured, persons that have contracted with the department of public health and environment pursuant to paragraph (d) of subsection (9) of this section, and public health officials may release any immunization records in their possession, whether or not such records are in the immunization tracking system, to the persons or entities specified in subsection (2) of this section to provide treatment for such individual or to provide an accurate and complete immunization record for the individual.

(12) The department of public health and environment shall disseminate information about the immunization tracking system, including providing notification pursuant to subsection (7) of this section to birthing hospitals. The hospitals shall provide the notices to the parents of newborns.

(13) As used in this section:

(a) "ACIP" means the advisory committee on immunization practices to the centers for disease control and prevention in the federal department of health and human services, or its successor entity.

(b) "Board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

(c) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102.

(d) "Equivalent vaccines" means two or more vaccines that:

(I) Protect a recipient of the vaccine against the same infection;

(II) Have similar safety and efficacy profiles; and

(III) Are recommended for comparable populations by the ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 660, § 6, effective April 26. L. 2010: (4), (7), (8), and (10) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2101, § 114, effective August 11. L. 2013: IP(1), (1)(a), (1)(c), and (1)(f) amended and (1.3) and (13) added, (SB 13-222), ch. 350, p. 2031, § 4, effective May 28. L. 2019: (8) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1703, § 161, effective October 1. L. 2020: IP(2) amended and (2.5) added, (SB 20-163), ch. 134, p. 586, § 8, effective June 26; (8) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 703, § 60, effective July 1; (7) amended, (HB 20-1297), ch. 264, p. 1266, § 2, effective September 14. L. 2021: (5)(a) and (5)(b) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3235, § 456, effective March 1, 2022. L. 2023: (8) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1549, § 59, effective May 25. L. 2026: (1)(f), (6)(a), and (13)(d)(III) amended and (9.5) added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 113, § 12, effective March 27.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1) and subsections (1)(a), (1)(c), and (1)(f) and adding subsections (1.3) and (13), see section 1 of chapter 350, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-163, see section 1 of chapter 134, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

(2) For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-2404. Vaccines - access to the public - definitions.

(1) As used in this section:

(a) "Independent pharmacy" means a prescription drug outlet privately owned by at least one licensed pharmacist with no ownership interest by or affiliation with a chain or publicly owned pharmacy.

(b) "Practitioner" means a physician or a physician assistant licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12, an advanced practice registered nurse licensed pursuant to article 255 of title 12, or any other person who, within the person's scope of practice, is authorized by law to administer a vaccine to an individual.

(c) "Publicly funded vaccine" means a vaccine that is paid for and distributed by the federal, the state, or a local government at no cost to the practitioner administering the vaccine.

(2) (a) A practitioner may ask an individual who seeks to receive a publicly funded vaccine to present proof of health insurance or a government-issued identification card, social security card, or social security number but shall not condition an individual's receipt of a publicly funded vaccine on the presentation of the requested documentation.

(b) (I) A practitioner who administers a publicly funded vaccine shall post and keep posted a notice provided by the department of public health and environment, in multiple languages if requested, that confirms that the publicly funded vaccine will be provided regardless of the individual's provision of the requested documentation.

(II) A practitioner, except for an independent pharmacy, as defined in subsection (1)(a) of this section, who administers a publicly funded vaccine shall post and keep posted a notice provided by the department of public health and environment, in multiple languages if requested, that confirms that the publicly funded vaccine will be provided regardless of the individual's ability to pay a vaccine administration fee.

(III) A notice required by this subsection (2) must be posted by the practitioner in a location conspicuous to the individual, or a parent or legal guardian consenting to the vaccination of an individual who is under eighteen years of age, at the location of the individual's appointment. Each practitioner shall take steps to ensure that the notice is not altered, defaced, or covered by other material.

(c) A practitioner, except for an independent pharmacy as defined in subsection (1)(a) of this section, shall provide the individual, or a parent or legal guardian consenting to the vaccination of the individual who is under eighteen years of age, with a disclosure statement in the language understood by the individual receiving the vaccine, or the parent or legal guardian consenting to the vaccination of an individual under eighteen years of age, that confirms that the publicly funded vaccine will be provided regardless of the individual's provision of the requested documentation or of payment of a vaccine administration fee.

(d) The department of public health and environment shall create the disclosure statement required by this subsection (2) and shall make it available electronically to practitioners. A practitioner may request that the department provide the practitioner with the disclosure statement in a language other than English to meet the needs of an individual.

(3) (a) A practitioner shall not charge an individual or bill an individual's insurance provider or plan for the product cost of a publicly funded vaccine.

(b) A practitioner shall not condition an individual's receipt of a publicly funded vaccine on the individual's ability to pay a vaccine administration fee, but the practitioner may charge a vaccine administration fee to the individual's insurance provider or plan or attempt to collect an out-of-pocket payment for the administration of the publicly funded vaccine from an uninsured individual at the time that the publicly funded vaccine is administered.

(c) A practitioner who chooses to bill an individual or otherwise pursue the payment for a vaccine administration fee from an individual to whom a publicly funded vaccine is administered after the vaccine has been administered may issue only a single bill to the individual within ninety days after the vaccine is administered. The practitioner shall not send an unpaid vaccine administration bill to a collection agency.

(d) A practitioner may charge a vaccine administration fee that is equal to or less than the practitioner's vaccine administration costs or the vaccine administration reimbursement rate set pursuant to the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, whichever is less.

(e) Notwithstanding subsection (3)(b) of this section, an independent pharmacy may condition receipt of a publicly funded vaccine on the individual's ability to pay. The vaccine administration fee charged by the independent pharmacy must be equal to or less than the practitioner's vaccine administration costs or the vaccine administration reimbursement rate set pursuant to the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, whichever is less. If an independent pharmacy denies an individual a publicly funded vaccine due to an inability to pay the vaccine administration fee, the independent pharmacy must provide the individual with a list of practitioners provided by the department who will not condition an individual's receipt of a publicly funded vaccine on the individual's ability to pay a vaccine administration fee. Nothing in this section exempts independent pharmacies from meeting all of the requirements of federal vaccine programs, should independent pharmacies choose to enroll and be approved for such programs.

(f) If federal or state money is made available to pay for the administration costs of a publicly funded vaccine, a practitioner who administers the vaccine may request payment from the federal or state source.

(4) This section does not authorize a practitioner to charge a vaccine administration fee to an individual who receives services through the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5.

(5) A practitioner shall provide a publicly funded vaccine to any age-appropriate individual who registers for an appointment with the practitioner to receive the publicly funded vaccine within the practitioner's scope of practice.

(6) Each practitioner is encouraged to establish an electronic link and a telephone number for individuals to use to schedule an appointment for a publicly funded vaccine. To be accessible, the link should be separate from any regular patient portal with restricted access and the scheduling services should be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

(7) This section does not modify the requirements for practitioners, including independent pharmacies, serving clients pursuant to the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, or federally qualified health centers to meet the federal requirements for these programs for the administration of publicly funded vaccines.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-260), ch. 161, p. 700, § 1, effective May 10.

PART 25

CERVICAL CANCER IMMUNIZATION ACT

25-4-2501. Short title.

This part 25 shall be known and may be cited as the "Cervical Cancer Immunization Act".

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 1346, § 1, effective May 29.

25-4-2502. Definitions.

As used in this part 25, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board of health" means the state board of health.

(2) "Cervical cancer vaccine" or "cervical cancer immunization" means the series of human papillomavirus vaccines to prevent cervical and other cancers as determined by the board of health to be necessary to conform to recognized standard medical practices.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(4) "FQHC" means a provider designated as a federally qualified health center, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4).

(5) "Local public health agency" means a county or district public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506.

(6) "Program" means the cervical cancer immunization program, created in section 25-4-2503.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 1346, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2008: (5) amended, p. 2054, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2020: (4) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 288, § 24, effective September 14. L. 2026: (2) amended, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 114, § 13, effective March 27.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

(2) For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-2503. Cervical cancer immunization program - rules.

(1) There is created in the department the cervical cancer immunization program. The department is directed to investigate manners in which the cervical cancer vaccine may be administered in an economical fashion. The board of health is authorized to adopt rules to assist the department in making the vaccine available.

(2) FQHCs are encouraged to enter into agreements with local public health agencies to administer vaccinations to underinsured minors through a federally recognized vaccination program for children. If a local public health agency enters into an agreement with an FQHC, the agency shall administer vaccinations, including but not limited to cervical cancer vaccinations, pursuant to the agreement with the FQHC. The department shall pay to a local public health agency the agency's administrative cost for administering a cervical cancer vaccination to an underinsured minor entering the sixth grade.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 1347, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 114, § 14, effective March 27.

Cross references: For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-2504. Public awareness campaign - fund.

(1) Subject to the moneys being available in the fund created in subsection (2) of this section, on and after January 1, 2008, the department shall conduct a public awareness campaign on cervical cancer immunization and the benefits, disadvantages, and possible side effects of receiving cervical cancer immunization.

(2) There is hereby created in the state treasury the cervical cancer immunization awareness campaign fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The fund shall consist of any gifts, grants, or donations received by the department pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (3) of this section and any moneys appropriated to the fund by the general assembly. Moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation of this section. Interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(3) (a) The department is authorized to seek and accept gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(b) Repealed.

Source: L. 2007: Entire part added, p. 1347, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2016: (3)(b) repealed, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 472, § 26, effective July 1.

PART 26

ADULT IMMUNIZATION ACT

Cross references: For the short title ("Ensuring Immunization Access for Coloradans Act") and the legislative declaration in SB 26-032, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 24, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-4-2601. Short title.

The short title of this part 26 is the "Adult Immunization Act".

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 115, § 15, effective March 27.

25-4-2602. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and determines that:

(a) Vaccine-preventable diseases represent a serious public health threat to people in the state;

(b) It has been well documented that vaccines and other immunizing agents are an effective way to prevent sickness and debilitating disease;

(c) (I) The vaccine manufacturing sector is foundational to Colorado's public health security and economic strength, supporting high-skilled jobs, health-care infrastructure, and the continuity of essential public services;

(II) A small number of highly specialized manufacturers produce most of the world's vaccines in a complex and capital-intensive environment, advancing infectious disease prevention and emerging therapies, including mRNA-based cancer treatments; and

(III) Maintaining a stable, science-based regulatory framework is critical to preserving manufacturing capacity, supporting ongoing innovation, and ensuring the ongoing availability of safe and effective vaccines for Coloradans; and

(d) Individuals who want to be vaccinated against disease should have access to safe and effective vaccines that are administered by trusted health-care professionals with no cost sharing.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly declares that promoting evidence-based administration of vaccines and other immunizing agents to adults is critical to preserving the health of all people in the state.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 115, § 15, effective March 27.

25-4-2603. Definitions.

As used in this part 26, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "ACIP" means the advisory committee on immunization practices to the centers for disease control and prevention in the United States department of health and human services, or its successor entity.

(2) "Adult" means an individual who is eighteen years old or older.

(3) "Board of health" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103 (1)(a).

(4) "Immunizing agent" means any biological substance, including vaccines, toxoids, or other antigenic components, that is administered to an individual for the purpose of producing active or passive immunity against a specific disease.

(5) "Vaccine" means a biological preparation that contains antigenic material designed to stimulate an individual's immune system to develop active immunity against a specific infectious disease to prevent illness, typically by introducing a weakened, inactivated, or partial form of a pathogen or its components.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 116, § 15, effective March 27.

25-4-2604. Rules - adult immunization rules - rule-making authority of state board of health.

(1) The board of health shall adopt rules establishing a schedule of recommended adult immunizations, including:

(a) The vaccines or other immunizing agents recommended for adults, after taking into consideration the recommendations of the ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or the American College of Physicians; and

(b) The manner and frequency of administration.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 116, § 15, effective March 27.

25-4-2605. Limitations on liability - repeal.

(1) A person that administers a vaccine or other immunizing agent to an adult is not liable for injuries sustained pursuant to the vaccine or other immunizing agent if:

(a) The vaccine or other immunizing agent was administered in accordance with the schedule of recommended adult immunizations established by the state board of health pursuant to section 25-4-2604;

(b) There were no medical contraindications for administering the vaccine or other immunizing agent; and

(c) The vaccine or other immunizing agent was administered using generally accepted clinical methods.

(2) An action shall not be maintained for a vaccine-related or immunizing-agent-related injury or death until action for compensation for the alleged injury is exhausted under the terms of the federal "National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. secs. 300aa-10 to 300aa-33, as such law is from time to time amended, so long as the federal "National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986" applies to the particular vaccine or immunizing agent administered.

(3) If the injury that is sustained or the death does not fall within the parameters of the vaccine or immunizing agent injury table as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 300aa-14, as enacted on November 14, 1986, a rebuttable presumption is established that the injury sustained or the death was not due to the administration of the vaccine or immunizing agent. The presumption is overcome by a preponderance of the evidence.

(4) (a) Where a claim brought on or before January 30, 2029, against a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider arises from injuries resulting from the handling, storage, or distribution of vaccines or immunizing agents pursuant to this part 26, the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider is not liable unless the injuries are the result of the negligent failure of an employee of the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, wholesaler, or provider to conform to recognized standards of practice that are necessary for the protection of public health.

(b) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2031.

(5) Where a claim brought on or after January 31, 2029, against a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider arises from injuries resulting from the handling, storage, or distribution of vaccines or immunizing agents pursuant to this part 26, the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider is not liable unless the injuries are the result of the negligent failure of an employee of the hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or provider to conform to recognized standards of practice that are necessary for the protection of public health.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-032), ch. 24, p. 116, § 15, effective March 27.

PRODUCTS CONTROL AND SAFETY

ARTICLE 5

Products Control and Safety

PART 1
PROPHYLACTICS

25-5-101 to

25-5-112. (Repealed)

PART 2
ENRICHMENT OF FLOUR AND BREAD

25-5-201. Legislative declaration.

25-5-202. Definitions.

25-5-203. Content of flour.

25-5-204. Content of white bread or rolls.

25-5-205. Enforcement of part 2.

25-5-206. Penalty.

PART 3
MATTRESSES AND BEDDING

25-5-301. Short title.

25-5-302. Definitions.

25-5-303. Restrictions.

25-5-304. Sale of bedding exposed to contagion. (Repealed)

25-5-305. Disinfection.

25-5-306. Receiving bedding to be remade. (Repealed)

25-5-307. Tagging.

25-5-308. Removing or defacing tag or stamp. (Repealed)

25-5-309. Administered by department.

25-5-310. License. (Repealed)

25-5-311. Disposition of moneys. (Repealed)

25-5-312. Appropriation. (Repealed)

25-5-313. Posting of license. (Repealed)

25-5-314. Enforcement.

25-5-315. Violation - what constitutes. (Repealed)

25-5-316. Penalty for violation.

25-5-317. Rules and regulations.

PART 4
PURE FOOD AND DRUG LAW

25-5-401. Short title.

25-5-402. Definitions.

25-5-403. Offenses.

25-5-404. Injunction.

25-5-405. Penalties.

25-5-406. Tagging articles misbranded or adulterated.

25-5-407. Duties of district attorney.

25-5-408. Discretion as to warning.

25-5-409. Regulations.

25-5-410. Definitions of "adulterated".

25-5-411. Definitions of "misbranding" - food.

25-5-412. Issuance of permits.

25-5-413. Limit of adulteration - rule or regulation.

25-5-414. Adulterations.

25-5-415. Misbranding of drugs or devices - exemption - definition.

25-5-416. Adulteration of cosmetics.

25-5-417. Misbranding of cosmetics.

25-5-418. Advertisements.

25-5-419. Packaging and labeling of consumer commodities.

25-5-420. Enforcement.

25-5-421. Inspections.

25-5-422. Reports and information.

25-5-423. Cooperation with federal agencies.

25-5-424. Review.

25-5-425. Application of part 4.

25-5-426. Wholesale food manufacturing and storage - definitions - legislative declaration - registration - fees - cash fund.

25-5-427. Classes of hemp-derived compounds and cannabinoids - definitions - registration required - prohibitions - safe harbor - rules.

25-5-428. Misbranding of cell-cultivated meat as meat product prohibited - labeling of cell-cultivated meat required - definitions - inspections - stop orders - embargo orders - enforcement - rules.

25-5-429. Chemicals used in hair relaxers and hair pieces - warning labels - deceptive trade practice - short title - rules - definitions.

PART 5
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

25-5-501. Short title.

25-5-502. Definitions.

25-5-503. Prohibited acts.

25-5-504. Penalties.

25-5-505. Injunction proceedings.

25-5-506. Embargo and seizure.

25-5-507. Duties of district attorney.

25-5-508. Regulations.

25-5-509. Examinations - investigations.

25-5-510. Records of shipment.

25-5-511. Publicity.

25-5-512. Exception - discretion as to reporting.

PART 6
SALE OF EYEGLASSES AND SUNGLASSES

25-5-601 to

25-5-604. (Repealed)

PART 7
PASSENGER TRAMWAY SAFETY

25-5-701 to

25-5-721. (Repealed)

PART 8
SWIMMING AREAS

25-5-801. Definitions.

25-5-802. Submission of plans and specifications.

25-5-803. Sanitation of swimming areas.

25-5-804. Safety standards for swimming areas.

25-5-805. Connection with potable water.

25-5-806. Inspection.

25-5-807. Injunctive relief.

25-5-808. Municipalities may regulate.

25-5-809. Applicability of part 8.

25-5-810. Rules and regulations.

PART 9
DANGEROUS DRUGS - THERAPEUTIC USE

25-5-901 to

25-5-907. (Repealed)

PART 10
ARTIFICIAL TANNING DEVICES

25-5-1001. Short title.

25-5-1002. Legislative declaration.

25-5-1003. Definitions.

25-5-1004. Registration required - fee - artificial tanning device education fund - creation.

25-5-1005. Exemptions.

25-5-1006. Rule-making authority - board.

25-5-1007. Owner responsibilities.

25-5-1008. Complaints - investigation.

25-5-1009. Penalties.

25-5-1010. Enforcement.

25-5-1011. Assumption of risk inapplicable.

PART 11
PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, AND REDUCTION OF LEAD EXPOSURE

25-5-1101. Legislative declaration.

25-5-1102. Definitions.

25-5-1103. Lead hazard reduction program.

25-5-1104. Comprehensive plan.

25-5-1105. Report. (Repealed)

25-5-1106. Acceptance of gifts, grants, and donations - lead hazard reduction cash fund.

PART 12
PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS CONTAINING MICROBEADS

25-5-1201. Preemption.

25-5-1202. Definitions.

25-5-1203. Personal care products containing microbeads - production, manufacture, and sale prohibited.

25-5-1204. Penalty for violation.

PART 13
FIREFIGHTING FOAMS AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

25-5-1301. Short title.

25-5-1302. Definitions.

25-5-1303. Restriction on sale of certain firefighting foams - exemptions.

25-5-1303.5. Restriction on use of certain firefighting foams - rules.

25-5-1304. Notification requirement.

25-5-1305. Notice of chemicals in personal protective equipment.

25-5-1306. Certificate of compliance.

25-5-1307. Civil penalty.

25-5-1308. Survey.

25-5-1309. Restriction on the use of certain firefighting foam at certain airports - definitions.

25-5-1310. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances grant program.

25-5-1311. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances take-back program.

25-5-1312. Reporting requirement.

PART 14
CLEAN LIGHTING

25-5-1401. Short title.

25-5-1402. Legislative declaration.

25-5-1403. Definitions.

25-5-1404. Scope and applicability.

25-5-1405. Prohibited lamps.

25-5-1406. Enforcement - verifications of compliance - civil action by attorney general - penalties.

PART 15
REGULATION OF SODIUM NITRITE

25-5-1501. Definitions.

25-5-1502. Sodium nitrite - restriction of sale - label requirements.

25-5-1503. Sale or transfer of covered products to commercial businesses.

25-5-1504. Label requirements.

25-5-1505. Records.

25-5-1506. Violations - penalties.

PART 16
LABELING OF GAS-FUELED STOVES

25-5-1601. Definitions.

25-5-1602. Labeling requirements - public information on the department's website.

25-5-1603. Enforcement - deceptive trade practice.

PART 1

PROPHYLACTICS

25-5-101 to 25-5-112. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire part repealed, p. 1057, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 1 was numbered as article 10 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 1 prior to its repeal in 1983, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 2

ENRICHMENT OF FLOUR AND BREAD

25-5-201. Legislative declaration.

The purpose of this part 2 is to protect so far as may be possible the health and well-being of the people of this state by providing for the enrichment of certain kinds of flour and bread in order to increase their content of certain essential vitamins and minerals. There will continue to be widespread deficiencies in the diets of our people unless such nutrients are contained in flour, bread, and rolls as provided in this part 2.

Source: L. 49: p. 429, § 1. CSA: C. 69, § 125. CRS 53: § 66-15-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-1.

25-5-202. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment of the state of Colorado.

(2) "Flour" includes and is limited to the foods commonly known in the milling and baking industries as:

(a) White flour, also known as wheat flour or plain flour;

(b) Bromated flour;

(c) Self-rising flour, also known as self-rising white flour or self-rising wheat flour; and

(d) Phosphated flour, also known as phosphated white flour or phosphated wheat flour, which includes whole wheat flour but excludes special flours not used for bread, roll, bun, or biscuit baking, such as specialty cake, pancake, and pastry flours.

(3) "Person" means an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an association, a joint-stock company, a trust, or any group of persons, whether incorporated or not, engaged in the commercial manufacture or sale of flour, white bread, or rolls.

(4) "Rolls" includes plain white rolls and buns of the semibread dough type, namely: Soft rolls, such as hamburger rolls, hot dog rolls, and parker house rolls; and hard rolls, such as Vienna rolls and kaiser rolls. It does not include yeast-raised sweet rolls or sweet buns made with fillings or coatings, such as cinnamon rolls or buns and butterfly rolls.

(5) "White bread" means any bread made with flour, as defined in paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section, whether baked in a pan or on a hearth or screen, which is commonly known or usually represented and sold as white bread, including Vienna bread, French bread, and Italian bread.

Source: L. 49: p. 429, § 2. CSA: C. 69, § 126. CRS 53: § 66-15-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-2. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2777, § 477, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-203. Content of flour.

(1) It is unlawful for any person to manufacture, mix, compound, sell, or offer for sale flour for human consumption in this state unless the following vitamins and minerals are contained in each pound of such flour: Not less than two milligrams and not more than two and five-tenths milligrams of thiamine; not less than one and two-tenths milligrams and not more than one and five-tenths milligrams of riboflavin; not less than sixteen milligrams and not more than twenty milligrams of niacin or niacin amide; not less than thirteen milligrams and not more than sixteen and five-tenths milligrams of iron (Fe), except in the case of self-rising flour which in addition to the above ingredients shall contain not less than five hundred milligrams and not more than one thousand five hundred milligrams of calcium (Ca).

(2) The terms of this section shall not apply to flour sold to distributors, bakers, or other processors if the purchaser furnishes to the seller a certificate, in such form as the department by regulation shall prescribe, certifying that such flour will be:

(a) Resold to a distributor, baker, or other processor;

(b) Used in the manufacture, mixing, or compounding of flour, white bread, or rolls enriched to meet the requirements of this part 2;

(c) Used in the manufacture of products other than flour, white bread, or rolls.

(2.5) Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, the department shall promulgate rules and regulations which shall establish standards for the production, manufacture, distribution, and sale of flour, white flour, wheat flour, and plain flour. Such rules shall include the requirement that all such flour sold be clearly and distinctly labeled "Flour", "White Flour", "Wheat Flour", or "Plain Flour". All such flour shall be produced, manufactured, distributed, and sold in accordance with such rules and standards; except that the department shall allow the distribution and sale in this state of such flour produced and manufactured in another state if such flour has been produced and manufactured under rules and standards similar to those of the department.

(3) It is unlawful for any purchaser to use or resell the flour so purchased in any manner other than as prescribed in this section.

Source: L. 49: p. 430, § 3. CSA: C. 69, § 127. CRS 53: § 66-15-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-3. L. 77: (2.5) added, p. 1287, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-204. Content of white bread or rolls.

It is unlawful for any person to manufacture, bake, sell, or offer for sale any white bread or rolls for human consumption in this state unless the following vitamins and minerals are contained in each pound of such bread or rolls: Not less than one and one-tenth milligrams and not more than one and eight-tenths milligrams of thiamine; not less than seven-tenths milligrams and not more than one and six-tenths milligrams of riboflavin; not less than ten milligrams and not more than fifteen milligrams of niacin or niacin amide; and not less than eight milligrams and not more than twelve and five-tenths milligrams of iron (Fe).

Source: L. 49: p. 430, § 4. CSA: C. 69, § 125. CRS 53: § 66-15-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-4.

25-5-205. Enforcement of part 2.

(1) The department is charged with the duty of enforcing the provisions of this part 2, and it is authorized to make, amend, or rescind rules, regulations, and orders for the efficient enforcement of this part 2.

(2) Whenever the vitamin and mineral requirements set forth in sections 25-5-203 and 25-5-204 are no longer in conformity with the legally established standards governing the interstate shipment of enriched flour and enriched white bread or enriched rolls, the department, in order to maintain uniformity between intrastate and interstate vitamin and mineral requirements for the foods within the provisions of this part 2, is authorized to modify or revise such requirements to conform with amended standards governing interstate shipments.

(3) (a) In the event of findings by the department that there is an existing or imminent shortage of any ingredient required by sections 25-5-203 and 25-5-204 and that because of such shortage the sale and distribution of flour or white bread or rolls may be impeded by the enforcement of this part 2, the department shall issue an order, to be effective immediately upon issuance, permitting the omission of such ingredient from flour or white bread or rolls and, if it is found necessary or appropriate, excepting such foods from labeling requirements until further order of the department. Any such findings may be made without hearing on the basis of factual information supplied to or obtained by the department. Furthermore, the department, on its own motion, may hold a public hearing and, upon receiving the sworn statements of ten or more persons subject to this part 2 that they believe such a shortage exists or is imminent, within twenty days thereafter, shall hold a public hearing with respect thereto at which any interested person may present evidence; and it shall make findings based upon the evidence presented. The department shall publish notice of any such hearing at least ten days prior thereto.

(b) Whenever the department has reason to believe that such shortage no longer exists, it shall hold a public hearing, after at least ten days' notice has been given, at which any interested person may present evidence, and it shall make findings based upon the evidence so presented. If its findings are that such shortage no longer exists, it shall issue an order, to become effective not less than thirty days after publication thereof, revoking such previous order; but undisposed floor stocks of flour on hand at the effective date of such revocation order or flour manufactured prior to such effective date for sale in this state may thereafter be lawfully sold or disposed of.

(4) All orders, rules, and regulations adopted by the department pursuant to this part 2 shall be published in the manner prescribed in subsection (5) of this section and, within the limits specified by this part 2, shall become effective upon such date as the department shall fix.

(5) Whenever under this part 2 publication of any notice, order, rule, or regulation is required, such publication shall be made at least once in at least one daily newspaper of general circulation printed and published in this state.

(6) For the purpose of this part 2, the department, or such officers or employees under its supervision as it may designate, is authorized to take samples for analysis; and to conduct examinations and investigations; and to enter, at reasonable times, any factory, mill, bakery, warehouse, shop, or establishment where flour, white bread, or rolls are manufactured, processed, packed, sold, or held, or any vehicle being used for the transportation thereof; and to inspect any such place or vehicle and any flour, white bread, or rolls therein and all pertinent equipment, materials, containers, and labeling.

Source: L. 49: p. 431, § 5. CSA: C. 69, § 129. CRS 53: § 66-15-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-5.

25-5-206. Penalty.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this part 2 or the orders or rules promulgated by the department under authority thereof commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 49: p. 432, § 6. CSA: C. 69, § 130. CRS 53: § 66-15-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-15-6. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3235, § 457, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

PART 3

MATTRESSES AND BEDDING

25-5-301. Short title.

This part 3 shall be known and may be cited as the "Bedding Act".

Source: L. 41: p. 718, § 18. CSA: C. 78, § 206. CRS 53: § 66-17-17. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-17.

25-5-302. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Bedding" means any quilted pad, packing pad, mattress pad, hammock pad, mattress, comforter, bunk quilt, sleeping bag, box spring, studio couch, pillow, or cushion, any bag or container made of leather, cloth, or any other material, or any other device that is stuffed or filled in whole or in part with any concealed material in addition to the structural units and filling material used therein and its container, all of which can be used by any human being for sleeping or reclining purposes.

(2) "New material" means any material which has not been formerly used in the manufacture of another article or used for any other purpose.

(3) "Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, or association.

(4) "Previously used material" means any material which has been used in the manufacture of another article or previously used for any other purpose.

(5) "Secondhand" means any article of bedding which has been previously used but not remade before it is offered for resale.

(6) "Sell" and "sold", in the corresponding tense, include: Sell, offer to sell, or deliver or consign in sale, or possess with intent to sell, deliver or consign in sale, including bedding stored in warehouses for ultimate purpose of sale.

Source: L. 41: p. 713, § 1. CSA: C. 78, § 190. CRS 53: § 66-17-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-1. L. 90: (1) amended, p. 1315, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-303. Restrictions.

No person shall sell or distribute any bedding or bedding materials which are not clean or which may be deemed injurious to the public's health.

Source: L. 41: p. 714, § 2. CSA: C. 78, § 191. CRS 53: § 66-17-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-2. L. 90: Entire section R&RE, p. 1315, § 2, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Applied in Ramos v. Lamm, 485 F. Supp. 122 (D. Colo. 1979).

25-5-304. Sale of bedding exposed to contagion. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 714, § 3. CSA: C. 78, § 192. CRS 53: § 66-17-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-3. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-305. Disinfection.

(1) No person engaged in manufacturing, remaking, or renovating bedding for sale or distribution shall use any previously used material which since last used has not been disinfected by a method approved by the department of public health and environment.

(2) No person shall knowingly sell any bedding containing animal material, including but not limited to hair, feathers, down, or wool, which has not been disinfected by a method approved by the department of health prior to being incorporated into such bedding.

(3) Repealed.

Source: L. 41: p. 714, § 4. CSA: C. 78, § 193. CRS 53: § 66-17-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-4. L. 90: (1) and (2) amended and (3) repealed, pp. 1315, 1317, §§ 3, 8, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2777, § 478, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-306. Receiving bedding to be remade. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 715, § 5. CSA: C. 78, § 194. CRS 53: § 66-17-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-5. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-307. Tagging.

(1) No person shall sell bedding or materials therefor to which is not securely sewn by at least one edge a cloth or clothbacked tag at least two inches by three inches in size.

(2) Upon said tag shall be legibly stamped or printed in English in letters at least one-eighth of an inch high:

(a) If the materials used in the manufacture of the article of bedding to which the label is to be attached are entirely new, the label shall be as follows: "The materials used in the manufacture of this mattress (or other article of bedding) are entirely new."

(b) If the materials used in the manufacture of the article to which the label is to be attached are partially or wholly previously used materials, the label shall be as follows: "The materials used in the manufacture of this mattress (or other article of bedding) are previously used materials and have been disinfected."

(c) If the article to which the label is to be attached is secondhand, the label shall be as follows: "This mattress (or other article of bedding) is secondhand."

(3) In addition to the requirements of subsections (1) and (2) of this section, every label shall bear the name and address of the manufacturer or vendor of the article of bedding to which it is attached and the name of the material used to fill such article of bedding.

(4) Nothing likely to mislead shall appear on said tag. The tag shall contain all statements required by this section, and it shall be sewn to the outside covering of every article of bedding sold, manufactured, or remade.

(5) The tagging requirement of this section shall not apply to any individual selling his own personal articles of bedding to another individual.

Source: L. 41: p. 715, § 6. CSA: C. 78, § 195. CRS 53: § 66-17-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-6. L. 90: (1), (2)(a), (2)(b), (2)(c), and (5) amended, p. 1316, § 4, effective July 1.

25-5-308. Removing or defacing tag or stamp. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 716, § 7. CSA: C. 78, § 196. CRS 53: § 66-17-7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-7. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-309. Administered by department.

(1) The department of public health and environment is charged with the administration and enforcement of this part 3.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 41: p. 716, § 8. CSA: C. 78, § 197. CRS 53: § 66-17-8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-8. L. 75: Entire section amended, p. 877, § 1, effective July 14. L. 90: (1) amended and (2) repealed, pp. 1316, 1317, §§ 5, 8, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2777, § 479, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-310. License. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 716, § 9. CSA: C. 78, § 198. CRS 53: § 66-17-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-9. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-311. Disposition of moneys. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 716, § 10. CSA: C. 78, § 199. CRS 53: § 66-17-10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-10. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-312. Appropriation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 716, § 11. CSA: C. 78, § 200. CRS 53: § 66-17-11. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-11. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-313. Posting of license. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 717, § 12. CSA: C. 78, § 201. CRS 53: § 66-17-12. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-12. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-314. Enforcement.

The department of public health and environment shall enforce this part 3 upon complaint or upon request by a consumer. The department of public health and environment, as often as necessary, may inspect any place where bedding is made, remade, renovated, or sold or where material is disinfected under this part 3. If the department has reason to believe that any article of bedding is not tagged as required by this part 3, the department has the authority to open the same and examine the materials therein to determine if said filling is as stated on said tag; except that, in opening such bedding, the department shall use reasonable means not to damage the same or destroy the value thereof. The department also has the power to examine any purchase records necessary to determine definitely the kind of material used in said bedding, and the department has the power to seize and hold for evidence any article or material therein possessed or offered for sale contrary to this part 3. The department of public health and environment may thereafter commence an action against any violator pursuant to section 25-5-316.

Source: L. 41: p. 717, § 13. CSA: C. 78, § 202. CRS 53: § 66-17-13. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-13. L. 90: Entire section amended, p. 1317, § 6, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2777, § 480, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-315. Violation - what constitutes. (Repealed)

Source: L. 41: p. 717, § 14. CSA: C. 78, § 203. CRS 53: § 66-17-14. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-14. L. 90: Entire section repealed, p. 1317, § 8, effective July 1.

25-5-316. Penalty for violation.

Any person who violates any provision of this part 3 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than one thousand dollars. Such penalty shall be determined and collected by the district court for the judicial district in which such violation occurs upon an action instituted by the department of public health and environment. In determining the amount of any such penalty, the court shall take into account the seriousness of the violation, whether the violation was willful or due to a mistake, the economic impact of the penalty upon the violator, and any other relevant factors. All penalties collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer and credited to the general fund. The court may also order that the violator pay any court costs of such action, and the court may order that the violator pay restitution to any person damaged by such violation. Any person damaged by a violation of this part 3 may maintain a civil suit for damages against any violator responsible for such damages.

Source: L. 41: p. 717, § 15. CSA: C. 78, § 204. CRS 53: § 66-17-15. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-15. L. 90: Entire section R&RE, p. 1317, § 7, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2778, § 481, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-317. Rules and regulations.

The department of public health and environment shall have the right to promulgate rules and regulations deemed necessary for the proper enforcement of this part 3 and not inconsistent therewith.

Source: L. 41: p. 718, § 16. CSA: C. 78, § 205. CRS 53: § 66-17-16. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-17-16. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2778, § 482, effective July 1.

Cross references: (1) For rule-making procedures, see article 4 of title 24.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

PART 4

PURE FOOD AND DRUG LAW

Cross references: For authority of the governor in regard to food control, see article 30 of title 35; for destruction of food products, see article 31 of title 35.

Law reviews: For article, "What's in the Package: Food, Beverage, and Dietary Supplement Law and Litigation Part I", see 43 Colo. Law. 77 (July 2014).

25-5-401. Short title.

This part 4 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Food and Drug Act".

Source: L. 57: p. 424, § 1. CRS 53: § 66-22-1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-1.

ANNOTATION

Public policy declared. This part 4 and article 60 of title 35 declare the public policy of Colorado with respect to the protection of the public against the manufacture and sale of food and foodstuffs, including livestock feeds, containing deleterious elements or ingredients which cannot be known or determined by the public. White v. Rose, 241 F.2d 94 (10th Cir. 1957).

Duty imposed on livestock feed manufacturers. This part 4 imposes a broad and far-reaching duty upon manufacturers of livestock feeds for the benefit of those who use the product and who are the real sufferers if the statute is violated. White v. Rose, 241 F.2d 94 (10th Cir. 1957).

Negligence per se. To recover under a theory of negligence per se, plaintiff was required to prove that violation of the "Colorado Food and Drug Act" caused her injuries. Palmer v. A.H. Robins Co., Inc., 684 P.2d 187 (Colo. 1984).

25-5-402. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Advertisement" means all representations disseminated in any manner or by any means, other than by labeling, for the purpose of inducing, or which are likely to induce, directly or indirectly, the purchase of food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics.

(2) "Color" includes black, white, and intermediate grays.

(3) (a) "Color additive" means a material which:

(I) Is a dye, pigment, or other substance made by a process of synthesis or similar artifice or extracted, isolated, or otherwise derived, with or without intermediate or final change of identity, from a vegetable, animal, mineral, or other source; and

(II) When added or applied to a food, drug, or cosmetic or to the human body or any part thereof, is capable (alone or through reaction with other substance) of imparting color thereto; except that such term does not include any material which is exempted under the federal act.

(b) Nothing in this subsection (3) shall be construed to apply to any pesticide chemical, soil or plant nutrient, or other agricultural chemical solely because of its effect in aiding, retarding, or otherwise affecting, directly or indirectly, the growth or other natural physiological process or produce of the soil and thereby affecting its color, whether before or after harvest.

(4) "Consumer commodity", except as otherwise specifically provided in this subsection (4), means any food, drug, cosmetic, or device. Such term does not include:

(a) Any tobacco or tobacco product;

(b) Any commodity subject to packaging or labeling requirements imposed under article 9 of title 35, C.R.S., being known as the "Pesticide Act", or imposed by the secretary of agriculture under the "Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act", as amended (7 U.S.C. sec. 136 et seq.), or under the federal "Animal Virus, Serum, Toxin, Antitoxin Act" (21 U.S.C. secs. 151-158);

(c) Any drug subject to the provisions of section 25-5-415 (1)(m) or of 21 U.S.C. sec. 353 (b)(1) or 356;

(d) Any beverage subject to or complying with packaging or labeling requirements imposed under the "Federal Alcohol Administration Act" (27 U.S.C. secs. 201-211); or

(e) Any commodity subject to the provisions of article 27 of title 35, C.R.S., concerning seeds.

(5) "Contaminated with filth" applies to any food, drug, cosmetic, or device not securely protected from dust, dirt, and, as far as may be necessary by all reasonable means, from all foreign or injurious contaminations.

(6) "Cosmetic" means articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance or articles intended for use as a component of any such articles; except that such term does not include soap.

(7) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(8) "Device", except when used in subsection (23) of this section and in sections 25-5-403 (1)(j), 25-5-411 (1)(g), 25-5-415 (1)(d), and 25-5-417 (1)(d), means instruments, apparatus, and contrivances, including their components, parts, and accessories, intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animals or to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animals.

(9) "Drug" means:

(a) Articles recognized in the official United States pharmacopoeia, official homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, official national formulary, or any supplement to any of them;

(b) Articles intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animals;

(c) Articles, other than food, intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animals;

(d) Articles intended for use as a component of any article specified in paragraph (a), (b), or (c) of this subsection (9) but does not include devices or their components, parts, or accessories.

(10) "Federal act" means the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act" (21 U.S.C. sec. 301 et seq., 52 Stat. 1040).

(11) "Food" means articles used for food or drink for man or other animals, chewing gum, and articles used for components of any such article.

(12) "Food additive" means any substance, the intended use of which results or may be reasonably expected to result, directly or indirectly, in its becoming a component or otherwise affecting the characteristics of any food (including any substance intended for use in producing, manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging, transporting, or holding food and including any source of radiation intended for any such use) if such substance is not generally recognized among experts qualified by scientific training and experience to evaluate its safety as having been adequately shown through scientific procedures (or, in the case of a substance used in a food prior to January 1, 1958, through either scientific procedures or experience based on common use in food) to be safe under the conditions of its intended use. The term does not include:

(a) A pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity;

(b) A pesticide chemical to the extent that it is intended for use or is used in the production, storage, or transportation of any raw agricultural commodity;

(c) A color additive; or

(d) Any substance used in accordance with a sanction or approval granted prior to the enactment of the amendment to the federal act known as the "Food Additives Amendment of 1958", the "Poultry Products Inspection Act" (21 U.S.C. secs. 451-470), or the "Federal Meat Inspection Act", as amended and extended (21 U.S.C. secs. 603-623).

(13) "Immediate container" does not include package liners.

(14) "Label" means a display of written, printed, or graphic matter upon the immediate container of any article; and by or under the authority of this part 4 a requirement that any word, statement, or other information appear on the label shall not be considered to be complied with unless such word, statement, or other information also appears on the outside container or wrapper, if any, of the retail package of such article or is easily legible through the outside container or wrapper.

(15) "Labeling" means all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter upon an article or any of its containers or wrappers, or accompanying such article.

(16) "Official compendium" means the official United States pharmacopoeia, official homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, official national formulary, or any supplement to any of them.

(17) "Package" means any container or wrapping in which any consumer commodity is enclosed for use in the delivery or display of that consumer commodity to retail purchasers. The term does not include:

(a) Shipping containers or wrappings used solely for the transportation of any consumer commodity in bulk or in quantity to manufacturers, packers, or processors, or to wholesale or retail distributors thereof; or

(b) Shipping containers or outer wrappings used by retailers to ship or deliver any commodity to retail customers if such containers or wrappers bear no printed matter pertaining to any particular commodity.

(18) "Person" includes an individual, partnership, corporation, and association.

(19) "Pesticide chemical" means any substance which alone, in chemical combination, or in formulation with one or more other substances is a pesticide within the meaning of section 35-9-102 (21), C.R.S., and which is used in the production, storage, or transportation of raw agricultural commodities.

(20) "Principal display panel" means that part of a label that is most likely to be displayed, presented, shown, or examined under normal and customary conditions of display for retail sale.

(21) "Raw agricultural commodity" means any food in its raw or natural state, including all fruits that are washed, colored, or otherwise treated in their unpeeled natural form prior to marketing.

(22) "Safe", as used in subsection (12) of this section, has reference to the health of man or animal.

(23) If an article is alleged to be misbranded because the labeling is misleading or if an advertisement is alleged to be false because it is misleading, then, in determining whether the labeling or advertisement is misleading, there shall be taken into account all representations made or suggested by statement, work, design, device, sound, or any combination thereof, and also the extent to which the labeling or advertisement fails to reveal facts material in the light of such representations or material with respect to consequences which may result from the use of the article to which the labeling or advertisement relates under the conditions of use prescribed in the labeling or advertisement thereof or under such conditions of use as are customary or usual.

(24) The representation of a drug, in its labeling or advertisement, as an antiseptic shall be considered to be a representation that it is a germicide, except in the case of a drug purporting to be, or represented as being, an antiseptic for inhibitory use which involves prolonged contact with the body.

(25) The provisions of this part 4 regarding the selling of food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics shall be considered to include the manufacture, production, processing, packing, exposure, offer, possession, and holding of any such article for sale; and the sale, dispensing, and giving of any such article; and the supplying or applying of any such articles in the conduct of any food, drug, or cosmetic establishment.

Source: L. 57: p. 424, § 2. CRS 53: § 66-22-2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-2. L. 70: p. 197, § 1. L. 94: (7) amended, p. 2778, § 483, effective July 1. L. 2020: (4)(b) and (12)(d) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1054, § 53, effective June 30.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (7), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-403. Offenses.

(1) The following acts and the causing thereof within this state are prohibited:

(a) The manufacture, sale, or delivery or the holding or offering for sale of any food, drug, device, or cosmetic that is adulterated or misbranded;

(b) The adulteration or misbranding of any food, drug, device, or cosmetic;

(c) The receipt in commerce of any food, drug, device, or cosmetic that is adulterated or misbranded and the delivery or proffered delivery thereof for pay or otherwise;

(d) The sale, delivery for sale, holding for sale, or offering for sale of any article in violation of section 25-5-412;

(e) The dissemination of any false or misleading advertisement;

(f) The refusal to permit entry, inspection, or the taking of a sample, as authorized by section 25-5-421;

(g) The giving of a false guaranty or undertaking except by a person who relied on a guaranty or undertaking to the same effect signed by and containing the name and address of the person residing in the United States from whom he received in good faith the food, drug, device, or cosmetic;

(h) The removal or disposal of a detained or embargoed article in violation of section 25-5-406;

(i) The alteration, mutilation, destruction, obliteration, or removal of the whole or any part of the labeling of or the doing of any other act with respect to a food, drug, device, or cosmetic which results in such article being adulterated or misbranded, if such act is done while such article is being stored or held for sale;

(j) Forging, counterfeiting, simulating, falsely representing, or without proper authority using any mark, stamp, tag, label, or other identification device required by this part 4 or by regulations promulgated under the provisions of this part 4;

(k) The distribution or causing to be distributed in commerce of any consumer commodity if such commodity is contained in a package or if there is affixed to that commodity a label which does not conform to the provisions of this part 4 and of regulations promulgated pursuant to this part 4; except that this prohibition shall not apply to persons engaged in business as wholesale or retail distributors of consumer commodities except to the extent that such persons:

(I) Are engaged in the packaging or labeling of such commodities; or

(II) Prescribe or specify by any means the manner in which such commodities are packaged or labeled;

(l) The using by any person to his own advantage or the revealing, other than to the executive director of the department or his authorized representative or to the courts, when relevant in any judicial proceeding under this part 4, of any information acquired under authority of this part 4 concerning any method or process which as a trade secret is entitled to protection.

(2) It is prohibited for any person to sell, give, or in any way furnish to another person who is under the age of twenty-one years any confectionery which contains alcohol in excess of one-half of one percent by volume.

(3) Repealed.

Source: L. 57: p. 426, § 3. CRS 53: § 66-22-3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-3. L. 70: p. 199, § 2. L. 89: (2) added, p. 708, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2010: (3) added, (HB 10-1284), ch. 355, p. 1684, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1023), ch. 55, p. 589, § 19, effective October 1. L. 2019: (3) repealed, (SB 19-224), ch. 315, p. 2940, § 25, effective January 1, 2020.

ANNOTATION

Common-law offense. The selling of unwholesome provisions to be used for human consumption was an indictable offense at common law. Ferch v. People, 101 Colo. 471, 74 P.2d 712 (1937).

Duty to warn where product may produce allergic reaction. Where a cosmetic contains an ingredient to which a substantial number of the population are allergic, and the ingredient is one whose danger is not generally known or which the consumer would reasonably not expect to find in the product, the seller is required to give warning against it, if he has knowledge, or by the application of reasonably developed human skill and foresight should have knowledge, of the presence of the ingredient and the danger. Howard v. Avon Prods., Inc., 155 Colo. 444, 395 P.2d 1007 (1964).

The duty to warn need not be predicated upon actual knowledge only, but there must be reasonable foreseeability of the danger from the product to sensitive users. Howard v. Avon Prods., Inc., 155 Colo. 444, 395 P.2d 1007 (1964).

Misbranding prohibition. The "Colorado Food and Drug Act" prohibition against misbranding applied to an intrauterine device distributed by prescription through a physician to the lay public. Palmer v. A.H. Robins Co. Inc., 684 P.2d 187 (Colo. 1984).

25-5-404. Injunction.

In addition to the remedies provided in this part 4, the department is authorized to apply to the district court of the district wherein the defendant resides or has his place of business for, and such court shall have jurisdiction upon hearing and for cause shown to grant, a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating any provision of section 25-5-403, irrespective of whether or not there exists an adequate remedy at law.

Source: L. 57: p. 427, § 4. CRS 53: § 66-22-4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-4.

25-5-405. Penalties.

(1) Any person who violates any of the provisions of section 25-5-403 (1) commits a class 2 misdemeanor. Each violation shall be considered a separate offense.

(2) No person shall be subject to the penalties of subsection (1) of this section for having violated section 25-5-403 (1)(a) or (1)(c) if he establishes a valid guaranty or undertaking signed by and containing the name and address of the person residing in the United States from whom he received in good faith the article to the effect that such article is not adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this part 4, designating this part 4.

(3) No publisher, radio-broadcast licensee, television licensee, or agency or medium for the dissemination of an advertisement, except the manufacturer, packer, distributor, or seller of the article to which a false advertisement relates, shall be liable under this section by reason of the dissemination by him of such false advertisement unless he refuses, on the request of the department, to furnish the department the name and post-office address of the manufacturer, packer, distributor, seller, or advertising agency residing in the United States who caused him to disseminate such advertisement.

(4) Any person who violates section 25-5-403 (2) commits a civil infraction.

Source: L. 57: p. 427, § 5. CRS 53: § 66-22-5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-5. L. 70: p. 213, § 17. L. 89: (4) amended, p. 709, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1) and (4) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3236, § 458, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a class 2 misdemeanor, see § 18-1.3-501; for the penalty for a civil infraction, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-5-406. Tagging articles misbranded or adulterated.

(1) Whenever a duly authorized agent of the department finds or has probable cause to believe that any food, drug, device, or cosmetic is adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this part 4, he shall affix to such article a tag or other appropriate marking giving notice that such article is, or is suspected of being, adulterated or misbranded and has been detained or embargoed and warning all persons not to remove or dispose of such article by sale or otherwise until provision for removal or disposal is given by the department or such agent or the court. No person shall remove or dispose of such embargoed article by sale or otherwise without the permission of the department or its agent or, after summary proceedings have been instituted, without permission from the court. If the embargo is removed by the department or by the court, neither the department nor the state shall be held liable for damages because of such embargo in the event that the court finds that there was probable cause for the embargo.

(2) When an article detained or embargoed under subsection (1) of this section has been found by such agent to be adulterated or misbranded, he shall petition the judge of the district court in whose jurisdiction the article is detained or embargoed for an order for condemnation of such article. When such agent finds that an article so detained or embargoed is not adulterated or misbranded, he shall remove the tag or other marking.

(3) If the court finds that a detained or embargoed article is adulterated or misbranded, such article shall, after entry of the decree, be destroyed at the expense of the claimant thereof, under the supervision of such agent, and all court costs and fees and storage and other proper expense shall be taxed against the claimant of such article or his agent; except that, when the adulteration or misbranding can be corrected by proper labeling or processing of the article, the court, after entry of the decree and after such costs, fees, and expenses have been paid and a good and sufficient bond, conditioned that such article shall be so labeled or processed, has been executed, may by order direct that such article be delivered to the claimant thereof for such labeling or processing under the supervision of an agent of the department. The expense of such supervision shall be paid by the claimant. Such bond shall be returned to the claimant of the article on representation to the court by the department that the article is no longer in violation of this part 4 and that the expenses of such supervision have been paid.

(4) Whenever the department or any of its authorized agents find in any room, building, vehicle of transportation, or other structure any meat, seafood, poultry, vegetable, fruit, or other perishable articles which are unsound or contain any filthy, decomposed, or putrid substance or which may be poisonous or deleterious to health or otherwise unsafe, the same being hereby declared to be a nuisance, the department or its authorized agent shall forthwith condemn or destroy the same or in any other manner render the same unsalable as human food.

Source: L. 57: p. 428, § 6. CRS 53: § 66-22-6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-6. L. 64: p. 273, § 179.

25-5-407. Duties of district attorney.

It is the duty of each district attorney to whom the department reports any violation of this part 4 to cause appropriate proceedings to be instituted in the proper courts without delay and to be prosecuted in the manner required by law.

Source: L. 57: p. 429, § 7. CRS 53: § 66-22-7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-7.

25-5-408. Discretion as to warning.

Nothing in this part 4 shall be construed as requiring the department to report, for the institution of proceedings under this part 4, minor violations of this part 4 whenever the department believes that the public interest will be adequately served in the circumstances by a suitable written notice or warning.

Source: L. 57: p. 429, § 8. CRS 53: § 66-22-8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-8.

25-5-409. Regulations.

(1) Definitions and standards of identity, quality, and fill of container for any food adopted under authority of the federal act are the definitions and standards of identity, quality, and fill of container in this state. However, when, in its judgment, such action will promote honesty and fair dealing in the interest of consumers, the department may promulgate additional regulations establishing definitions and standards of identity, quality, and fill of container for foods which are not subject to any federal regulations. Any definition or standard of identity, quality, or fill of container promulgated under this subsection (1) which is in addition to federal definitions and standards shall constitute a regulation of the department, and it shall be subject to the requirements of section 25-5-420 concerning the procedures for promulgating such regulations. The department may promulgate amendments to any federal or state regulations which set definitions and standards of identity, quality, and fill of container for foods in the same manner as is provided for their adoption.

(2) Temporary permits granted under the federal act for interstate shipment of experimental packs of food varying from the requirements of federal definitions and standards of identity are automatically effective in this state under the conditions provided in such permits. The department may issue additional permits if they are necessary to the completion or conclusiveness of an otherwise adequate investigation and if the interests of consumers are safeguarded. Such permits are subject to the terms and conditions the department may prescribe by regulation.

Source: L. 57: p. 429, § 9. CRS 53: § 66-22-9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-9. L. 70: p. 199, § 3.

Cross references: For rule-making and licensing procedures, see article 4 of title 24.

25-5-410. Definitions of "adulterated".

(1) A food is deemed to be adulterated:

(a) If it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health; but, in case the substance is not an added substance, such food shall not be considered adulterated under this paragraph (a) if the quantity of such substance in such food does not ordinarily render it injurious to health;

(b) (I) If it bears or contains any added poisonous or added deleterious substance which is unsafe within the meaning of section 25-5-413; except that a pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity, a food additive, or a color additive shall not be deemed a poisonous or deleterious substance within the meaning of this paragraph (b);

(II) If it is a raw agricultural commodity and it bears or contains a pesticide chemical which is unsafe within the meaning of section 25-5-413 (1); but, if a pesticide chemical has been used in or on a raw agricultural commodity in conformity with an exemption granted or tolerance prescribed under section 25-5-413 (2) and such raw agricultural commodity has been subjected to processing such as canning, cooking, freezing, dehydrating, or milling, the residue of such pesticide chemical remaining in or on such processed food, notwithstanding the provisions of section 25-5-413 (1) and this subparagraph (II), shall not be deemed unsafe if such residue in or on the raw agricultural commodity has been removed to the extent possible in good manufacturing practice and the concentration of such residue in the processed food when ready to eat is not greater than the tolerance prescribed for the raw agricultural commodity; or

(III) If it is, or it bears or contains any food additive which is, unsafe within the meaning of section 25-5-413 (1);

(c) If it consists in whole or in part of a diseased, contaminated, filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance or if it is otherwise unfit for food;

(d) If it is produced, prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions whereby it may be contaminated with filth or rendered diseased, unwholesome, or injurious to health;

(e) If it is, in whole or in part, the product of a diseased animal or an animal which has died otherwise than by slaughter or which has been fed upon the uncooked offal from a slaughterhouse;

(f) If its container is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render the contents injurious to health;

(g) If it has been intentionally subjected to radiation unless the use of the radiation was in conformity with a regulation or exemption in effect pursuant to section 25-5-413 or 21 U.S.C. sec. 348;

(h) (I) If any valuable constituent has been in whole or in part omitted or abstracted therefrom;

(II) If any substance has been substituted wholly or in part therefor;

(III) If damage or inferiority has been concealed in any manner;

(IV) If any substance has been added thereto or mixed or packed therewith so as to increase its bulk or weight, or reduce its quality or strength, or make it appear better or of greater value than it is;

(i) If it is confectionery and:

(I) Has partially or completely imbedded therein any nonnutritive object; but this subparagraph (I) shall not apply in the case of any nonnutritive object if, in the judgment of the department as provided by regulations, such object is of practical functional value to the confectionery product and does not render the product injurious or hazardous to health;

(II) Bears or contains any alcohol other than alcohol not in excess of six and twenty-five hundredths percent by volume or five percent by weight; or

(III) Bears or contains any nonnutritive substance; but this subparagraph (III) shall not apply to a safe nonnutritive substance which is in or on confectionery by reason of its use for some practical functional purpose in the manufacture, packaging, or storage of such confectionery if the use of the substance does not promote deception of the consumer or otherwise result in adulteration or misbranding in violation of any provision of this part 4; and, furthermore, the department, for the purpose of avoiding or resolving uncertainty as to the application of this subparagraph (III), may issue regulations allowing or prohibiting the use of particular nonnutritive substances;

(j) If it is, or it bears or contains a color additive which is, unsafe within the meaning of section 25-5-413 (1) or the federal act;

(k) If it is chopped or ground beef or hamburger and it contains any meat other than the voluntary striated muscle of beef, or the total fat content, derived solely from beef, is in excess of thirty percent, or it contains any substance other than those which the department has by regulation declared to be permitted optional ingredients;

(l) If it is fresh meat or a fresh meat product, or fresh poultry, parts thereof, or fresh poultry products, and contains any antiseptic or chemical preservative;

(m) If it is meat or a meat product and contains any artificial coloring or if it is contained in an artificially colored casing or wrapper; except that the department may by regulation establish the conditions of the use of artificial color in casings and wrappers;

(n) If it is pork sausage or pork breakfast sausage and the total fat content is in excess of fifty percent.

Source: L. 57: p. 430, § 10. CRS 53: § 66-22-10. L. 61: p. 171, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-10. L. 70: pp. 200, 201, §§ 4, 5. L. 89: (1)(i)(II) amended, p. 709, § 5, effective July 1.

25-5-411. Definitions of "misbranding" - food.

(1) A food is deemed to be misbranded:

(a) If its labeling is false or misleading in any particular;

(b) If its labeling or packaging fails to conform to the requirements of section 25-5-419;

(c) If it is offered for sale under the name of another food;

(d) If it is an imitation of another food, unless its label bears, in type of uniform size and prominence, the word "imitation" and, immediately thereafter, the name of the food imitated;

(e) If its container is so made, formed, or filled as to be misleading;

(f) If in package form, unless it bears a label containing:

(I) The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor; and

(II) An accurate statement of the net quantity of the contents in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count, which statement shall be separately and accurately stated in a uniform location upon the principal display panel of the label; but, as to such terms of quantity, reasonable variations shall be permitted, and exemptions as to small packages shall be established by regulation prescribed by the department;

(g) If any word, statement, or other information required by or under authority of this part 4 to appear on the label or labeling is not prominently placed thereon with such conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices in the labeling) and in such terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use;

(h) If it purports to be or is represented as a food for which a definition and standard of identity is prescribed by regulations as provided by section 25-5-409, unless it conforms to such definition and standard and its label bears the name of the food specified in the definition and standard and, insofar as may be required by such regulations, the common names of optional ingredients (other than spices, flavoring, and coloring) present in such food;

(i) If it purports to be or is represented as:

(I) A food for which a standard of quality has been prescribed by regulations as provided by section 25-5-409 and its quality falls below such standard, unless its label bears, in such manner and form as regulations specify, a statement that it falls below such standard; or

(II) A food for which a standard of fill of container is prescribed by regulations as provided by section 25-5-409 and it falls below the standard of fill of container applicable thereto, unless its label bears, in such manner and form as such regulations specify, a statement that it falls below such standard;

(j) If it is not subject to the provisions of paragraph (h) of this section, unless it bears labeling clearly giving the common or usual name of the food, if any, and, if it is fabricated from two or more ingredients, the common or usual name of each such ingredient; except that spices, flavorings, and colorings, other than those sold as such, may be designated as spices, flavorings, and colorings without naming each; but, to the extent that compliance with the requirements as to such multiple names is impractical or results in deception or unfair competition, exemptions shall be established by regulations promulgated by the department. The requirements of this paragraph (j) shall not apply to food products which are packaged at the direction of purchasers at retail at the time of sale whose ingredients are disclosed to the purchasers by other means in accordance with regulations promulgated by the department.

(k) If it purports to be or is represented for special dietary uses, unless its label bears such information concerning its vitamin, mineral, and other dietary properties as the department determines to be and by regulations prescribes as necessary in order to fully inform purchasers as to its value for such uses;

(l) If it bears or contains any artificial flavoring, artificial coloring, or chemical preservative, unless it bears labeling stating that fact; but, to the extent that compliance with the requirements of this paragraph (l) is impracticable, exemptions shall be established by regulations promulgated by the department. The provisions of this paragraph (l) and paragraphs (h) and (j) of this subsection (1) with respect to artificial coloring do not apply to butter, cheese, or ice cream. The provisions of this paragraph (l) with respect to chemical preservatives do not apply to a pesticide chemical when used in or on a raw agricultural commodity which is the produce of the soil.

(m) If it is a product intended as an ingredient of another food and, when used according to the directions of the purveyor, will result in the final food product being adulterated or misbranded;

(n) If it is meat imported from without the boundaries of the United States or if it is a meat product containing such meat, unless it bears labeling stating the fact that it is imported meat or that it contains imported meat. Any person who sells or offers for sale in this state any meat imported from without the boundaries of the United States, or any meat product containing such imported meat, without labeling such meat or meat product stating that it is imported, or contains imported meat commits a petty offense.

(o) If it is a raw agricultural commodity which is the produce of the soil, bearing or containing a pesticide chemical applied after harvest, unless the shipping container of such commodity bears labeling which declares the presence of such chemical in or on such commodity and the common or usual name and the function of such chemical; except that no such declaration shall be required while such commodity, having been removed from the shipping container, is being held or displayed for sale at retail out of such container in accordance with the custom of the trade;

(p) If it is a color additive, unless its packaging and labeling are in conformity with such packaging and labeling requirements applicable to such color additive as may be contained in regulations issued pursuant to the provisions of the federal act;

(q) If the food is cell-cultivated meat or contains cell-cultivated meat and is misbranded as a meat product in violation of section 25-5-428; or

(r) If the food is cell-cultivated meat or contains cell-cultivated meat and is not clearly labeled as cell-cultivated meat in violation of section 25-5-428.

(2) Foods which, in accordance with the practice of the trade, are to be processed, labeled, or repacked in substantial quantities at establishments other than those where originally processed or packed shall be exempt from any labeling requirements under this section if such food is not adulterated or misbranded under any provision of this part 4 upon removal from such processing, labeling, or repacking establishment. Regulations adopted under authority of the federal act (21 U.S.C. sec. 345) relating to such exemptions are automatically effective in this state. The department may promulgate additional regulations or amendments to existing regulations concerning such exemptions, but the department may not promulgate any regulation which has the effect of allowing any food which is subject to federal labeling requirements to be exempt from labeling requirements under the law of this state.

Source: L. 57: p. 431, § 11. CRS 53: § 66-22-11. L. 61: p. 416, § 1. L. 63: p. 539, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-11. L. 70: p. 201, § 6. L. 2021: (1)(n) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3236, § 459, effective March 1, 2022. L. 2025: IP(1) amended and (1)(q) and (1)(r) added, (HB 25-1203), ch. 83, p. 343, § 2, effective August 6.

Cross references: (1) For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 25-1203, see section 1 of chapter 83, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-5-412. Issuance of permits.

(1) Whenever the department finds after investigation that the distribution in this state of any class of food may, by reason of contamination with microorganisms during manufacture, processing, or packing thereof in any locality, be injurious to health and that such injurious nature cannot be adequately determined after such articles have entered commerce, it, then and in such case only, shall promulgate regulations providing for the issuance to manufacturers, processors, or packers of such class of food in such locality of permits to which shall be attached such conditions governing the manufacture, processing, or packing of such class of food for such temporary period of time as may be necessary to protect the public health; and, after the effective date of such regulations and during such temporary period, no person shall introduce or deliver for introduction into commerce any such food manufactured, processed, or packed by any such manufacturer, processor, or packer, unless such manufacturer, processor, or packer holds a permit issued by the department as provided by such regulations.

(2) The department is authorized to suspend immediately upon notice any permit issued under authority of this section if it is found that any of the conditions of the permit have been violated. The holder of a permit so suspended shall be privileged to apply at any time for the reinstatement of such permit, and the department shall, immediately after prompt hearing and inspection of the establishment, reinstate such permit if it is found that adequate measures have been taken to comply with and maintain the conditions of the permit as originally issued or as amended.

(3) Any officer or employee duly designated by the department shall have access to any factory or establishment, the operator of which holds such a permit from the department, for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the conditions of the permit are being complied with, and denial of access for such inspection shall be grounds for suspension of the permit until such access is freely given by the operator.

Source: L. 57: p. 433, § 12. CRS 53: § 66-22-12. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-12.

25-5-413. Limit of adulteration - rule or regulation.

(1) Any added poisonous or deleterious substance, food additive, pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity, or color additive, with respect to any particular use or intended use, shall be deemed unsafe for the purpose of application of section 25-5-410 (1)(b) with respect to any food, section 25-5-414 (1)(a) to (1)(f) with respect to any drug or device, or section 25-5-416 (1)(a) with respect to any cosmetic, unless there is in effect a regulation pursuant to section 25-5-419 or subsection (2) of this section limiting the quantity of such substance and the use or intended use of such substance is within the limits prescribed by such regulation. While such a regulation relating to such substance is in effect, a food, drug, or cosmetic, by reason of bearing or containing such substance in accordance with the regulations, shall not be considered adulterated within the meaning of section 25-5-410 (1)(b), 25-5-414 (1)(a) to (1)(f), or 25-5-416 (1)(a).

(2) The department, whenever public health or other considerations so require, is authorized to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations upon its own motion or upon the petition of any interested party, whether or not in accordance with regulations promulgated under the federal act. Such regulations may prescribe tolerances for any added poisonous or deleterious substances, food additives, pesticide chemicals in or on raw agricultural commodities, or color additives, including but not limited to zero tolerances. The department may prescribe exemptions from tolerances in the case of pesticide chemicals in or on raw agricultural commodities. The department may also promulgate regulations prescribing the conditions under which a food additive or a color additive may be safely used and exemptions if such food additive or color additive is to be used solely for investigational or experimental purposes. It shall be incumbent upon any petitioner to establish that a necessity exists for such regulation and that its effect will not be detrimental to the public health. If the data furnished by the petitioner are not sufficient to allow the department to determine whether such regulation should be promulgated, the department may require additional data to be submitted, and failure to comply with the request shall be sufficient grounds for denial of the request. In adopting, amending, or repealing regulations under this section, the department shall consider, among other relevant factors, the following, which the petitioner, if any, shall furnish:

(a) The name and all pertinent information concerning such substance, including, where available, its chemical identity and composition; a statement of the conditions of the proposed use, including directions, recommendations, suggestions, and specimens of proposed labeling; all relevant data bearing on the physical or other technical effects; and the quantity required to produce such effect;

(b) The probable composition of any substance formed in or on a food, drug, or cosmetic resulting from the use of such substance;

(c) The probable consumption of such substance in the diet of man and animals taking into account any chemically or pharmacologically related substance in such diet;

(d) Safety factors which, in the opinion of experts qualified by scientific training and experience to evaluate the safety of such substances for the uses for which they are proposed to be used, are generally recognized as appropriate for the use of animal experimentation data;

(e) The availability of any needed practicable methods of analysis for determining the identity and quantity of:

(I) Such substance in or on an article;

(II) Any substance formed in or on such article because of the use of such substance; and

(III) The pure substance and all intermediates and impurities;

(f) Facts supporting a contention that the proposed use of such substance will serve a useful purpose.

Source: L. 57: p. 433, § 13. CRS 53: § 66-22-13. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-13. L. 70: p. 203, § 7.

25-5-414. Adulterations.

(1) A drug or device shall be deemed to be adulterated:

(a) If it consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance;

(b) If it has been produced, prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions under which it may have been contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health;

(c) If it is a drug and the methods used in, or the facilities or controls used for, its manufacture, processing, packing, or holding do not conform to or are not operated or administered in conformity with current good manufacturing practice to assure that such drug meets the requirements of this part 4 as to safety and that such drug has the identity and strength and meets the quality and purity characteristics which it purports or is represented to possess;

(d) If it is a drug and its container is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render the contents injurious to health;

(e) If it is a drug and it bears or contains, for purposes of coloring only, a color additive which is unsafe within the meaning of the federal act or section 25-5-413 (1);

(f) If it is a color additive, the intended use of which in or on drugs is for purposes of coloring only, and is unsafe within the meaning of the federal act or section 25-5-413 (1);

(g) If it purports to be or is represented as a drug, the name of which is recognized in an official compendium, and its strength differs from, or its quality or purity falls below, the standard set forth in such compendium. Such determination as to strength, quality, or purity shall be made in accordance with the tests or methods of assay set forth in such compendium or, in case of the absence or inadequacy of such tests or methods of assay, those prescribed under authority of the federal act. No drug defined in an official compendium shall be deemed to be adulterated under this paragraph (g) because it differs from the standard of strength, quality, or purity therefor set forth in such compendium if its difference in strength, quality, or purity from such standard is plainly stated on its label. Whenever a drug is recognized in both the United States pharmacopoeia and the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, it shall be subject to the requirements of the United States pharmacopoeia unless it is labeled and offered for sale as a homeopathic drug, in which case it shall be subject to the provisions of the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States and not to those of the United States pharmacopoeia.

(h) If it is not subject to the provisions of paragraph (g) of this subsection (1) and its strength differs from, or its purity or quality falls below, that which it purports or is represented to possess;

(i) If it is a drug and any substance has been mixed or packed therewith so as to reduce its quality or strength or substituted wholly or in part therefor.

Source: L. 57: p. 434, § 14. CRS 53: § 66-22-14. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-14. L. 70: p. 204, § 8.

25-5-415. Misbranding of drugs or devices - exemption - definition.

(1) A drug or device is deemed to be misbranded:

(a) If its labeling is false or misleading in any particular;

(b) If its labeling or packaging fails to conform with the requirements of section 25-5-419;

(c) If in package form, unless it bears a label containing:

(I) The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor; and

(II) An accurate statement of the quantity of the contents in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count, which statement shall be separately and accurately stated in a uniform location upon the principal display panel of the label, except as exempted by section 25-5-402 (4)(c); but, as to such terms of quantity, reasonable variations shall be permitted, and exemptions as to small packages shall be established, by regulation prescribed by the department or issued under the federal act;

(d) If any word, statement, or other information required by or under authority of this part 4 to appear on the label or labeling is not prominently placed thereon with such conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices in the labeling) and in such terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use;

(e) (I) If it is a drug, unless:

(A) Its label bears, to the exclusion of any other nonproprietary name (except the applicable systematic chemical name or the chemical formula), the established name, as defined in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (e), of the drug, if such there be; and, in case it is fabricated from two or more ingredients, the established name and quantity of each active ingredient, including the kind and quantity or proportion of any bromides, ether, chloroform, acetanilid, acetophenetidin, amidopyrine, antipyrine, atropine, hyoscine, hyoscyamine, arsenic, digitalis, digitalis glucosides, mercury, ouabain, strophanthin, strychnine, thyroid, or any derivative or preparation of any such substances contained therein; except that the requirement for stating the quantity of the active ingredients, other than the quantity of those specifically named in this sub-subparagraph (A), shall apply only to prescription drugs; and

(B) For any prescription drug, the established name of such drug or ingredient, as the case may be, on such label (and on any labeling on which a name for such drug or ingredient is used) is printed prominently and in type at least half as large as that used thereon for any proprietary name or designation for such drug or ingredient. To the extent that compliance with the requirements of this sub-subparagraph (B) and sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (I) as to fabricated drugs is impracticable, exemptions shall be established by regulations promulgated by the department or under the federal act.

(II) As used in this paragraph (e), the term "established name", with respect to a drug or ingredient thereof, means:

(A) The applicable official name designated pursuant to the federal act; or

(B) If there is no such name and such drug or such ingredient is an article recognized in an official compendium, then the official title thereof in such compendium; or

(C) If neither sub-subparagraph (A) nor sub-subparagraph (B) of this subparagraph (II) applies, then the common or usual name, if any, of such drug or of such ingredient;

(D) Where sub-subparagraph (B) of this subparagraph (II) applies to an article recognized in the United States pharmacopoeia and in the homeopathic pharmacopoeia under different official titles, the official title used in the United States pharmacopoeia shall apply unless it is labeled and offered for sale as a homeopathic drug, in which case the official title used in the homeopathic pharmacopoeia shall apply.

(f) Unless its labeling bears adequate directions for use and such adequate warnings against use in those pathological conditions or by children where its use may be dangerous to health or against unsafe dosage or methods or duration of administration or application, in such manner and form as are necessary for the protection of users; but, where any requirement as to such adequate directions for use, as applied to any drug or device, is not necessary for the protection of the public health, the department shall promulgate regulations exempting such drug or device from such requirement, and articles exempted under regulations issued under the federal act shall also be exempt;

(g) If it purports to be a drug, the name of which is recognized in an official compendium, unless it is packaged and labeled as prescribed therein; but the method of packing may be modified with the consent of the department or if consent is obtained under the federal act. Whenever a drug is recognized in both the United States pharmacopoeia and the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, it shall be subject to the requirements of the United States pharmacopoeia with respect to packaging and labeling unless it is labeled and offered for sale as a homeopathic drug, in which case it shall be subject to the provisions of the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States and not to those of the United States pharmacopoeia. In the event of inconsistency between the requirements of this paragraph (g) and those of paragraph (e) of this subsection (1) as to the name by which the drug or its ingredients are designated, the requirements of paragraph (e) of this subsection (1) shall prevail.

(h) If it is found by the department or under the federal act to be a drug liable to deterioration, unless it is packaged in such form and manner and its label bears a statement of such precautions as the regulations issued by the department or under the federal act require as necessary for the protection of public health. No such regulation shall be established for any drug recognized in an official compendium until the department has informed the appropriate body charged with the revision of such compendium of the need for such packaging or labeling requirements and such body has failed within a reasonable time to prescribe such requirements.

(i) (I) If it is a drug and its container is so made, formed, or filled as to be misleading; or

(II) If it is an imitation of another drug; or

(III) If it is offered for sale under the name of another drug;

(j) If it is dangerous to health when used in the dosage or with the frequency or duration prescribed, recommended, or suggested in the labeling thereof;

(k) If its labeling represents it to have any effect in albuminuria, appendicitis, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, baldness, blood poison, bone disease, Bright's disease, cancer, carbuncles, cholecystitis, diabetes, diphtheria, dropsy, erysipelas, gallstones, heart and vascular diseases, high blood pressure, mastoiditis, measles, meningitis, mumps, nephritis, otitis media, paralysis, pneumonia, poliomyelitis (infantile paralysis), prostate gland disorders, pyelitis, rheumatism, scarlet fever, sexual impotence, sexually transmitted infection, sinus infection, smallpox, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, or uremia, and shall also be deemed to be false; except that no labeling in violation of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection (1) shall be deemed to be false under this paragraph (k) if it is disseminated only to members of the medical, dental, chiropractic, or veterinary professions or is disseminated only for the purpose of public health education by persons not commercially interested, directly or indirectly, in the sale of such drugs or devices; but, if the department determines that an advance in medical science has made any type of self-medication safe as to any of the diseases named in this paragraph (k), the department shall by regulation authorize the labeling of drugs having curative or therapeutic effect for such disease, subject to such conditions and restrictions as the department may deem necessary in the interests of public health; except that this paragraph (k) shall not be construed as indicating that self-medication for any disease is safe or efficacious;

(l) If it is for human use and contains any quantity of the narcotic or hypnotic substance alpha eucaine, barbituric acid, betaeucaine, bromal, carbromal, chloral, coca, cocaine, codeine, heroin, marijuana, morphine, opium, paraldehyde, peyote, or sulphonmethane, or any chemical derivative of the substance, which derivative, after investigation, has been found to be and designated as habit-forming by rules issued by the department or pursuant to the federal act, unless its label bears the name and quantity or proportion of the substance or derivative and in juxtaposition therewith the statement "Warning - May be habit-forming";

(m) If it is, or purports to be, or is represented as a drug composed wholly or partly of insulin, unless:

(I) It is from a batch with respect to which a certificate or release has been issued pursuant to the federal act; and

(II) Such certificate or release is in effect with respect to such drug;

(n) If it is, or purports to be, or is represented as a drug composed wholly or partly of any kind of penicillin, streptomycin, chlortetracycline, chloramphenicol, bacitracin, or any other antibiotic drug, or any derivative thereof, unless:

(I) It is from a batch with respect to which a certificate or release has been issued pursuant to the federal act; and

(II) Such certificate or release is in effect with respect to such drug; but this subparagraph (II) shall not apply to any drug or class of drugs exempted by regulations promulgated under the federal act. For the purpose of this paragraph (n), "antibiotic drug" means any drug intended for use by man containing any quantity of any chemical substance which is produced by microorganisms and which has the capacity to inhibit or destroy microorganisms in dilute solution (including the chemically synthesized equivalent of any such substance).

(o) If it is a color additive, the intended use of which in or on drugs is for the purpose of coloring only, unless its packaging and labeling are in conformity with such packaging and labeling requirements applicable to such color additive prescribed under the provisions of section 25-5-413 (2) or of the federal act;

(p) In the case of any prescription drug distributed or offered for sale in this state, unless the manufacturer, packer, or distributor thereof includes, in all advertisements and other descriptive printed matter issued or caused to be issued by the manufacturer, packer, or distributor with respect to that drug, a true statement of:

(I) The established name, as defined in paragraph (e)(II) of this subsection (1), printed prominently and in type at least half as large as that used for any trade or brand name thereof;

(II) The formula showing quantitatively each ingredient of such drug to the extent required for labels under the federal act; and

(III) Such other information in brief summary relating to side effects, contraindications, and effectiveness as shall be required in regulations issued under the federal act;

(q) If a trademark, trade name, or other identifying mark, imprint, or device of another or any likeness of the foregoing has been placed thereon or upon its container with intent to defraud.

(2) A drug sold on a prescription given by a member of the medical, dental, or veterinary profession (except a drug sold in the course of the conduct of a business of selling drugs pursuant to diagnosis by mail) shall be exempt from the requirements of this section if such member of the medical, dental, or veterinary profession is authorized by law to administer such drug or if such drug bears a label containing the name and place of business of the seller, the serial number and date of such prescription, the name of such member of the medical, dental, or veterinary profession, and, if stated in the prescription, the name of the patient, the directions for use, and any cautionary statements contained in such prescription.

(3) Drugs and devices which, in accordance with the practice of the trade, are to be processed, labeled, or repacked in substantial quantities at establishments other than those where originally processed or packed shall be exempt from any labeling or packaging requirements of this part 4 if such drugs and devices are being delivered, manufactured, processed, labeled, repacked, or otherwise held in compliance with regulations issued by the department or under the federal act.

Source: L. 57: p. 435, § 15. CRS 53: § 66-22-15. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-15. L. 70: pp. 205, 207, §§ 9, 10. L. 2009: (1)(k) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 475, § 23, effective April 9. L. 2010: (1)(l) amended, (HB 10-1352), ch. 259, p. 1175, § 23, effective August 11. L. 2018: IP(1) and (1)(l) amended, (HB 18-1295), ch. 341, p. 2032, § 1, effective August 8.

ANNOTATION

Subsection (1)(f) exemption from statutory misbranding prohibition not applicable to intrauterine device where the labeling representations concerning the device clearly related to the safety and effectiveness of the product and not to directions for its use. Therefore, the statutory exemption was not applicable to exclude the plaintiff's claim of negligence per se from the misbranding prohibition of § 25-5-403 (1)(a). Palmer v. A.H. Robins Co., Inc., 684 P.2d 187 (Colo. 1984).

25-5-416. Adulteration of cosmetics.

(1) A cosmetic shall be deemed to be adulterated:

(a) If it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to users under the conditions of use prescribed in the labeling or advertisement thereof or under such conditions of use as are customary or usual. This provision shall not apply to coal-tar hair dye, the label of which bears the following legend conspicuously displayed thereon: "Caution - This product contains ingredients which may cause skin irritations on certain individuals and a preliminary test according to accompanying directions should first be made. This product must not be used for dyeing the eyelashes or eyebrows; to do so may cause blindness." The label shall also bear adequate directions for such preliminary testing. For the purposes of this paragraph (a) and paragraph (e) of this subsection (1), "hair dye" does not include eyelash dyes or eyebrow dyes.

(b) If it consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance;

(c) If it is produced, prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions under which it may become contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health;

(d) If its container is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render the contents injurious to health;

(e) If it is not a hair dye and it is, or it bears or contains, a color additive which is unsafe within the meaning of the federal act or section 25-5-413 (1).

Source: L. 57: p. 437, § 16. CRS 53: § 66-22-16. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-16. L. 70: p. 208, § 11.

25-5-417. Misbranding of cosmetics.

(1) A cosmetic shall be deemed to be misbranded:

(a) If its labeling is false or misleading in any particular;

(b) If its labeling or packaging fails to conform with the requirements of section 25-5-419;

(c) If in package form, unless it bears a label containing the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor and an accurate statement of the quantity of the contents in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count, which statement shall be separately and accurately stated in a uniform location upon the principal display panel of the label; but, as to such terms of quantity required, reasonable variations shall be permitted and exemptions as to small packages shall be established by regulation prescribed by the department or under the federal act;

(d) If any word, statement, or other information required by or under authority of this part 4 to appear on the label or labeling is not prominently placed thereon with such conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices in the labeling) and in such terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use;

(e) If its container is so made, formed, or filled as to be misleading;

(f) If it is a color additive, unless its packaging and labeling are in conformity with such packaging and labeling requirements applicable to such color additive prescribed in regulations under the provisions of the federal act. This paragraph (f) shall not apply to packages of color additives which, with respect to their use for cosmetics, are marketed and intended for use only in or on hair dyes as defined in section 25-5-416 (1)(a).

(2) A cosmetic which is, in accordance with the practice of the trade, to be processed, labeled, or repacked in substantial quantities at an establishment other than the establishment where it was originally processed or packed is exempted from the affirmative labeling requirements of this part 4 while it is in transit in commerce from one establishment to the other if such transit is made in good faith for such completion purposes only; but such cosmetic is otherwise subject to all applicable provisions of this part 4.

Source: L. 57: p. 438, § 17. CRS 53: § 66-22-17. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-17. L. 70: p. 208, § 12.

25-5-418. Advertisements.

(1) An advertisement of a food, drug, device, or cosmetic is deemed to be false if it is false or misleading in any particular.

(2) For the purpose of this part 4, the advertisement of a drug or device representing it to have any effect in albuminuria, appendicitis, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, baldness, blood poison, bone disease, Bright's disease, cancer, carbuncles, cholecystitis, diabetes, diphtheria, dropsy, erysipelas, gallstones, heart and vascular diseases, high blood pressure, mastoiditis, measles, meningitis, mumps, nephritis, otitis media, paralysis, pneumonia, poliomyelitis (infantile paralysis), prostate gland disorders, pyelitis, rheumatism, scarlet fever, sexual impotence, sexually transmitted infections, sinus infection, smallpox, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, or uremia shall also be deemed to be false; except that no advertisement not in violation of subsection (1) of this section shall be deemed to be false under this subsection (2) if it is disseminated only to members of the medical, dental, chiropractic, or veterinary professions, or appears only in the scientific periodicals of these professions, or is disseminated only for the purpose of public health education by persons not commercially interested, directly or indirectly, in the sale of such drugs or devices; but, if the department determines that an advance in medical science has made any type of self-medication safe as to any of the diseases named in this subsection (2), the department shall by regulation authorize the advertisement of drugs having curative or therapeutic effect for such disease, subject to such conditions and restrictions as the department may deem necessary in the interests of public health; except that this subsection (2) shall not be construed as indicating that self-medication for any diseases is safe or efficacious.

Source: L. 57: p. 439, § 18. CRS 53: § 66-22-18. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-18. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-179), ch. 112, p. 476, § 24, effective April 9.

25-5-419. Packaging and labeling of consumer commodities.

(1) All labels of consumer commodities, as defined in section 25-5-402 (4), shall conform with the requirements for the declaration of net quantity of contents of the federal "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act" (15 U.S.C. sec. 1453) and the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto; but consumer commodities exempted from such requirements of the federal "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act" (15 U.S.C. secs. 1451-1461) shall also be exempt from this subsection (1).

(2) The label of any package of a consumer commodity which bears a representation as to the number of servings of such commodity contained in such package shall bear a statement of the net quantity (in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count) of each such serving.

(3) No person shall distribute or cause to be distributed in commerce any packaged consumer commodity if any qualifying words or phrases appear in conjunction with the separate statement of the net quantity of contents required by subsection (1) of this section, but nothing in this subsection (3) shall prohibit supplemental statements, at other places on the package, describing in nondeceptive terms the net quantity of contents; but such supplemental statements of net quantity of contents shall not include any term qualifying a unit of weight, measure, or count that tends to exaggerate the amount of the commodity contained in the package.

(4) (a) Whenever the department determines that regulations containing prohibitions or requirements other than those prescribed by subsection (1) of this section are necessary to prevent the deception of consumers or to facilitate value comparisons as to any consumer commodity, the department shall promulgate with respect to that commodity regulations effective to:

(I) Establish and define standards for the characterization of the size of a package enclosing any consumer commodity, which may be used to supplement the label statement of net quantity of contents of packages containing such consumer commodity, but this subparagraph (I) shall not be construed as authorizing any limitation on the size, shape, weight, dimensions, or number of packages which may be used to enclose any consumer commodity;

(II) Regulate the placement upon any package containing any consumer commodity, or upon any label affixed to such consumer commodity, of any printed matter stating or representing by implication that such consumer commodity is offered for retail sale at a price lower than the ordinary and customary retail sale price or that a retail sale price advantage is accorded to purchasers thereof by reason of the size of that package or the quantity of its contents;

(III) Require that the label on each package of a consumer commodity bear the common or usual name of such consumer commodity, if any, and, in case such consumer commodity consists of two or more ingredients, the common or usual name of each such ingredient listed in order of decreasing predominance, and, with respect to any confectionery containing alcohol in excess of one-half of one percent by volume, but within the limits prescribed by section 25-5-410 (1)(i)(II), a statement that the content of alcohol does not exceed six and twenty-five hundredths percent by volume or five percent by weight, and that the product is unlawful for any person under twenty-one years of age, but nothing in this subparagraph (III) shall be deemed to require that any trade secret be divulged; or

(IV) Prevent the nonfunctional slack-fill of packages containing consumer commodities.

(b) For the purposes of subparagraph (IV) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), a package shall be deemed to be nonfunctionally slack-filled if it is filled to substantially less than its capacity for reasons other than protection of the contents of such package or the requirements of machines used for enclosing the contents in such package; except that the department may adopt any regulations promulgated pursuant to the federal "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act" (15 U.S.C. secs. 1451-1461) which shall have the force and effect of law in this state.

Source: L. 70: p. 212, § 16. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-25. L. 89: (4)(a)(III) amended, p. 709, § 6, effective July 1.

25-5-420. Enforcement.

(1) The authority to promulgate regulations for the efficient enforcement of this part 4 is vested in the department. The department is authorized to make the regulations promulgated under this part 4 conform, insofar as practicable, with those promulgated under the federal act, the federal "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act", 15 U.S.C. secs. 1451-1461, and the "Federal Meat Inspection Act", as amended, 21 U.S.C. secs. 603-623. All regulations promulgated under this part 4 shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) Hearings authorized or required by this part 4 or by article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., shall be conducted by the department or such officer, agent, or employee as the department may designate for the purpose.

(3) All pesticide chemical regulations and their amendments adopted under authority of the federal act are the pesticide chemical regulations in this state. However, the department may adopt regulations which prescribe tolerances for pesticides in finished foods in this state which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under the federal act.

(4) All food additive regulations and their amendments adopted under authority of the federal act are the food additive regulations in this state. However, the department may adopt regulations which prescribe conditions under which a food additive may be used in this state which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under the federal act.

(5) All color additive regulations and their amendments adopted under authority of the federal act are the color additive regulations in this state. However, the department may adopt regulations which prescribe conditions under which a color additive may be used in this state which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under the federal act.

(6) All special dietary use regulations and their amendments adopted under authority of the federal act are the special dietary use regulations in this state. However, the department may, if it finds it necessary to inform purchasers of the value of a food for special dietary use, prescribe special dietary use regulations which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under the federal act.

(7) All regulations and their amendments adopted under the federal "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act" shall be the regulations in this state. However, the department may, if it finds it necessary in the interest of consumers, prescribe packaging and labeling regulations for consumer commodities which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under such "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act", but no such regulations shall be promulgated which are contrary to the labeling requirements for the net quantity of contents required pursuant to the "Fair Packaging and Labeling Act", 15 U.S.C. sec. 1453, and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

(8) All regulations establishing standards of identity and composition for meat and meat food products and their amendments adopted under the "Federal Meat Inspection Act", as amended, 21 U.S.C. secs. 603-623, are the established standards of identity and composition for meat and meat food products in this state. However, the department may, if it finds it necessary in the interest of consumers, adopt additional regulations establishing standards of identity and composition for meat and meat food products which are no less stringent than regulations promulgated under the "Federal Meat Inspection Act".

(9) (a) A federal regulation automatically adopted pursuant to this part 4 takes effect in this state on the date it becomes effective as a federal regulation. The department shall publish all other proposed regulations thirty days prior to hearing thereon. A person who may be adversely affected by a regulation may file with the department, in writing, objections and a request for a hearing. The timely filing of substantial objections to a federal regulation automatically adopted stays the effect of the regulation in this state.

(b) If no substantial objections are received and no hearing is requested within thirty days after publication of a proposed regulation, it shall take effect on a date set by the department. The effective date shall be at least sixty days after the time for filing objections has expired.

(c) If substantial objections are made to a federal regulation within thirty days after it is automatically adopted or to a proposed regulation within thirty days after it is published, the department, after notice, shall conduct a public hearing to receive evidence on the issues raised by the objections. Any interested person or his representative may be heard. The department shall act upon objections by order and shall mail the order to objectors by certified mail as soon after the hearing as practicable. The order shall be based on substantial evidence in the record of the hearing. If the order concerns a federal regulation, it may reinstate, rescind, or modify such regulation. If the order concerns a proposed regulation, it may withdraw it or set an effective date for the regulation as published or as modified by the order. The effective date shall be at least sixty days after publication of the order.

Source: L. 57: p. 439, § 19. CRS 53: § 66-22-19. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-19. L. 70: pp. 209, 210, §§ 13, 14. L. 2020: (1) and (8) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1054, § 54, effective June 30.

25-5-421. Inspections.

(1) (a) For purposes of enforcement of this part 4, the authorized agents of the department, upon presenting appropriate credentials to the owner, operator, or agent in charge, are authorized to enter, at reasonable times, any factory, warehouse, or establishment in which food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics are manufactured, processed, packed, or held for introduction into commerce, or are held after such introduction, or to enter any vehicle being used to transport or hold such food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics in commerce; and to inspect, at reasonable times and within reasonable limits and in a reasonable manner, such factory, warehouse, establishment, or vehicle and all pertinent equipment, finished and unfinished materials, containers, and labeling therein and to obtain samples necessary to the enforcement of this part 4.

(b) (I) In the case of any factory, warehouse, establishment, or consulting laboratory in which prescription drugs are manufactured, processed, packed, or held, the inspection shall extend to all things therein (including records, files, papers, processes, controls, and facilities) bearing on whether prescription drugs which are adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this part 4 or which may not be manufactured, introduced into commerce, or sold or offered for sale by reason of any provision of this part 4 have been or are being manufactured, processed, packed, transported, or held in any such place or otherwise bearing on violation of this part 4.

(II) No inspection authorized for prescription drugs by subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b) shall extend to financial data, sales data other than shipment data, pricing data, personnel data (other than data as to qualifications of technical and professional personnel performing functions subject to this article), and research data (other than data, relating to new drugs and antibiotic drugs, subject to reporting and inspection under regulations lawfully issued pursuant to 21 U.S.C. sec. 355 (i) or (j) and data, relating to other drugs, which in the case of a new drug would be subject to reporting or inspection under regulations issued pursuant to 21 U.S.C. sec. 355 (j)). Each such inspection shall be commenced and completed with reasonable promptness.

(III) The provisions of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b) shall not apply to pharmacies which maintain establishments in conformance with the laws of this state regulating the practice of pharmacy and medicine and which are regularly engaged in dispensing prescription drugs upon prescriptions of practitioners licensed to administer such drugs to patients under the care of such practitioners in the course of their professional practice and which do not, either through a subsidiary or otherwise, manufacture, prepare, propagate, compound, or process drugs for sale other than in the regular course of their business of dispensing or selling drugs at retail; to practitioners licensed by law to prescribe or administer drugs and who manufacture, prepare, propagate, compound, or process drugs solely for use in the course of their professional practice; to persons who manufacture, prepare, propagate, compound, or process drugs solely for use in research, teaching, or chemical analysis and not for sale; nor to such other classes of persons as the department may by regulation exempt from the application of this section upon a finding that inspection as applied to such classes of persons in accordance with this section is not necessary for the protection of the public health.

(c) The authorized agents of the department, upon presenting appropriate credentials to the owner, operator, or agent in charge, are authorized to have access to and to copy all records of carriers in commerce showing the movement in commerce of any food, drug, device, or cosmetic, or the holding thereof during or after such movement, and the quantity, shipper, and consignee thereof; but evidence obtained under this paragraph (c) shall not be used in a criminal prosecution of the person from whom obtained, and carriers shall not be subject to the other provisions of this part 4 by reason of their receipt, carriage, holding, or delivery of food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics in the usual course of business as carriers.

(2) Upon completion of any such inspection of a factory, warehouse, consulting laboratory, or other establishment, and prior to leaving the premises, the authorized agent making the inspection shall give to the owner, operator, or agent in charge a report in writing setting forth any conditions or practices observed by him which, in his judgment, indicate that any food, drug, device, or cosmetic in such establishment consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance or has been prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions under which it may become contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health. A copy of such report shall be sent promptly to the department.

(3) If the authorized agent making any such inspection of a factory, warehouse, or other establishment has obtained any sample in the course of the inspection, upon completion of the inspection and prior to leaving the premises, he shall give to the owner, operator, or agent in charge a receipt describing the samples obtained.

(4) Whenever, in the course of any such inspection of a factory or other establishment where food is manufactured, processed, or packed, the officer or employee making the inspection obtains a sample of any such food, and an analysis is made of such sample for the purpose of ascertaining whether such food consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance, or is otherwise unfit for food, a copy of the results of such analysis shall be furnished promptly to the owner, operator, or agent in charge.

Source: L. 57: p. 440, § 20. CRS 53: § 66-22-20. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-20. L. 70: p. 211, § 15.

25-5-422. Reports and information.

(1) The department may cause to be published from time to time reports summarizing all judgments, decrees, and court orders which have been rendered under this part 4, including the nature of the charge and the disposition thereof.

(2) The department may also cause to be disseminated such information regarding food, drugs, devices, and cosmetics as the department deems necessary in the interest of public health and the protection of the consumer against fraud. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the department from collecting, reporting, and illustrating the results of the investigations of the department.

Source: L. 57: p. 440, § 21. CRS 53: § 66-22-21. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-21.

25-5-423. Cooperation with federal agencies.

The department is authorized to confer and cooperate with the federal food and drug administration in the enforcement of the federal act and the United States department of agriculture in the enforcement of the "Federal Meat Inspection Act", 21 U.S.C. secs. 603-623, as amended, as they may apply to foods, drugs, devices, and cosmetics received in this state from other states, territories, or foreign countries.

Source: L. 57: p. 441, § 22. CRS 53: § 66-22-22. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-22. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1055, § 55, effective June 30.

25-5-424. Review.

Any person aggrieved by a decision of the department, and affected thereby, is entitled to judicial review pursuant to section 25-1-113.

Source: L. 57: p. 441, § 23. CRS 53: § 66-22-23. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-23.

25-5-425. Application of part 4.

The powers in this part 4 vested in the department are declared to be cumulative and in addition to and not in exclusion nor derogation nor limitation of the powers vested by law in the department, or in any other department of this state, or in any board or commission established by law, or in any law enforcement authority of this state.

Source: L. 57: p. 441, § 24. CRS 53: § 66-22-24. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-20-24.

25-5-426. Wholesale food manufacturing and storage - definitions - legislative declaration - registration - fees - cash fund.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that the registration of wholesale food manufacturers and the regulation of premises or places wherein manufactured foods are produced, manufactured, packed, processed, prepared, treated, packaged, transported, or held for distribution in accordance with the "Colorado Food and Drug Act", the "Shellfish Dealer Certification Act", and the sanitary regulations administered by the department pursuant to part 1 of article 4 of this title and any rules promulgated thereunder:

(a) Is necessary to protect the public health;

(b) Will benefit consumers by ensuring that the sale and distribution of manufactured food is from safe sources;

(c) Will assist retailers by ensuring that manufactured foods have not been adulterated during manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging, transporting, and storage; and

(d) Will contribute to the economic health of the state by assuring that Colorado wholesale food manufacturers are permitted to ship their product in interstate commerce.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Brew pub" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-3-103 (5).

(b) "Brewery" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-3-103 (6).

(c) "Dietary ingredient" means one or any combination of a vitamin, mineral, herb or other botanical, amino acid, and a substance such as an enzyme, organ tissue, glandular, or metabolite.

(d) "Dietary supplement" means a product taken by mouth that contains a dietary ingredient or a new dietary ingredient intended to supplement the diet.

(e) "Distillery" or "distiller" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-3-103 (13).

(f) "Grain" means a small hard fruit or seed produced by a cereal grass and the seeds of such plants as a whole.

(g) "Grain storage facility" means any establishment, structure, or structures under one management at one general physical location that holds grain without further manufacturing or processing after harvest.

(g.3) and (g.5) Repealed.

(h) "Manufacturing or processing" means making food from one or more ingredients, or synthesizing, preparing, treating, modifying, or manipulating food, including food crops or ingredients. Examples include: Cutting, peeling, trimming, washing, waxing, eviscerating, rendering, cooking, baking, freezing, cooling, pasteurizing, homogenizing, mixing, formulating, bottling, milling, grinding, extracting juices, distilling, labeling, or packaging.

(i) "New dietary ingredient" means a dietary ingredient that was not sold in the United States as a dietary supplement before October 15, 1994.

(j) "Nonprofit facility" means a charitable entity that provides food to the public, including food banks and nonprofit food facilities. To qualify as a nonprofit facility, the entity shall be exempt from paying federal income tax under the federal internal revenue code.

(k) "Spirituous liquors" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-3-103 (54).

(l) "Wholesale food manufacturer" and "storage facility" mean a facility that manufactures, produces, packs, processes, treats, packages, transports, or holds human food, including dietary supplements. These terms include, without limitation, any repacker, reshipper, shell stock shipper, and shucker-packer, as defined in section 25-4-1803 (8), (9), (12), and (13), respectively.

(m) "Winery" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-3-103 (61).

(3) The department has the following powers and duties:

(a) To grant or refuse to grant registration pursuant to subsection (4) of this section and to grant or refuse to grant the annual renewal of a registration;

(b) To deny, suspend, or revoke a registration;

(c) To issue a certificate of free sale; and

(d) To review any records of a wholesale food manufacturer or storage facility necessary to verify compliance with the provisions of this section.

(4) (a) Beginning July 1, 2003, and on or before July 1 of each year thereafter, the owner of any wholesale food manufacturer or storage facility shall submit an application to the department. Each wholesale food manufacturer or storage facility shall pay an annual application fee of one hundred dollars, plus any additional registration fee specified in subsection (4)(b) of this section; except that an application fee is not required for a nonprofit facility. The application for registration is valid for one year or for the portion of the fiscal year that remains if an application is submitted after July 1 of any fiscal year. If an application is valid for only a portion of a fiscal year, an application fee reduction is not required by this section. Each application expires on June 30 of the state fiscal year in which the application is submitted.

(b) In addition to the application fee a facility is required to pay pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section, the schedule for annual registration fees for wholesale food manufacturers or storage facilities is as follows:

(I) A registration fee is not required for a nonprofit facility, grain storage facility, brewery, brew pub, winery, or a distiller of spirituous liquors.

(II) A wholesale food manufacturer or storage facility with gross annual sales of less than one hundred fifty thousand dollars shall pay the department a registration fee of sixty dollars.

(III) A wholesale food manufacturer or storage facility with gross annual sales of one hundred fifty thousand dollars or more shall pay the department a registration fee of three hundred dollars.

(IV) Repealed.

(c) Upon issuing a certificate of free sale, the department shall collect a fee of one hundred fifty dollars.

(d) and (e) Repealed.

(5) Fees collected by the department pursuant to subsection (4) of this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit such fees to the wholesale food manufacturing and storage protection cash fund, which is hereby created in the state treasury. The general assembly shall annually appropriate the moneys in such fund to the department for the payment of expenses necessary for the administration of this section. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not revert to the general fund or any other fund.

(6) and (7) Repealed.

Source: L. 2003: Entire section added, p. 1460, § 1, effective May 1. L. 2004: (2), (4)(a), and (4)(b) amended and (6) added, p. 628, § 1, effective April 23. L. 2007: (6) amended, p. 1576, § 1, effective May 31. L. 2008: (4)(b) amended, p. 1000, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: (2) R&RE, (4) amended, and (6) repealed, (HB 17-1079), ch. 396, p. 2069, § 1, effective June 6. L. 2018: (2)(g.3), (2)(g.5), and (4)(d) added, (HB 18-1295), ch. 341, p. 2032, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2019: (4)(b)(II) and (4)(b)(III) amended and (4)(b)(IV) and (7) added, (SB 19-240), ch. 351, p. 3243, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2022: (4)(e) added, (SB 22-205), ch. 278, p. 2000, § 1, effective May 31. L. 2023: (2)(g.3), (2)(g.5), (4)(b)(IV), (4)(d), and (4)(e) repealed and (4)(b)(II) and (4)(b)(III) amended, (SB 23-271), ch. 444, p. 2596, § 1, effective June 7.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (4)(c) was originally numbered as subsection (4)(b)(IV) in the 2016 Colorado Revised Statutes and was renumbered as subsection (4)(c) in HB 17-1079, but the change was inadvertently not shown in the bill. (See L. 2017, p. 2069.)

(2) Subsection (7)(b)(III) provided for the repeal of subsection (7), effective September 1, 2021. (See L. 2019, p. 3243.)

25-5-427. Classes of hemp-derived compounds and cannabinoids - definitions - registration required - prohibitions - safe harbor - rules.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that the registration of hemp product and safe harbor hemp product manufacturers and the regulation of premises and places where hemp products and safe harbor hemp products are manufactured for distribution, produced for distribution, packaged for distribution, processed for distribution, prepared for distribution, treated for distribution, transported for distribution, or held for distribution in accordance with this part 4 and any rules promulgated under this part 4:

(a) Are necessary to protect the public health;

(b) Will benefit consumers by ensuring that hemp products are sold and distributed by safe sources;

(c) Will assist retailers by ensuring that hemp products have not been adulterated during manufacturing, production, packaging, processing, preparing, treating, transporting, and storage; and

(d) Will contribute to the economic health of the state by ensuring that Colorado hemp product and safe harbor hemp product manufacturers are permitted to ship their products in interstate commerce.

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Dietary supplement" has the meaning set forth in section 25-5-426 (2)(d).

(b) "Hemp" has the meaning set forth in section 35-61-101 (7).

(c) "Hemp manufacturer or storage facility" means a facility where hemp products are manufactured or stored.

(d) "Hemp product" means a finished product that contains hemp and that:

(I) Is a cosmetic, a dietary supplement, a food, a food additive, or an herb;

(II) Is intended for human use or consumption;

(III) Contains any part of the hemp plant, including naturally occurring cannabinoids, compounds, concentrates, extracts, isolates, or resins;

(IV) Is produced from hemp;

(V) Contains no more than one and three-fourths milligrams of THC per serving; and

(VI) Contains a ratio of cannabidiol to THC of greater than or equal to fifteen to one.

(e) "Intoxicating cannabinoid" means a cannabinoid that is classified as an intoxicating cannabinoid in this section or by rule of the department acting in coordination with the state licensing authority, in accordance with subsections (4)(g) and (4)(h) of this section.

(f) "Manufacturing or processing", "manufacturing", "manufacture", "process", or "processing" has the same meaning as "manufacturing or processing", as set forth in section 25-5-426 (2)(h).

(g) "Nonintoxicating cannabinoid" means a cannabinoid that is classified as a nonintoxicating cannabinoid in this section or by rule of the department acting in coordination with the state licensing authority, in accordance with subsections (4)(g) and (4)(h) of this section.

(h) "Physical separation" means segregation of the operations of a regulated hemp facility, including:

(I) The physical separation of hemp products and safe harbor hemp products during manufacture, production, storage, and distribution; and

(II) The use of separate equipment for the manufacture or production of hemp products and safe harbor hemp products.

(i) "Potentially intoxicating cannabinoid" has the meaning set forth in section 44-10-103 (48.5).

(j) "Registrant" means a person registered under subsection (5) of this section.

(k) "Regulated hemp facility" means:

(I) A hemp manufacturer or storage facility; or

(II) A safe harbor manufacturer or storage facility.

(l) "Safe harbor hemp product" means a hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid, whether a finished product or in the process of being produced, that is permitted to be manufactured for distribution, produced for distribution, packaged for distribution, processed for distribution, prepared for distribution, treated for distribution, transported for distribution, or held for distribution in Colorado for export from Colorado but that is not permitted to be sold or distributed in Colorado.

(m) "Safe harbor manufacturer or storage facility" or "safe harbor facility" means a facility that manufactures for distribution, produces for distribution, packages for distribution, processes for distribution, prepares for distribution, treats for distribution, transports for distribution, or holds for distribution a safe harbor hemp product.

(n) "Semi-synthetic cannabinoid" has the meaning set forth in section 44-10-209 (2)(b).

(o) "Serving" means the size or portion customarily consumed per eating occasion, expressed in a common household measure as established in table 2 of 21 CFR 101.12.

(p) "State licensing authority" has the meaning set forth in section 44-10-103 (69).

(q) "Synthetic cannabinoid" has the meaning set forth in section 44-10-209 (2)(c).

(r) "Tetrahydrocannabinol" or "THC" has the meaning set forth in section 44-10-209 (2)(d).

(s) "Tincture" means a liquid hemp product that is packaged in a container of four fluid ounces or less, that is not a beverage or intended for drinking, and that consists of a solution:

(I) Containing at least twenty-five percent nondenatured alcohol or a base of glycerin or plant-based oil;

(II) Containing hemp, hemp concentrate, or hemp extract; and

(III) Intended for human use.

(3) Powers and duties of the department - rules. The department has the power and duty to:

(a) Grant or deny a registration issued under subsection (5) of this section and to grant or deny the annual renewal of a registration;

(b) Suspend, deny, or revoke a registration under circumstances prescribed in this section or in rules promulgated under this section;

(c) Review any records of a registrant that manufactures for distribution, produces for distribution, packages for distribution, processes for distribution, prepares for distribution, treats for distribution, transports for distribution, or holds for distribution products subject to this section as necessary to verify compliance with this section;

(d) Promulgate rules necessary to authorize or prohibit chemical modification, conversion, or synthetic derivation of cannabinoids or other hemp-derived compounds, unless otherwise permitted by this part 4 or by any rules promulgated under this part 4;

(e) (I) Promulgate rules, in coordination with the state licensing authority, establishing the amount of any cannabinoid that makes the cannabinoid intoxicating;

(II) Promulgate rules implementing subsection (8) of this section;

(III) If necessary, promulgate rules creating a process to prevent cross contamination between hemp products and safe harbor hemp products and specifying a set of requirements for:

(A) The co-location of the manufacture of, production of, storage of, and distribution of hemp products and safe harbor hemp products; and

(B) The use of the same equipment for the production of safe harbor hemp products and hemp products;

(IV) Promulgate rules prohibiting the export of a safe harbor hemp product to a state where the safe harbor hemp product is prohibited by state statute; and

(V) Promulgate rules prohibiting the manufacture, production, or distribution of a safe harbor hemp product that is also a synthetic cannabinoid;

(f) Promulgate rules governing testing and labeling, as provided in subsections (4)(c)(II) and (4)(d)(III) of this section. In promulgating the labeling for hemp products, the department shall consider:

(I) The labeling rules promulgated by the state licensing authority governing products with THC;

(II) How best to inform consumers of the ratio of cannabidiol to THC, including a differentiation between product labels based on the ratio of CBD to THC; and

(III) Information on potential health effects of using hemp products and requirements for consumer notice as required in subsection (4)(f) of this section.

(g) Promulgate rules authorizing, prohibiting, or regulating hemp-derived ingredients in hemp products that are compounds other than cannabinoids;

(h) Promulgate any other rules that are necessary for the fair, impartial, and comprehensive administration of this part 4 with respect to hemp, hemp products, or safe harbor hemp products; and

(i) Issue a cease-and-desist order or clean-up order to address violations of this section.

(4) Classifications of hemp-derived compounds and cannabinoids - rules.

(a) Hemp-derived compounds and cannabinoids are divided into three classifications:

(I) Nonintoxicating cannabinoids;

(II) Potentially intoxicating cannabinoids; and

(III) Intoxicating cannabinoids.

(b) (I) Nonintoxicating cannabinoids include:

(A) Full spectrum hemp extract that contains no more than one and three-fourths milligrams of THC per serving and contains a ratio of cannabidiol to THC of greater than or equal to fifteen to one;

(B) Broad spectrum hemp extract;

(C) Cannabidiol, also known as "CBD";

(D) Tetrahydrocannabivarin, also known as "THCV";

(E) Cannabichromene, also known as "CBC";

(F) Cannabicitran, also known as "CBT";

(G) Cannabicyclol, also known as "CBL";

(H) Cannabielsoin, also known as "CBE";

(I) Cannabigerol, also known as "CBG";

(J) Cannabidivarin, also known as "CBDV"; and

(K) Cannabinol, also known as "CBN".

(II) Nonintoxicating cannabinoids that are derived from hemp may be used as an ingredient in a hemp product or as a finished hemp product in accordance with this section and the rules promulgated under this part 4 or in accordance with article 10 of title 44 and the rules promulgated under article 10 of title 44.

(c) (I) A person shall not:

(A) Manufacture, produce, or distribute a potentially intoxicating cannabinoid within Colorado, as an ingredient in a hemp product or as a finished hemp product, unless the potentially intoxicating cannabinoid is a safe harbor hemp product that is exported from Colorado; or

(B) Market or promote a hemp product as containing THC or any other potentially intoxicating cannabinoid.

(II) A person that manufactures, produces, or distributes a product containing a potentially intoxicating cannabinoid shall label the product in accordance with the rules promulgated under this section.

(d) (I) Intoxicating cannabinoids include the following in an amount that exceeds the amount established by rule or, if no rule establishes the amount, in any amount:

(A) Delta-10 THC and its isomers;

(B) Delta-9 THC and its isomers;

(C) Delta-8 THC and its isomers;

(D) Delta-7 THC and its isomers;

(E) Delta-6a, 10a THC and its isomers;

(F) Exo-tetrahydrocannabinol;

(G) Metabolites of THC, including 11-hydroxy-THC, 3-hydroxy-THC, or 7-hydroxy-THC;

(H) Hydrogenated forms of THC, including hexahydrocannabinol, hexahydrocannabiphorol, and hexahydrocannabihexol;

(I) Synthetic forms of THC, including dronabinol;

(J) Ester forms of THC, including delta-8 THC-O-acetate, delta-9 THC-O-acetate, and hexahydrocannabinol-O-acetate;

(K) Tetrahydrocannabivarins, including delta-8 tetrahydrocannabivarin but excluding delta-9 tetrahydrocannabivarin;

(L) Analogues of tetrahydrocannabinols with an alkyl chain of four or more carbon atoms, including tetrahydrocannabiphorols, tetrahydrocannabioctyls, tetrahydrocannabihexols, or tetrahydrocannabutols; and

(M) Any combination of the compounds, including hexahydrocannabiphorol-O-ester, listed in this subsection (4)(d)(I).

(II) A person shall not:

(A) Manufacture, produce, or distribute an intoxicating cannabinoid within Colorado, as an ingredient in a hemp product or as a finished hemp product, unless the intoxicating cannabinoid is a safe harbor hemp product that is exported from Colorado; or

(B) Market or promote a safe harbor hemp product or hemp product as containing THC or any other intoxicating cannabinoid.

(III) A person that manufactures, produces, or distributes a product containing an intoxicating cannabinoid shall label the product in accordance with the rules promulgated under this section.

(e) (I) A person shall not manufacture, produce, sell, or offer to sell a synthetic cannabinoid or a product containing a synthetic cannabinoid unless authorized by rule. If synthetic cannabinoids are permitted by rule, the department, in coordination with the state licensing authority, shall promulgate rules providing standards and requirements for the manufacture and production of synthetic cannabinoids in Colorado. The rules must include a labeling requirement for any hemp-derived product manufactured or produced in Colorado that contains a semi-synthetic or synthetic cannabinoid as an ingredient.

(II) To be sold, offered for sale, or distributed, semi-synthetic cannabinoids must meet production, testing, and labeling requirements established in rules promulgated by the department under section 25-5-420 and subsection (4)(e)(I) of this section.

(f) The department shall promulgate rules requiring a consumer notice statement if any hemp-derived products that are manufactured for distribution, produced for distribution, packaged for distribution, processed for distribution, prepared for distribution, treated for distribution, transported for distribution, or held for distribution in this state contain intoxicating cannabinoids or potentially intoxicating cannabinoids.

(g) The department, in coordination with the state licensing authority, may promulgate rules to:

(I) Classify a hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid that is not classified in this subsection (4);

(II) Reclassify a hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid classified in this subsection (4) if:

(A) The state has adopted or federal law has established a process to review and approve hemp-derived compounds or cannabinoids;

(B) The review and approval process described in subsection (4)(g)(II)(A) of this section evaluates the intoxicating potential of the hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid; and

(C) The reclassification is based on the findings of the process and evaluation described in subsections (4)(g)(II)(A) and (4)(g)(II)(B) of this section.

(h) To reclassify a hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid, under subsection (4)(g) of this section, the reclassification must:

(I) Be supported by peer-reviewed research or clinical trials establishing to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty that the hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid or a product containing a hemp-derived compound or cannabinoid should be reclassified; or

(II) Be based on a threat to human health, including substantial reports of intoxication or adverse health event reports.

(5) Registration required - regulated hemp facilities - application - fees - repeal.

(a) Beginning July 1, 2023, and on or before July 1 of each year thereafter, the owner of a regulated hemp facility shall submit a registration application to the department. To submit an application, each hemp manufacturer or storage facility and each safe harbor manufacturer or storage facility must pay an annual application fee of one hundred dollars plus any additional registration fee specified in subsection (5)(b) of this section. Each registration expires on June 30 of the year for which the registration is issued, regardless of whether the registration was issued after July 1 for the year. Notwithstanding that a registration is valid for only a portion of a fiscal year, the application and registration fee do not change.

(b) In addition to the application fee imposed in subsection (5)(a) of this section, the annual registration fee for a regulated hemp facility is one thousand five hundred dollars.

(c) (I) To be registered under subsection (5)(a) of this section, a safe harbor manufacturer or storage facility must demonstrate compliance with the federal current good manufacturing practices for food or dietary supplements before registering or within twelve months after the previous registration by submitting to the department:

(A) An attestation form, as provided by the department, within thirty days after June 7, 2023, and each year thereafter; and

(B) Evidence of obtaining an inspection from an approved third-party auditor by July 1, 2024, and by July 1 of each year thereafter.

(II) The department shall not register a person as a safe harbor manufacturer or storage facility under this subsection (5) if the person is registered as a hemp manufacturer or storage facility or as a wholesale food manufacturing and storage facility, unless each safe harbor hemp product:

(A) Is physically separated from hemp products during the manufacture of, production of, storage of, and distribution of the safe harbor hemp product;

(B) Is manufactured, produced, stored, and distributed in accordance with procedures that are approved by the department and that ensure no cross contamination between hemp products and safe harbor hemp products; or

(C) Is manufactured, produced, stored, and distributed in accordance with rules of the department promulgated in accordance with subsection (3)(e)(III) of this section.

(III) To be exported for sale or distribution, each safe harbor hemp product must be tested and labeled in accordance with rules promulgated under section 25-5-420 and subsection (4)(e) of this section.

(d) A registration issued under this subsection (5) is subject to suspension or revocation, in accordance with article 4 of title 24, if the registrant violates this part 4 or rules promulgated under this part 4.

(e) A registrant who violates this section is subject to the civil penalties established in subsection (9) of this section.

(f) Repealed.

(6) Hemp products not adulterated. A product containing hemp produced by a registrant is not deemed adulterated, as defined in sections 25-5-410 and 25-5-416, unless the product meets one or more of the criteria for adulteration set forth in section 25-5-410 or 25-5-416.

(7) Fees deposited in fund. The department shall transmit fees collected in accordance with subsection (5) of this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the wholesale food manufacturing and storage protection cash fund established in section 25-5-426 (5).

(8) Offenses. It is unlawful to engage in or knowingly cause a person to engage in any of the following acts:

(a) Manufacturing, selling, or delivering or holding or offering for sale any products containing hemp and intoxicating cannabinoids or potentially intoxicating cannabinoids in excess of limits established by rules promulgated under subsection (3)(e) of this section or section 25-5-420;

(b) Manufacturing a product containing hemp that is not a cosmetic, a dietary supplement, a food, a food additive, or an herb;

(c) Manufacturing, producing, selling, distributing, or holding for sale or distribution a hemp product without registering with the department under this section;

(d) Manufacturing, producing, selling, distributing, or holding for sale or distribution a safe harbor hemp product without registering with the department under this section;

(e) (I) Selling a hemp product to an individual who is under twenty-one years of age if the hemp product:

(A) Has more than one and one-fourth milligrams of THC per serving; or

(B) Has a ratio of cannabidiol to THC of less than twenty to one.

(II) This subsection (8)(e) does not apply to:

(A) Products with no THC;

(B) Tinctures;

(C) Cosmetics; or

(D) A hemp product that the United States food and drug administration has determined is generally recognized as safe under the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 301 et seq.

(f) (I) Selling a hemp product in a package with more than five servings if the hemp product:

(A) Has more than one and one-fourth milligrams of THC per serving; and

(B) Has a ratio of cannabidiol to THC of less than twenty to one.

(II) This subsection (8)(f) does not apply to:

(A) Products with no THC;

(B) Tinctures;

(C) Cosmetics; or

(D) A hemp product that the United States food and drug administration has determined is generally recognized as safe under the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 301 et seq.

(g) (I) Selling a hemp product in a package with more than thirty servings if the hemp product:

(A) Has more than one and one-fourth milligrams of THC per serving; and

(B) Has a ratio of cannabidiol to THC of twenty to one or more.

(II) This subsection (8)(g) does not apply to:

(A) Products with no THC;

(B) Tinctures;

(C) Cosmetics; or

(D) A hemp product that the United States food and drug administration has determined is generally recognized as safe under the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 301 et seq.

(9) Penalties. A person who violates this section, the rules promulgated under this section, or a final cease-and-desist order or clean-up order under subsection (3)(i) of this section is subject to a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars per day per violation. The department or the court shall transmit each civil penalty collected under this subsection (9) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the penalty to the wholesale food manufacturing and storage protection cash fund established in section 25-5-426 (5). In determining the amount of a civil penalty under this subsection (9), the department or the court shall consider the following factors:

(a) The actual or potential damage from the violation;

(b) The violator's compliance history;

(c) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(d) The effect upon or threat posed to the public health or environment as a result of the violation;

(e) The duration of the violation; and

(f) Any economic benefit realized by the violator as a result of the violation.

(10) Inspections and monitoring - rules.

(a) For the purpose of enforcement of this section, the department may conduct inspections of regulated hemp facilities in accordance with section 25-5-421.

(b) Unless the department approves, a county, a district created under article 1 of title 32, a municipality, or a city and county shall not perform a food safety inspection at a premises or place where hemp products or safe harbor hemp products are manufactured for distribution, produced for distribution, packaged for distribution, processed for distribution, prepared for distribution, treated for distribution, transported for distribution, or held for distribution.

(c) The department may promulgate rules establishing monitoring requirements for safe harbor hemp products in accordance with good manufacturing practices. The rules may include inventory tracking, surveillance, and record-keeping requirements.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-271), ch. 444, p. 2597, § 2, effective June 7.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(f)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (5)(f), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2023, p. 2597.)

25-5-428. Misbranding of cell-cultivated meat as meat product prohibited - labeling of cell-cultivated meat required - definitions - inspections - stop orders - embargo orders - enforcement - rules.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Agricultural food animal" means:

(I) A domesticated animal belonging to the bovine, caprine, ovine, or porcine species; or

(II) A live domestic chicken or turkey.

(b) "Cell-cultivated meat" means food having one or more sensory attributes that resembles a type of tissue originating from an agricultural food animal but that, in lieu of being derived from meat processing, is derived from manufacturing cells, in which one or more stem cells are initially isolated from an agricultural food animal, are grown in vitro, and may be manipulated as part of a manufacturing operation.

(c) "Food processing plant" means a commercial operation that manufactures, packages, labels, or stores food for human consumption and does not provide food directly to a consumer.

(d) "Identifying meat term" means any word or phrase that states, indicates, suggests, or describes a meat product, regardless of whether the word or phrase is used individually, as a portmanteau, or as a compound word. "Identifying meat term" includes:

(I) A common name for the species of the agricultural food animal subject to slaughter and processing, including a calf or cow, a chicken, a goat or kid, a hog or pig, poultry, a lamb or sheep, or a turkey;

(II) A common name for a characteristic of a species of the agricultural food animal subject to slaughter and processing based on age, breed, or sex;

(III) Beef or veal; broiler, fryer, poulet, or yearling; cabrito or chevon; lamb or mutton; or pork;

(IV) A common name used to describe a major cut of the meat of an agricultural food animal slaughtered and processed, including a major meat cut specified in 9 CFR 317.344;

(V) A poultry product such as breast, drumstick, giblet, thigh, or wing;

(VI) The common name of an organ or offal, including gizzard, heart, liver, kidney, or tongue; and

(VII) Any other common name that a reasonable purchaser would immediately and exclusively associate with a meat product prepared for sale in normal commercial channels, such as bacon, baloney, bologna, bone, brat or bratwurst, brisket, burger or hamburger, butt, chop, chuck, cold cut, cutlet, filet, flat iron, frank or frankfurter, ham, hock, hot dog, jerky, liverwurst, loin, London broil, lunch meat, New York strip, pepperoni, porterhouse, ribeye, roast, rib or sparerib, salami, sausage, shank, sirloin, tenderloin, or a comparable word or phrase the department adopts by rule.

(e) "Meat processing" means the handling, preparation, and slaughter of an agricultural food animal; the dressing of its carcass; or the cutting, storage, and packaging of its tissue or other parts as food.

(f) "Meat product" means food derived from meat processing.

(g) (I) "Misbranded as a meat product" means that cell-cultivated meat or a food containing cell-cultivated meat:

(A) Is sold or offered for sale by a food processing plant; and

(B) Bears a label that includes an identifying meat term.

(II) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(g)(I) of this section, cell-cultivated meat or a food containing cell-cultivated meat is not misbranded as a meat product if:

(A) The label includes a conspicuous and prominent qualifying term in close proximity to the identifying meat term; or

(B) The product contains no more than a trace amount of cell-cultivated meat, as determined by the department.

(h) "Qualifying term" means a word, compound word, or phrase that would clearly disclose to a reasonable purchaser of meat products from a food processing plant that a food is not a meat product. "Qualifying term" includes "cell-cultivated", "cell-cultured", "grown in a lab", "imitation", "lab-created", "lab-grown", "meat free", "meatless", and a comparable word or phrase adopted by the department by rule.

(2) A food processing plant shall not sell or offer for sale cell-cultivated meat that is misbranded as a meat product.

(3) A food processing plant that sells or offers for sale cell-cultivated meat shall ensure that each unit of the cell-cultivated meat bears a label that describes the product as "cell-cultivated meat" in clear, legible type.

(4) The department shall inspect an inventory of food offered for sale or sold at a food processing plant pursuant to section 25-5-421 if the department has reasonable cause to believe that:

(a) Cell-cultivated meat sold or offered for sale by the food processing plant is misbranded as a meat product; or

(b) The food processing plant is failing to label cell-cultivated meat as required by subsection (3) of this section.

(5) (a) If, after an inspection, the department has reasonable cause to believe that a food processing plant is selling or offering for sale cell-cultivated meat that is misbranded as a meat product, or is failing to label cell-cultivated meat as cell-cultivated meat, the department may issue a stop order. After receiving the stop order, the food processing plant shall not sell the product or offer it for sale until the department determines whether the food is misbranded as a meat product or improperly unlabeled. The department may require the food processing plant to hold the product and secure it from purchase.

(b) If the department determines that cell-cultivated meat sold or offered for sale by a food processing plant is misbranded as a meat product, or that a food processing plant has failed to label cell-cultivated meat as required by subsection (3) of this section, the department may issue an embargo order requiring the food processing plant to dispose of the cell-cultivated meat by means other than by sale to purchasers in Colorado.

(c) The department, the attorney general, or the district attorney in the district where cell-cultivated meat is being offered for sale or sold may petition the district court to enforce a stop order issued pursuant to subsection (5)(a) of this section or an embargo order issued pursuant to subsection (5)(b) of this section.

(6) The department may adopt rules as necessary to implement this section.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1203), ch. 83, p. 344, § 3, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 25-1203, see section 1 of chapter 83, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-5-429. Chemicals used in hair relaxers and hair pieces - warning labels - deceptive trade practice - short title - rules - definitions.

(1) The short title of this section is the "Hair Product Transparency and Safety Act".

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Carcinogen" means a chemical identified as:

(I) A "group 1 carcinogen" or "group 2A carcinogen" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer established by the World Health Organization;

(II) "Known to be a human carcinogen" or "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" by the secretary of the federal department of health and human services pursuant to the federal "Public Health Service Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 241 (b)(4); or

(III) A "group A carcinogen" or "group B carcinogen" by the United States environmental protection agency.

(b) "Chemical" means a substance with a distinct molecular composition or a group of structurally related substances and includes the breakdown products of the substance or substances that form through decomposition, degradation, or metabolism.

(c) "Covered hair product" means a hair relaxer product or a hairpiece product.

(d) "Hairpiece product" means a hair extension, a wig, or other hairpiece product, including decorative hair adornments.

(e) "Hair relaxer product" means a product topically applied to hair for the purposes of weakening the structure and curliness of the hair fiber and allowing for a straightening of the hair.

(f) (I) "Intentionally added" means a chemical that is purposefully introduced to a covered hair product by a manufacturer and that remains in the covered hair product as sold, offered for sale, or distributed in the state in a concentration greater than one hundred parts per million or above a threshold identified by an entity described in subsection (2)(a) or (2)(i) of this section as injurious to human health, whichever is lower.

(II) "Intentionally added" does not include the incidental presence of a chemical.

(g) "Incidental presence" means the unintentional presence of a chemical, as a nonessential raw material, a byproduct of a raw material, or a processing agent, used during the manufacturing process of a covered hair product if the chemical is inherent to or results from the manufacturing process.

(h) (I) "Manufacturer" means a person that manufactures a covered hair product or whose brand name is affixed to a covered hair product.

(II) "Manufacturer" includes, in the case of a covered hair product that is imported into the United States, the importer or first domestic distributor of the covered hair product if the person that manufactures the covered hair product or whose brand name is affixed to the covered hair product does not have a presence in the United States.

(i) "Reproductive toxicant" means a chemical identified as a reproductive or a developmental toxicant by the Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction established by the National Toxicology Program.

(3) (a) On and after July 1, 2027, a manufacturer shall not sell, offer for sale, or distribute a covered hair product in the state, including through an internet transaction, that contains an intentionally added carcinogen or a reproductive toxicant unless the covered hair product includes a clear and conspicuous warning label or, in the case of an internet transaction, a clear and conspicuous online warning statement that notifies the consumer at the time of sale that the covered hair product contains an intentionally added carcinogen or reproductive toxicant.

(b) The clear and conspicuous warning label or online warning statement described in subsection (3)(a) of this section must be printed in no less than size twelve-point font and must state:

(I) If the covered hair product contains an intentionally added carcinogen, "This product contains a chemical known to cause cancer";

(II) If the covered hair product contains an intentionally added reproductive toxicant, "This product contains a chemical known to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm"; or

(III) If the covered hair product contains both an intentionally added carcinogen and an intentionally added reproductive toxicant, "This product contains chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm".

(4) On and after July 1, 2028, the attorney general may adopt rules updating the warning label requirement described in subsection (3) of this section.

(5) A violation of this section by a manufacturer constitutes a deceptive trade practice under article 1 of title 6.

(6) This section does not apply to a covered hair product that is sold or distributed to a commercial entity for professional use and is not offered for retail sale to a consumer in the state.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (HB 26-1135), ch. 228, p. 1323, § 2, effective May 29; (5) amended, (HB 26-1426), ch. 334, p. 2029, § 105, effective August 12.

Editor's note: (1) Section 106(2) of chapter 334 (HB 26-1426), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section takes effect only if HB 26-1135 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of HB 26-1426 or HB 26-1135, whichever is later. HB 26-1135 became law and took effect May 29, 2026, and HB 26-1426 took effect August 12, 2026.

(2) Section 4 of chapter 228 (HB 26-1135), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act adding this section applies to conduct occurring on or after May 29, 2026.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1135, see section 1 of chapter 228, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

PART 5

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

Editor's note: This part 5 was numbered as article 21 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. The substantive provisions of this part 5 were repealed and reenacted in 1973, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 5 prior to 1973, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

Law reviews: For article, "Local Government and the Environment: Part II, CERCLA", see 17 Colo. Law. 1997 (1988); for article, "Local Government and the Environment: Part II, RCRA", see 17 Colo. Law. 2159 (1988).

25-5-501. Short title.

This part 5 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Hazardous Substances Act of 1973".

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 697, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-1.

25-5-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Banned hazardous substance" means:

(a) (I) Any toy, or other article intended for use by children, which is a hazardous substance, or which bears or contains a hazardous substance in such manner as to be susceptible of access by a child to whom such toy or other article is entrusted.

(II) The department shall exempt by regulation articles, such as chemical sets, which by reason of their functional purpose require the inclusion of the hazardous substance involved or necessarily present an electrical, mechanical, or thermal hazard, and which bear labeling giving adequate directions and warnings for safe use and are intended for use by children who have attained sufficient maturity, and may reasonably be expected, to read and heed such directions and warnings. Proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of exemption regulations shall be governed by the provisions of section 25-5-508.

(b) Any hazardous substance intended, or packaged in a form suitable, for use in the household which the department by regulation classifies as a banned hazardous substance on the basis of a finding that, notwithstanding such cautionary labeling as is or may be required under this article for that substance, the degree or nature of the hazard involved in the presence or use of such substance in households is such that the objective of the protection of the public health and safety can be adequately served only by keeping such substance, when so intended or packaged, out of the channels of commerce.

(2) "Combustible" means any substance which has a flash point above eighty degrees Fahrenheit to and including one hundred and fifty degrees, as determined by the Tagliabue open cup tester. This definition shall not apply to the flammability or combustibility of solids and of the contents of self-pressurized containers which shall be determined by methods generally applicable to such materials or containers and established by regulations issued by the department.

(3) "Commerce" means any and all commerce within the state of Colorado, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, and includes the operation of any business or service establishment.

(4) "Corrosive substance" means any substance which, in contact with living tissue, will cause destruction of tissue by chemical action but shall not refer to action on inanimate surfaces.

(5) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(6) "Electrical hazard" means an article, the design or manufacture of which, in normal use or when subjected to reasonably foreseeable damage or abuse, may cause personal injury or illness by electric shock.

(7) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment.

(8) "Extremely flammable substance" is a substance which has a flash point at or below twenty degrees Fahrenheit as determined by the Tagliabue open cup tester. This definition shall not apply to the flammability or combustibility of solids and of the contents of self-pressurized containers which shall be determined by methods generally applicable to such materials or containers and established by regulations issued by the department.

(9) "Flammable substance" is a substance which has a flash point above twenty degrees Fahrenheit to and including eighty degrees Fahrenheit as determined by the Tagliabue open cup tester. This definition shall not apply to the flammability or combustibility of solids and of the contents of self-pressurized containers which shall be determined by the methods generally applicable to such materials or containers and established by regulation issued by the department.

(10) (a) "Hazardous substance" means any substance or mixture of substances which:

(I) Is toxic;

(II) Is corrosive;

(III) Is an irritant;

(IV) Is a strong sensitizer;

(V) Is flammable or combustible; or

(VI) Generates pressure through decomposition, heat, or other means, if such substance or mixture of substances may cause substantial personal injury or substantial illness during or as a proximate result of any customary or reasonably foreseeable handling or use, including reasonably foreseeable ingestion by children.

(b) "Hazardous substance" also means:

(I) Any substances which the department by regulation finds, pursuant to the provisions of section 25-5-508, meet the requirements of paragraph (a) of this subsection (10);

(II) Any radioactive substance, if, with respect to such substance as used in a particular class of article or as packaged, the department determines by regulation that the substance is sufficiently hazardous to require labeling in accordance with this article in order to protect the public health;

(III) Any toy or other article intended for use by children which the department by regulation determines, in accordance with section 25-5-508, presents an electrical, mechanical, or thermal hazard.

(c) The term "hazardous substance" shall not apply to an economic poison subject to regulation by the federal government; to a substance regulated by the "Pesticide Act"; to food, drugs, and cosmetics subject to regulation by the federal government or the "Colorado Food and Drug Act"; or to anhydrous ammonia as an agricultural fertilizer as regulated by article 13 of title 35, C.R.S. "Hazardous substance" shall not include a substance intended for use as fuels when stored in containers and used in the heating, cooking, or refrigeration system of a house or any source material, special nuclear material, or byproduct material as defined in the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", as amended, and regulations issued pursuant thereto by the atomic energy commission.

(11) (a) "Highly toxic" means any substance which falls within any of the following categories:

(I) Produces death within fourteen days in one-half or more than one-half of a group of ten or more laboratory white rats each weighing between two hundred and three hundred grams, at a single dose of fifty milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight, when orally administered; or

(II) Produces death within fourteen days in one-half or more than one-half of a group of ten or more laboratory white rats each weighing between two hundred and three hundred grams when inhaled continuously for a period of one hour or less at an atmospheric concentration of two hundred parts per million by volume or less of gas or vapor or two milligrams per liter by volume or less of mist or dust, provided such concentration is likely to be encountered by man when the substance is used in any reasonably foreseeable manner; or

(III) Produces death within fourteen days in one-half or more than one-half of a group of ten or more rabbits tested in a dosage of two hundred milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight when administered by continuous contact with the bare skin for twenty-four hours or less.

(b) If the department finds that available data on human experience with any substance indicate results different from those obtained on animals in the above-named dosages or concentrations, the human data shall take precedence.

(12) "Irritant" means any substance not corrosive within the meaning of subsection (4) of this section which on immediate, prolonged, or repeated contact with normal living tissue will induce a local inflammatory reaction.

(13) "Label" means a display of written, printed, or graphic matter upon the immediate container (not including package liners) of any substance or, in the case of an article which is unpackaged or is not packaged in an immediate container intended or suitable for delivery to the ultimate consumer, a display of such matter directly upon the article involved or upon a tag or other suitable material affixed thereto. A requirement made by or under authority of this part 5 that any word, statement, or other information appear on the label shall not be considered to be complied with unless such word, statement, or other information also appears on the outside container or wrapper, if any there be, unless it is easily legible through the outside container or wrapper and on all accompanying literature where there are directions for use, written or otherwise.

(14) "Mechanical hazard" means an article, the design or manufacture of which, in normal use or when subjected to reasonably foreseeable damage or abuse, presents an unreasonable risk of personal injury or illness from fracture, fragmentation, or disassembly of the article; from propulsion of the article or any part or accessory thereof; from points or other protrusions, surfaces, edges, openings, or closures of the article; from moving parts of the article; from lack or insufficiency of controls to reduce or stop the motion of the article; as a result of self-adhering characteristics of the article; because the article, or any part or accessory thereof, may be aspirated or ingested; because of the instability of the article; or because of any other aspect of the article's design or manufacture.

(15) "Misbranded hazardous substance" means a hazardous substance (including a toy, or other article intended for use by children, which is a hazardous substance, or which bears or contains a hazardous substance in such manner as to be susceptible of access by a child to whom such toy or other article is entrusted) intended, or packaged in a form suitable, for use in the household or by children, which substance, except as otherwise provided by or pursuant to section 25-5-508, fails to bear a label:

(a) Which states conspicuously:

(I) The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, distributor, or seller;

(II) The common or usual name or the chemical name (if there be no common or usual name) of the hazardous substance or of each component which contributes substantially to its hazard, unless the department by regulation permits or requires the use of a recognized generic name;

(III) The signal word "DANGER" on substances which are extremely flammable, corrosive, or highly toxic;

(IV) The signal word "WARNING" or "CAUTION" on all other hazardous substances;

(V) An affirmative statement of the principal hazard or hazards, such as "Flammable", "Combustible", "Vapor Harmful", "Causes Burns", "Absorbed Through Skin", or similar wording descriptive of the hazard;

(VI) Precautionary measures describing the action to be followed or avoided, except when modified by regulation of the department pursuant to section 25-5-508;

(VII) Instruction, when necessary or appropriate, for first-aid treatment;

(VIII) The word "poison" for any hazardous substance which is highly toxic;

(IX) Instructions for handling and storage of packages which require special care in handling or storage; and

(X) The statement "Keep out of the reach of children" or its practical equivalent or, if the article is intended for use by children and is not a banned hazardous substance, adequate directions for the protection of children from the hazard.

(b) On which any statement required under paragraph (a) of this subsection (15) is located prominently and is in the English language in conspicuous and legible type in contrast by typography, layout, or color with other printed matter on the label.

(16) "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, or association or its legal representative or agent.

(17) "Radioactive substance" means a substance which emits ionizing radiation.

(18) "Strong sensitizer" means a substance which will cause, on normal living tissue, through an allergic or photodynamic process, a hypersensitivity which becomes evident on reapplication of the same substance and which is designated as such by the department. Before designating any substance as a strong sensitizer, the department, upon consideration of frequency of occurrence and severity of the reaction, shall find that the substance has significant potential for causing hypersensitivity.

(19) "Thermal hazard" means an article, the design, or manufacture of which, in normal use or when subjected to reasonably foreseeable damage or abuse, presents an unreasonable risk of personal injury or illness because of heat, as from heated parts, substances, or surfaces.

(20) "Toxic" shall apply to any substance (other than a radioactive substance) which has the capacity to produce personal injury or illness to man through ingestion, inhalation, or absorption through any body surface.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 697, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-2. L. 94: (5) and (7) amended, p. 2778, § 484, effective July 1.

Cross references: (1) For the "Pesticide Act", see article 9 of title 35; for the "Colorado Food and Drug Act", see part 4 of this article 5; for the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", see 42 U.S.C. § 2011 et seq.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (5) and (7), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-503. Prohibited acts.

(1) The following acts and the causing thereof are hereby prohibited:

(a) The introduction or delivery for introduction into commerce of any misbranded hazardous substance or banned hazardous substance;

(b) The alteration, mutilation, destruction, obliteration, or removal of the whole or any part of the label of, or the doing of any other act with respect to, a hazardous substance if such act is done while the substance is in commerce, or while the substance is held for sale (whether or not the first sale) after shipment in commerce, and results in the hazardous substance being a misbranded hazardous substance or a banned hazardous substance;

(c) The receipt in commerce of any misbranded hazardous substance or banned hazardous substance and the delivery or proffered delivery thereof for pay or otherwise;

(d) The giving of a guarantee or undertaking referred to in section 25-5-504 (2), which guarantee or undertaking is false, except by a person who relied upon a guarantee or undertaking to the same effect signed by, and containing the name and address of, the person residing in the United States from whom he received in good faith the hazardous substance;

(e) The failure to permit entry, inspection, or sampling as authorized by section 25-5-509 or to permit access to and copying of any record as authorized by section 25-5-510;

(f) The removing or disposing of a detained or embargoed article by sale or otherwise without permission of an authorized agent or court;

(g) The introduction or delivery for introduction into commerce or the receipt in commerce and subsequent delivery or proffered delivery, for pay or otherwise, of a hazardous substance in a reused food, drug, or cosmetic container or in a container which, though not a reused container, is identifiable as a food, drug, or cosmetic container by its labeling or by other identification. The reuse of a food, drug, or cosmetic container as a container for a hazardous substance shall be deemed to be an act which results in the hazardous substance being a misbranded hazardous substance. As used in this paragraph (g), the terms "food", "drug", and "cosmetic" shall have the same meanings as in the "Colorado Food and Drug Act".

(h) The use by any person to his own advantage or the revealing, other than to the executive director or officers or employees of the department or to the courts when relevant in any judicial proceeding under this part 5, of any information acquired under authority of section 25-5-509 concerning any method or process which as a trade secret is entitled to protection.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 701, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-3.

Cross references: For the "Colorado Food and Drug Act", see part 4 of this article 5.

25-5-504. Penalties.

(1) Any person who violates any of the provisions of section 25-5-503 commits a class 2 misdemeanor. Each violation shall be considered a separate offense.

(2) No person shall be subject to the penalties of this section for having violated section 25-5-503 (1)(c) if the receipt, delivery, or proffered delivery of the hazardous substance was made in good faith, unless he refuses to furnish on request of an officer or employee, duly designated by the executive director, the name and address of the person from whom he purchased or received such hazardous substance and copies of all documents, if any there be, pertaining to the delivery of the hazardous substance to him; or for having violated section 25-5-503 (1)(a) if he establishes a guarantee or undertaking signed by, and containing the name and address of, the person residing in the United States from whom he received in good faith the hazardous substance to the effect that the hazardous substance is not a misbranded hazardous substance or a banned hazardous substance within the meaning of those terms in this part 5.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 702, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-4. L. 2021: (1) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3236, § 460, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a class 2 misdemeanor, see § 18-1.3-501.

25-5-505. Injunction proceedings.

In addition to the remedies provided in this part 5, the executive director is authorized to apply to the district court for a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating any provision of section 25-5-503, irrespective of whether or not there exists an adequate remedy at law.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 703, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-5.

25-5-506. Embargo and seizure.

(1) Whenever a duly authorized agent of the department finds or has probable cause to believe that any hazardous substance is misbranded or is a banned hazardous substance within the meaning of this part 5, he shall affix to such article a tag or other appropriate marking, giving notice that such article is, or is suspected of being, misbranded or is a banned hazardous substance and has been detained or embargoed and warning all persons not to remove or dispose of such article by sale or otherwise until permission for removal or disposal is given by such agent or the district court.

(2) When an article detained or embargoed under subsection (1) of this section has been found by such agent to be misbranded or a banned hazardous substance, he shall petition the district court in whose jurisdiction the article is detained or embargoed for an order for condemnation of such article. When such agent has found that an article so detained or embargoed is not misbranded or is not a banned hazardous substance, he shall remove the tag or other marking.

(3) If the court finds that a detained or embargoed article is misbranded or is a banned hazardous substance, such article shall, after entry of the decree, be destroyed at the expense of the claimant thereof, under supervision of the agent, and all court costs and fees and storage and other proper expenses shall be taxed against the claimant of such article or his agent; except that, when the misbranding can be corrected by proper labeling of the article, the court, after entry of the decree and after such costs, fees, and expenses have been paid and a good and sufficient bond, conditioned that such article shall be so labeled, has been executed, may by order direct that such article be delivered to the claimant thereof for such labeling under the supervision of an agent of the department. The expense of such supervision shall be paid by the claimant. The article shall be returned to the claimant on the representation to the court by the executive director that the article is no longer in violation of this part 5 and that the expenses of such supervision have been paid.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 703, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-6.

25-5-507. Duties of district attorney.

(1) It is the duty of each district attorney to whom the executive director reports any violation of this part 5 to cause appropriate proceedings to be instituted in the proper courts without delay and to be prosecuted in the manner required by law.

(2) Before any violation of this part 5 is reported to any such district attorney for the institution of a criminal proceeding, the person against whom such proceeding is contemplated shall be given appropriate notice and an opportunity to present his views before the executive director or his designated agent, either orally or in writing, or by attorney, with regard to such contemplated proceeding.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 703, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-7.

25-5-508. Regulations.

(1) All regulations adopted now or hereafter under the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", as amended, shall be the hazardous substances regulations in this state. However, the department is authorized to promulgate regulations for the efficient enforcement of this part 5, which regulations shall be no less stringent than the regulations established pursuant to the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", as amended; except that regulation relating to the precautionary labeling or exemptions thereto shall not differ from the requirements of the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", as amended, and the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.

(2) (a) Whenever in the judgment of the executive director such action will promote the objectives of this part 5 by avoiding or resolving uncertainty as to its application, the executive director may by regulation declare to be a hazardous substance, for the purposes of this part 5, any substance or mixture of substances which he finds meets the definition in section 25-5-502 (10).

(b) If the executive director finds that the hazard of an article subject to this part 5 is such that labeling adequate to protect the public health and safety cannot be devised or the article presents an imminent danger to the public health and safety, the executive director may declare such article to be a banned hazardous substance and require its removal from commerce.

(c) (I) A determination by the executive director that a toy or other article intended for use by children presents an electrical, mechanical, or thermal hazard shall be made by regulation in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(II) If, before or during a proceeding pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (c), the executive director finds that, because of an electrical, mechanical, or thermal hazard, distribution of the toy or other article involved presents an imminent hazard to the public health and he gives notice of such finding, such toy or other article shall be deemed to be a banned hazardous substance for purposes of this part 5 until the proceeding has been completed. If not yet initiated when such notice is given, such proceeding shall be initiated as soon as possible.

(d) In the case of any toy, substance, or other article intended for use by children which is determined by the executive director to present an electrical, mechanical, or thermal hazard, any person who will be adversely affected by such a determination may, at any time prior to the sixtieth day after the regulation making such determination is issued by the executive director, ask for judicial review as provided in section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(3) All regulations promulgated under this part 5 shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(4) Hearings authorized or required by this article shall be conducted according to the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(5) A federal regulation automatically adopted pursuant to this part 5 takes effect in this state on the date it becomes effective as a federal regulation. The department shall publish all other proposed regulations thirty days prior to hearing thereon. A person who may be adversely affected by a regulation may file with the department, in writing, objections and a request for a hearing. The timely filing of substantial objections to a federal regulation automatically adopted stays the effect of the regulation in this state.

(6) If no substantial objections are received and no hearing is requested within thirty days after publication of a proposed regulation, it shall take effect on a date set by the department. The effective date shall be at least sixty days after the time for filing objections has expired.

(7) If substantial objections are made to a federal regulation within thirty days after it is automatically adopted or to a proposed regulation within thirty days after it is published, the department, after notice, shall conduct a public hearing to receive evidence on the issues raised by the objections. Any interested person or his representative may be heard. The department shall act upon objections by order and shall mail the order to objectors by certified mail as soon after the hearing as practicable. The order shall be based on substantial evidence in the record of the hearing. If the order concerns a federal regulation, it may reinstate, rescind, or modify such regulation. If the order concerns a proposed regulation, it may withdraw it or set an effective date for the regulation as published or as modified by the order. The effective date shall be at least sixty days after publication of the order.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 704, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-8.

Cross references: For the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", see Pub.L. 86-613, codified at 15 U.S.C. § 1261 et seq.

25-5-509. Examinations - investigations.

(1) For the purposes of enforcement of this part 5, officers or employees duly designated by the executive director, upon presenting appropriate credentials to the owner, operator, or agent in charge, are authorized to enter, at reasonable times, any factory, warehouse, or establishment in which hazardous substances are manufactured, processed, packed, or held for introduction into commerce or are held after such introduction or to enter any vehicle being used to transport or hold such hazardous substances in commerce; to inspect, at reasonable times, and within reasonable limits and in a reasonable manner, such factory, warehouse, establishment, or vehicle and all pertinent equipment, finished and unfinished materials, and labeling therein; and to obtain samples of such materials, or packages thereof, and of such labeling.

(2) If the officer or employee obtains any sample prior to leaving the premises, he shall pay or offer to pay the owner, operator, or agent in charge for such sample and give a receipt describing the sample obtained. If analysis is made of such sample, a copy of the results of such analysis shall be furnished promptly to the owner, operator, or agent in charge.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 705, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-9.

25-5-510. Records of shipment.

For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this part 5, carriers engaged in commerce and persons receiving hazardous substances in commerce or holding such hazardous substances so received shall, upon the request of an officer or employee duly designated by the executive director, permit such officer or employee, at reasonable times, to have access to and to copy all records showing the movement in commerce of any such hazardous substances, or the holding thereof during or after such movement, and the quantity, shipper, and consignee thereof; and it is unlawful for any such carrier or person to fail to permit such access to and copying of any record so requested when such request is accompanied by a statement in writing specifying the nature or kind of such hazardous substance to which such request relates. Evidence obtained under this section shall not be used in a criminal prosecution of the person from whom obtained; and carriers shall not be subject to the other provisions of this part 5 by reason of their receipt, carriage, holding, or delivery of hazardous substances in the usual course of business as carriers.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 705, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-10.

25-5-511. Publicity.

(1) The executive director may cause to be published from time to time reports summarizing any judgments, decrees, or court orders which have been rendered under this part 5, including the nature of the charge and the disposition thereof.

(2) The executive director may also cause to be disseminated information regarding hazardous substances in situations involving, in the opinion of the executive director, imminent danger to health. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the executive director from collecting, reporting, and illustrating the results of the investigations of the department.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 705, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-11.

25-5-512. Exception - discretion as to reporting.

(1) Nothing in this part 5 shall be construed as:

(a) Applicable to any person or corporation if the safety of his or its product or service is already regulated by any agency of the state of Colorado;

(b) Requiring the executive director to report minor violations of this part 5 for the institution of proceedings under this part 5 whenever the executive director believes that the public interest will be adequately served in the circumstances by a suitable written notice or warning.

Source: L. 73: R&RE, p. 706, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-21-12.

PART 6

SALE OF EYEGLASSES AND SUNGLASSES

25-5-601 to 25-5-604. (Repealed)

Source: L. 90: Entire part repealed, p. 1319, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 6 was numbered as article 33 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 6 prior to its repeal in 1990, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 7

PASSENGER TRAMWAY SAFETY

25-5-701 to 25-5-721. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire part repealed, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1642, § 3, effective October 1.

Editor's note: (1) This part 7 was numbered as article 25 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this part 7 prior to its repeal in 2019, consult the 2018 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. This part 7 was relocated to article 150 of title 12. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 7, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

(2) Sections 25-5-702 (4.5), (6), and (7); 25-5-704 (1)(d) and (1)(k); 25-5-706 IP(2), (2)(b)(I), and (2)(b)(II); and 25-5-721 were amended in SB 19-159. Those amendments were superseded by the repeal of this part 7 in HB 19-1172, effective October 1, 2019. For the amendments in SB 19-159 in effect from May 17, 2019, to October 1, 2019, see chapter 209, Session Laws of Colorado 2019. (L. 2019, pp. 2209, 2210.)

PART 8

SWIMMING AREAS

25-5-801. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Natural swimming area" means a designated portion of a natural or impounded body of water in which the designated portion is devoted to swimming, recreative bathing, or wading and for which an individual is charged a fee for the use of such area for such purposes. Appurtenances used in connection with the natural swimming area shall also be included.

(2) "Swimming area" means a designated body of water of such volume and depth that one or more persons can swim in it and which is used for the purpose of swimming, recreative bathing, or wading and includes natural swimming areas and swimming pools.

(3) "Swimming pool" means a body of water, other than a natural swimming area, maintained exclusively for swimming, recreative bathing, or wading and includes appurtenances used in connection with the swimming pool.

Source: L. 63: p. 541, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-1.

ANNOTATION

Public bath comes within the definition of "swimming area". People ex rel. Dunbar v. Giordano, 173 Colo. 567, 481 P.2d 415 (1971).

25-5-802. Submission of plans and specifications.

Prior to the construction, extension, enlarging, remodeling, or modification of a swimming area, the plans and specifications for the work to be done shall be submitted for review and recommendation to the department of public health and environment by the owner of the swimming area. The department of public health and environment may direct that such plans and specifications be submitted to the municipality or other political subdivision in which the swimming area is or may be located rather than to the department of public health and environment. This section does not prohibit any municipality from requiring that the plans also be submitted to the proper authority of the municipality.

Source: L. 63: p. 541, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-2. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2778, § 485, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-803. Sanitation of swimming areas.

(1) A swimming area shall be kept clean and free of all accumulations of trash, garbage, filth, and debris. Concentrations of any other matter in the water shall not be injurious to health.

(2) All swimming areas shall provide separate toilet facilities for both males and females, and swimming pools shall also provide separate shower and locker room facilities; except that swimming pools used in connection with hotels, motels, apartment houses, and private clubs shall not be required to furnish separate shower, toilet, and locker room facilities. All such facilities shall be kept clean and free from dirt, refuse, soiled toweling, or other noxious material.

(3) A swimming pool shall have an apparatus for the continuous removal from the water of suspended, floating, and settleable substances. Equipment for the disinfection of water shall be provided that shall be capable of either maintaining a minimum concentration of not less than twenty-five hundredths part per million of free chlorine residual or maintaining the minimum standards for drinking water in effect on January 1, 1969, as specified by the public health service of the United States department of health, education, and welfare. The water shall be kept clear enough to permit the bottom of the pool to be visible from the surface.

Source: L. 63: p. 542, § 3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-3. L. 69: p. 470, § 1.

ANNOTATION

Applied in People ex rel. Dunbar v. Giordano, 173 Colo. 567, 481 P.2d 415 (1971).

25-5-804. Safety standards for swimming areas.

(1) All natural swimming areas shall have a sanded beach the slope of which shall not be steeper than one foot of fall to ten feet of horizontal distance and shall be posted with warning signs, buoys, or other markers located not more than one hundred feet apart and visible to a person of ordinary visual acuity at a distance of not less than one hundred feet to mark water over three feet in depth and to mark the exterior limits of the designated swimming area. There shall also be provided not less than one life ring fifteen inches in diameter with seventy-five feet of three-sixteenths inch manila line attached which shall be hung in a conspicuous place on the beach where it shall be kept readily available for use. Each natural swimming area shall also have not less than one square-sterned boat with oars and oarlocks which shall be used only for lifesaving purposes. All other floating craft shall be excluded from the swimming areas except for enforcement craft when necessary to provide adequate supervision. When night swimming is permitted in the natural swimming area, the beach shall be fully illuminated.

(2) The diving tower or springboard, when provided, shall be rigidly constructed and securely anchored.

(3) Swimming pools shall be equipped with not less than one lightweight reaching pole of not less than twelve feet in length and not less than one life ring fifteen inches in diameter with seventy-five feet of three-sixteenths inch manila line attached, both of which shall be kept in a conspicuous place readily available to persons in the pool. When night swimming is permitted, the pool, adjacent area, and all appurtenances shall be fully illuminated.

Source: L. 63: p. 542, § 4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-4.

25-5-805. Connection with potable water.

All potable water supply sources connected to the swimming pool or pool appurtenances shall be protected against contamination by means of an air gap or equivalent device, and such device shall be placed between the source of the potable water supply and the pool or pool appurtenance.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-5.

25-5-806. Inspection.

All swimming areas shall be open to inspection at any time they are in use and at any other reasonable time by agents of the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-6. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2779, § 486, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-807. Injunctive relief.

The operation of a swimming area in violation of any provision of this part 8 may be restrained by the executive director of the department of public health and environment; by any city, county, city and county, or district health officer; or by any of their authorized agents in an action brought in a court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to the Colorado rules of civil procedure.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-7. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2779, § 487, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-808. Municipalities may regulate.

Any city, town, or city and county may by ordinance regulate swimming areas. Any such ordinance may include standards which are the same or more restrictive than the standards set forth in this part 8 but shall not supersede the state law except insofar as they are more restrictive than the state standards.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-8. L. 69: p. 471, § 1.

25-5-809. Applicability of part 8.

This part 8 shall not apply to any swimming pool constructed in connection with or appurtenant to a single-family dwelling, condominium, or apartment house, which pool is used solely by the persons living within such dwelling, condominium, or apartment house and the guests of such persons.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 9. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-9.

25-5-810. Rules and regulations.

The department of public health and environment may adopt any rules and regulations necessary for the proper administration and enforcement of this part 8.

Source: L. 63: p. 543, § 10. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-22-10. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2779, § 488, effective July 1.

Cross references: (1) For rule-making procedures, see article 4 of title 24.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Applied in People ex rel. Dunbar v. Giordano, 173 Colo. 567, 481 P.2d 415 (1971).

PART 9

DANGEROUS DRUGS - THERAPEUTIC USE

25-5-901 to 25-5-907. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire part repealed, p. 203, § 19, effective April 13.

Editor's note: This part 9 was added in 1979. For amendments to this part 9 prior to its repeal in 1995, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 10

ARTIFICIAL TANNING DEVICES

25-5-1001. Short title.

This part 10 shall be known and may be cited as the "Artificial Tanning Device Operation Act".

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1284, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1002. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that injuries may result from improperly supervised use of artificial tanning devices which expose the human body to ultraviolet radiation. Artificial tanning devices may emit more than ten times the amount of ultraviolet radiation than normal exposure to the sun. Injuries from intense exposure may result in cases of premature aging, adverse reactions to medication, skin burns, eye burns, retinal damage, formation of cataracts, precancers, and the promotion of several types of skin cancers including, but not limited to, melanoma.

(2) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that artificial tanning device users may be unaware of and lack access to information that they may experience a heightened photosensitivity to artificial tanning as a result of the use of medications such as birth control pills, antibiotics, high blood pressure medications, diuretics, antihistamines, and oral diabetes medications; commonly available cosmetics; and certain citrus products such as limes.

(3) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that establishments which provide users with access to artificial tanning devices may fail to establish basic sanitary precautions against the transmission of communicable skin disorders, may fail to protect the user from either direct contact with bulbs or from shards of glass if a bulb explodes, and may fail to provide users with appropriate health or physical safety information.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1284, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1003. Definitions.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Artificial tanning device" means any equipment that emits ultraviolet radiation with wavelengths in the air between two hundred and four hundred nanometers and that is used for the tanning of human skin, including, but not limited to, sunlamps, tanning beds, and tanning booths. "Artificial tanning device" does not include phototherapy devices.

(2) "Board" means the state board of health.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(4) "Fund" means the artificial tanning device education fund created in section 25-5-1004.

(5) "Phototherapy device" means a piece of equipment that emits ultraviolet radiation and that is used by or under the supervision of a licensed health-care professional in the treatment of disease.

(6) "Tanning facility" means any location, premises, place, area, structure, or business, whether permanent or mobile, which provides persons access to artificial tanning devices.

(7) "Ultraviolet radiation" means electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths in the air between two hundred and four hundred nanometers.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1285, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2779, § 489, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5-1004. Registration required - fee - artificial tanning device education fund - creation.

(1) Commencing January 1, 1993, and on each January 1 thereafter, the owner of any artificial tanning facility which makes artificial tanning devices available for public use shall register said facility with the department.

(2) (a) The registration of each artificial tanning facility as required in subsection (1) of this section shall be accompanied by an annual registration fee for each artificial tanning facility in the amount of one hundred twenty dollars for each calendar year. The annual registration fee shall be prorated on a monthly basis for any initial registration received after January 1 of any year.

(b) Notwithstanding the amount specified for the fee in paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), the board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of the fee if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of the fee is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of the fee as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

(3) All fees shall be collected by the department and transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the artificial tanning device education fund, which fund is hereby created. The fund shall be comprised of the annual registration fees. In accordance with section 24-36-114, C.R.S., all interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the general fund. At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered moneys in the fund shall remain therein and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund. The moneys in the fund shall be annually appropriated by the general assembly to the department for the direct and indirect costs of the administration and implementation of the provisions of this part 10.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1285, § 1, effective July 1. L. 98: (2) amended, p. 1334, § 47, effective June 1.

25-5-1005. Exemptions.

(1) The following devices are exempt from the requirements of this part 10:

(a) Artificial tanning devices which are used exclusively for personal, noncommercial purposes by the owner, members of the owner's family, or persons authorized by the owner to use the device;

(b) Phototherapy devices used by or under the supervision of a licensed physician or other licensed health-care professional within the scope of such person's practice for the purposes of treating diseases; and

(c) Artificial tanning devices which are in transit or storage and are not made available for use during such transit or storage.

(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to mean that the department endorses any type of artificial tanning device, any location of such devices, any business which provides artificial tanning devices for use by the public, or the use of any such devices.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1286, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1006. Rule-making authority - board.

(1) The standards established by the United States food and drug administration shall be the minimum standards for exposure to radiation through an artificial tanning device in this state; except that the board may establish rules adopting standards for exposure to radiation through artificial tanning devices which are no less stringent than the federal standards.

(2) (a) The board may, by rule, adopt any further standards or regulations necessary to protect the public from unsafe artificial tanning devices or other unsafe equipment, and from unsafe operational methods, and any such other rules and regulations as are necessary for the implementation of this part 10.

(b) The board shall formulate, adopt, and promulgate rules and regulations concerning on-site inspections of tanning facilities, and the department shall conduct such on-site inspections in accordance with the rules and regulations promulgated under this paragraph (b).

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1286, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1007. Owner responsibilities.

(1) The owner of each registered artificial tanning device shall provide to the department such information concerning the safe and proper operation of the owner's artificial tanning device as is required by this part 10.

(2) The owner shall post a sign on the premises where the artificial tanning device is located which notifies operators and potential users of the safety and health risks associated with the use of such devices. The board shall establish standards concerning the information to be contained in said notice and the size and location of posting the notice on the premises. Said notice shall be of a size and in a location on the premises which allows it to be easily read by users before being exposed to the artificial tanning device.

(3) The owner shall provide each user with a written handout as specified by the board containing, at a minimum, the following information:

(a) The risks of potential negative health effects as a result of improperly supervised exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the general health and sanitation risks associated with the use of such devices;

(b) The risks of potential negative health effects as a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation while in poor health or on certain medications; and

(c) Specific safety and operation information on the artificial tanning device which is to be used.

(4) The owner shall provide to users the safety equipment required by the board.

(5) The owner shall provide and maintain such general sanitation and cleaning of equipment as required by the board.

(6) The owner shall inform the department of any accident or adverse reaction to the use of an artificial tanning device and provide such detailed information as required by the department. A written report in the format required by the department shall be submitted within fifteen days after discovery of the event. Any records, reports, or information obtained from a person pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (6) shall be closed and confidential.

(7) No owner, employee, or operator of any artificial tanning device or tanning facility shall advertise or promote that the use of any artificial tanning device is safe or without risk to the user or that registration with the department constitutes approval or endorsement of either the use of the device or the use of artificial tanning in general.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1287, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: In 1995, the provisions of subsection (3) were renumbered on revision to conform to statutory format.

25-5-1008. Complaints - investigation.

The department shall have the authority to investigate complaints regarding any injury, accident, or the unsafe operation of an artificial tanning device.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1288, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1009. Penalties.

(1) Upon a finding by the board that an owner or lessee of a tanning facility is in violation of any of the provisions of this part 10, or the standards, rules, or regulations adopted by the board pursuant to this part 10, the board may assess a penalty of up to two hundred dollars for each day of violation, and each day of violation shall be considered a separate offense. Actions may be brought by the attorney general in the district court of the district within which the tanning device is located. In determining the amount of the penalty, the board shall consider the degree of danger to the public caused by the violation, the duration of the violation, and whether the owner or lessee has committed any similar violations. Any penalty fees collected by the board shall be remitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the tanning device education fund, created in section 25-5-1004.

(2) An owner or lessee subject to a penalty assessment pursuant to this section may appeal the penalty to the board by requesting a hearing before the board. Such a request shall be filed within thirty days after the penalty assessment is issued. A hearing before the board shall be conducted in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1288, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1010. Enforcement.

(1) (a) Whenever the department has reasonable cause to believe a violation of this part 10 or any rule made pursuant to this part 10 has occurred and immediate enforcement is deemed necessary, the department may issue a cease-and-desist order, which may require any person to cease violating any provision of this part 10 or any rule made pursuant to this part 10. Such cease-and-desist order shall set forth the provisions alleged to have been violated, the facts alleged to have constituted the violation, and the requirement that all actions be ceased forthwith.

(b) In the event that any person fails to comply with a cease-and-desist order within twenty-four hours, the department may apply to the district court of the district within which the tanning device is located for a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating any provision of this part 10 regardless of whether there is an adequate remedy at law.

(c) No stay of a cease-and-desist order shall be issued before a hearing thereon involving both parties.

(2) Whenever it appears to the department, upon evidence satisfactory to the department, that any person has engaged in or is about to engage in any act or practice constituting a violation of any provision of this part 10 or of any rule or of any order promulgated under this part 10, the department may apply to the district court of the district within which the tanning device is located to temporarily or permanently restrain or enjoin the act or practice in question and to enforce compliance with this part 10 or any rule or order promulgated under this part 10. In any such action, the department shall not be required to plead or prove irreparable injury or the inadequacy of the remedy at law. Under no circumstances shall the court require the department to post a bond.

(3) It is a violation of this part 10 for:

(a) Any person to knowingly operate a tanning facility without having registered said facility with the department in accordance with the provisions of this part 10;

(b) Any person to offer for use to the public any artificial tanning device which is not registered with the department as required by the provisions of this part 10;

(c) Any person to violate any provision of this part 10 or any provision of any standards, rules, or regulations adopted by the board;

(d) Any person to refuse to permit entry for the purpose of inspection of a tanning facility during normal business hours.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1289, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1011. Assumption of risk inapplicable.

In any civil action for damages for an injury sustained as the result of the use of an artificial tanning device, it shall be presumed that the defense of assumption of risk as set forth in section 13-21-111.7, C.R.S., shall not apply if the owner has failed to provide the injured party with the written handout or the safety equipment as required by section 25-5-1007, or if the owner has failed to provide a safe artificial tanning device.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1290, § 1, effective July 1.

PART 11

PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, AND REDUCTION OF LEAD EXPOSURE

25-5-1101. Legislative declaration.

(1) (a) The general assembly hereby declares that this part 11 is enacted for the purpose of reducing exposure of children to lead hazards and reducing the prevalence of elevated blood lead levels in children under seven years of age. The general assembly finds and determines that:

(I) Exposure of children to lead represents a significant environmental health problem in the state that is preventable;

(II) The existence of elevated blood lead levels in children is of great concern to the citizens of Colorado because lead poisoning in children may necessitate large expenditures of public funds for health care and special education, which expenditures could be avoided if exposure of children to lead is reduced;

(III) A comprehensive lead hazard reduction program is needed to prevent elevated blood lead levels in children and, if implemented, such program could prevent hundreds of Colorado's children, many of whom currently go undiagnosed or untreated, from being exposed to lead at levels believed to be harmful.

(b) Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to establish and fund a statewide lead hazard prevention, intervention, and reduction program within the department of public health and environment for the purposes of:

(I) Compiling information concerning the prevalence, causes, and geographic occurrence of elevated levels of lead in children's blood;

(II) Identifying areas of the state where children's lead exposures are significant;

(III) Analyzing lead information and, where indicated, designing and implementing a program of medical monitoring and follow-up and environmental intervention that will reduce the incidence of excessive exposure of children to lead in residences and child-occupied facilities in Colorado; and

(IV) Providing comprehensive educational materials that are targeted to health-care providers, child care providers, schools, parents of young children, the real estate industry, and owners of rental properties.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1083, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1102. Definitions.

As used in this part 11, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Child-occupied facility" has the same meaning as that set forth in section 25-7-1102 (2).

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2.3) "Fund" means the lead hazard reduction cash fund established pursuant to section 25-5-1106 (2).

(3) "Lead-based paint" has the same meaning as that set forth in section 25-7-1102 (5).

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1084, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (2.3) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2079, § 214, effective August 6.

25-5-1103. Lead hazard reduction program.

There is hereby created the lead hazard reduction program in the department of public health and environment to perform prevention, intervention, and general hazard reduction activities needed to reduce exposure of children to lead-based paint hazards. As part of the program, the department shall coordinate actions between the department and the departments of education, human services, health care policy and financing, and local affairs to produce a comprehensive plan and program to prevent elevated blood lead levels in children and to control exposure to lead-based paint hazards in residences and child-occupied facilities in Colorado. The provisions of this part 11 apply only to lead-based paint hazards.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1084, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1104. Comprehensive plan.

(1) On or before July 1, 1998, the department shall establish a comprehensive plan to prevent elevated blood lead levels in children and to control exposure of children to lead-based paint hazards in residences and child-occupied facilities. The plan shall include:

(a) Development of standards by the state board of health concerning the method and frequency of screening of young children for elevated blood lead levels. The state board of health shall consult with recognized medical, public health, and environmental professionals and appropriate professional organizations in the development of such standards.

(b) Development of a comprehensive education program regarding lead contamination that makes appropriate educational materials available to health-care providers, child care providers, schools, owners and tenants of residential dwellings built prior to 1978, and parents of young children;

(c) Case management and environmental follow-up services by state or local health agencies to ensure that all cases of elevated blood lead levels in children receive service appropriate for the severity of the lead exposure;

(d) Recommendations concerning further legislative actions to address lead exposure, including, but not limited to, requiring third-party insurers or payers, including medicaid, to provide coverage for screening, treatment, environmental investigations, and environmental intervention;

(e) Proposed regulations governing the requirement, timing, and conduct of environmental investigations and interventions; and

(f) A detailed fiscal analysis of the lead hazard reduction program.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1085, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5-1105. Report. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1085, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section repealed, p. 1907, § 101, effective August 5.

25-5-1106. Acceptance of gifts, grants, and donations - lead hazard reduction cash fund.

(1) The department is authorized to accept gifts, grants, and donations for the purpose of implementing this part 11 and part 11 of article 7 of this title.

(2) There is hereby established in the state treasury the lead hazard reduction cash fund. The fund shall consist of any fees, gifts, grants, and donations received from any person or entity. Any interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall remain in the fund and may not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(3) The general assembly shall make appropriations from the fund to the department for the implementation of this part 11 and the implementation of part 11 of article 7 of this title.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1085, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (3) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1688, § 76, effective August 7. L. 2025: (2) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2079, § 215, effective August 6.

PART 12

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS CONTAINING MICROBEADS

25-5-1201. Preemption.

The prohibition against producing, manufacturing, selling, and promoting personal care products that contain synthetic plastic microbeads is a matter of statewide concern, and, accordingly, this part 12 preempts any conflicting county or municipal ordinance, rule, or order.

Source: L. 2015: Entire part added, (HB 15-1144), ch. 53, p. 128, § 1, effective August 5.

25-5-1202. Definitions.

As used in this part 12:

(1) "Over-the-counter drug" means a drug that is a personal care product that contains a label that identifies the product as a drug, as required by and meeting the labeling requirements of 21 CFR 201.66.

(2) (a) "Personal care product" means:

(I) Any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance of a person; and

(II) Any item intended to be used as a component of an article listed in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a).

(b) "Personal care product" does not include prescription drugs.

(3) "Plastic" means a synthetic material made by linking monomers through a chemical reaction to create an organic polymer chain that can be molded or extruded at high heat into various solid forms that retain their defined shapes during the life cycle and after disposal.

(4) "Synthetic plastic microbead" means an intentionally added, nonbiodegradable, solid plastic particle measuring less than five millimeters in size intended to aid in exfoliating or cleansing as part of a rinse-off product.

Source: L. 2015: Entire part added, (HB 15-1144), ch. 53, p. 128, § 1, effective August 5.

25-5-1203. Personal care products containing microbeads - production, manufacture, and sale prohibited.

(1) On and after January 1, 2018, a person shall not produce or manufacture in this state a personal care product containing synthetic plastic microbeads, except for an over-the-counter drug.

(2) On and after January 1, 2019, a person shall not:

(a) Accept for sale in this state a personal care product that contains synthetic plastic microbeads, except for an over-the-counter drug; or

(b) Produce or manufacture in this state an over-the-counter drug that contains synthetic plastic microbeads.

(3) On and after January 1, 2020, a person shall not accept for sale in this state an over-the-counter drug that contains synthetic plastic microbeads.

Source: L. 2015: Entire part added, (HB 15-1144), ch. 53, p. 129, § 1, effective August 5.

25-5-1204. Penalty for violation.

A person who violates any provision of this part 12 is subject to a civil penalty of not less than one thousand dollars and not more than ten thousand dollars for each offense. The penalty is determined and collected by the district court for the judicial district in which the violation occurs upon an action instituted by the department of public health and environment. The district court shall transmit penalties collected pursuant to this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the moneys to the general fund.

Source: L. 2015: Entire part added, (HB 15-1144), ch. 53, p. 129, § 1, effective August 5.

PART 13

FIREFIGHTING FOAMS AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1279, see section 1 of chapter 427, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-5-1301. Short title.

The short title of this part 13 is the "Firefighting Foams and Personal Protective Equipment Control Act".

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3724, § 3, effective August 2.

25-5-1302. Definitions.

As used in this part 13, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Chemical plant" means a large integrated plant or that portion of such a plant, other than either a plant in which flammable liquids are produced on a commercial scale from crude petroleum, natural gasoline, or other hydrocarbon sources or a plant or that portion of a plant where flammable liquids produced by fermentation are concentrated and where the concentrated products may also be mixed, stored, or packaged, where flammable liquids are produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical reactions.

(1.5) "Class B fire" means a fire involving flammable liquids or gases, including petroleum, paint, alcohol, solvent, oil, and tar.

(2) "Class B firefighting foam" means foam designed for flammable liquid fires.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3.3) "Eligible entity" means an entity identified by the department as an entity that may qualify for the grant program.

(3.5) "Eligible material" means a material containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances that is identified by the department as eligible for purchase under the take-back program.

(3.6) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee.

(3.7) "Fees" means the fees imposed by section 8-20-206.5 (6).

(4) "Fire department" means the duly authorized fire protection organization of a town, city, county, or city and county, a fire protection district, a metropolitan district or county improvement district that provides fire protection, or a volunteer fire department organized under section 24-33.5-1208.5.

(5) "Firefighting personal protective equipment" means any clothing, including jackets, pants, shoes, gloves, helmets, and respiratory equipment, designed, intended, or marketed to be worn by firefighting personnel in the performance of their duties.

(5.5) "Fund" means the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances cash fund created in section 8-20-206.5 (7).

(5.7) "Grant program" means the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances grant program created in section 25-5-1310.

(5.8) "Intentionally added PFAS chemicals" has the meaning set forth in section 25-15-603 (12).

(6) "Manufacturer" means a person or entity that manufactures firefighting agents or firefighting equipment and any agents of that person or entity, including an importer, a distributor, an authorized servicer, a factory branch, and a distributor branch.

(7) "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances" or "PFAS chemicals" means a class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.

(7.5) "Release" means any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emptying, discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, or disposing of a chemical into the environment.

(8) "Take-back program" means the program created in section 25-5-1311 that allows the department to purchase and dispose of materials that contain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

(9) "Terminal" means a facility that engages in the wholesale distribution of crude petroleum and petroleum products, including liquified petroleum gas from bulk liquid storage facilities.

(10) "Water quality spills hotline" means the phone system created and maintained by the department for the reporting of spills or discharges into state waters to the department.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3725, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: (3.3), (3.5), (3.7), (5.5), (5.7), and (8) added, (SB 20-218), ch. 141, p. 615, § 2, effective June 29. L. 2022: (1.5), (3.6), (5.8), (7.5), (9), and (10) added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2433, § 3, effective June 3.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-5-1303. Restriction on sale of certain firefighting foams - exemptions.

(1) Beginning August 2, 2021, a manufacturer of class B firefighting foam may not knowingly sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use in the state class B firefighting foam to which PFAS chemicals have been added.

(2) The restrictions in subsection (1) of this section do not apply to the manufacture, sale, or distribution of class B firefighting foam:

(a) Where the inclusion of PFAS chemicals is required by or authorized by federal law including but not limited to 14 CFR 139, or implemented in accordance with federal aviation administration guidance, or otherwise required for a military purpose;

(b) For use at a gasoline, special fuel, or jet fuel storage and distribution facility that is supplied by a pipeline, vessel, or refinery; a tank farm from which gasoline, special fuel, or jet fuel may be removed for distribution; or a refinery;

(c) For use at a chemical plant; and

(d) For use at the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnels, if deemed necessary by the department of transportation. If the department of transportation deems the use of such class B firefighting foam necessary, the department of transportation must also make a plan to contain and safely dispose of such class B firefighting foam and any water used in the cleanup of such class B firefighting foam.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3725, § 3, effective August 2.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-5-1303.5. Restriction on use of certain firefighting foams - rules.

(1) Beginning January 1, 2024, a person that uses class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals shall:

(a) Not allow a release of the class B firefighting foam;

(b) Fully contain the class B firefighting foam by implementing appropriate containment measures, which may include bunds and ponds, that:

(I) Are controlled;

(II) Are impervious to PFAS chemicals; and

(III) Do not allow the class B firefighting foam or any associated firewater, wastewater, runoff, or other waste to be released;

(c) Safely store all class B firefighting foam and any associated firewater, wastewater, runoff, and other waste in a way that prevents their release until the federal environmental protection agency has published guidance on the proper disposal and destruction methods for PFAS chemicals. After the federal environmental protection agency has published guidance on the proper disposal and destruction methods for PFAS chemicals, the person that uses the class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals shall dispose of and destroy the class B firefighting foam in accordance with such guidance.

(d) If there is a release of the class B firefighting foam or any associated firewater, wastewater, runoff, or other waste, report the following information to the water quality spills hotline within twenty-four hours after its release:

(I) The trade name and product name of the class B firefighting foam;

(II) The quantity of class B firefighting foam used that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals;

(III) The amount and type of PFAS chemicals in the class B firefighting foam; and

(IV) The amount of class B firefighting foam or any associated firewater, wastewater, runoff, and other waste that is released; and

(e) Document any measures undertaken pursuant to the requirements of this section. In investigating compliance with the requirements of this section, the attorney general may request that the person provide the documentation created pursuant to the requirements of this subsection (1)(e) to the attorney general.

(2) Beginning January 1, 2024, a person that uses class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals must report the use of the class B firefighting foam to the water quality spills hotline within twenty-four hours after its use.

(3) (a) Except as provided in subsection (3)(b) of this section, the restrictions and requirements in subsections (1) and (2) of this section do not apply to the use of class B firefighting foam where the inclusion of PFAS chemicals is required or authorized by federal law, including 14 CFR 139, or implemented in accordance with federal aviation administration guidance, or otherwise required for a military purpose.

(b) If the executive director determines by rule that the laws, guidance, or requirements described in subsection (3)(a) of this section no longer apply to a particular industry or sector, the executive director shall provide notice on the department's website of this determination and shall promulgate rules prohibiting users of class B firefighting foam within that industry or sector from using class B firefighting foam in violation of this section, which rules shall apply no sooner than two years after the executive director's determination.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2434, § 4, effective June 3.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-5-1304. Notification requirement.

A manufacturer of class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals must notify, in writing, persons that sell the manufacturer's products in the state about the provisions of this part 13 prior to August 2, 2020.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3726, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1042), ch. 75, p. 312, § 2, effective March 24.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1042, see section 1 of chapter 75, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-5-1305. Notice of chemicals in personal protective equipment.

(1) Beginning August 2, 2019, a manufacturer or other person that sells firefighting personal protective equipment must provide written notice to the purchaser at the time of sale if the firefighting personal protective equipment contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals. The written notice must include a statement that the firefighting personal protective equipment being sold contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals and the reason PFAS chemicals are added to the equipment.

(2) The manufacturer or other person selling firefighting personal protective equipment and the purchaser of the equipment must retain the notice described in subsection (1) of this section on file for at least three years from the date of sale.

(3) Upon the request of the department, a person, manufacturer, or purchaser must furnish the notice, or written copies, and associated sales documentation to the department within sixty days after the request.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3726, § 3, effective August 2.

25-5-1306. Certificate of compliance.

The department may request a certificate of compliance from a manufacturer of class B firefighting foam or firefighting personal protective equipment. A certificate of compliance must attest that a manufacturer's products meet the requirements of this part 13.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3726, § 3, effective August 2.

25-5-1307. Civil penalty.

(1) A manufacturer or a person who violates this part 13 is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed five thousand dollars for each violation in the case of a first offense. A manufacturer or a person who violates this part 13 repeatedly is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed ten thousand dollars for each repeat offense. Penalties collected under this part 13 must be deposited in the local firefighter safety and disease prevention fund created in section 24-33.5-1231.

(2) The attorney general has the authority to enforce this part 13 and to conduct civil investigations and bring civil actions for violations of this part 13.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3726, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2435, § 5, effective June 3.

25-5-1308. Survey.

(1) Once every three years, the department shall conduct a survey of fire departments to determine, as applicable:

(a) Each fire department's name, fire department identification number, and address;

(b) The amount, type, and date of manufacture of any class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals which each fire department possesses;

(c) How, where, and when the fire department has used class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals for firefighter training;

(d) Whether the fire department's stations are served by a well or public drinking water source;

(e) Whether the fire department has used class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals in the last five years, whether that use was reported to the department, and if not when and where the class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals was used; and

(f) How much, if any, class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals the fire department has disposed of.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1279), ch. 427, p. 3727, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: (2) repealed, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1055, § 56, effective June 30.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-5-1309. Restriction on the use of certain firefighting foam at certain airports - definitions.

(1) Beginning January 1, 2024, the use of class B firefighting foam that contains intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances shall be prohibited at structures used for the storage or maintenance of aircraft where the structure is located in an airport that:

(a) Is a federal-aviation-administration-designated public-use airport; and

(b) Is within the state of Colorado.

(2) As used in this section, "class B firefighting foam" and "perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances" have the same meaning as they are defined in section 25-5-1302.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1119), ch. 139, p. 606, § 3, effective June 29. L. 2022: IP(1) amended, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2436, § 6, effective June 3.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-5-1310. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances grant program.

(1) There is hereby created within the department the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances grant program.

(2) Grant recipients may use the money received through the grant program for the following purposes:

(a) Sampling, assessment, and investigation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in ground or surface water;

(b) Funding water system infrastructure used for the treatment of identified perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; and

(c) Providing emergency assistance to communities and water systems affected by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

(3) The department shall administer the grant program and shall award grants as provided in this section. Subject to available appropriations, grants shall be paid out of the fund.

(4) The department shall develop policies and procedures as necessary to implement the grant program. At a minimum, these policies and procedures must specify:

(a) Who may qualify as an eligible entity;

(b) The time frames for applying for grants;

(c) The criteria used to evaluate and prioritize applications for grants;

(d) The form of the grant program application; and

(e) The time frames for distributing grant money.

(5) To receive a grant, an eligible entity must submit an application to the department in accordance with the policies and procedures specified by the department.

(6) A grantee shall use the money received through the grant program only for achieving goals approved by the department.

(7) A grantee shall report annually to the department on the progress of any project financed by the grant pursuant to terms specified in the grant award agreement.

(8) The department shall develop a policy regarding a grantee's noncompliance with the grant award agreement entered into by the grantee and the department. This policy may include a mechanism for the department to convert the grant to a loan with interest.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-218), ch. 141, p. 615, § 3, effective June 29.

25-5-1311. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances take-back program.

(1) There is hereby created in the department the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances take-back program to create an incentive for the proper disposal of materials containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances by allowing the department to purchase and properly dispose of such materials.

(2) The department shall administer the take-back program and, subject to available appropriations and revenues from the fund, shall purchase and dispose of eligible materials.

(3) The department shall develop policies and procedures as necessary to implement the take-back program. At a minimum, these policies and procedures must describe:

(a) What materials qualify as eligible materials;

(b) The purchase price for each eligible material;

(c) The proper method of disposal for each eligible material;

(d) The time frame for applying for the purchase of eligible materials;

(e) The form of the eligible material purchase application; and

(f) The time frame for purchasing eligible materials.

(4) To have the department purchase an eligible material, a person or entity must submit an eligible material purchase application to the department in accordance with the policies and procedures adopted by the department.

(5) The department shall publish the purchase price for each eligible material.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-218), ch. 141, p. 616, § 3, effective June 29.

25-5-1312. Reporting requirement.

(1) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the department shall annually report by February 1, 2021, and February 1 of each year until February 1, 2036, to the general assembly's committees of reference with jurisdiction over public health regarding:

(a) Any amounts credited to the fund in the previous year and the unobligated balance of the fund;

(b) The number of grant applicants and the number and value of grants awarded under the grant program;

(c) The eligible entities that have applied for a grant under the grant program, the actions taken by each grantee, other measurements of success, and the amount of grant money distributed to each grantee;

(d) The amount of eligible materials purchased and properly disposed of by the department under the take-back program;

(e) Any newly located perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; and

(f) Any suggested legislation or policy changes.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-218), ch. 141, p. 617, § 3, effective June 29. L. 2023: IP(1) amended, (SB 23-280), ch. 404, p. 2420, § 5, effective August 7.

PART 14

CLEAN LIGHTING

25-5-1401. Short title.

The short title of this part 14 is the "Clean Lighting Act".

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1707, § 8, effective August 7.

25-5-1402. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and determines that:

(a) Mercury is a potent and persistent neurotoxin that causes harm to human nervous systems, immune systems, and organ function and impairs fetal and child development;

(b) Accelerating the phase-out of general-purpose fluorescent light bulbs containing toxic mercury will protect worker health and public health, including during the manufacture, distribution, use, collection, disposal, and recycling of the light bulbs;

(c) Fluorescent bulbs have long provided a valuable service, but cleaner, safer alternatives have become widely available and affordable;

(d) Mercury-free LED replacements for general-purpose fluorescent bulbs provide the same or better lighting service, longer product life, and much lower total cost; and

(e) According to a study from the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, accelerating the phase-out of most general-purpose fluorescent lighting for sale in Colorado will prevent one hundred sixty-seven pounds of mercury and two million one hundred thousand metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions from entering the environment and lead to five hundred seventy-two million dollars in net utility bill savings for Colorado businesses and residents.

(2) The general assembly therefore declares that it is in the public interest to phase out the sale of general-purpose fluorescent light bulbs that contain mercury.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1707, § 8, effective August 7.

25-5-1403. Definitions.

As used in this part 14, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "CIECAM02-UCS" means a color appearance model designed by the International Commission on Illumination to accurately model human color perception that uses uniform color space.

(2) (a) "Compact fluorescent lamp" means a compact, low-pressure, mercury-containing, electric-discharge light source:

(I) In which a fluorescent coating transforms some of the ultraviolet energy generated by the mercury discharge into visible light; and

(II) That:

(A) Includes one base or end cap of any type, including screw, bayonet, two-pin, or four-pin;

(B) Is integrally ballasted or nonintegrally ballasted;

(C) Emits light between a correlated color temperature of 1700 Kelvin and 24000 Kelvin and a Duv of +0.024 and -0.024 in the CIECAM02-UCS; and

(D) Includes one or more tubes, which may be of any diameter or length.

(b) "Compact fluorescent lamp" includes lamps of all sizes and shapes for directional and nondirectional installations, including plug-in, spiral, twin tube, triple twin, 2D, U-bend, and circular lamps, that satisfy the description in subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(3) "Duv" means delta (u, 2/3v'), which is a metric that describes the distance of a light color point from the planckian locus.

(4) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment or the executive director's designee.

(5) (a) "Linear fluorescent lamp" means a low-pressure, mercury-containing, electric-discharge light source:

(I) In which a fluorescent coating transforms some of the ultraviolet energy generated by the mercury discharge into visible light; and

(II) That:

(A) Includes two bases or end caps of any type, including single-pin, two-pin, or recessed double contact;

(B) Emits light between a correlated color temperature of 1700 Kelvin and 24000 Kelvin and a Duv of +0.024 and -0.024 in the CIECAM02-UCS;

(C) Includes all tube diameters, including T5, T8, T10, and T12 tubes; and

(D) Includes all tube lengths from six inches to eight feet.

(b) "Linear fluorescent lamp" includes lamps of all shapes, including linear, U-bend, and circular.

(6) "Sunlamp product" has the meaning set forth in 21 CFR 1040.20 (b)(9).

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1708, § 8, effective August 7.

25-5-1404. Scope and applicability.

(1) Except as described in subsection (2) of this section, this part 14 applies to compact fluorescent lamps and linear fluorescent lamps sold as new in Colorado.

(2) This part 14 does not apply to:

(a) A lamp that is designed and marketed exclusively for image capture and projection, including photocopying; printing, either directly or in preprocessing; lithography; film and video projection; and holography;

(b) A lamp that emits ultraviolet light and that:

(I) Emits ultraviolet light greater than two milliwatts per kilolumen (mW/klm);

(II) Is designed and marketed exclusively for a germicidal purpose, such as for the destruction of DNA, which lamp emits a peak radiation of approximately two hundred fifty-three and seven-tenths nanometers;

(III) Is designed and marketed exclusively for disinfection or fly trapping and:

(A) From which the total radiation power emitted between two hundred and three hundred fifteen nanometers represents at least five percent of the total radiation power emitted between two hundred fifty and eight hundred nanometers; or

(B) From which the total radiation power emitted between three hundred fifteen and four hundred nanometers represents at least twenty percent of the total radiation power emitted between two hundred fifty and eight hundred nanometers;

(IV) Is designed and marketed exclusively for the generation of ozone where the primary purpose is to emit radiation at approximately one hundred eighty-five and one-tenth nanometers;

(V) Is designed and marketed exclusively for coral zooxanthellae symbiosis and from which the radiation power emitted between four hundred and four hundred eighty nanometers represents at least forty percent of the total radiation power emitted between two hundred fifty and eight hundred nanometers;

(VI) Is designed and marketed exclusively for use in a sunlamp product;

(VII) Is designed and marketed exclusively for use in a medical device for medical or veterinary diagnosis or treatment;

(VIII) Is designed and marketed exclusively for use in pharmaceutical product manufacturing or quality control;

(IX) Is designed and marketed exclusively for spectroscopy and photometric applications, such as UV-visible spectroscopy, molecular spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, nondispersive infrared, Fourier transform infrared, medical analysis, ellipsometry, layer thickness measurement, process monitoring, or environmental monitoring; or

(X) Is used by academic and research institutions exclusively for conducting research projects and experiments; or

(c) A product that is held in inventory in Colorado on the effective date of the applicable standard described in section 25-5-1405.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1709, § 8, effective August 7.

25-5-1405. Prohibited lamps.

(1) On and after January 1, 2025, a person shall not manufacture, distribute, sell, or offer for sale in Colorado any:

(a) Linear fluorescent lamp; or

(b) Compact fluorescent lamp.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1710, § 8, effective August 7.

25-5-1406. Enforcement - verifications of compliance - civil action by attorney general - penalties.

(1) The executive director shall:

(a) Verify major retailers' and distributors' compliance with the provisions of this part 14 through online spot-checks, coordination with other states that have similar standards, or both;

(b) Conduct such verifications at least once before January 1, 2026, and again at least once before January 1, 2031;

(c) Deliver a report on the method and findings of the verifications to the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives and to the transportation and energy committee of the senate, or to any successor committees, and post the report to the department of public health and environment's website within one month after its completion; and

(d) Deliver any findings of violations to the attorney general.

(2) On or before January 1, 2025, the executive director shall establish a process whereby individuals may anonymously report potential violations of this part 14 on the department of public health and environment's public website. The executive director shall investigate any reported potential violation and shall report any confirmed violations to the attorney general.

(3) (a) If the attorney general has probable cause to believe that any person or group of persons has violated or caused another person to violate section 25-5-1405, the attorney general may bring a civil action on behalf of the state to seek the imposition of civil penalties as specified in this subsection (3). Any person who violates or causes another person to violate section 25-5-1405 shall pay a civil penalty of not more than five hundred dollars for each violation, which amount shall be transferred to the state treasurer to be credited to the energy fund created in section 24-38.5-102.4.

(b) For purposes of subsection (3)(a) of this section:

(I) Each transaction or online for-sale product listing involved constitutes a separate violation; except that the maximum civil penalty may not exceed five hundred thousand dollars for any related series of violations; and

(II) A court shall not impose a fine against a nonmanagerial employee of a contractor that installs, repairs, or replaces linear or compact fluorescent lamps and collects from the customer an amount representing both parts and labor.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1711, § 8, effective August 7.

PART 15

REGULATION OF SODIUM NITRITE

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1081, see section 1 of chapter 72, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-5-1501. Definitions.

As used in this part 15, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commercial business" means a business or institution, including a research institution, requiring the use of products with sodium nitrite in a concentration greater than ten percent of the mass or volume of the product for business purposes.

(2) "Covered entity" means a person selling, transferring, or offering to sell or transfer a covered product.

(3) "Covered product" means a product containing sodium nitrite in a concentration greater than ten percent of the mass or volume of the product.

(4) "Label" means a representation made by statement, word, picture, design, or emblem on a covered product package, whether affixed to or written directly on the package.

(5) "Principal display panel" means:

(a) For a cylindrical or nearly cylindrical package, forty percent of the product package as measured by multiplying the height of the container by the circumference;

(b) For a noncylindrical or nearly noncylindrical package, such as a rectangular prism or nearly rectangular prism, forty percent of the product package as measured by multiplying the length by the width of the side of the package when it is pressed flat against on all sides of the packaging; and

(c) For electronic media, the side of a product package that is most likely to be displayed, presented, or shown under customary conditions of display for retail sale.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 237, § 2, effective July 1.

25-5-1502. Sodium nitrite - restriction of sale - label requirements.

(1) A covered entity shall not:

(a) Sell or transfer a covered product, except to a commercial business in accordance with section 25-5-1503; or

(b) Sell or offer to sell, directly or indirectly, a covered product without a label notice that meets the requirements of section 25-5-1504.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 238, § 2, effective July 1.

25-5-1503. Sale or transfer of covered products to commercial businesses.

(1) A covered entity may sell or transfer a covered product to a verified commercial business pursuant to this subsection (1). A commercial business is verified if, prior to the sale or transfer of the covered product:

(a) The commercial business affirms that the business requires covered products; and

(b) The covered entity has a system that verifies that the commercial business requires a covered product.

(2) The following systems, whether relied on solely or in combination, do not satisfy the verification obligation of the covered entity specified in subsection (1)(b) of this section:

(a) A sale verification system relying on the purchaser or recipient simply providing a statement of commercial need and intended usage without additional verification;

(b) A sale verification system relying on the purchaser or recipient using tick boxes to confirm that the purchaser or recipient is in a commercial business and requires covered products; or

(c) A sale verification system relying on the purchaser or recipient using an "accept" statement for the purchaser or recipient to confirm that the purchaser or recipient has read the terms and conditions.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 238, § 2, effective July 1.

25-5-1504. Label requirements.

(1) (a) A covered entity shall label each covered product with the phrase "Warning danger: Deadly if ingested. In event of ingestion, immediately seek emergency medical attention for intravenous administration of methylene blue. Ingestion of sodium nitrite, even in small quantities, causes severe methemoglobinemia, extreme pain, or imminent death. Keep out of reach of children."

(b) The label required in subsection (1)(a) of this section must be in a size equal to at least two percent of the surface area of the principal display panel, accompanied by a skull and crossbones symbol.

(2) Where the covered product is displayed in advertising or in electronic media, a label notice must accompany the display in no smaller a size than is equivalent to the primary description of the covered product.

(3) If a covered product is shipped or delivered in packaging that obscures or hides the principal display panel, or is sold in bulk or within the same packaging as another product, the packaging must include a skull and crossbones symbol in a location likely to be seen and read by an ordinary individual under customary conditions of transportation and delivery.

(4) If a federal agency or state department does not approve a product label that otherwise complies with the labeling requirements of this section, the covered entity shall use a label that complies with as many of the requirements of this section as the relevant agency has approved.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 239, § 2, effective July 1.

25-5-1505. Records.

A covered entity shall retain sale and transfer records and documentation for each purchase or transfer of a covered product for three years after the date of sale or transfer.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 239, § 2, effective July 1.

25-5-1506. Violations - penalties.

(1) A covered entity that violates this part 15 is subject to a civil penalty of ten thousand dollars for the first violation and a civil penalty of no more than one million dollars for a second or subsequent violation.

(2) (a) The attorney general or any aggrieved individual may bring an action to impose a civil penalty for a violation of this part 15. A civil penalty imposed pursuant to this section does not exclude any other public or private cause of action.

(b) Any aggrieved individual, other than the attorney general, who prevails in a civil action against a covered entity is entitled to reasonable attorney fees, costs, and the greater of actual economic damages or three thousand dollars.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1081), ch. 72, p. 239, § 2, effective July 1.

PART 16

LABELING OF GAS-FUELED STOVES

25-5-1601. Definitions.

As used in this part 16, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102.

(2) "Gas-fueled stove" means a household stove, range, or cooktop that directly combusts a gaseous or liquid fuel, is used for indoor food preparation, and provides at least one of the following functions:

(a) Surface cooking;

(b) Oven cooking; or

(c) Broiling.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1161), ch. 438, p. 2524, § 1, effective August 6.

25-5-1602. Labeling requirements - public information on the department's website.

(1) (a) A retailer shall not sell, attempt to sell, or offer to sell, in a store, a new gas-fueled stove to a potential consumer in the state unless a yellow adhesive label on the display model for the gas-fueled stove bears the following statement in bold-faced, black type that is clearly legible in English and Spanish:

​

Understand the air quality implications of having an indoor gas stove.

​

(b) Following the statement described in subsection (1)(a) of this section, the adhesive label must include a website link or a quick response (QR) code or other machine-readable code that a potential consumer may use to access the web page established by the department pursuant to subsection (4) of this section.

(2) A retailer shall affix the adhesive label described in subsection (1) of this section to the display model for a new gas-fueled stove on a horizontal surface in a prominent position that is capable of being easily read by a potential consumer examining the display model and easily accessible by a cell phone camera.

(3) Before transacting an online sale of a new gas-fueled stove to an address in the state, a retailer shall prominently post on the internet website where the online sale occurs the content of the adhesive label described in subsection (1) of this section for the potential consumer.

(4) The department shall establish a page on the department's public website with credible, evidence-based information on the health impacts of gas-fueled stoves. The department may include on the web page links to technical studies or other resources to assist the public in understanding the health impacts of gas-fueled stoves.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1161), ch. 438, p. 2524, § 1, effective August 6.

25-5-1603. Enforcement - deceptive trade practice.

A retailer that, in the course of the retailer's business, violates section 25-5-1602 commits a deceptive trade practice under the "Colorado Consumer Protection Act", article 1 of title 6.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1161), ch. 438, p. 2525, § 1, effective August 6.

25-5.5 ARTICLE 5.5

Dairy Products, Imitation Dairy Products, and Frozen Desserts

PART 1
DAIRY PRODUCTS

25-5.5-101. Definitions.

25-5.5-102. Butter defined - standards.

25-5.5-103. Powers and duties.

25-5.5-104. Unsanitary dairy products.

25-5.5-105. Unsanitary utensils, equipment, and premises - prohibited.

25-5.5-106. Containers of dairy products - prompt delivery - removal of products.

25-5.5-107. Testing and sampling of dairy products - unlawful acts - licensing - dairy protection cash fund - created.

25-5.5-108. Condensed milk and cream.

25-5.5-109. Brands and marks - defacement.

25-5.5-110. Milk, cream, and cheese - standards.

25-5.5-111. Treated milk to be labeled.

25-5.5-112. Weight ticket to be furnished.

25-5.5-113. Sample taken upon arrival.

25-5.5-114. Interference with officer - penalty.

25-5.5-115. Analyses prima facie evidence.

25-5.5-116. Penalty.

25-5.5-117. Raw milk.

PART 2
IMITATION DAIRY PRODUCTS

25-5.5-201. Short title.

25-5.5-202. Purpose.

25-5.5-203. Definitions.

25-5.5-204. Imitation dairy products - labeling.

25-5.5-205. Enforcement and power - rules.

25-5.5-206. Enforcement by injunction.

25-5.5-207. Subpoena of defendant.

25-5.5-208. Seizure of products.

25-5.5-209. Penalty.

PART 3
FROZEN DESSERTS

25-5.5-301. Short title.

25-5.5-302. Definitions.

25-5.5-303. Ice cream - standards.

25-5.5-304. French ice cream and custards - standards.

25-5.5-305. Ice milk - standards.

25-5.5-305.5. Low-fat frozen dairy dessert - standards.

25-5.5-306. Sherbet - standards.

25-5.5-307. Water ice - standards.

25-5.5-308. Adulterated and misbranded - when.

25-5.5-309. Administration and enforcement.

25-5.5-310. Regulations.

25-5.5-311. Products detained or embargoed - when.

25-5.5-312. Violations - penalty.

PART 1

DAIRY PRODUCTS

25-5.5-101. Definitions.

As used in this part 1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Cheese" means the fresh or matured product obtained by the draining, after coagulation, of milk, cream, skimmed or partly skimmed milk, or a combination of some or all of these products, including any cheese that conforms to the provisions of the definitions and standards of identity for cheese and cheese products, a regulation of the food and drug administration, 21 CFR 133.3.

(2) "Cream" means the liquid milk product which is high in fat and separated from milk and which may have been adjusted by adding milk, concentrated milk, dry whole milk, or nonfat dry milk and which contains not less than eighteen percent milk fat.

(3) "Dairy farm" means the place or premises on which one or more lactating hooved animals are kept and from which a part or all of the milk produced thereon is delivered, sold, or offered for sale to a dairy plant for manufacturing purposes.

(4) (a) "Dairy plant" means any place, premises, or establishment where milk or dairy products are received or handled for processing or manufacturing and where they are prepared for distribution.

(b) For the purposes of this subsection (4), "dairy plant", when used in connection with the requirements therefor or the licensing thereof, means any establishment that manufactures dairy products; except that any "dairy plant" that is located in an establishment licensed pursuant to part 16 of article 4 of this title is exempt from the licensing requirements of this article if such establishment sells or serves dairy products exclusively and directly to the final consumer of the product.

(5) "Dairy products" means food products manufactured from milk or cream or from any combination of milk and cream with other food ingredients intended for human consumption, including, but not limited to, butter, natural or processed cheese, dry whole milk, nonfat dry milk, dry buttermilk, dry whey, evaporated whole milk or skim milk, condensed whole milk, condensed skim milk, or ice cream or other frozen desserts specified in part 3 of this article. "Dairy products" does not include milk or milk products as defined in the grade A pasteurized milk ordinance, 1978 recommendations of the United States public health service, food and drug administration, superintendent of documents number HE 20.4002:M59-3.

(6) "Department" means the department of public health and environment or its authorized representative.

(7) "Goat milk" means the lacteal secretion, practically free from colostrum, which is obtained by the complete milking of healthy goats.

(8) "HTST method" means the high temperature short-time method of pasteurization.

(9) "Manufacturing milk" means milk produced for processing and manufacturing into dairy products for human consumption but not subject to grade A or comparable requirements.

(10) "Milk" means the lacteal secretion, practically free from colostrum, which is obtained by the complete milking of healthy cows, excluding that milk obtained less than eight days before and less than four days after calving or for such longer period as may be necessary to render the milk practically colostrum free, and which contains not less than eight and one-quarter percent nonfat milk solids and not less than three percent milk fat; except that, in those instances where the normal secretion of the cows is less than three percent milk fat, this product shall be accepted as milk for manufacturing purposes.

(11) "Milk sampler" means a person licensed by the department who is qualified and trained to sample or test milk or cream for the purpose of payment and includes a bulk milk hauler that collects milk from dairy farms.

(12) "Official methods" means official methods of analysis of the association of official analytical chemists, 13th edition, 1980, a publication of the association of official analytical chemists, as amended, supplemented, or republished.

(13) "Pasteurization" means the process of heating every particle of milk or milk product in properly designed and operated equipment to one of the temperatures provided in the following table and held continuously at or above that temperature for at least the corresponding specified time.

Temperature | Time
*145 degrees F ( 63 degrees C)​ | 30 minutes
*161 degrees F ( 72 degrees C) | 15 seconds
191 degrees F ( 89 degrees C) | 1 second
194 degrees F ( 90 degrees C) | 0.5 second
201 degrees F ( 94 degrees C) | 0.1 second
204 degrees F ( 96 degrees C) | 0.05 second
212 degrees F (100 degrees C) | 0.01 second

​ *If the fat content of the milk product is ten percent or more or if it contains added sweeteners, the specified temperature shall be increased by five degrees Fahrenheit (three degrees Celsius).

(14) "Pasteurized" means treated pursuant to the pasteurization process specified in subsection (13) of this section.

(15) "Person" means any individual, firm, association, corporation, or partnership doing business in this state, in whole or in part, and any officer, agent, servant, and employee thereof.

(16) "Producer" means the person who exercises control over the production of the milk delivered to a processing plant or receiving station and who receives payment for this product.

(17) To "sanitize" means to treat a clean surface with any effective method or substance acceptable to the department for the destruction of pathogens and other organisms as far as is practical without adversely affecting the equipment, the milk or milk product, or the health of consumers.

(18) "Standard methods" means the standard methods for the examination of dairy products, 13th edition, 1972, a publication of the American public health association, as amended, supplemented, or republished.

(19) "Test" means the process of determining the milkfat content of milk and milk products for the purpose of buying or selling milk or milk products. All tests shall be conducted and samples shall be collected in accordance with the standard methods specified in subsection (18) of this section or any other method approved by the department.

(20) "Transfer or receiving station" means any place, premises, or establishment where milk or milk products are transferred directly from one milk tank truck to another or where raw milk is received, collected, handled, stored, or cooled and prepared for further transporting. The term "transfer or receiving station" shall not include a dairy farm.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 887, § 1, effective April 5. L. 90: (4)(b) amended, p. 1319, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (6) amended, p. 2779, § 490, effective July 1. L. 2009: (3) and (4)(b) amended and (20) added, (HB 09-1320), ch. 350, p. 1830, § 1, effective June 30.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (6), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5.5-102. Butter defined - standards.

(1) (a) Butter is a food product which is made exclusively from milk, from cream, or from both milk and cream, with or without common salt and with or without additional coloring matter, and which contains not less than eighty percent by weight of milk fat, with all tolerances having been allowed for.

(b) Cream for butter-making shall be pasteurized at a temperature of not less than one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit and held continuously in a vat at such temperature for not less than thirty minutes or pasteurized by the HTST method at a minimum temperature of not less than one hundred eighty-five degrees Fahrenheit for not less than fifteen seconds or pasteurized by any other equivalent temperature and holding time which will assure adequate pasteurization.

(c) Whipped butter is butter that has been stirred or whipped to incorporate air or inert gas until its volume has been increased up to a range of fifty percent to one hundred percent.

(2) The standards for butter are as follows: The proteolytic count of not more than one hundred per gram, the yeast and mold count of not more than twenty per gram, and the coliform count of not more than ten per gram.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 889, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2002: (1)(c) amended, p. 18, § 2, effective August 7.

25-5.5-103. Powers and duties.

(1) The department shall cause to be enforced the provisions of this part 1 and all other state laws and regulations regarding the production, manufacture, and sale of dairy products. The department shall inspect or cause to be inspected any milk, butter, or cheese or any other dairy product which it suspects or has reason to believe is unsanitary, adulterated, or counterfeit and shall inspect or cause to be inspected any cow, building, dairy farm, dairy plant, vehicle, or premises used for the production, manufacture, sale, or transportation of any dairy product when it suspects or has reason to believe that such product is unsanitary, adulterated, or counterfeit. Unsanitary or adulterated dairy products shall be subject to condemnation by the department and, when condemned, must be so treated that it cannot be manufactured or renovated for human food.

(2) For the purpose of enforcing this part 1, the department shall have free access to any barn or stable where any cow is kept or milked or to any factory, building, dairy farm, dairy plant, premises, or place in which it has reason to believe that any dairy product or counterfeit dairy product is manufactured, handled, prepared, sold, or offered for sale and may enforce such measures as may be necessary to secure perfect cleanliness in and around the same, and of any utensil used therein, and to prevent the sale of any unsanitary, adulterated, or counterfeit dairy product.

(3) For the purpose of enforcing this part 1, the department may open any package or receptacle of any kind which contains, or which is supposed to contain, any dairy product or counterfeit dairy product and examine or analyze the contents thereof. Any such article or sample thereof may be seized or taken for the purpose of having it analyzed; but, if the person from whom it is taken so requests at the time of taking, the officer shall then, and in the presence of that person, securely seal two samples of such article, one of which shall be for analysis under the direction of the department and the other for delivery to the person from whom the sample or article was obtained.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 890, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-104. Unsanitary dairy products.

(1) The following types of dairy products are declared to be unsanitary: Milk drawn within eight days before or four days after calving; milk drawn from cows that are kept in barns or stables which are not reasonably well-lighted and well-ventilated or that are kept in barns or stables that are filthy from an accumulation of animal feces and excreta or from any other cause; milk which is drawn from cows which are themselves filthy or in an unhealthy condition; milk kept or transported in dirty, rusty, or open seamed cans, tanks, or other containers; cream produced from any such milk, or milk, cream, butter, or any other dairy product that is stale or putrid, or milk, cream, butter, or any other dairy product which has been exposed to foul or noxious air or gases in barns occupied by animals or drawn or kept exposed in dirty, foul, or unclean places or under unclean conditions or where transmissible human disease exists; cream containing less than sixteen percent butterfat; cream produced by the use of a cream separator, which separator has not been thoroughly washed, cleansed, and sanitized after previous use in the separation of cream from milk; cream produced by the use of a separator placed or stationed in any unclean or filthy room or place or in any building containing a stable wherein cattle or other animals are kept, unless said cream separator is so separated and shielded by partition from the stable portion of such building as to be free from all foul or noxious air or gases which issue or may issue from such place or stable; cream which when delivered at the point of shipment is more than three days old during the months of May to October inclusive or more than four days old during the months of November to April inclusive; milk or cream to which has been added, in any quantity, any foreign substance or coloring matter, chemical or preservative, or butter or butterfat, whether for the purpose of increasing the quantity of milk or for preserving the condition of sweetness thereof or for any purpose whatever.

(2) Nothing in this part 1 shall be construed to prohibit the sale of homogenized cream made from butter and milk, if such product is labeled or stamped as imitation cream according to the requirements of the department, or the sale of standardized milk which otherwise meets with the requirements of this part 1.

(3) No person shall sell or offer for sale, or furnish or deliver or have in his possession or under his control with intent to sell or offer for sale, or furnish or deliver to any other person as food for man or to any creamery, cheese factory, milk-condensing factory, or milk or cream dealer any unsanitary milk, cream, or butter or any adulterated dairy product.

(4) No person shall manufacture for sale any article of food for man from any unsanitary milk or from any unsanitary cream.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 890, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-105. Unsanitary utensils, equipment, and premises - prohibited.

It is unlawful for any person using such premises, equipment, or utensils, or causing them to be used, to maintain them in an unsanitary condition.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 891, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-106. Containers of dairy products - prompt delivery - removal of products.

Any person who receives in cans, tanks, or other containers any milk, cream, or other dairy products intended as food for man which has been transported by any private or common carrier, when such cans, tanks, or containers are to be returned, shall cause the said cans, tanks, or other containers to be thoroughly washed, cleansed, and sanitized before return shipment. It is unlawful for any common or private carrier to neglect or fail to remove or ship from any transportation facility, on the day of its arrival there for shipment, any milk, cream, or other dairy products left at such facility for transportation unless a refrigerated facility is provided for holding such products. It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation using cans, tanks, or other containers in which milk or cream is shipped to allow the same to remain at a transportation facility longer than one day from the date of their arrival unless such product is maintained in a refrigerated facility at a temperature not exceeding forty-five degrees Fahrenheit.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 891, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-107. Testing and sampling of dairy products - unlawful acts - licensing - dairy protection cash fund - created.

(1) It is unlawful for any person engaged in buying, selling, testing, or handling, or engaged in determining the value of, milk, cream, or any other dairy product by the use of an approved test to give, by himself or his agent, any false reading of the test, or to manipulate the test in any way so as to give a higher or lower percent of butterfat than the milk, cream, or other dairy product actually contains, or to cause any inaccuracy in reading the percent of butterfat by securing from any quantity of the milk, cream, or other dairy product to be tested an inaccurate sample for the test. It is unlawful for any person to use any test tube, bottle, pipette, or instrument in connection with such test which is not perfectly clean; and any such unclean glassware is declared to be inaccurate.

(2) It is unlawful for any person to sample or test milk, cream, or any other dairy product to determine the value of such product when bought and sold or to instruct another person for such purpose without first having a license granted by the department, which license shall be conspicuously displayed in the person's place of business. Licenses shall be granted to those persons who have completed a course in milk and cream testing at any recognized college or dairy school or to those persons who have passed a satisfactory examination under the direction of the department. The license shall be subject to cancellation by the department at any time if it finds that the person holding the license is incompetent or guilty of violating this part 1.

(3) Every person engaged in receiving, buying, selling, or otherwise handling milk or cream for sale, shipment, manufacture, or distribution, except public transportation companies, is required to hold a license to be known as a dairy plant license for the operation of each receiving station, skimming station, concentrating station, milk plant condensary, creamery, cheese factory, ice-cream factory, or other dairy plant being so operated.

(4) (a) (I) A temporary permit to operate the following dairy plants may be issued by the department upon application and upon the payment of a yearly license fee in the amount specified in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (a) for each condensary, cheese factory, ice-cream factory, or other place of business where dairy products are manufactured or put in containers for sale or distribution.

(II) Except for a transfer or receiving station, which shall be charged the fee set forth in subsection (4)(a)(II)(A) of this section, the fee for a license issued under this subsection (4) shall be determined and paid according to the annual average daily amount of milk received for manufacturing by the dairy plant, as follows:

Annual average daily amount of milk received Fee

​

(A) Under 1,000 pounds​ $390

(B) 1,000 to 19,999 pounds​ $780

(C) 20,000 to 449,999 pounds​ $1,300

(D) 450,000 or more pounds​ $2,080

(III) Subject to the limitation in subsection (4)(a)(IV) of this section and in addition to the fee required in subsection (4)(a)(II) of this section, a dairy plant that receives more than twenty thousand pounds of milk per day shall pay one cent for each one hundred pounds or fraction thereof of milk received.

(IV) If the total amount of fees required in subsections (4)(a)(II) and (4)(a)(III) of this section would require a dairy plant to pay more than one hundred fifty thousand dollars in a year, the department shall reduce the volume of production fee in subsection (4)(a)(III) of this section until the total amount the dairy plant is required to pay under subsections (4)(a)(II) and (4)(a)(III) of this section is one hundred fifty thousand dollars.

(b) A temporary permit is valid until an inspection has been made by an agent of the department; whereupon, if the applicant has complied with the requirements of the dairy laws, the department shall issue a license for a period of one year from the July 1 next preceding the actual date of issue.

(5) The department has the power to issue necessary regulations for the government of licensed dairy plants and licensed milk samplers covering such points as disposal of sewage, location with regard to living rooms and other possible sources of contamination, and other points not specifically mentioned in the dairy laws.

(6) These regulations shall have the force and effect of law, and the department has the power to cancel a license for a period not exceeding ninety days when it finds that the holder thereof has violated the law or regulations. Suit may be brought against the state to establish the reasonableness of a regulation, and, if the decision affirms the reasonableness of the regulation, it shall be enforced.

(7) All moneys collected by the department for the license fees provided for in this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the dairy protection cash fund, referred to in this subsection (7) as the "fund",which is hereby created in the state treasury. The general assembly shall annually appropriate the moneys in the fund to the department for the payment of expenses necessary to administer this section. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 892, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2009: (2), (4)(a), and (7) amended, (HB 09-1320), ch. 350, p. 1831, § 2, effective June 30. L. 2023: (2) and (4)(a)(II) amended and (4)(a)(III) and (4)(a)(IV) added, (SB 23-240), ch. 109, p. 391, § 1, effective July 1.

25-5.5-108. Condensed milk and cream.

(1) No person shall manufacture for sale within this state or offer or expose for sale or have in his possession with intent to sell or exchange any sweetened condensed milk, unless the same contains not less than twenty-eight percent by weight of milk solids and not less than seven and five-tenths percent butterfat, or any unsweetened condensed milk, unless the same contains not less than seven and five-tenths percent butterfat. Nothing in this part 1 shall be construed to prohibit the handling, manufacture, or sale of bulk condensed or evaporated skim milk when properly tagged and labeled in accordance with rulings of the department.

(2) No person shall manufacture for sale within this state or offer or expose for sale, have in his possession with intent to sell, or sell or exchange for evaporated or condensed cream any substance except the product obtained by the evaporation of a portion of water from cream containing not less than eighteen percent by weight of butterfat. Nothing in this part 1 shall apply to goods manufactured within this state for sale and shipment outside of the state.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 893, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-109. Brands and marks - defacement.

(1) Any person engaged in the transportation or manufacture of any dairy product or ice cream or in bottling milk and cream for sale and use may adopt a brand or mark of ownership to be stamped or marked on any can, bottle, or other receptacle used in the handling and transportation of any of said products and may file in the office of the secretary of state a description of the brand or mark so used by them and the use to be made of any such can, bottle, or other receptacle. The brand or mark so selected and adopted may consist of a name, design, or mark or some particular color of paint or enamel used upon the can, bottle, or other receptacle or any part thereof.

(2) It is unlawful for any person to adopt or use any brand or mark which has already been designed, appropriated, or obtained under the provisions of this section. It is unlawful for any person, other than the rightful owner thereof, to use any can, bottle, or other receptacle marked or branded for any purpose or for the transportation or handling of any other article or dairy product than the one designed or provided for by such brand or mark. It is unlawful for any person, other than the rightful owner thereof, to deface or remove any such brand or mark put upon any such can, bottle, or other receptacle.

(3) To prevent the use of said cans, bottles, or other receptacles for any purpose other than those provided for in this part 1 and to ensure the wholesomeness and high quality of the dairy products and the sanitary conditions of the receptacles in which the same are transported, it is the duty of the department to enforce the provisions of this section.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 893, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-110. Milk, cream, and cheese - standards.

(1) Whole milk sold or offered for retail sale shall contain not less than three and one-fourth percent butterfat. Cream for the same use shall contain not less than eighteen percent butterfat.

(2) Full cream cheese shall contain not less than fifty percent butterfat in comparison with the total solids. Cheese containing less than the said amount of fat shall be branded "skim" cheese or "part skim" cheese, as the case may be.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 893, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-111. Treated milk to be labeled.

It is unlawful for any milk or cream to be sold or offered for sale which has been homogenized, viscolized, emulsified, or treated in any manner which will give it the appearance of containing more butterfat than it actually contains, unless it is so labeled as such.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-112. Weight ticket to be furnished.

An itemized daily weight ticket covering every shipment of milk or cream shall be furnished with each settlement to the producer or his agent.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-113. Sample taken upon arrival.

At any plant where a bacterial test is used as a basis of price-fixing, the sample for such test shall be taken at the dairy farm or immediately upon arrival of the milk at the receiving plant.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-114. Interference with officer - penalty.

Any person who refuses to allow the inspections provided for in this part 1 or in any way hinders or obstructs the proper officers from performing their duties under this part 1 commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3237, § 461, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-5.5-115. Analyses prima facie evidence.

Reports of analyses and tests signed by the department shall be accepted in all courts and places as prima facie evidence of the properties, constituency, or condition of the article analyzed.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-116. Penalty.

Any person or any agent or servant thereof who violates any of the provisions of this part 1, if the punishment for the violation is not elsewhere prescribed in this part 1, commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3237, § 462, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-5.5-117. Raw milk.

(1) The acquisition of raw milk from cows or goats by a consumer for use or consumption by the consumer shall not constitute the sale of raw milk and shall not be prohibited if all of the following conditions are met:

(a) The owner of a cow, goat, cow shares, or goat shares shall receive raw milk directly from the farm or dairy where the cow, goat, or dairy herd is located and the farm or dairy is registered pursuant to subsection (2) of this section. A person who is the owner of a cow share or goat share in a cow, goat, or dairy herd may receive raw milk on behalf of another owner of the same cow, goat, or dairy herd. A person who is not an owner of a cow share or goat share in the same cow, goat, or dairy herd shall not receive raw milk on behalf of the owner of a cow share or goat share.

(b) The milk is obtained pursuant to a cow share or a goat share. A cow share or a goat share is an undivided interest in a cow, goat, or herd of cows or goats, created by a written contractual relationship between a consumer and a farmer that includes a legal bill of sale to the consumer for an interest in the cow, goat, or dairy herd and a boarding contract under which the consumer boards the cow, goat, or dairy herd in which the consumer has an interest with the farmer for care and milking, and under which the consumer is entitled to receive a share of milk from the cow, goat, or dairy herd.

(c) A prominent warning statement that the milk is not pasteurized is delivered to the consumer with the milk or is displayed on a label affixed to the milk container; and

(d) Information describing the standards used by the farm or dairy with respect to herd health, and in the production of milk from the herd, is provided to the consumer by the farmer together with results of tests performed on the cows or goats that produced the milk, tests performed on the milk, and an explanation of the tests and test results.

(2) Registration of a farm or dairy as required by paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section shall be accomplished by delivering to the Colorado department of public health and environment a written statement containing:

(a) The name of the farmer, farm, or dairy;

(b) A valid, current address of the farmer, farm, or dairy; and

(c) A statement that raw milk is being produced at the farm or dairy.

(3) Retail sales of raw, unpasteurized milk shall not be allowed. Resale of raw milk obtained from a cow share or goat share is strictly prohibited. Raw milk that is not intended for pasteurization shall not be sold to, or offered for sale at, farmers' markets, educational institutions, health-care facilities, nursing homes, governmental organizations, or any food establishment.

(4) No person who, as a consumer, obtains raw milk in accordance with this section shall be entitled to sell or redistribute the milk.

(5) No producer of raw milk shall publish any statement that implies approval or endorsement by the Colorado department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 365, § 1, effective April 22.

PART 2

IMITATION DAIRY PRODUCTS

25-5.5-201. Short title.

This part 2 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Imitation Dairy Products Act".

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-202. Purpose.

(1) The purpose of this part 2 is to prevent fraud in sales and to protect the public health by informing the public of the ingredients making up imitation dairy products.

(2) Even though imitation dairy products are manufactured and sold on the basis of reduced costs to the consumer and certain nutritional advantages of some or all of the ingredients, they should be sampled and inspected on the same basis as the product imitated for sanitary quality and composition.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 894, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-203. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment or its authorized representative.

(2) (a) "Imitation dairy product" means any milk, cream, skimmed milk, or any combination thereof, whether or not condensed, evaporated, concentrated, frozen, powdered, dried, or desiccated, or any food product made or manufactured therefrom to which is added, or which is blended or compounded with, any fat or oil other than milk fat so that the resulting product is in imitation or semblance of any dairy product, including but not limited to milk, cream, sour cream, butter cream, skimmed milk, ice cream, whipped or whipping cream, flavored milk or skim milk drink, dried or powdered milk, cheese, cream cheese, cottage cheese, creamed cottage cheese, ice-cream mix, sherbet or other frozen desserts, condensed milk, evaporated milk, or concentrated milk. "Imitation dairy product" also means any food product that does not contain milk or dairy products but which is made in imitation or semblance of any milk or dairy product defined in part 1 of this article and, on the basis of its appearance, flavor, and texture, closely resembles such product.

(b) "Imitation dairy product" does not mean or include:

(I) Any distinctive proprietary food compound not readily mistaken for a dairy product, if such product is customarily used on the order or prescription of a physician, is prepared or designed for medicinal or special dietary use, and is prominently so labeled;

(II) Any dairy product which is flavored with chocolate or cocoa, or the vitamin content of which has been increased, or which is both so flavored and which contains such increased vitamin content, if the fats or oils other than milk fat contained in such product do not exceed the amount of cacao fat naturally present in the chocolate or cocoa used and the food oil, in no event in excess of one-hundredth of one percent of the weight of the finished product, is used as a carrier of such vitamins; or

(III) Oleomargarine.

(3) "Person" includes an individual, firm, partnership, association, trust, estate, and corporation, any other business unit, device, arrangement, or organization, and any officer, agent, servant, and employee thereof.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 895, § 1, effective April 5. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2780, § 491, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5.5-204. Imitation dairy products - labeling.

(1) It is unlawful for a person to manufacture, sell, or exchange, to offer for sale or exchange, or to transport or possess any imitation dairy product unless the imitation dairy product is properly labeled, branded, or otherwise marked for identification. The department is authorized to evaluate and rule upon compliance with this requirement.

(2) Ingredients shall be listed by the common or usual name in the order of descending predominance. The declaration shall be presented on any appropriate information panel in adequate type size without obscuring design or vignettes and without crowding. The entire ingredient statement shall appear on a single panel of the label.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 895, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-205. Enforcement and power - rules.

(1) The department is authorized to administer and supervise the enforcement of this part 2. To this end, the department shall:

(a) Provide for and have complete power to make such periodic inspections and investigations as may be deemed necessary to disclose violations of this part 2;

(b) Receive and provide for the investigation of complaints of violations of this part 2;

(c) To carry out the terms and provisions of this part 2, have the power to promulgate rules and regulations for the enforcement of this part 2, not inconsistent with or violative of the terms and provisions thereof, and to publish the same.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5.

Cross references: For rule-making procedures, see article 4 of title 24.

25-5.5-206. Enforcement by injunction.

The provisions of this part 2 may be enforced by injunction in any court having jurisdiction to grant injunctive relief at the suit and upon the petition of the department or any other person, and it shall not be requisite in such action for an injunction that the plaintiff plead, prove, or show pecuniary loss, damage, or injury or personal damage or injury.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-207. Subpoena of defendant.

Any defendant, in an action brought under the provisions of section 25-5.5-205, may be required to testify under a subpoena duly issued or in pursuance of the Colorado rules of civil procedure; and the books and records of any such defendant may be brought into court and introduced into evidence; but no information so obtained may be used against the defendant as the basis for a misdemeanor prosecution under the provisions of this part 2.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5.

Cross references: For the procedure concerning subpoenas, see C.R.C.P. 45.

25-5.5-208. Seizure of products.

Imitation dairy products illegally held or otherwise involved in a violation of this part 2 shall be subject to seizure and disposition in accordance with an appropriate order of court.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-209. Penalty.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this part 2 or who directs or knowingly permits such violation or aids or assists therein commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3237, § 463, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

PART 3

FROZEN DESSERTS

25-5.5-301. Short title.

This part 3 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Frozen Desserts Act".

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-302. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Confectionery" means candy, cakes, cookies, and glazed fruit.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment or its authorized representative.

(3) "Mix" means the pasteurized unfrozen combination of all ingredients of a frozen dairy dessert with or without fruits, fruit juices, chocolate, cocoa, confectionery, nut meats, flavor, or harmless color.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 896, § 1, effective April 5. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2780, § 492, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-5.5-303. Ice cream - standards.

(1) Ice cream is a food which is prepared by freezing or partially freezing, while stirring, a pasteurized mix composed of one or more of the optional dairy ingredients specified in subsection (2) of this section, which is sweetened with one or more of the optional sweetening ingredients specified in subsection (3) of this section, and which is flavored with one or more of the optional flavoring ingredients specified in subsection (4) of this section. One or more of the optional egg ingredients specified in subsection (5) of this section, one or more of the optional stabilizing ingredients specified in subsection (6) of this section, and one or more of the optional pH adjusting and protein stabilizing ingredients specified in subsection (7) of this section may be used, subject to the conditions set forth in subsections (5), (6), and (7) of this section. Harmless coloring may be added. The mix may be seasoned with salt and may be homogenized. Water may be added. The kind and quantity of optional dairy ingredients used and the content of milk fat and total milk solids shall be such that the weights of milk fat and total milk solids are not less than ten percent and twenty percent respectively of the weight of the finished ice cream; but, when one or more of the optional flavoring ingredients specified in paragraphs (d) to (k) of subsection (4) of this section are used, then the weights of milk fat and total milk solids shall not be less than ten percent and twenty percent respectively, except for such reduction in milk fat and in total milk solids as is due to the addition of one or more of the optional ingredients specified in paragraphs (d) to (k) of subsection (4) of this section, but in no case shall it contain less than eight percent of milk fat nor less than eighteen percent of total milk solids. Ice cream shall contain not less than one and six-tenths pounds of total food solids per gallon and shall weigh not less than four and one-half pounds per gallon.

(2) The optional dairy ingredients referred to in subsection (1) of this section are cream, dried cream, butter, butter oil, concentrated milk fat, milk, concentrated milk, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, superheated condensed milk, dried milk, skim milk, concentrated (evaporated or condensed) skim milk, superheated condensed skim milk, sweetened condensed skim milk, sweetened condensed partly skimmed milk, nonfat dry milk solids, liquid or condensed or dried sweet cream buttermilk, or dried whey solids or any of such products from which all or a portion of the lactose has been removed by crystallization or the lactose has been converted to simple sugars by hydrolysis if such products are approved as suitable optional dairy ingredients by the department. Citric acid, ascorbic acid, lecithin, tocopherols, or other harmless optional ingredients, which are approved by the department for the purpose of preventing fat oxidation in any of such optional dairy ingredients, may be added in amounts not to exceed five-thousandths of one percent of the weight of the butterfat present in such dairy ingredients.

(3) The optional sweetening ingredients referred to in subsection (1) of this section are sugar (sucrose), sugar syrup, dextrose, invert sugar (paste or syrup), lactose, corn sugar, dried or liquid corn syrup, glucose syrup, maple syrup, maple sugar, honey, brown sugar, maltose syrup, malt syrup, dried malt syrup, dried maltose syrup, malt extracts in liquid or dried form, refiners' syrup, and molasses other than blackstrap.

(4) The optional flavoring ingredients referred to in subsection (1) of this section are:

(a) Harmless natural food flavoring, including, but not limited to, ground spice, ground vanilla beans, and infusion of coffee or tea;

(b) Harmless artificial food flavoring;

(c) Fruit juice, which may be fresh, frozen, canned, concentrated, or dried and which may be sweetened and thickened with one or more of the optional stabilizing ingredients specified in subsection (6) of this section;

(d) Chocolate;

(e) Cocoa;

(f) Fruit, including cocoanut, which may be fresh, frozen, canned, concentrated, shredded, pureed, comminuted, or dried and which may be sweetened, thickened with stabilizer, and acidulated with citric, tartaric, malic, lactic, or ascorbic acid;

(g) Nut meats;

(h) Confectionery;

(i) Malted milk;

(j) Properly prepared and cooked cereal;

(k) Any distilled alcoholic beverage, including a liqueur, or any wine or any mixture of two or more thereof.

(5) The optional egg ingredients referred to in subsection (1) of this section are liquid eggs, frozen eggs, dried eggs, egg yolks, frozen yolks, and dried yolks; but the total weight of egg yolk solids in any of such ingredients used singly or used in any combination of two or more of such ingredients shall be less than the minimum prescribed in section 25-5.5-304 for French ice cream.

(6) The optional stabilizing ingredients specified in subsection (1) of this section are gelatin, algin, sodium carboxymethycellulose, extract of Irish moss, psyllium seed husk, agar-agar, gum acacia, gum karaya, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, oat gum, guar seed gum, calcium sulfate, monoglycerides or diglycerides or both of fat forming fatty acids except lauric acid, or other harmless stabilizers or emulsifiers (surface active agents) approved by the department; but the total weight of the active material contained in the solids of any of such ingredients used singly or used in any combination of two or more of such ingredients shall not be more than one-half of one percent of the weight of the finished ice cream.

(7) (a) The following optional harmless ingredients or combinations thereof may be added to control viscosity, adjust protein stability, and adjust the pH of the combined mix ingredients:

(I) Neutralizers which are approved by the department;

(II) Sodium citrate;

(III) Sodium phosphates.

(b) The total of ingredients included in subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (7) shall not exceed one-tenth of one percent by weight of the finished mix; nor shall the weight of ingredients included in subparagraphs (II) and (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (7) exceed two-tenths of one percent by weight of the finished mix.

(8) It is further provided that the percentage of developed lactic acid in the mix prior to the addition of the optional ingredients listed in subsections (6) and (7) of this section shall not exceed three-thousandths of one percent by weight for each one percent of milk-solids-non-fat present in the mix.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 897, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-304. French ice cream and custards - standards.

French ice cream, frozen custard, and French custard ice cream shall conform to the definition and standard of identity prescribed for ice cream by section 25-5.5-303 if one or more of the optional egg ingredients permitted by section 25-5.5-303 are used in such quantity that the total weight of egg yolk solids therein is not less than one and four-tenths percent of the weight of the finished French ice cream, except when any of the optional flavoring ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (4)(d) to (4)(k) is used, in which case the weight of egg yolk solids shall not be less than one and twelve-hundredths percent of the weight of the finished French ice cream.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 899, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-305. Ice milk - standards.

Ice milk shall conform in all respects to the definition and standard of identity for ice cream prescribed in section 25-5.5-303; except that it shall contain not less than two percent nor more than seven percent of milk fat, not less than eleven percent of total milk solids, and not less than one and three-tenths pounds of food solids per gallon. When ice milk is packaged in containers of greater than one-half gallon capacity, it shall not contain color or any of the optional flavoring ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (4).

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 899, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-305.5. Low-fat frozen dairy dessert - standards.

Low-fat frozen dairy dessert shall conform in all respects to the definition and standard of identity for ice cream prescribed in section 25-5.5-303; except that it shall contain not less than one and five-tenths percent nor more than one and nine-tenths percent of milk fat and not less than twelve percent total milk-solids-non-fat and except that it shall contain not less than one and three-tenths pounds of food solids per gallon.

Source: L. 86: Entire section added, p. 979, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-306. Sherbet - standards.

Sherbet is the food prepared by freezing or partially freezing, while stirring, a pasteurized mix composed of one or a combination of the optional dairy ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (2), one or more of the optional sweetening ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (3), fruit, fruit juice, or flavoring as provided in this section. It may contain one or more of the optional stabilizing ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (6) or pectin if the weight of such stabilizer is not more than one-half of one percent of the weight of the finished sherbet. The kind and quantity of optional dairy ingredients used is such that the total milk solids content is not more than five percent by weight of the finished sherbet and the milk fat content is not more than two percent nor less than one percent by weight of the finished sherbet. It shall contain fruit or fruit juice, as described in section 25-5.5-303 (4)(c) and (4)(f), and may contain natural food flavoring. It may contain citric, tartaric, malic, lactic, or ascorbic acid. The acidity of the finished sherbet shall be not less than thirty-five hundredths of one percent of acid as determined by titrating with standard alkali and expressed as lactic acid. It may contain the optional egg ingredients specified in section 25-5.5-303 (5) in amounts not to exceed one-half of one percent of the weight of the finished sherbet. Harmless coloring may be added. The mix may be seasoned with salt and may be homogenized. It shall weigh not less than six pounds per gallon.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 899, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-307. Water ice - standards.

Water ice conforms in all respects to the definition and standard of identity for sherbet prescribed in section 25-5.5-306; except that the mix need not be pasteurized and, since it does not contain any of the optional dairy ingredients, it does not meet the provision respecting total milk solids and butterfat.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 900, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-308. Adulterated and misbranded - when.

Any food product which is made in semblance of or in imitation of any food for which a definition and standard of identity is established in sections 25-5.5-303 to 25-5.5-307 or any food which purports to be or is represented as a food for which a definition and standard of identity is established in said sections shall be deemed to be adulterated and misbranded if such food does not conform to such standard, notwithstanding the employment of any fanciful name or the use of the word "imitation" to designate the product.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 900, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-309. Administration and enforcement.

The department is authorized to administer and supervise the enforcement of this part 3; to provide for such periodic inspections and investigations as may be deemed necessary to disclose violations; to collect samples of optional ingredients, mixes, and finished products for analysis; to receive and provide for the investigation of complaints; and to provide for the institution and prosecution of civil actions. The provisions of this part 3 and the rules and regulations issued in connection therewith may be enforced by injunction in any court having jurisdiction to grant injunctive relief, and adulterated or misbranded articles illegally held or otherwise involved in a violation of this part 3 or of said rules and regulations shall be subject to seizure and disposition in accordance with an order of court.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 900, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-310. Regulations.

Whenever, in the judgment of the department, such action will promote honesty and fair dealing in the interest of consumers, the department shall promulgate regulations fixing and establishing, for any class of frozen desserts, a reasonable definition and standard of identity. The department may, for the purpose of promoting honesty and fair dealing in the interest of consumers, designate harmless optional ingredients which may be used in a mix as permitted by this part 3 but which may not have been specifically identified in this part 3 by any chemical or trade name.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 900, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-311. Products detained or embargoed - when.

Whenever any duly authorized agent of the department finds or has probable cause to believe that any frozen dessert specified in this part 3 is adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of this part 3, he shall affix to such product container a tag or other appropriate marking, giving notice that such frozen dessert is or is suspected of being adulterated or misbranded and that it is being detained or embargoed and warning all persons not to remove or dispose of such product by sale or otherwise until provision for removal or disposal is given by the department. No person shall remove or dispose of such embargoed product by sale or otherwise without permission of the department or its agent or, after summary proceedings have been instituted, without permission from the court having jurisdiction. If the embargo is removed by the department or by the court, neither the department nor the state shall be held liable for damages because of such embargo in the event that the court finds that there was probable cause for the embargo.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 900, § 1, effective April 5.

25-5.5-312. Violations - penalty.

Any person, firm, or corporation that willfully violates any of the provisions of this part 3 and any officer, agent, or employee thereof who directs or knowingly permits such violation or who aids or assists therein commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 85: Entire article added, p. 901, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3237, § 464, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

FAMILY PLANNING

ARTICLE 6

Family Planning

PART 1
FAMILY PLANNING

25-6-101. Legislative declaration.

25-6-102. Policy, authority, and prohibitions against restrictions.

25-6-103. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties.

25-6-104. Department of public health and environment - family planning access collaborative - legislative declaration - recommendations - funding - repeal. (Repealed)

PART 2
FAMILY PLANNING AND BIRTH CONTROL

25-6-201. This part 2 to be liberally construed.

25-6-202. Services to be offered by the county.

25-6-203. Extent of services.

25-6-204. Counties may charge for services.

25-6-205. Services may be refused.

25-6-206. Interviews conducted in language recipient understands.

25-6-207. County employee exemption.

PART 3
BREAST-FEEDING

25-6-301. Legislative declaration.

25-6-302. Breast-feeding.

PART 4
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH EQUITY ACT

25-6-401. Short title.

25-6-402. Definitions.

25-6-403. Fundamental reproductive health-care rights.

25-6-404. Public entity - prohibited actions.

25-6-405. Application.

25-6-406. Severability.

25-6-407. Enforcement.

PART 1

FAMILY PLANNING

25-6-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) Every individual has a fundamental right to make decisions about the individual's reproductive health care, including the fundamental right to use or refuse contraception.

(2) Contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information are not available as a practical matter to many persons in this state.

(3) It is desirable that inhibitions and restrictions be eliminated so that all persons desiring contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information shall have ready and practicable access thereto.

(4) Section 25-6-102 sets forth the policy and authority of this state, its political subdivisions, and all agencies and institutions thereof, including prohibitions against restrictions with respect to contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information.

Source: L. 71: p. 638, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-32-1. L. 2023: (1) amended, (SB 23-189), ch. 69, p. 261, § 10, effective April 14.

25-6-102. Policy, authority, and prohibitions against restrictions.

(1) All medically acceptable contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information shall be readily and practicably available to each person desirous of the same regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, creed, religion, disability, age, income, number of children, marital status, citizenship, national origin, ancestry, or motive.

(2) Medical evaluation and advice is encouraged for all persons seeking any contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information.

(3) No hospital, clinic, medical center, institution, or pharmacy shall subject any person to any standard or requirement as a prerequisite for any contraceptive procedures, supplies, or information, including sterilization, other than referral to a physician.

(4) No hospital, clinic, medical center, or pharmacy licensed in this state, nor any agency or institution of this state, nor any unit of local government shall have any policy which interferes with either the physician-patient relationship or any physician or patient desiring to use any medically acceptable contraceptive procedures, supplies, or information.

(5) Contraceptive procedures, including medical procedures for permanent sterilization, when performed by a physician on a requesting and consenting patient, are consistent with public policy.

(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 1, no unmarried person under eighteen years of age may consent to permanent sterilization procedures without the consent of parent or guardian.

(7) Nothing in this part 1 shall inhibit a physician from refusing to furnish any contraceptive procedures, supplies, or information for medical reasons.

(8) Dissemination of medically acceptable contraceptive information by duly authorized persons at schools, in state, district, and county health and welfare departments or public health agencies, in medical facilities at institutions of higher education, and at other agencies and instrumentalities of this state is consistent with public policy.

(9) No private institution or physician, nor any agent or employee of such institution or physician, shall be prohibited from refusing to provide contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information when such refusal is based upon religious or conscientious objection, and no such institution, employee, agent, or physician shall be held liable for such refusal.

(10) To the extent family planning funds are available, each agency and institution of this state and each of its political subdivisions shall provide contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information, including permanent sterilization procedures, to indigent persons free of charge and to other persons at cost.

Source: L. 71: p. 638, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-32-2. L. 2008: (1) amended, p. 1603, § 30, effective May 29. L. 2010: (8) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2102, § 115, effective August 11. L. 2021: (1) amended, (HB 21-1108), ch. 156, p. 896, § 39, effective September 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2008 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2008. For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1108, see section 1 of chapter 156, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Consent to Treatment and Access to Minors' Medical Records", see 17 Colo. Law. 1323 (1988).

25-6-103. Department of public health and environment - powers and duties.

The department of public health and environment is authorized to receive and disburse such funds as may become available to it for family planning programs to any organization, public or private, engaged in providing contraceptive procedures, supplies, and information. Any family planning program administered by the department of public health and environment shall be developed in consultation and coordination with other family planning agencies in this state, including but not limited to the department of human services.

Source: L. 71: p. 639, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-32-3. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2780, § 493, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-6-104. Department of public health and environment - family planning access collaborative - legislative declaration - recommendations - funding - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-189), ch. 69, p. 261, § 11, effective April 14.

Editor's note: Subsection (8) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2023, p. 261.)

PART 2

FAMILY PLANNING AND BIRTH CONTROL

25-6-201. This part 2 to be liberally construed.

This part 2 shall be liberally construed to protect the rights of all individuals to pursue their religious beliefs, to follow the dictates of their own consciences, to prevent the imposition upon any individual of practices offensive to the individual's moral standards, to respect the right of every individual to self-determination in the procreation of children, and to ensure a complete freedom of choice in pursuance of constitutional rights.

Source: L. 65: p. 464, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-7.

25-6-202. Services to be offered by the county.

The governing body of each county and each city and county or any county or district public health agency thereof or any welfare department thereof may provide and pay for, and each county and each city and county or any public health agency or county or district public health agency thereof or any welfare department thereof may offer, family planning and birth control services to every parent who is a public assistance recipient and to any other parent or married person who might have interest in, and benefit from, such services; except that no county or city and county or public health agency thereof is required by this section to seek out such persons.

Source: L. 65: p. 463, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2103, § 116, effective August 11.

25-6-203. Extent of services.

Family planning and birth control services shall include: Interview with trained personnel; distribution of literature; referral to a licensed physician, an advanced practice registered nurse, or a certified midwife for consultation, examination, tests, medical treatment, and prescription; and, to the extent so prescribed, the distribution of rhythm charts, drugs, medical preparations, contraceptive devices, and similar products.

Source: L. 65: p. 463, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-2. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 133, § 20, effective January 1, 2009. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1549, § 60, effective May 25.

25-6-204. Counties may charge for services.

The governmental unit making provision for and offering such services may charge those persons to whom family planning and birth control services are rendered a fee sufficient to reimburse the county or city and county all or any portion of the costs of the services rendered.

Source: L. 65: p. 464, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-3.

25-6-205. Services may be refused.

The refusal of any person to accept family planning and birth control services shall in no way affect the right of such person to receive public assistance or to avail himself of any other public benefit, and every person to whom such services are offered shall be so advised initially both orally and in writing. County and city and county employees engaged in the administration of this part 2 shall recognize that the right to make decisions concerning family planning and birth control is a fundamental personal right of the individual, and nothing in this part 2 shall in any way abridge such individual right, nor shall any individual be required to state his reason for refusing the offer of family planning and birth control services.

Source: L. 65: p. 464, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-4.

25-6-206. Interviews conducted in language recipient understands.

In all cases where the recipient does not speak or read the English language, the services shall not be given unless the interviews are conducted and all literature is written in a language which the recipient understands.

Source: L. 65: p. 464, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-5.

25-6-207. County employee exemption.

Any county employee or city and county employee may refuse to accept the duty of offering family planning and birth control services to the extent that such duty is contrary to his personal religious beliefs, and such refusal shall not be grounds for any disciplinary action, for dismissal, for any interdepartmental transfer, for any other discrimination in his employment, for suspension from employment with the county or city and county, or for any loss in pay or other benefits.

Source: L. 65: p. 464, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 36-20-6.

PART 3

BREAST-FEEDING

25-6-301. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The American academy of pediatrics recommends breast-feeding exclusively for the first six months of an infant's life but continuing with other forms of nutrition for at least the first twelve months of an infant's life and as long thereafter as is mutually desired.

(b) The American academy of pediatrics has continuously endorsed breast-feeding as the optimal form of nutrition for infants and as a foundation for good feeding practices. Extensive research indicates that there are diverse and compelling advantages to breast-feeding for infants, mothers, families, and society.

(c) Epidemiologic research shows that breast-feeding of infants provides benefits to their general health, growth, and development and results in significant decreases in risk for numerous acute and chronic diseases.

(d) Research in developed countries provides strong evidence that breast-feeding decreases the incidence and severity of diarrhea, lower respiratory infection, otitis media, and urinary tract infection.

(e) Research studies have also shown that human milk and breast-feeding have possible protective effects against the development of a number of chronic diseases, including allergic diseases and some chronic digestive diseases. In addition, human milk and breast-feeding may prevent obesity.

(f) In addition, breast-feeding has been related to the possible enhancement of cognitive development.

(g) Breast-feeding has been shown to have numerous health benefits for mothers, including an earlier return to prepregnant weight, delayed resumption of ovulation with increased child spacing, improved bone remineralization postpartum with reduction in hip fractures in the postmenopausal period, and reduced risk of ovarian cancer and premenopausal breast cancer, as well as increased levels of oxytocin, resulting in less postpartum bleeding and more rapid uterine involution.

(h) In addition to individual health benefits, breast-feeding results in substantial benefits to society, including reduced health-care costs, reduced environmental damage, reduced governmental spending on the women, infants, and children supplementary feeding programs, and reduced employee absenteeism for care attributable to infant illness.

(i) Breast-feeding is a basic and important act of nurturing that should be encouraged in the interests of maternal and infant health.

(2) The general assembly further declares that the purpose of this part 3 is for the state of Colorado to become involved in the national movement to recognize the medical importance of breast-feeding, within the scope of complete pediatric care, and to encourage removal of societal boundaries placed on breast-feeding in public.

Source: L. 2004: Entire part added, p. 596, § 1, effective April 23.

25-6-302. Breast-feeding.

A mother may breast-feed in any place she has a right to be.

Source: L. 2004: Entire part added, p. 597, § 1, effective April 23.

PART 4

REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH EQUITY ACT

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1279, see section 1 of chapter 67, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-6-401. Short title.

The short title of this part 4 is the "Reproductive Health Equity Act".

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 330, § 2, effective April 4.

25-6-402. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Abortion" means any medical procedure, instrument, agent, or drug used to terminate the pregnancy of an individual known or reasonably believed to be pregnant with an intention other than to increase the probability of a live birth.

(2) "Pregnancy" means the human reproductive process, beginning with the implantation of an embryo.

(3) "Public entity" has the same meaning as set forth in section 24-10-103 (5) and includes private contract prisons, as defined in section 17-1-102.

(4) "Reproductive health care" means health care and other medical services related to the reproductive processes, functions, and systems at all stages of life. It includes, but is not limited to, family planning and contraceptive care; abortion care; prenatal, postnatal, and delivery care; fertility care; sterilization services; and treatments for sexually transmitted infections and reproductive cancers.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 330, § 2, effective April 4.

25-6-403. Fundamental reproductive health-care rights.

(1) Every individual has a fundamental right to make decisions about the individual's reproductive health care, including the fundamental right to use or refuse contraception.

(2) A pregnant individual has a fundamental right to continue a pregnancy and give birth or to have an abortion and to make decisions about how to exercise that right.

(3) A fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent or derivative rights under the laws of this state.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 331, § 2, effective April 4.

25-6-404. Public entity - prohibited actions.

(1) A public entity shall not:

(a) Deny, restrict, interfere with, or discriminate against an individual's fundamental right to use or refuse contraception or to continue a pregnancy and give birth or to have an abortion in the regulation or provision of benefits, facilities, services, or information;

(b) Deprive, through prosecution, punishment, or other means, an individual of the individual's right to act or refrain from acting during the individual's own pregnancy based on the potential, actual, or perceived impact on the pregnancy, the pregnancy's outcomes, or on the pregnant individual's health;

(c) Restrict any natural or legal person in performing, or prohibit any natural or legal person from providing, reproductive health care through the imposition of licensing, permitting, certification, or similar legislative or regulatory requirements that apply solely to providers of reproductive health care; or

(d) Prosecute or otherwise criminally sanction any natural or legal person for providing, assisting in the provision of, arranging for, or otherwise assisting a person in accessing reproductive health care performed within the scope of applicable professional licensure and certification requirements.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 331, § 2, effective April 4. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (SB 23-188), ch. 68, p. 251, § 23, effective April 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 23-188, see section 1 of chapter 68, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-6-405. Application.

(1) This part 4 applies to all state and local laws, ordinances, policies, procedures, regulatory guidelines and rules, practices, executive orders, and governmental actions and their implementation, whether statutory or otherwise. The rights protected under this part 4 are a matter of statewide concern.

(2) Nothing in this part 4 may be construed to authorize a public entity to burden an individual's fundamental rights relating to reproductive health care.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 331, § 2, effective April 4.

25-6-406. Severability.

If any provision of this part 4 or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, that invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this part 4 that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this part 4 are declared to be severable.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1279), ch. 67, p. 331, § 2, effective April 4.

25-6-407. Enforcement.

The venue to enforce an action pursuant to the provisions of this part 4 is in the Denver district court.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-188), ch. 68, p. 251, § 24, effective April 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 23-188, see section 1 of chapter 68, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

25-6.5 ARTICLE 6.5

Environmental Control

PART 1
PROVISIONS FOR RULES AND REGULATIONS CONCERNING ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

25-6.5-101. Legislative declaration.

25-6.5-102. Requirements for environmental rules - publication.

PART 2
POLLUTION CONTROL EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATION

25-6.5-201. Definitions.

25-6.5-202. Certification of pollution control equipment.

25-6.5-203. Pollution control equipment certification fund - creation - purpose.

PART 1

PROVISIONS FOR RULES AND REGULATIONS CONCERNING ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

25-6.5-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that the protection of the natural environment of this state is important to the public health and welfare of the citizens of Colorado.

(2) The general assembly further finds and determines that the environmental laws of this state relating to air quality control in article 7 of this title, water quality control in article 8 of this title, hazardous waste in article 15 of this title, and solid waste in article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., may be highly technical, complex, and subject to varying interpretation.

(3) The general assembly, therefore, declares that the provisions of this article are enacted to enhance public notice and awareness of rules, regulations, and interpretations of the environmental laws of this state and to ensure public confidence in the fairness of the enforcement of any agency requirements.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 1363, § 1, effective July 1.

25-6.5-102. Requirements for environmental rules - publication.

(1) All agency policies and guidance, including any amendments or revisions thereto, relating to the implementation, administration, and enforcement of article 7, 8, 11, or 15 of this title, article 20.5 of title 8, C.R.S., or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., except for policies relating to personnel or other internal administrative matters not directly related to enforceable requirements under such articles, shall be reduced to writing and published. Three copies shall be filed with the state librarian for the state publications depository and distribution center. Copies of each such policy or guidance issued under article 7, 8, 11, or 15 of this title, article 20.5 of title 8, C.R.S., or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., shall be made available to the public upon request. Interpretive rules issued under article 15 of this title shall also be made available to the public upon request. Each affected agency shall maintain and make available to the public a current index of all such policies, guidance, and interpretive rules in effect. Copies of any policy, guidance, interpretive rule, or index shall be provided to the public at cost.

(2) No policy or guidance referred to in subsection (1) of this section shall have the force and effect of a rule unless it has been promulgated by the relevant commission pursuant to the provisions of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and applicable provisions of article 7, 8, 11, or 15 of this title, article 20.5 of title 8, C.R.S., or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., pertaining to rule-making procedures or authorizing the promulgation of rules, and made available to the public in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S.

(3) (a) Any policy or guidance, including any amendments or revisions thereto, may be brought to the attention of the relevant division director and thereafter may be brought to the relevant commission for review. The review shall determine whether such policy or guidance is within the statutory authority of the relevant agency, is consistent with applicable statutes and any applicable regulations, including the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, and is appropriate for the relevant commission to undertake rule-making with respect to the subject matter of the policy or guidance and shall consider other questions within the scope of the relevant commission's authority related to such policy or guidance.

(b) Following such review, the commission shall take action or, if appropriate, refer the matter to the relevant division director to take action within a specified period of time in accordance with its determination.

(4) Any obligation to submit payment of any monetary penalty arising from an enforcement action that concerns a matter under review by the relevant commission shall be stayed until the relevant commission completes its review.

(5) The commission review regarding the policy or guidance shall not constitute an adjudication of any facts of a specific enforcement action.

(6) Failure to request a review under this section shall not be considered in any permit appeal or enforcement action.

(7) As used in this section:

(a) "Relevant commission" means the commission or agency responsible for the promulgation of rules for the environmental program under which the guidance or policy is issued.

(b) "Relevant division director" means the director of the division within the department of public health and environment, responsible for the subject matter of the guidance or policy at issue.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 1364, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1471, § 20, effective June 1.

PART 2

POLLUTION CONTROL EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATION

25-6.5-201. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Division" means the division of administration of the department of public health and environment.

(2) (a) "Pollution control equipment" means any personal property, including equipment, machinery, devices, systems, buildings, or structures, that is installed, constructed, or used in or as a part of a facility that creates a product in a manner that generates less pollution by the utilization of an alternative manufacturing or generating technology.

(b) "Pollution control equipment" includes:

(I) Gas or wind turbines and associated compressors or equipment;

(II) Solar, thermal, or photovoltaic equipment;

(III) Equipment used as part of a system that uses geothermal energy for water heating or space heating or cooling in a single building, for space heating for more than one building through a pipeline network, or for electricity generation; or

(IV) Wastewater thermal energy equipment.

(3) "Wastewater thermal energy equipment" means equipment used as part of a system that uses thermal energy in wastewater, to heat or cool a space, or for any other useful thermal purpose that reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the combustion of gas in customer end uses.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 1466, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-118), ch. 335, p. 2370, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2023: (2) amended and (3) added, (SB 23-016), ch. 165, p. 733, § 4 effective August 7.

25-6.5-202. Certification of pollution control equipment.

(1) Within twelve months after the date of acquisition of an ownership or lease interest, a person owning or leasing property may file a request for certification of such property as pollution control equipment with the division on forms prescribed by the division.

(2) At any time after the filing of a request for certification pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and prior to a determination, the division may schedule a conference with the applicant to obtain further information relevant to the determination of eligibility for certification as pollution control equipment.

(3) Within six months after the filing of a request pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the division shall determine the eligibility of such property as pollution control equipment and shall certify its determination to the applicant and the executive director of the department of revenue. The division may certify as pollution control equipment all of the property for which a request has been filed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, specified portions of the property, or none of the property. In making its determination, the division shall consider any available and pertinent information.

(4) If the division denies a request for certification in whole or in part, the applicant may file with the division a written objection to the determination within thirty days after receipt of written notice of the determination. If a written objection is filed, the division shall grant the applicant a hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., within thirty days after receipt of the written objection and shall make a final determination based on the hearing.

(5) If the final determination of the division denies the request for certification in whole or in part, the final determination shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(6) The division may assess against an applicant a fee sufficient to cover the actual and direct cost incurred by the division in making a determination pursuant to this section, including, but not limited to, the actual and direct cost of any hearing or appeal related to the denial of certification if the denial is upheld. Any fee assessed by the division pursuant to this subsection (6) shall be credited to the pollution control equipment certification fund created in section 25-6.5-203.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 1467, § 2, effective August 2.

25-6.5-203. Pollution control equipment certification fund - creation - purpose.

(1) There is hereby established in the state treasury the pollution control equipment certification fund, which shall consist of all moneys collected by the division pursuant to section 25-6.5-202. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered moneys in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be transferred to the general fund.

(2) The moneys in the pollution control equipment certification fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department of public health and environment to defray the costs incurred by the division in performing its obligations pursuant to section 25-6.5-202.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 1467, § 2, effective August 2.

25-6.6 ARTICLE 6.6

Environmental Management System Permit Program

25-6.6-101 to 25-6.6-106. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 2004. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2018, consult the 2017 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) For the amendments to § 25-6.6-106 in HB 18-1239 in effect from April 12, 2018, to July 1, 2018, see chapter 114, Session Laws of Colorado 2018. (L. 2018, p. 810.)

(3) Section 25-6.6-106 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2018. (See L. 2004, p. 479.)

25-6.7 ARTICLE 6.7

Environmental Leadership Act

25-6.7-101 to 25-6.7-110. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 1998. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2003, consult the 2003 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-6.7-110 (2) provided for the repeal of this article, effective December 31, 2003. (See L. 98, p. 877.)

ARTICLE 7

Air Quality Control

PART 1
AIR QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM

25-7-101. Short title.

25-7-102. Legislative declaration.

25-7-103. Definitions.

25-7-103.5. Air quality enterprise - legislative declaration - fund - definitions - gifts, grants, or donations - rules - report - repeal.

25-7-104. Air quality control commission created.

25-7-105. Duties of commission - technical secretary - rules - report - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

25-7-105.1. Federal enforceability.

25-7-106. Commission - additional authority.

25-7-106.1. Commission - duties - visibility standard - report. (Repealed)

25-7-106.3. Commission - duties - wood-burning stoves - episodic no-burn days - rules.

25-7-106.5. Commission - duties - alternative fuels - street-cleaning - time-shifting - reports. (Repealed)

25-7-106.7. Regulations - studies - AIR program area.

25-7-106.8. Colorado clean vehicle fleet program. (Repealed)

25-7-106.9. Alternative fuels financial incentive program. (Repealed)

25-7-107. Commission - area classification.

25-7-108. Commission to promulgate ambient air quality standards.

25-7-109. Commission to adopt emission control regulations - rules.

25-7-109.1. Emergency rule-making.

25-7-109.2. Small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program - rules - advisory panel - legislative declaration - repeal.

25-7-109.3. Colorado hazardous air pollutant control and reduction program - rules.

25-7-109.4. Air quality science advisory board - created - repeal. (Repealed)

25-7-109.5. Toxic air contaminants - annual toxic emissions reporting program - monitoring program - health-based standards - emission control regulations - air toxics permitting program assessment - rules - definitions.

25-7-109.6. Accidental release prevention program.

25-7-110. Commission - procedures to be followed in setting standards and regulations.

25-7-110.5. Required analysis of proposed air quality rules.

25-7-110.8. Additional requirements for commission to act under section 25-7-110.5.

25-7-111. Administration of air quality control programs - directive - prescribed fire - review.

25-7-112. Air pollution emergencies endangering public health anywhere in this state.

25-7-113. Air pollution emergencies endangering public welfare anywhere in this state.

25-7-114. Permit program - definitions.

25-7-114.1. Air pollutant emission notices - rules - fees.

25-7-114.2. Construction permits.

25-7-114.3. Operating permits required for emission of pollutants.

25-7-114.4. Permit applications - contents - rules - definitions.

25-7-114.5. Application review - public participation.

25-7-114.6. Emission notice - fees.

25-7-114.7. Emission fees - stationary sources control fund - rules - report - definitions - repeal.

25-7-114.8. Permit fee credits. (Repealed)

25-7-115. Enforcement - civil actions - definitions - reporting.

25-7-116. Air quality hearings board. (Repealed)

25-7-117. State implementation plan - revisions of limited applicability.

25-7-118. Delayed compliance orders.

25-7-119. Hearings.

25-7-120. Judicial review.

25-7-121. Injunctions.

25-7-122. Civil penalties - rules.

25-7-122.1. Criminal penalties.

25-7-122.5. Enforcement of chlorofluorocarbon regulations.

25-7-122.6. Administrative and judicial stays.

25-7-123. Open burning - penalties.

25-7-123.1. Statute of limitations - penalty assessment - criteria.

25-7-124. Relationship with federal government, regional agencies, and other states.

25-7-125. Organization within department of public health and environment.

25-7-126. Application of article.

25-7-127. Continuance of existing rules and orders.

25-7-128. Local government - authority - penalty.

25-7-129. Disposition of fines - community impact cash fund - repeal.

25-7-129.5. Motor vehicle emissions assistance fund - division to provide grants - gifts, grants, or donations - definition.

25-7-130. Motor vehicle emission control studies.

25-7-131. Training programs - emission controls.

25-7-132. Emission data - public availability - submission of 2023 reports to state auditor - definitions.

25-7-133. Legislative review and approval of state implementation plans and rules - legislative declaration - definition.

25-7-133.5. Approval or rescission of specific revisions to state implementation plan (SIP) after 1996.

25-7-134. Study of air quality control programs. (Repealed)

25-7-135. Ozone protection fund created.

25-7-136. Air pollution data collection and technical evaluation - repeal. (Repealed)

25-7-137. Requirements for legislative approval of Grand Canyon visibility transport commission or successor body advisory recommendations, reports, and interpretations.

25-7-138. Housed commercial swine feeding operations - waste impoundments - odor emissions - fund created.

25-7-139. Methyl tertiary butyl ether - prohibition - phase-out - civil penalty.

25-7-140. Greenhouse gas emissions - data collection - legislative declaration - rules - reporting - forecasting - public information - definitions.

25-7-141. Air toxics - duties of covered entities - public notice of air quality incidents - monitoring - corrective action - legislative declaration - definitions - rules.

25-7-142. Energy benchmarking - data collection and access - utility requirements - task force - rules - reports - exemptions - definitions - legislative declaration.

25-7-143. Emergency stationary engine exception - legislative declaration - rules - notice to revisor - repeal.

25-7-144. Tampering with motor vehicle emission control systems - violations - exceptions - rules - reporting - definitions.

25-7-145. Legislative interim committee on ozone air quality - created - members - repeal. (Repealed)

25-7-146. Petroleum refinery pollution - assessment - monitoring data - rules - definitions.

25-7-147. Rapid response inspection team.

25-7-148. Nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide emission limits for covered electric generating units after 2034 - rules - quarterly reports - recommendations to the general assembly - definitions.

PART 2
PREVENTION OF SIGNIFICANT DETERIORATION PROGRAM

25-7-201. Prevention of significant deterioration program.

25-7-202. Definitions. (Repealed)

25-7-203. State implementation plan - contents.

25-7-204. Exclusions.

25-7-205. Innovative technology - waivers.

25-7-206. Procedure - permits.

25-7-207. Exemptions. (Repealed)

25-7-208. Area designations.

25-7-209. Colorado designated pristine areas for sulfur dioxide.

25-7-210. Applicability.

25-7-211. Visibility impairment attribution studies.

25-7-212. Actions of federal government affecting visibility - evaluation report.

25-7-213. Visibility and air quality related values policy task force. (Repealed)

25-7-214. Visibility impairment subcommittee. (Repealed)

PART 3
ATTAINMENT PROGRAM

25-7-301. Attainment program.

25-7-302. State implementation plan - contents.

25-7-303. Exemptions. (Repealed)

25-7-304. Emission reduction offsets.

25-7-305. Alternative emission reduction.

PART 4
CONTROL OF POLLUTION CAUSED BY WOOD SMOKE

25-7-401. Legislative declaration.

25-7-402. Definitions.

25-7-403. Commission - rule-making for wood-burning stoves.

25-7-404. Wood stove testing program established.

25-7-405. Certification required for sale.

25-7-405.5. Resale of used noncertified wood-burning devices - prohibited.

25-7-406. Fireplace design program.

25-7-407. Commission - rule-making for fireplaces.

25-7-407.5. Certification required for sale. (Repealed)

25-7-408. Required compliance in building codes.

25-7-409. Voluntary no-burn days.

25-7-410. Applicability.

25-7-411. Legislative declaration.

25-7-412. Definitions.

25-7-413. Methods for reducing wood smoke in program area.

PART 5
ASBESTOS CONTROL

25-7-501. Legislative declaration.

25-7-502. Definitions.

25-7-503. Powers and duties of commission - rules - delegation of authority to division.

25-7-504. Asbestos abatement project requirements - certificate to perform asbestos abatement - certified trained persons.

25-7-505. Certificate to perform asbestos abatement - application - approval by division - suspension or revocation of certificate.

25-7-505.5. Testing for certification under part 5.

25-7-506. Certificate of trained supervisors - application - approval by division - rules - responsibilities of trained supervisors - renewal of certificate.

25-7-506.5. Certification of air monitoring specialist - rules.

25-7-507. Certification required under federal law for asbestos projects in facilities.

25-7-507.5. Renewal of certificates - rules - recertification.

25-7-508. Grounds for disciplinary action - letters of admonition - denial of certification - suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew - requirement for corrective education - administrative fines.

25-7-509. Prohibition against local certification regarding asbestos abatement.

25-7-509.5. Building permits.

25-7-510. Fees.

25-7-511. Enforcement - repeal.

25-7-511.5. Injunctive proceedings.

25-7-511.6. Refresher training - authorization.

25-7-512. Repeal of part.

PART 6
DIESEL INSPECTION PROGRAM

25-7-601 to

25-7-610. (Repealed)

PART 7
TRAVEL REDUCTION TASK FORCE

25-7-701 to

25-7-706. (Repealed)

PART 8
TRAVEL REDUCTION PROGRAM

25-7-801 to

25-7-806. (Repealed)

PART 9
CLEAN AIR TRANSIT OPTIONS

25-7-901. Legislative declaration.

25-7-902. Definitions.

25-7-903. Clean air transit options for state employees.

PART 10
AIR QUALITY RELATED VALUES - CLASS I FEDERAL AREAS

25-7-1001. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1002. Air quality related values program.

25-7-1003. Definitions.

25-7-1004. Administration of program by division.

25-7-1005. Verification of federal land manager's assertion of air quality related value impairment.

25-7-1006. Source attribution and control strategy development.

25-7-1007. Commission to consider control strategies in rule-making proceeding.

25-7-1008. Voluntary agreements.

PART 11
LEAD-BASED PAINT ABATEMENT

25-7-1101. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1102. Definitions.

25-7-1103. Powers and duties of air quality control commission - rules.

25-7-1104. Duties of air pollution control division - certification of trained individuals.

25-7-1105. Fees.

25-7-1106. Enforcement.

25-7-1107. Applicability of article - child-occupied facilities and target housing.

PART 12
VOLUNTARY EMISSION LIMITATIONS

25-7-1201. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1202. Definitions.

25-7-1203. Voluntary agreements.

25-7-1204. Regulatory assurances.

25-7-1205. Exceptions.

25-7-1206. Coal-fired power plants.

25-7-1207. Allowances.

25-7-1208. Economic or cost-effectiveness analyses not required.

PART 13
THE SOUTHERN UTE INDIAN TRIBE/ STATE OF COLORADO ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION

25-7-1301. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1302. Definitions.

25-7-1303. Southern Ute Indian tribe/state of Colorado environmental commission created.

25-7-1304. Commission - powers and duties - rules.

25-7-1305. Administration of reservation air program.

25-7-1306. Agencies of state to cooperate.

25-7-1307. Funding for staff and program costs.

25-7-1308. Administrative and judicial review of commission actions.

25-7-1309. Repeal of part.

PART 14
ELECTRIFYING SCHOOL BUSES GRANT PROGRAM

25-7-1401. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1402. Definitions.

25-7-1403. Electrifying school buses grant program - creation - eligibility.

25-7-1404. Reporting.

25-7-1405. Electrifying school buses grant program cash fund - creation - gifts, grants, and donations - transfer - repeal.

25-7-1406. Repeal of part.

PART 15
ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS FOR HEATING AND WATER HEATING APPLIANCES

25-7-1501. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1502. Definitions.

25-7-1503. Scope and applicability - repeal.

25-7-1504. Emission standards for new products.

25-7-1505. Testing - required displays - demonstrations of compliance.

25-7-1506. Rules - analysis.

25-7-1507. Enforcement - verifications of compliance - civil action by attorney general - penalties.

PART 16
AFFORDABLE APPLIANCES FOR A HEALTHY COMMUNITY

25-7-1601. Legislative declaration.

25-7-1602. Definitions.

25-7-1603. Colorado energy office - study - accelerated adoption of heat pump technology.

25-7-1604. Repeal of part.

PART 1

AIR QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM

Cross references: For the automobile inspection and readjustment program, see part 3 of article 4 of title 42.

Law reviews: For article, "A Practitioners Guide to the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission", see 16 Colo. Law. 1405 (1987); for article, "Colorado's New Clean Air Program", see 22 Colo. Law. 541 (1993); for article, "Colorado's Clean Air Act Amendments Regulations", see 23 Colo. Law. 861 (1994).

25-7-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act".

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1017, § 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1165, § 3, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974). For comment, "Environmental Law — Requirement of Notice in Visual Opacity Readings — Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. Western Alfalfa Corp., 94 S. Ct. 2114 (1974)", see 51 Den. L.J. 603 (1974). For comment, "Pre-Enforcement Judicial Review: CF & I Steel Corp. v. Colorado Air Pollution Control Commission", see 58 Den. L.J. 693 (1981). For article, "Pollution or Resources Out-of-place: Reclaiming Municipal Wastewater for Agricultural Use", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 559 (1982).

Applied in CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

25-7-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) In order to foster the health, welfare, convenience, and comfort of the inhabitants of the state of Colorado and to facilitate the enjoyment and use of the scenic and natural resources of the state, it is declared to be the policy of this state to achieve the maximum practical degree of air purity in every portion of the state, to attain and maintain the national ambient air quality standards, and to prevent the significant deterioration of air quality in those portions of the state where the air quality is better than the national ambient air quality standards. To that end, it is the purpose of this article 7 to require the use of all available practical methods which are technologically feasible and economically reasonable so as to reduce, prevent, and control air pollution throughout the state of Colorado; to require the development of an air quality control program in which the benefits of the air pollution control measures utilized bear a reasonable relationship to the economic, environmental, and energy impacts and other costs of such measures; and to maintain a cooperative program between the state and local units of government. It is further declared that the prevention, abatement, and control of air pollution in each portion of the state are matters of statewide concern and are affected with a public interest and that the provisions of this article 7 are enacted in the exercise of the police powers of this state for the purpose of protecting the health, peace, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state. The general assembly further recognizes that a current and accurate inventory of actual emissions of air pollutants from all sources is essential for the proper identification and designation of attainment and nonattainment areas, the determination of the most cost-effective regulatory strategy to reduce pollution, the targeting of regulatory efforts to achieve the greatest health and environmental benefits, and the achievement of a federally approved clean air program. In order to achieve the most accurate inventory of air pollution sources possible, this article 7 specifically provides incentives to achieve the most accurate and complete inventory possible and to provide for the most accurate enforcement program achievable based upon that inventory.

(2) It is further declared that:

(a) Climate change adversely affects Colorado's economy, air quality and public health, ecosystems, natural resources, and quality of life;

(b) Colorado is already experiencing harmful climate impacts, including declining snowpack, prolonged drought, more extreme heat, elevated wildfire risk and risk to first responders, widespread beetle infestation decimating forests, increased risk of vector-borne diseases, more frequent and severe flooding, more severe ground-level ozone pollution causing respiratory damage and loss of life, decreased economic activity from outdoor recreation and agriculture, and diminished quality of life. Many of these impacts disproportionately affect rural communities, communities of color, youth and the elderly, and working families. Reducing statewide greenhouse gas pollution as outlined in this subsection (2) will protect these frontline communities, first responders, and all Colorado residents from these and other climate impacts.

(c) We must work together to reduce statewide greenhouse gas pollution in order to limit the increase in the global average temperature to one and one-half degrees Celsius, which scientists agree would provide a more stable and hospitable climate for current and future generations and mitigate the risk of catastrophic climate impacts in Colorado;

(d) By reducing greenhouse gas pollution, Colorado will also reduce other harmful air pollutants, which will, in turn, improve public health, reduce health-care costs, improve air quality, and help sustain the environment;

(e) Reducing greenhouse gas pollution will create new markets, spur innovation, drive investments in low-carbon technologies, and put Colorado squarely on the path to a modern, resilient, one-hundred-percent clean economy. Delay in pursuing and securing greenhouse gas reductions as outlined in this subsection (2) will prevent Colorado communities from capturing the benefits of these new jobs and markets, in addition to exacerbating the climate impacts that harm Coloradans. The clean energy economy is already bringing tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in direct investment to counties across the state, benefitting workers, families, and communities. Colorado can continue to facilitate such a transition to a clean energy economy. Food and fiber production has made significant achievements in areas of productivity and sustainability. Modern technology in this sector contributes to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by sequestering carbon in the soil and enhancing sustainability through technologies that reduce methane emissions and produce renewable energy. Continuing to encourage these types of achievements is beneficial.

(f) By exercising a leadership role, Colorado will also position its economy, technology centers, financial institutions, and businesses to benefit from national and international efforts to reduce greenhouse gases;

(g) (I) Accordingly, Colorado shall strive to increase renewable energy generation and eliminate statewide greenhouse gas pollution by the middle of the twenty-first century and have goals of achieving, at a minimum:

(A) A twenty-six percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2025;

(B) A fifty percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2030;

(C) A sixty-five percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2035;

(D) A seventy-five percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2040;

(E) A ninety percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2045; and

(F) A one hundred percent reduction in statewide greenhouse gas pollution by 2050.

(II) The reductions identified in this subsection (2)(g) are measured relative to 2005 statewide greenhouse gas pollution levels.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1017, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1165, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1261), ch. 355, p. 3262, § 1, effective May 30. L. 2023: (2)(g) amended, (SB 23-016), ch. 165, p. 735, § 8, effective August 7.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

Control of air pollution is a legitimate subject of legislation under the police power. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. State, 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

25-7-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 7, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Administrator" means the administrator of the federal environmental protection agency.

(1.3) "Adverse environmental effect", as a term used in the context of regulating hazardous air pollutants, means any significant and widespread adverse effect, which may reasonably be anticipated, to wildlife, aquatic life, or other natural resources, including adverse impacts on populations of endangered or threatened species or significant degradation of environmental quality over broad areas.

(1.5) "Air pollutant" means any fume, smoke, particulate matter, vapor, or gas or any combination thereof which is emitted into or otherwise enters the atmosphere, including, but not limited to, any physical, chemical, biological, radioactive (including source material, special nuclear material, and byproduct material) substance or matter, but "air pollutant" does not include water vapor or steam condensate or any other emission exempted by the commission consistent with the federal act. Such term includes any precursors to the formation of any air pollutant, to the extent the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency or the commission has identified such precursor or precursors for the particular purpose for which the term "air pollutant" is used.

(2) "Air pollution control authority" means the division, or any person or agency given authority by the division, or a local governmental unit duly authorized with respect to air pollution control.

(3) "Air pollution source" means any source whatsoever at, from, or by reason of which there is emitted or discharged into the atmosphere any air pollutant.

(4) "Allowable emissions" means the emission rate calculated for a stationary source using the maximum rated capacity of the source (unless the source is subject to enforceable permit conditions which limit the operating rate or hours of operation, or both) and the most stringent of the following:

(a) The applicable standards promulgated pursuant to the federal act for new source performance or hazardous air pollutants;

(b) The applicable Colorado emission control regulation; or

(c) The emission rate specified as a permit condition.

(5) "Ambient air" means that portion of the atmosphere, external to the sources, to which the general public has access.

(5.5) "Appliance" means any device which contains and uses as a refrigerant a class I or class II ozone depleting compound as defined by the administrator and which is used for household or commercial purposes, including any air conditioner, refrigerator, chiller, or freezer.

(5.7) "Approved motor vehicle refrigerant recycling equipment" means any equipment models certified by the administrator, or any independent standards testing organization approved by such administrator, to meet the standards established by the administrator which are applicable to equipment for the extraction of refrigerants from motor vehicle air conditioners. Equipment for such purpose purchased prior to the promulgation of regulations pursuant to section 25-7-105 (11)(c) shall be considered certified if it is substantially identical to equipment which is certified by the administrator.

(6) Repealed.

(6.5) "CFC" means any of the chlorofluorocarbon chemicals CFC-11, CFC-12, CFC-112, CFC-113, CFC-114, CFC-115, or CFC-502.

(6.7) "Colorado generally available control technology" or "Colorado GACT" means standards imposed pursuant to section 25-7-109.3 (3) utilizing principles of sound engineering judgment in applying the criteria set forth in section 112 (d) of the federal act respecting the creation of standards or requirements utilizing generally available control technologies or management practices by area sources for the reduction of emissions of hazardous air pollutants considering a cost-benefit analysis, economics, the cost and availability of control technology, and the location, nature, and size of the source involved, and the actual or potential impacts on the public health, welfare, and the environment.

(6.8) "Colorado maximum achievable control technology" or "Colorado MACT" means standards imposed pursuant to section 25-7-109.3 (3) utilizing principles of sound engineering judgment in applying the criteria set forth in section 112 (d) of the federal act respecting the creation of standards or requirements which provide for the maximum degree of emissions reduction that has been demonstrated to be achievable for the control of hazardous air pollutants, considering a cost-benefit analysis, economics, the cost and availability of control technology, and the location, nature, and size of the source involved, and the actual or potential impacts on the public health, welfare, and the environment.

(7) "Commission" means the air quality control commission created by section 25-7-104.

(8) "Construction" means fabrication, erection, installation, or modification of an air pollution source.

(8.5) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(9) "Division" means the division of administration of the department of public health and environment.

(9.5) "Effects on public welfare" means all language referring to effects on public welfare, which includes, but is not limited to, effects on soils, water, crops, vegetation, manmade materials, animals, wildlife, weather, visibility, climate, damage to and deterioration of property, and hazards to transportation, as well as effects on economic values and on personal comfort and well-being, whether caused by transformation, conversion, or combination with other air pollutants.

(9.7) "Emergency event" means a situation arising from a sudden and reasonably unforeseen natural disaster or other unforeseen event, including the loss of utility service, that requires the use of emergency stationary engines to alleviate a threat to health, safety, and welfare pursuant to 40 CFR 60 or 63, as in effect on January 1, 2022. A threat to health, safety, and welfare includes national security threats.

(9.8) "Emergency stationary engine" means an engine that is not mobile and that is used to provide electric power to or mechanical work for critical infrastructure during an emergency event.

(10) "Emission" means the discharge or release into the atmosphere of one or more air pollutants.

(11) "Emission control regulation" means and includes any standard promulgated by regulation that is applicable to all air pollution sources within a specified area and that prohibits or establishes permissible limits for specific types of emissions in such area; any regulation that by its terms is applicable to a specified type of facility, process, or activity for the purpose of controlling the extent, degree, or nature of pollution emitted from such type of facility, process, or activity; any regulation adopted for the purpose of preventing or minimizing emission of any air pollutant in potentially dangerous quantities; and any regulation that adopts any design, equipment, work practice, or operational standard. Emission control regulations shall not include standards that describe maximum ambient air concentrations of specifically identified pollutants or that describe varying degrees of pollution of ambient air. Emission control regulations pertaining to hazardous air pollutants, as defined in subsection (13) of this section, and toxic air contaminants designated pursuant to section 25-7-109.5, shall be consistent with the emission standards promulgated under section 112 of the federal act or section 25-7-109.3 or 25-7-109.5 in reducing or preventing emissions and may include application of measures, processes, methods, systems, or techniques, including, but not limited to, measures that:

(a) Reduce the volume of, or eliminate emissions of, such pollutants through process changes, emissions limitations, control technologies, substitution of materials, or other modifications;

(b) Enclose systems or processes to eliminate emissions;

(c) Collect, capture, or treat such pollutants when released from a process, stack, storage, or fugitive emissions point;

(d) Are design, equipment, or work practice standards (including requirements for operator training or certification); or

(e) Are a combination of the provisions of paragraphs (a) to (d) of this subsection (11).

(11.5) "Emission data" means, with reference to any source of emission of any substance into the air:

(a) Information necessary to determine the identity, amount, frequency, concentration, or other characteristics (to the extent related to air quality) of any emission which has been, or will be, emitted by the source (or of any pollutant resulting from any emission by the source), or any combination thereof;

(b) Information necessary to determine the identity, amount, frequency, concentration, or other characteristics (to the extent related to air quality) of the emission which, under an applicable standard or limitation, the source was authorized to emit (including, to the extent necessary for such purposes, a description of the manner or rate of operation of the source), or any combination thereof;

(c) A general description of the location or nature, or both, of the source to the extent necessary to identify the source and to distinguish it from other sources (including, to the extent necessary for such purposes, a description of the device, installation, or operation constituting the source).

(12) "Federal act" means the federal "Clean Air Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 7401 et seq., as amended.

(12.1) "Generally available control technology" or "GACT" means standards promulgated pursuant to section 112 of the federal act which provide for the use of generally available control technologies or management practices for the control of hazardous air pollutants for area sources, as defined in section 112 of the federal act, including equivalent emission limitations by permit pursuant to section 112 (j) of the federal act.

(13) "Hazardous air pollutant" means an air pollutant which presents through inhalation or other routes of exposure, a threat of adverse human health effects (including, but not limited to, substances which are known to be, or may reasonably be anticipated to be carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic, neurotoxic, which cause reproductive dysfunction, or which are acutely or chronically toxic) or adverse environmental effects whether through ambient concentrations, bioaccumulation, deposition, or otherwise and which has been listed pursuant to section 112 of the federal act or section 25-7-109.3.

(14) "Indirect air pollution source" means any facility, building, structure, or installation, or any combination thereof, excluding dwellings, which can reasonably be expected to cause or induce substantial mobile source activity which results in emissions of air pollutants which might reasonably be expected to interfere with the attainment and maintenance of national ambient air standards.

(15) "Issue" or "issuance" means the mailing, including by electronic mail, of any order, permit, determination, or notice, other than notice by publication, or personal service on the person. The date of issuance of the order, permit, determination, or notice must be the date of the mailing or service or such later date as is stated in the order, permit, determination, or notice.

(16) "Local air pollution law" means any law, ordinance, resolution, code, rule, or regulation adopted by the governing body of any city, town, county, or city and county, pertaining to the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution.

(16.5) "Maximum achievable control technology" or "MACT" means emission standards promulgated under section 112 of the federal act requiring the maximum degree of emissions reduction that has been demonstrated to be achievable for the control of hazardous air pollutants, including equivalent emission limitations by permit pursuant to section 112 (j) of the federal act.

(17) "Malfunction" means any sudden and unavoidable failure of air pollution control equipment or process equipment or unintended failure of a process to operate in a normal or usual manner. Failures that are primarily caused by poor maintenance, careless operation, or any other preventable upset condition or preventable equipment breakdown shall not be considered malfunctions.

(18) "Motor vehicle" means any self-propelled vehicle which is designed primarily for travel on the public highways and which is generally and commonly used to transport persons and property over the public highways.

(18.3) "Motor vehicle air conditioner" means any air conditioner designed for installation in a motor vehicle which uses as a refrigerant any class I or class II ozone depleting compound as defined by the administrator.

(18.4) "Owner or operator" means any person who owns, leases, operates, controls, or supervises a stationary source.

(18.5) "Ozone depleting compound" means any substance on the list of class I and class II ozone depleting compounds as defined by the administrator and as referenced in section 602 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990".

(19) "Person" means any individual, public or private corporation, partnership, association, firm, trust, estate, the United States or the state or any department, institution, or agency thereof, any municipal corporation, county, city and county, or other political subdivision of the state, or any other legal entity whatsoever which is recognized by law as the subject of rights and duties.

(19.5) "Refrigeration system" includes refrigerators, freezers, cold storage warehouse refrigeration systems, and air conditioners, any of which hold more than one hundred pounds of refrigerant or more than one hundred pounds total if more than one refrigeration unit or system exists at the same location.

(20) "Shutdown" means the cessation of operation of any air pollution source for any purpose.

(21) "Start-up" means the setting in operation of any air pollution source for any purpose.

(22) "State implementation plan" or "SIP" means a plan required by and described in section 110 (a) or 169A of the federal act.

(22.5) "Statewide greenhouse gas pollution" means the total net statewide anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, nitrogen trifluoride, and sulfur hexafluoride, expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent calculated using a methodology and data on radiative forcing and atmospheric persistence deemed appropriate by the commission.

(23) "Stationary source" means any building, structure, facility, or installation which emits or may emit any air pollutant.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1018, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (6) repealed, p. 768, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: (6.5) and (19.5) added, p. 1156, § 2, effective January 1, 1990. L. 92: (1), (11), (12), (13), and (19) amended and (1.3), (1.5), (6.7), (6.8), (9.5), (11.5), (12.1), (16.5), and (18.4) added, p. 1166, § 5, effective July 1; (1) amended and (1.5), (5.5), (5.7), (18.3), and (18.5) added, p. 1291, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (9) amended, p. 2780, § 494, effective July 1. L. 2006: IP added, p. 1504, § 46, effective June 1. L. 2016: (18.5) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 770, § 62, effective June 6. L. 2019: IP amended and (22.5) added, (HB 19-1261), ch. 355, p. 3264, § 2, effective May 30. L. 2021: (8.5) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2730, § 5, effective July 2. L. 2022: (9.7) and (9.8) added, (HB 22-1372), ch. 316, p. 2251, § 1, effective June 2; IP(11) and (11)(a) amended, (HB 22-1244), ch. 332, p. 2331, § 2, effective June 2; (12), (15), and (22) amended, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2156, § 4, effective June 2.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (1.5) by Senate Bill 92-105 and House Bill 92-1178 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (18.4) was enacted as subsection (18.3) by Senate Bill 92-105, Session Laws of Colorado 1992, chapter 179, section 5, but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (9), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

(2) For section 602 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990", see 42 U.S.C. § 7671a.

(3) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(4) For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1244, see section 1 of chapter 332, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Regulation of fugitive dust emission. Regulations adopted to accomplish the regulation of fugitive dust emission must be sufficiently definitive and specific that everyone involved will be able to determine what it is that he may or may not do. Such regulations must be uniformly applicable to all persons creating the same type of emission while engaged in the same function for the same purposes. CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 44 Colo. App. 111, 640 P.2d 238 (1981).

25-7-103.5. Air quality enterprise - legislative declaration - fund - definitions - gifts, grants, or donations - rules - report - repeal.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Colorado faces numerous serious air quality challenges, which are having substantial adverse health and environmental impacts and impose additional burdens on Colorado's economy;

(b) The state of Colorado and stationary sources share the need for science-based air quality objectives that will require reductions in emissions of ozone precursors, greenhouse gases, and other pollutants;

(c) Colorado residents and stationary sources will benefit from effective ozone control strategies that are informed by the best available science to avoid reclassification of areas in attainment to nonattainment status or reclassification from serious to a more stringent category of nonattainment that will impose additional regulatory requirements;

(d) Enhanced monitoring techniques, capacity, and technology will provide better environmental results at a lower long-term cost;

(e) Air quality monitoring conducted by an enterprise in areas with a high concentration of air pollution sources will provide trusted data on the overall impact of these air pollution sources on nearby residents, while providing a cost-effective method to monitor the emissions they produce;

(f) Effective engagement with local communities often requires trusted third-party data and verification regarding emissions and environmental performance;

(g) Improved monitoring of emissions, better accuracy of emission inventories, and access to trusted science will ensure a level competitive playing field for Colorado businesses;

(h) Stationary sources in Colorado may seek air quality enterprise mitigation and monitoring services to implement their obligations under rules and permits and environmental, social, and governance objectives;

(i) Emission mitigation and monitoring programs can be more effective with economies of scale and when conducted on a statewide or regional basis through an enterprise;

(j) The air quality enterprise provides business services when, in exchange for payment of fees, it provides:

(I) High-quality, independent, and trusted research and science regarding emissions rates and inventories, monitoring and control technologies, and health effects and emissions impacts;

(II) High-quality, independent, and trusted data regarding pollutant emissions from stationary sources and concentrations to reduce waste of valuable products and resource streams, enhance cost-effective regulatory compliance, and support corporate environmental, social, and governance objectives;

(III) Tools, data, and research for more effective community engagement on air pollution issues;

(IV) Opportunities for trusted and cost-effective mitigation project development; and

(V) Additional business services to fee payers as may be provided by law;

(k) It is necessary, appropriate, and in the best interest of the state to acknowledge that, by providing the business services specified in this section, the enterprise engages in an activity conducted in the pursuit of a benefit, gain, or livelihood and therefore operates as a business;

(l) Consistent with the determination of the Colorado supreme court in Nicholl v. E-470 Public Highway Authority, 896 P.2d 859 (Colo. 1995), that the power to impose taxes is inconsistent with enterprise status under section 20 of article X of the state constitution, it is the conclusion of the general assembly that the revenues collected by the enterprise are fees, not taxes, because the enterprise fees are:

(I) Imposed for the specific purpose of allowing the enterprise to defray the costs of providing the business services specified in this section to fee payers; and

(II) Collected at rates that are reasonably calculated based on the benefits received by those entities and the costs of the services the enterprise provides; and

(m) So long as the enterprise qualifies as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, the revenue collected by the enterprise under subsection (4) of this section is not state fiscal year spending, as defined in section 24-77-102 (17), or state revenues, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(c), and does not count against either the state fiscal year spending limit imposed by section 20 of article X of the state constitution or the excess state revenues cap, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(b).

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Board" means the board of directors of the enterprise.

(b) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(c) "Enterprise" means the air quality enterprise created in subsection (3) of this section.

(d) "Enterprise fee" or "fee" means money collected through fees authorized by subsection (4) of this section.

(e) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department.

(f) "Fund" means the air quality enterprise cash fund created in subsection (4) of this section.

(g) "Greenhouse gas" has the meaning established in section 25-7-140 (6).

(3) Enterprise.

(a) There is hereby created in the department the air quality enterprise. The enterprise is and operates as a government-owned business within the department for the purpose of conducting the business activities specified in this section. The enterprise is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department.

(b) The enterprise constitutes an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution so long as it retains the authority to issue revenue bonds and receives less than ten percent of its total revenues in grants from all Colorado state and local governments combined. So long as it constitutes an enterprise pursuant to this subsection (3)(b), the enterprise is not subject to section 20 of article X of the state constitution.

(c) In addition to any other powers and duties specified in this section, the enterprise's powers and duties are to:

(I) Conduct science-based, unbiased air quality modeling, monitoring, assessment, data analysis, and research, which may include obtaining, analyzing, and reporting permitting and enforcement data; data regarding potential health risks from emissions; emission data; ambient air quality, visibility, and meteorological sampling data; and similar data. The board shall prioritize these activities based on a research project's ability to provide information that will: Support tangible progress toward aiding fee payers' obligations and commitments to reducing air pollutants emitted by the fee payers; support fee payers in attaining standards and health-based or environmental guidelines; and assess public health that may be affected by fee payer emissions. The board shall ensure that all research conducted by the enterprise and its contractors is impartial, transparent, and meets high standards for scientific rigor. The board shall consult with fee payers, atmospheric science and public health experts, engineers with air quality expertise, and community stakeholders on formulating research priorities and shall specifically prioritize:

(A) Enhanced monitoring projects, including the placement of permanent monitoring stations using gas chromatography or proven, state-of-the-art technology to measure, in real time or nearly so, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, ozone, methane, and particulates at key locations upwind, downwind, and within high-emission regions;

(B) Regular aerial surveys and observations to assist leak detection and repair activities, improve the accuracy of emission inventories, and create a better understanding of regional emission profiles; and

(C) Assessing local exposures to and the public health risk impacts of nearby air toxics sources;

(II) Establish the enterprise fees specified in subsection (4) of this section by rule and collect the fees;

(III) Allocate enterprise revenues to the services described in this section and contract for any necessary services from state agencies or other parties, including universities, private entities, and federal laboratories;

(IV) Issue revenue bonds payable from the revenues of the enterprise to implement its powers and duties;

(V) Receive fees or other payments, including those negotiated to conduct emission mitigation projects and custom monitoring or technology development or evaluation projects;

(VI) Engage the services of contractors, consultants, and legal counsel, including institutions of higher education, public research laboratories, private research institutions and consultants with expertise in air quality, the department, and the attorney general's office, for professional and technical assistance, advice, and other goods and services, including information technology, related to the conduct of the affairs of the enterprise without regard to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24. The board shall encourage diversity in applicants for contracts and shall generally avoid using single-source bids. The department may provide office space, administrative services, and staff pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to this subsection (3)(c)(VI). The board may, in consultation with the executive director or the executive director's designee, hire such other staff as it deems necessary to provide its business services.

(VII) Promote the development of unbiased, high quality science and not advocate for or develop air quality policy. Consistent with this, the board shall not participate as a party in any air-quality-related rule-making proceedings or have any role in the implementation of Colorado's air quality laws.

(VIII) Receive payments to finance specific projects, including community-based monitoring or emission mitigation projects in the state or in a specified area of the state, as directed by this article 7 or any program that the commission establishes by rule pursuant to this article 7.

(d) (I) The enterprise is governed by a board of directors. The board consists of:

(A) The executive director or the executive director's designee;

(B) The following members appointed by the governor: Two members of the commission; two representatives of fee payers with expertise in field engineering or environmental management; one member with significant private sector experience in the field of business management; and four members who are highly qualified and professionally active or engaged in the conduct of scientific research, including at least two who are experts in atmospheric or air quality modeling, monitoring, assessment, and research and one member who is a toxicologist, epidemiologist, pathologist, pulmonologist, cardiologist, or expert in a similar field related to the public health or environmental effects of air pollutants.

(II) To the extent practicable, at least two of the governor appointees must be individuals who have a record of peer-reviewed publications and who are affiliated with, currently hold, or have held academic or equivalent appointments at universities, federal laboratories, or other research institutions.

(e) The executive director or the executive director's designee, in the capacity of a member of the board, shall call the first meeting of the board. The board shall elect a chair from among its members to serve for a term not to exceed two years, as determined by the board. The board shall meet at least quarterly, and the chair may call additional meetings as necessary for the board to complete its duties. The appointed members of the board are entitled to receive from money in the fund a per diem allowance of fifty dollars for each day spent attending official board meetings.

(f) The term of office of appointed board members is three years.

(g) The board shall conduct the enterprise's business as required by state law, including the open meeting requirements of part 4 of article 6 of title 24 and the open record requirements of article 72 of title 24.

(4) Fund - enterprise fees and other revenue.

(a) There is hereby created in the state treasury the air quality enterprise cash fund. The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to this subsection (4), payments for other purposes as authorized under subsection (3)(c)(VIII) of this section, and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(b) The board shall establish by rule enterprise fees, which may include the following enterprise fees in an amount that, in the aggregate, reflects the value of the services provided:

(I) A fee per ton of air pollutant emitted by a stationary source annually, which fee may vary based on the air pollutant relative to the extent of research or mitigation needs associated with the pollutant;

(II) A fee for custom or additional air quality modeling, monitoring, assessment, or research services; and

(III) A fee for emission mitigation project services sought by fee payers.

(c) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the enterprise to accomplish the purposes set forth in subsection (3)(c) of this section, including to:

(I) Conduct and broadly disseminate air quality modeling, monitoring, assessment, data analysis, health risk assessment, and research related to stationary sources that:

(A) Follow or advance best practices for risk assessment, risk management, monitoring, modeling, and assessment;

(B) Use consistent, data-driven, and transparent processes for scoping and prioritizing activities; and

(C) Use the best available scientific information;

(II) Provide high-quality, independent, and trusted research and development services regarding stationary source emissions rates and inventories, monitoring and control technologies, and public health risk impacts from those emissions;

(III) Provide high-quality, independent, and trusted data regarding pollutant emissions from stationary sources and concentrations to reduce waste of valuable products and resource streams, enhance cost-effective regulatory compliance, and support corporate environmental, social, and governance objectives;

(IV) Provide trusted and cost-effective mitigation project services to meet corporate sustainability, settlement, and other objectives;

(V) Provide additional business services to fee payers as may be provided by law; and

(VI) Provide its data to fee payers, the division, and the commission to facilitate the fee payers' emissions mitigation and compliance efforts and the division's and commission's enforcement and administration of this article 7.

(d) The enterprise shall dedicate a meaningful portion of its annual revenues toward competitive grants to conduct highly qualified, peer-reviewed research related to research priorities identified by the board. Before finalizing a draft research product, the board shall post the draft on the board's website and allow a period of time for public comment on the draft. The board shall publish the research products and make them and all data collected pursuant to enterprise-funded research publicly available.

(e) Before establishing fees, the board shall conduct a stakeholder process to solicit input from potential fee payers and other stakeholders on the appropriate fee structure. The enterprise shall not collect any fees before July 1, 2021. The amount of enterprise fees collected under subsection (4)(b)(I) of this section is limited as follows:

(I) to (III) Repealed.

(IV) (A) For state fiscal years commencing on or after July 1, 2024, fees must not exceed five million dollars.

(B) Repealed.

(f) The board may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(5) Report. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the board shall provide a report to the committees of reference of the general assembly with jurisdiction over public health and the environment by December 1 of each year. The report must include summaries of the board's prioritization of research needs; modeling, monitoring, assessment, and research accomplished by the enterprise; the enterprise's completed, ongoing, and planned emission mitigation services; use of the fund; enterprise fees; and the value of business services provided to fee payers through the operation of the enterprise.

(6) Repeal.

(a) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2034. Before the repeal, the enterprise is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

(b) On September 1, 2034, the state treasurer shall transfer all unallocated money in the fund to the stationary sources control fund created in section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b)(I).

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-204), ch. 192, p. 884, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2022: (3)(d) and (3)(f) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 59, § 76, effective February 25; (1)(m), (4)(a), and IP(4)(e) amended and (3)(c)(VIII) added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2156, § 5, effective June 2; (3)(a) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3368, § 48, effective August 10.

Editor's note: Subsection (4)(e)(IV)(B) provided for the repeal of subsections (4)(e)(I) to (4)(e)(III) and (4)(e)(IV)(B), effective September 1, 2026. (See L. 2020, p. 884.)

Cross references: For the short title ("Clean Up Colorado's Air Act") in SB 20-204, see section 1 of chapter 192, Session Laws of Colorado 2020. For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-7-104. Air quality control commission created.

(1) There is created in the department of public health and environment the air quality control commission, which consists of nine citizens of this state appointed by the governor with the consent of the senate. The air quality control commission is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

(2) Appointments to the commission shall be made so as to include persons with appropriate scientific, technical, industrial, labor, agricultural, and legal training or with experience on the commission; although no specific number of its members shall be required to be so trained or experienced, three members shall have appropriate private sector, technical, or industrial employment experience. No more than five commissioners shall be members of one political party.

(3) Terms of members shall be for three years, and said terms shall commence on February 1 of the year of appointment. Any vacancy occurring during the term of office of any member shall be filled by appointment by the governor of a qualified person for the unexpired portion of the regular term.

(4) The governor may remove any member of the commission for malfeasance in office, failure to regularly attend meetings, or any cause that renders such a member incapable or unfit to discharge the duties of his office, and any such removal, when made, shall not be subject to review. If any member of the commission is absent from two consecutive meetings, the chairman of the commission shall determine whether the cause of such absences was reasonable. If he determines that the cause of the absences was unreasonable, he shall so notify the governor, who shall appoint a qualified person for the unexpired portion of the regular term.

(5) Each member of the commission not otherwise in full-time employment of the state shall receive a per diem of forty dollars for each day actually and necessarily spent in the discharge of official duties, but not to exceed twelve hundred eighty-four dollars in any one year; and all members shall receive traveling and other necessary expenses actually incurred in the performance of official duties.

(6) Each year the commission shall select from its own membership a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary. The secretary of the commission shall keep a record of its proceedings. The commission shall hold regular public monthly meetings and may hold special meetings on the call of the chairman or vice-chairman at such other times as deemed necessary. Written notice of the time and place of all meetings shall be mailed by the secretary at least five days in advance of any such meetings to each member.

(7) All members shall have a vote. Two-thirds of the commission shall constitute a quorum, and the concurrence of a majority of the commission in any matter within its powers and duties shall be required for any determination made by the commission.

(8) The commission shall have at least a majority of members who represent the public interest and do not derive a significant portion of their income from persons subject to permits or enforcement orders under this article or under the federal act. The members of the commission shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the governor and the committee of reference of the general assembly prior to confirmation and shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest which arise during their terms of membership to the governor and to the other commission members in a public meeting of the commission.

(9) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1169, § 6, effective July 1, 1992.)

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1020, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (2) amended, p. 768, § 2, effective July 1. L. 92: (7) and (9) amended, p. 1169, § 6, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2780, § 495, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2) amended, p. 282, § 17, effective August 8. L. 2022: (1) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3368, § 49, effective August 10.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

(2) For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Air pollution control commission is "agency" within the meaning of §§ 24-4-102 (3) and 24-4-107 and is subject to the provisions of the state administrative procedure act. CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

Potential conflict of interest under subsection (8) was not undisclosed and, if an actual conflict existed, it was immaterial to the outcome of the commission's rule-making. Sohocki v. Air Quality Control Comm'n, 12 P.3d 274 (Colo. App. 1999).

Remedy for nondisclosure of conflict of interest is not specified in this section. Therefore, the court of appeals adopts a balancing test, depending on whether the official with the alleged conflict cast the deciding vote. If so, the agency's action is invalid. If not, the court must examine three factors: (1) Whether the official disclosed the interest, or whether the other officials were fully aware of it; (2) the extent of the official's participation in the proceeding; and (3) the magnitude of the official's alleged interest. Sohocki v. Air Quality Control Comm'n, 12 P.3d 274 (Colo. App. 1999).

25-7-105. Duties of commission - technical secretary - rules - report - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

(1) Except as provided in sections 25-7-130 and 25-7-131, the commission shall adopt rules that are consistent with the legislative declaration set forth in section 25-7-102 and necessary for the proper implementation and administration of this article 7, including:

(a) (I) A comprehensive state implementation plan which will assure attainment and maintenance of national ambient air quality standards and which will prevent significant deterioration of air quality, all in conformity with the provisions of this article. The comprehensive plan shall meet all requirements of the federal act and shall be revised whenever necessary or appropriate.

(II) The comprehensive state implementation plan of the commission shall, wherever feasible, include local or regional air pollution plans and programs adopted or enforceable by municipal or county governments. Before making any changes to those portions of the state implementation plan which include such air pollution plans and programs or to such plans and programs which are suggested for inclusion in the state implementation plan, the commission shall give thirty days' notice of the proposed changes to the affected municipal or county government to allow a reasonable opportunity to prepare comments on the proposed changes. The commission shall consider such comments in its action on the state implementation plan and shall document in the record of the hearing its reasons for any changes to such plans and programs. Any such plans and programs which are approved by the commission and formally submitted as a part of the state implementation plan shall be deemed a part of the comprehensive program of the commission and shall be enforced as such.

(III) The revisions to the Denver element of the PM-10 state implementation plan adopted by the commission on February 16, 1995, which contain a sixty tons-per-day PM-10 mobile source emissions budget which expires January 1, 1998, and reverts to a forty-four tons-per-day budget, are amended to provide that such forty-four tons-per-day reversion shall not be a part of the state implementation plan and shall only apply as a regulation adopted exclusively under reserved state authority pursuant to the provisions of section 25-7-105.1. The sixty tons-per-day emissions budget shall, unless modified by the commission through rule-making, apply for federal transportation conformity and is included in the state implementation plan only as required by the federal act. Any entity with authority to adopt a transportation plan required under section 43-1-1103, C.R.S., shall consider any mobile source emissions budgets in effect under this article in the development of transportation improvement programs for federal purposes.

(IV) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 25-7-133, the expiration of the state implementation plan for ozone maintenance and related rules of the air quality control commission, and the amendments to commission regulations numbers 3 and 7, which state implementation plan and rules, and amendments to regulations numbers 3 and 7, were adopted or amended by the commission on March 21, 1996, and which are therefore scheduled for expiration May 15, 1997, is postponed until December 31, 2005.

(b) Emission control regulations in conformity with section 25-7-109;

(c) A prevention of significant deterioration program in conformity with part 2 of this article and federal requirements; except that definitions used in the program shall not differ from any definitions pertaining to the prevention of significant deterioration program which appear in section 169 of the federal act or in federal regulations promulgated thereunder, and an attainment program in conformity with part 3 of this article;

(d) A satisfactory process of consultation with general purpose local governments and any federal land manager having authority over federal land to which the state implementation plan applies, effective with respect to measures adopted after August 7, 1978, pertaining to transportation controls, air quality maintenance plan requirements, preconstruction review of stationary sources of air pollution, or any measure referred to in the prevention of significant deterioration program established pursuant to part 2 of this article or the attainment program established pursuant to part 3 of this article, or granting delayed compliance orders pursuant to section 25-7-118;

(d.5) Additional permitting requirements for sources that affect disproportionately impacted communities in conformity with section 25-7-114.4 (5);

(e) (I) Statewide greenhouse gas pollution abatement. As the commission adopts rules pursuant to this subsection (1)(e), it shall pursue near-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions as part of the effort to reduce total cumulative emissions over time.

(II) Consistent with section 25-7-102 (2)(g), the commission shall timely promulgate implementing rules and regulations. The implementing rules may take into account other relevant laws and rules, as well as voluntary actions taken by local communities and the private sector, to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness and shall be revised as necessary over time to ensure timely progress toward the 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, 2045, and 2050 goals. The implementing rules must provide for ongoing tracking of emission sources that adversely affect disproportionately impacted communities and are subject to rules implemented pursuant to this subsection (1)(e) and must include strategies designed to achieve reductions in harmful air pollution affecting those communities.

(III) The commission will identify and engage with disproportionately impacted communities as specified in section 24-4-109.

(IV) The division, at the direction of the commission, shall solicit input from other state agencies, stakeholders, and the public on the advantages of different statewide greenhouse gas pollution mitigation measures, specifically soliciting input from those most impacted by climate change, including disproportionately impacted communities; large emission sources; workers in relevant industries, including advanced energy and fuel delivery; and communities that are currently economically dependent on industries with high levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

(V) The implementing rules and policies may include, in addition to renewable energy development strategies, regulatory strategies that have been deployed by another jurisdiction to reduce multi-sector greenhouse gas emissions, that facilitate adoption of technologies that have very low or zero emissions, and that enhance cost-effectiveness, compliance flexibility, and transparency around compliance costs, among other regulatory strategies. The commission may coordinate with other jurisdictions in securing emission reductions, including in satisfying future federal regulations. The commission may account for reductions in net greenhouse gas emissions that occur under coordinated jurisdictions' programs if the commission finds that the implementing regulations of each coordinated jurisdiction are of sufficient rigor to ensure the integrity of the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere and may account for carbon dioxide that electricity consumption in this state causes to be emitted elsewhere.

(VI) In carrying out its responsibilities under this subsection (1)(e), the commission shall consider: The benefits of compliance, including health, environmental, and air quality; the costs of compliance; economic and job impacts and opportunities; the time necessary for compliance; the relative contribution of each source or source category to statewide greenhouse gas pollution based on current data updated at reasonable intervals as determined by the commission; harmonizing emission reporting requirements with existing federal requirements, where the commission deems appropriate; the importance of striving to equitably distribute the benefits of compliance, opportunities to incentivize renewable energy resources and pollution abatement opportunities in disproportionately impacted communities, opportunities to encourage clean energy in transitioning communities; issues related to the beneficial use of electricity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; whether program design could enhance the reliability of electric service; the potential to enhance the resilience of Colorado's communities and natural resources to climate impacts; and whether greater or more cost-effective emission reductions are available through program design.

(VII) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the division, at the direction of the commission, shall report to the general assembly every odd-numbered year after May 30, 2019, regarding: Progress toward the goals set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); any newly available, final cost-benefit or regulatory analysis, developed under section 24-4-103 (2.5) or (4.5), for rules adopted to attain the goals; recommendations on future commission rules or policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions sufficient to achieve the goals set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and any recommendations on future legislative action to address climate change, including implementation of climate adaptation policies or accelerating deployment of cleaner technologies. The division shall make its proposed report available for public review prior to presentation to the general assembly. Beginning with the report in 2023, if the report indicates that emission reductions required by subsections (1)(e)(XII) and (1)(e)(XIII) of this section are not being met, the division shall develop and propose additional requirements to the commission, no later than six months from the submission of the report to the general assembly, which requirements must address any shortfall between the emission reductions achieved and the emission reductions necessary to meet the requirements of subsections (1)(e)(XII) and (1)(e)(XIII) of this section. In even-numbered years when a report is not made pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VII), the division shall provide an update to the commission on progress toward the emission reduction requirements in subsections (1)(e)(XII) and (1)(e)(XIII) of this section based on annual data reported to the division.

(VIII) (A) In carrying out its responsibilities under this subsection (1)(e), the commission shall consult with the public utilities commission, including on issues of cost of electricity, reliability of electric service, technology developments in electricity production, and beneficial electrification, and keep a record of its consultation.

(B) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that it is beneficial to encourage the development of clean energy plans that will require greenhouse gas emissions caused by Colorado retail electricity sales to decrease eighty percent by 2030 relative to 2005 levels to provide for the cost-effective and proactive deployment of clean energy resources.

(C) In designing, implementing, and enforcing programs and requirements under this subsection (1)(e), the commission and the division shall take into consideration any clean energy plan at the public utilities commission that, as filed, will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado retail electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels, as verified by the division. When including public utilities in its programs or requirements under this subsection (1)(e), the commission shall not mandate that a public utility reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado retail electricity sales by 2030 more than is required under such an approved clean energy plan or impose any direct, nonadministrative cost on the public utility directly associated with quantities of greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado retail electricity sales that remain after the reductions required by such a clean energy plan through 2030 if those reductions are achieved and the division has verified that the approved clean energy plan will achieve at least a seventy-five percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado retail electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. This subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(C) applies to any clean energy plan that is voluntarily submitted or is required to be submitted pursuant to law.

(D) Implementing rules developed by the commission must not include any requirements dictating the mix of electric generating resources that any public utility shall use to meet applicable pollution limits.

(E) Implementing rules developed by the commission must consider issues relating to joint ownership of electric generating resources as between multiple parties and the extent to which the public utility is relying on power purchased from third parties in meeting its obligations under such a clean energy plan.

(F) A clean energy plan voluntarily filed by a cooperative electric association that has voted to exempt itself from regulation by the public utilities commission pursuant to article 9.5 of title 40 or by a municipal utility shall be deemed approved as filed if: The division publicly verifies that the plan demonstrates that, by 2030, the cooperative electric association or municipal utility will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado retail electricity sales relative to 2005 levels; and the clean energy plan has previously been approved by a vote of the entity's governing body.

(G) The commission is encouraged to pursue programs and policies that are consistent with this subsection (1)(e)(VIII) and that incentivize voluntary additional near-term greenhouse gas reductions from electric utilities with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electric utilities by at least forty-eight percent by 2025 and eighty percent by 2030, including emissions associated with imported electricity, as compared to a 2005 baseline and accelerating near-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions to increase cumulative reductions from electric utilities. Nothing in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(G) limits the authority of the public utilities commission.

(H) In verifying clean energy plans or a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative electric resource plan submitted in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section, the division shall prevent double counting of emission reductions among utilities and shall consider electricity generated by renewable energy resources as having zero greenhouse gas emissions only if: The electricity is accompanied by any associated renewable energy credit, and the renewable energy credit is retired on behalf of the utility's customers in the year generated; or the electricity is generated by retail distributed generation, as defined in sections 40-2-124 (1)(a)(VIII), 40-2-127 (2)(b)(I)(A) and (2)(b)(I)(B), and 40-2-127.5 (2)(a)(I) and (2)(a)(II), and the retail customer retains the renewable energy credit as part of a voluntary renewable energy program.

(I) Each wholesale generation and transmission electric cooperative shall file with the public utilities commission and the division an electric resource plan that will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the cooperative's sales of electricity to customers within Colorado by 2030, relative to 2005 levels.

(J) An electric utility that is not a qualifying retail utility as defined in section 40-2-125.5 (2)(c)(I) that is required to submit a clean energy plan or a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative that is required to file an electric resource plan pursuant to this subsection (1)(e) shall provide written notice to the division of intent to file a clean energy plan by August 1, 2021. An investor-owned utility that has not already filed a clean energy plan and that indicates an intent to file a clean energy plan shall file a clean energy plan with the public utilities commission with its next resource plan filing. The division shall verify emission reductions as part of the public utilities commission proceeding that reviews the resource plan. A utility other than an investor-owned utility or a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative utility that provided written notice of intent to file a voluntary clean energy plan pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(J) shall provide all information the division deems necessary to evaluate and verify the emission reductions claimed as part of a clean energy plan no later than December 31, 2021. The division shall, in consultation with the public utilities commission, fully evaluate and verify the clean energy plan. The utility must submit the verified clean energy plan to the public utilities commission in accordance with section 40-2-125.5 (5)(g)(I) no later than July 1, 2022. The division may approve alternate data submission and filing deadlines, to be no later than December 31, 2023, upon reviewing information supplied by a utility in conjunction with the utility's written intention to file if the emission reduction calculations are dependent on decisions of another utility subject to resource planning requirements of the public utilities commission.

(VIII.1) This subsection (1)(e)(VIII.1) applies to any clean energy plan submitted to the division on or after July 1, 2023, and does not apply to a clean energy plan submitted by a qualifying retail utility pursuant to section 40-2-125.5 (4)(a) prior to July 1, 2023. Any entity required to submit a clean energy plan pursuant to this section shall base the calculations of the entity's 2005 baseline greenhouse gas emissions, estimated 2027 greenhouse gas emissions, and estimated 2030 greenhouse gas emissions on:

(A) The greenhouse gas emissions from each resource that is used to supply electricity to the entity's retail customers; and

(B) The greenhouse gas emissions from each resource that generates electricity and is owned in whole or in part by the entity if the greenhouse gas emissions from that resource are not otherwise required to be included in any other entity's clean energy plan or a plan submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section.

(VIII.2) As used in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.2), "independently determined" means that, in verifying a clean energy plan, the division makes independent judgment of the emissions impact of the clean energy plan based on the information presented to the division by the applicable entity, the public utilities commission, and any stakeholders. This subsection (1)(e)(VIII.2) applies to verification by the division of any clean energy plan submitted to the division on or after July 1, 2023. In verifying a clean energy plan, the division shall, in consultation with the public utilities commission, independently confirm the accuracy of any data supplied by an entity that has adopted a clean energy plan. The division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall not verify a clean energy plan pursuant to this section unless it has independently determined that the data used to verify the clean energy plan is accurate and consistent with the clean energy plan adopted by the entity's governing body. In making this independent determination, the division is not required to conduct its own modeling. Prior to verifying a clean energy plan, the division shall:

(A) Subject to section 25-7-111 (4), make publicly available a copy of the clean energy plan, any draft verification workbooks associated with the clean energy plan, and any other materials the division relies upon in making its proposed verification of the clean energy plan;

(B) Unless the clean energy plan is submitted by a utility that has its resource planning process regulated by the public utilities commission, including a clean energy plan submitted by a qualifying retail utility pursuant to section 40-2-125.5 (4)(a): Hold at least one stakeholder meeting regarding the proposed verification of the clean energy plan; accept written comments from the public on the proposed verification of the clean energy plan; and draft and make publicly available a written response to any written comments;

(C) In consultation with the public utilities commission, independently verify that the entity has provided an accurate calculation of the entity's 2005 baseline greenhouse gas emissions or independently calculate the entity's 2005 baseline greenhouse gas emissions; and

(D) In consultation with the public utilities commission, independently verify that the entity has provided a reasonably accurate estimate of the entity's 2027 and 2030 greenhouse gas emissions or independently calculate the entity's 2027 and 2030 greenhouse gas emissions.

(VIII.3) (A) No later than June 1, 2028, the division shall make the following calculation and determination for each entity, including a wholesale power marketer, as defined in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(A) of this section, that is required to submit a clean energy plan and does not have its electric resource planning process regulated by the public utilities commission: Calculate the percentage of reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by each entity's Colorado electricity sales that the entity has achieved by December 31, 2027, relative to 2005 levels; and determine whether the entity has, by December 31, 2027, contracted for, acquired, or commenced construction of the resources identified in the entity's clean energy plan necessary to achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. The division shall promptly inform each entity that has submitted a clean energy plan of its final calculations and determination and make the final calculations and determinations for each entity publicly available.

(B) Prior to making the calculations and determinations required by subsections (1)(e)(VIII.3)(A) and (1)(e)(VIII.3)(D) of this section, the division shall: Subject to section 25-7-111 (4), make the calculations and determinations and any data that the division relied on to make the determinations and calculations publicly available; hold at least one stakeholder meeting regarding the calculations and determinations; accept written comments from the public regarding the calculations and determinations; and draft and make publicly available a written response to any written comments.

(C) If the division determines that the entity has not contracted for, acquired, or commenced construction of the resources described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.3)(A) of this section by December 31, 2027, no later than December 31, 2028, the entity shall submit a report to the division identifying a specific mix of supply-side and demand-side resources that the entity has procured or is in the process of procuring to enable the entity to achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels.

(D) No later than April 30, 2029, if a report was submitted in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII.3)(C) of this section, the division shall review the report and make a determination whether the entity has contracted for, acquired, or commenced construction of a sufficient mix of supply-side and demand-side resources to enable the entity to achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. The division shall promptly inform each entity that has submitted a clean energy plan of its determination and make the final determination for each entity publicly available.

(E) If the entity does not submit the report required pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.3)(C) of this section on or before December 31, 2028, or if the division determines from the report that the entity has not contracted for, acquired, or commenced construction of a sufficient mix of supply-side and demand-side resources to enable the entity to achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels: The commission shall adopt rules that limit the greenhouse gas emissions by the generating resources that supply electricity to the entity to ensure that the entity achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels; and the division shall amend any operating permits for sources of greenhouse gas emissions as necessary to ensure that the entity achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels.

(F) The commission and division shall take all actions required pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.3) no later than December 31, 2029.

(VIII.4) (A) This subsection (1)(e)(VIII.4) applies to all entities that are not otherwise required to submit a clean energy plan pursuant to this section or to submit a plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section.

(B) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(A) of this section, if a utility's Colorado electricity sales between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, are equal to or greater than three hundred thousand megawatt-hours, the utility shall submit a clean energy plan to the division for verification in consultation with the public utilities commission.

(C) The owner of an electric generating unit that has a nameplate capacity equal to or larger than fifty megawatts and emits greenhouse gases directly into the atmosphere shall submit a clean energy plan to the division that covers all greenhouse gas emissions from the electric generating unit that are not otherwise required to be included in the clean energy plan of any entity or a plan submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section that receives electricity from the electric generating unit.

(D) Any entity that is required to submit a clean energy plan pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.4) shall submit a clean energy plan: To the division no later than December 31, 2024; and to the public utilities commission no later than December 31, 2025. The division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall verify that a clean energy plan submitted to the division pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.4)(D) meets the requirements of this section and any other applicable requirements no later than September 1, 2025. Any clean energy plan submitted to the division pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.4)(D) is deemed approved by the public utilities commission as submitted if the division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, has verified that the clean energy plan complies with the applicable requirements of this section.

(VIII.5) (A) This subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(A) and subsections (1)(e)(VIII.5)(B) and (1)(e)(VIII.5)(C) of this section apply only to an electric utility that serves at least fifty thousand Colorado retail customers and obtains less than eighty percent of the load necessary to serve Colorado retail customers from an electric utility that has filed a clean energy plan and owns or plans to invest in, in whole or in part, an electric generating unit with a nameplate capacity larger than fifty megawatts that directly emits greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, including generating units that burn oil, gas, or coal. The requirements of subsections (1)(e)(VIII.5)(B) and (1)(e)(VIII.5)(C) of this section become applicable if an electric utility satisfies the criteria specified in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(A) upon leaving a provider who has filed a clean energy plan. The electric utility shall provide notice of intent to file a clean energy plan to the division within six months after becoming subject to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5). The electric utility shall file a clean energy plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII) of this section within one year after becoming subject to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5).

(B) If an electric utility does not provide written notice of intent to file a clean energy plan with the division or does not submit a clean energy plan after expressing written intent to file a plan, the commission shall, within fifteen months after the electric utility's failure to provide written notice or submit a plan, adopt a rule to reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by the electric utility's Colorado retail electricity sales of at least forty-eight percent by 2025 and eighty percent by 2030, including emissions associated with imported electricity, as compared to a 2005 baseline. The commission shall design the rules to accelerate near-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in order to reduce total cumulative emissions between the date of adoption and 2030.

(C) Clean energy plan filings must include projected emissions for each calendar year through 2030 to inform the statewide greenhouse gas planning process. The division shall evaluate the reported emissions and supplemental information in an electric utility's annual greenhouse gas reporting data submission made pursuant to the commission's rules to determine whether an electric utility is progressing consistent with the annual emissions projected by the plan and remains on track to achieve the reductions of the clean energy plan by 2030. If the division determines that the electric utility is not progressing as planned, the electric utility's annual greenhouse gas emissions exceed annual emissions projected as part of an approved clean energy plan for two consecutive years, or the electric utility's annual greenhouse gas emission reductions are not on track to achieve at least an eighty percent reduction below 2005 levels in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, the division shall include this information in the next greenhouse gas progress briefing to the commission and the commission shall, within nine months after receiving the briefing from the division, adopt rules that require an updated clean energy plan to be filed that demonstrates achievement of the 2030 targets and the cumulative emission reductions that were projected in the initial clean energy plan. The updated clean energy plan, once verified by the division, becomes the operative plan for purposes of subsection (1)(e)(VIII) of this section regarding the commission's regulatory requirements.

(D) Notwithstanding subsections (1)(e)(VIII.5)(A) to (1)(e)(VIII.5)(C) of this section, a qualifying retail utility with a clean energy plan that has been approved and verified in accordance with section 40-2-125.5 and subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(C) of this section and a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative with an electric resource plan that has been filed in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section and that has been approved are not subject to subsections (1)(e)(VIII.5)(A) to (1)(e)(VIII.5)(C) of this section. Progress of emission reductions for an electric utility that is an investor-owned retail utility with a clean energy plan that has been approved and verified in accordance with section 40-2-125.5 and subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(C) of this section or a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative with an electric resource plan that has been filed in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section and that has been approved shall be assessed through the recurring resource planning process at the public utilities commission.

(E) Any entity required to submit a clean energy plan to the division may designate another entity to submit a clean energy plan on its behalf if the designated entity agrees to submit a clean energy plan on its behalf. In this case, the designated entity shall submit a clean energy plan that meets all of the requirements that apply to the entity and its clean energy plan, including all of the substantive and procedural requirements and the applicable deadlines for submitting the clean energy plan to the division and the public utilities commission. Two or more entities required under this section to submit a clean energy plan may submit a joint clean energy plan if the joint clean energy plan meets all of the requirements that apply to each of the entities and their respective clean energy plans, including all of the substantive and procedural requirements and the applicable deadlines for submitting the clean energy plans to the division and the public utilities commission. If an entity intends to designate another entity to submit a clean energy plan on its behalf, or if two or more entities intend to submit a joint clean energy plan, the entity or entities shall notify the division of their intent prior to the applicable deadline to submit the clean energy plan to the division.

(F) No later than October 1, 2024, the division shall submit a report to the general assembly that: Identifies all electric utilities that serve retail electricity customers in the state; identifies which electric utilities have submitted a clean energy plan or a plan submitted in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section with the division, including the verification status of each clean energy plan or plan submitted in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section, have not submitted a clean energy plan to the division but are required by this section to submit a clean energy plan to the division, or are not required by this section to submit a clean energy plan; calculates the percentage of retail electricity sales in the state from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022, that are covered by a clean energy plan or plan submitted in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section that has been submitted to the division or is required to be submitted to the division but has not been submitted to the division; identifies all greenhouse gas emissions from a power plant unit with a nameplate capacity equal to or larger than fifty megawatts that are not included in a clean energy plan that has been verified and approved by the division, that are not included in a clean energy plan that is required to be submitted to the division but has not been submitted, or that are not covered by any clean energy plan; and presents a map of all electricity generation resources responsible for greenhouse gas emissions in the state that is overlaid on top of the territories of each utility and disproportionately impacted communities.

(G) No later than December 31, 2024, the division shall issue guidance specifying the manner in which the division will track and account for greenhouse gas emissions associated with electric utility transactions in organized markets, including energy imbalance markets, extended day-ahead markets, independent system operators, and regional transmission organizations, for the purposes of monitoring progress and compliance with clean energy plans that have been verified by the division. The guidance must address, at a minimum, appropriate platforms or platform capabilities to host greenhouse gas emissions data in a transparent and efficient manner for ease of access to the data for utilities, energy customers, and the public. In adopting the guidance, the division shall consult with the public utilities commission.

(H) No later than March 31, 2026, any entity required to submit a clean energy plan or a plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section to the division may inform the division in writing of any challenges the entity is encountering or expects to encounter in achieving at least an eighty percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. If an entity informs the division of any challenges in achieving the greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage, the division, in coordination with the Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101 (1), shall hold at least one public stakeholder meeting in 2026 to discuss the challenges raised by the entity and strategies for the entity to achieve the greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage. If, after the public stakeholder meeting, an entity informs the division in writing that the entity is still encountering or expects to encounter challenges in achieving the greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage, no later than December 31, 2026, the division shall submit a concise report to the general assembly summarizing the challenges the entity is encountering or expects to encounter and describing any potential solutions to the challenges. This subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(H) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

(I) Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subsection (1)(e), a municipally owned utility that has encountered challenges in achieving the greenhouse gas emission reduction percentages in a previously filed clean energy plan may submit to the division, no later than December 31, 2026, an updated clean energy plan that has been approved by a vote of the municipally owned utility's governing body and that demonstrates that the municipally owned utility will achieve an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the municipally owned utility's Colorado retail electricity sales, relative to 2005 levels, by the earliest date possible on or after December 31, 2029, but no later than December 31, 2032.

(VIII.6) (A) As used in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6), "cooperative retail electric utility" means any retail electric utility that, as of January 1, 2021, was a member of a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative that has either indicated an intent to submit or, on or after December 1, 2020, has submitted a clean energy plan or plan in accordance with subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section and that either: Provided or provides a nonconditional notice that it is withdrawing from the wholesale generation and transmission cooperative after January 1, 2021; or, after January 1, 2021, obtains more than five percent of its firm capacity supply from a greenhouse-gas-emitting generation source other than the cooperative retail electric utility's wholesale generation and transmission cooperative provider.

(B) A cooperative retail electric utility shall submit a clean energy plan to the division no later than twenty-four months after ceasing to be a member of a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative or no later than twenty-four months after the date that an applicable partial requirements contract, as described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6)(A) of this section, begins. If a cooperative retail electric utility enters into an applicable partial requirements contract before terminating its membership in a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative, the cooperative retail electric utility shall submit its clean energy plan within twenty-four months after ceasing to be a member of the wholesale generation and transmission cooperative.

(C) In the case of a cooperative retail electric utility that has provided or provides a nonconditional notice that it is withdrawing from a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative, no later than twelve months after the cooperative retail electric utility is required to submit a clean energy plan to the division pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6), the division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall verify that the clean energy plan demonstrates that the cooperative retail electric utility will meet the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section and that the cooperative retail electric utility will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels.

(D) In the case of a cooperative retail electric utility that has entered a partial requirements contract, as described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6)(A) of this section, no later than twelve months after the cooperative retail electric utility is required to submit a clean energy plan to the division pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6), the division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall verify that the clean energy plan demonstrates that the cooperative retail electric utility will meet the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section and that the cooperative retail electric utility will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. The cooperative retail electric utility shall calculate its 2005 baseline emissions for a clean energy plan required pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6) by the percentage of the utility's sales that it self-supplies under its partial requirements contract.

(E) A cooperative retail electric utility shall submit a clean energy plan to the public utilities commission no later than twelve months after the deadline to submit the clean energy plan to the division. Any clean energy plan submitted to the division pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6) is deemed approved by the public utilities commission as submitted if the division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, has verified that the clean energy plan complies with the applicable requirements of this section.

(F) Submission of a clean energy plan by a cooperative retail electric utility pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6) does not alter the cooperative retail electric utility's regulatory status with respect to the public utilities commission.

(G) Upon the request of a cooperative retail electric utility, a wholesale power marketer, as defined in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(A) of this section, public utility, or owner of an electric generating resource that supplies electricity to the cooperative retail electric utility shall provide any emissions data in its possession relating to the cooperative retail electric utility that is necessary for the cooperative retail electric utility to develop and submit a clean energy plan to the division. In complying with this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.6)(G), a person may withhold any proprietary or confidential information or trade secrets.

(VIII.7) (A) As used in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7), "wholesale power marketer" means an entity operating in the state that supplies wholesale capacity or energy to a retail electric utility located in the state and that supplies three hundred thousand megawatt-hours or more of electricity to entities in the state annually. "Wholesale power marketer" does not include a wholesale generation and transmission cooperative, a retail electric utility, a federal power marketing administration, an independent power producer, any entity for which all of its greenhouse gas emissions are included in another entity's clean energy plan or plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section, any entity that supplies capacity or energy to electric utilities located in the state solely through an organized market that electric utilities in the state can participate in, and any entity that is required by another provision of this section to file a clean energy plan or has voluntarily filed a clean energy plan.

(B) A wholesale power marketer shall submit a clean energy plan to the division if, on or after July 1, 2023: The wholesale power marketer sells, provides, arranges for, or contracts for the delivery of capacity or energy to a retail electric utility located in the state or has contracted to sell, provide, arrange, or contract for the delivery of capacity or energy to a retail electric utility located in the state; and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the operations described in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(B) are not otherwise required to be included in another entity's clean energy plan or a plan submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section.

(C) The division shall, in consultation with the public utilities commission, verify that the wholesale power marketer's clean energy plan: Meets the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section and achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the wholesale power marketer's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels; and addresses all greenhouse gas emissions associated with the operations described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(B) of this section.

(D) A wholesale power marketer shall submit a clean energy plan: With the division no later than one year after becoming subject to the requirements of this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7); and with the public utilities commission no later than one year after the date that the wholesale power marketer must submit the clean energy plan with the division. The division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall verify the clean energy plan within nine months after the date that the wholesale power marketer must submit the clean energy plan with the division.

(E) If a wholesale power marketer does not submit a clean energy plan to the division by the deadline to submit a clean energy plan to the division pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(D) of this section, no later than two years after the deadline to submit a clean energy plan to the division pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(D) of this section, the commission shall adopt rules that reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by the wholesale power marketer to ensure that the wholesale power marketer meets the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section and achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the wholesale power marketer's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels.

(F) Submission of a clean energy plan by a wholesale power marketer pursuant to this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7) does not alter the wholesale power marketer's regulatory status with respect to the public utilities commission.

(G) A wholesale power marketer that supplies electricity to any entity shall, upon the request of the entity, provide any emissions data in its possession relating to the entity that is necessary for the entity to develop and submit a clean energy plan to the division. In complying with this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.7)(G), a person may withhold any proprietary or confidential information or trade secrets. If the wholesale power marketer does not possess the emissions data, the entity shall disclose in its clean energy plan that the entity does not possess the emissions data and shall not be penalized for the unavailability of the emissions data. If the emissions data is unavailable, the entity filing the clean energy plan shall make a reasonable estimate of emissions.

(VIII.8) (A) As used in this subsection (1)(e)(VIII.8), "new electric utility" means any new electric utility, of any type, that is incorporated, created, or otherwise formed on or after July 1, 2023, that serves retail customers in the state and sells three hundred thousand megawatt-hours or more of electricity in its first year of operation.

(B) A new electric utility shall submit a clean energy plan: With the division no later than two years after the date that the new electric utility is incorporated, created, or otherwise formed; and with the public utilities commission no later than one year after the date that the new electric utility must submit the clean energy plan with the division. The division, in consultation with the public utilities commission, shall, no later than nine months after the date that the new electric utility must submit the clean energy plan with the division, verify that the clean energy plan demonstrates that the new electric utility will meet the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section and that the new electric utility will achieve at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to the new electric utility's annual greenhouse gas emissions during its first year of operations.

(C) If the new electric utility does not submit a clean energy plan to the division no later than two years after being incorporated, created, or otherwise formed, the commission, within three years after the new electric utility is incorporated, created, or otherwise formed, shall adopt rules to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by the new electric utility to ensure that the new electric utility: Meets the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9) of this section; and achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the new electric utility's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to the new electric utility's annual greenhouse gas emissions during its first year of operations.

(VIII.9) (A) In addition to meeting the clean energy targets described in section 40-2-125.5 (3), any clean energy plan or any plan submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section that is submitted to the division on or after January 1, 2024, must achieve at least a forty-six percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2027 relative to 2005 levels, if the achievement of the forty-six percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions will maintain reliability and result in an incremental average annual cost to the entity of no more than two and one-half percent of the entity's total system costs.

(B) Subsections (1)(e)(VIII.9)(C) and (1)(e)(VIII.9)(D) of this section apply to any entity that, before January 1, 2024, submits a clean energy plan or a plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section to the division and the verification workbook for the plan projects that the plan will not achieve the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9)(A) of this section.

(C) Any entity described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9)(B) of this section is encouraged to achieve the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9)(A) of this section. As a part of any electric resource plan developed, finalized, or submitted on or after July 1, 2023, any entity described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9)(B) of this section shall model: At least one portfolio that achieves the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions described in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.9)(A) of this section and achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels; and at least one portfolio that achieves greater greenhouse gas emissions reductions than the reductions that the clean energy plan submitted before January 1, 2024, is projected to achieve by 2027 and achieves at least an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the entity's Colorado electricity sales by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. The entity's governing body shall consider these two portfolios as part of the electric resource planning process.

(D) To assist entities that have submitted a clean energy plan or a plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section to cost-effectively maximize reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as part of the electric resource planning process and to otherwise accelerate greenhouse gas emissions reductions, at the request of an entity that has submitted a clean energy plan or a plan submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(I) of this section that has been verified by the division in consultation with the public utilities commission, the Colorado energy office, created in section 24-38.5-101 (1), shall provide the entity with information regarding federal funding opportunities for accelerating reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

(IX) (A) In addressing greenhouse gas emissions from an energy-intensive, trade-exposed manufacturing source, the commission shall require the source to execute an energy and emission control audit, according to criteria established by the commission, of the source's operations every five years through at least 2035. A qualified third party, as determined by the commission, shall conduct the audit and submit the results to the commission. If the commission determines that the source currently employs best available emission control technologies for greenhouse gas emissions and best available energy efficiency practices, the commission shall not impose a direct nonadministrative cost on the source directly associated with at least ninety-five percent of the source's greenhouse gas emissions attributable to manufacturing a good in this state for a period of five years, if the source's emissions are not greater than the emissions associated with use of the best available emission control technologies as determined by the commission. The commission shall consider how program design as relevant to those sources can further mitigate the cost of reducing emissions for such manufacturers while providing an incentive to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Specifically, the commission shall design the program as relevant to those sources such that as the sources are subject to emission reduction requirements, those sources will have, under the program, a pathway to obtain equivalent lower-cost emission reductions at other regulated sources to satisfy their compliance obligations.

(B) As used in this subsection (1)(e)(IX), "energy-intensive, trade-exposed manufacturing source" means an entity that principally manufactures iron, steel, aluminum, pulp, paper, or cement and that is engaged in the manufacture of goods through one or more emissions-intensive, trade-exposed processes, as determined by the commission.

(X) Nothing in this subsection (1)(e) diminishes the existing authority of the commission or the division. Nothing in this subsection (1)(e) alters the regulatory exemptions provided in section 25-7-109 (8)(a). Nothing authorized in this subsection (1)(e), including the assignment of emission reduction obligations or emission authorizations and excluding program development and administrative costs, implicates state fiscal year spending as defined in section 24-77-102. Nothing in this subsection (1)(e) alters any requirement to prepare a cost-benefit analysis under section 24-4-103 (2.5) or any requirement to issue a regulatory analysis under section 24-4-103 (4.5). Nothing in this subsection (1)(e) diminishes the authority of the public utilities commission under the public utilities law, including sections 40-3-101 and 40-3-102.

(X.4) No later than September 1, 2022, the commission shall propose rules establishing recovered methane protocols, as that term is defined in section 40-3.2-108 (2)(p), for at least inactive coal mines, biomethane, as that term is defined in section 40-3.2-108 (2)(a), and gas system leaks, and a crediting and tracking system for recovered methane, as that term is defined in section 40-3.2-108 (2)(n). The commission shall adopt the rules no later than February 1, 2023. The rule-making proceeding is subject to the procedural requirements of this subsection (1)(e).

(X.7) In designing greenhouse gas emission reduction rules that apply to gas distribution utilities with clean heat plans approved by the public utilities commission, the commission shall harmonize its regulatory requirements with the activities contemplated under an approved clean heat plan. In adopting any additional emission reduction requirements on gas distribution utilities subject to a clean heat plan different from the requirements of an approved clean heat plan, the commission shall:

(A) Consult with the public utilities commission regarding the emission reductions under any approved clean heat plan, the clean heat targets, and the cost-effectiveness of any additional emission reduction requirements and their impact on customer costs; and

(B) Design rules to maximize cost-effectiveness of additional emission reduction requirements to protect low-income customers.

(X.8) (A) The definitions in section 40-3.2-108 (2) apply to this subsection (1)(e)(X.8) and subsection (1)(e)(X.7) of this section.

(B) A municipal gas distribution utility shall implement a clean heat plan program. The purpose of a clean heat plan is to reduce carbon dioxide and methane emissions to meet the state's greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals in section 25-7-102 (2)(g). The clean heat plan must include a projection of the utility's greenhouse gas emissions through 2050.

(C) A municipal gas distribution utility shall submit its clean heat plan to the division no later than August 1, 2023, for the division to verify that the plan demonstrates that, by 2025, the utility will achieve at least a four percent total reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's retail gas sales below 2015 levels, of which not more than one percent can come from recovered methane. The utility may propose a cost cap of two percent of total annual revenue from full-service gas customers in achieving the 2025 target. The plan submitted to the division must also show that, by 2030, the utility will achieve at least a twenty-two percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions caused by the utility's retail gas sales below 2015 levels by 2030, of which not more than five percent can be from recovered methane. The utility may propose a cost cap of two and one-half percent of total annual revenue from full-service gas customers in achieving the 2030 target. If the division's calculations show that a clean heat plan submitted by a municipal gas distribution utility does not achieve the relevant clean heat targets, the utility shall revise its plan to strive to maximize emission reductions without exceeding the cost cap.

(D) The utility shall provide to the division an annual report of carbon dioxide emissions associated with customer end-uses and, separately, methane emissions associated with the utility's distribution system.

(XI) As used in this subsection (1)(e):

(A) "Cost-effective" or "cost-effectiveness" means the cost per unit of reduced emissions of greenhouse gases expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent.

(B) "Greenhouse gas" includes carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, nitrogen trifluoride, and sulfur hexafluoride, expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent.

(B.5) "Industrial and manufacturing sector" means energy combustion and energy use by industry, including: Combustion from coal, diesel, gasoline, heat, liquified petroleum gas, natural gas, refinery feedstocks, and residual fuel oil; and industrial processes, including cement manufacture, electric transmission and distribution equipment, iron and steel production, lime manufacture, limestone and dolomite use, ozone depleting substances substitutes, semiconductor manufacture, soda ash, and urea consumption. The term does not include oil and gas exploration, production, processing, transmission, and storage operations other than energy combustion emissions that are included in the industrial and manufacturing sector.

(C) "Retail electricity sales" means electric energy sold to retail end-use electric consumers.

(XI.1) A municipally owned utility that submits an updated clean energy plan pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(I) of this section must:

(A) Ensure that the updated clean energy plan submitted to the division contains a detailed generation and transmission plan that is not generically classified as "to be determined", but that includes the amount and types of resources anticipated to be needed to achieve an eighty percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, the anticipated delivery areas where new generation would be procured, and the anticipated location and capacity of any new transmission that would need to be built or acquired through the regional transmission organization of which the municipally owned utility is a member;

(B) Beginning January 1, 2028, and continuing each year until December 31, 2033, annually report to the division and make publicly available on the municipally owned utility's website: The municipally owned utility's progress in planning for and acquiring the necessary generation and transmission resources identified in its updated clean energy plan, the municipally owned utility's greenhouse gas emission reductions relative to 2005 levels, and an updated loads and resources table that includes any changes to forecasted demand from the forecast used in the updated clean energy plan; and

(C) No later than December 31, 2032, and notwithstanding any other rules of the commission setting a timeline for cessation of burning coal, cease burning coal at any coal-fired generating unit owned, operated, or both by the municipally owned utility.

(XI.2) (A) An updated clean energy plan submitted by a municipally owned utility pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(I) of this section shall be publicly verified by the division consistent with the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(VIII)(F) of this section.

(B) The dates associated with the requirements set forth in subsections (1)(e)(VIII)(C), (1)(e)(VIII)(F), and (1)(e)(VIII.3) of this section must be construed to align with the revised dates in subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(I) of this section for any updated clean energy plan submitted by a municipally owned utility pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(VIII.5)(I) of this section.

(XII) No later than January 1, 2022, the commission shall adopt, and the division shall begin implementing, comprehensive rules that will reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas exploration, production, processing, transmission, and storage operations in the state below the 2005 baseline established for the oil and gas emissions covered by the "oil and gas fugitive emissions" category in the initial inventory developed by the division pursuant to section 25-7-140 (2)(a)(II), taking into account subsections (1)(e)(II) to (1)(e)(VI) of this section, by at least thirty-six percent by 2025 and sixty percent by 2030. The commission shall design the rules to prioritize near-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The rules must include:

(A) Protections for disproportionately impacted communities, achieving reduction of greenhouse gases and co-pollutants; and

(B) More robust monitoring, leak detection, and repair requirements, reporting, and record-keeping requirements to ensure that the division can accurately quantify greenhouse gas emissions during all operating conditions, including equipment malfunctions; and

(C) Additional direct emission reduction controls.

(XIII) In implementing this subsection (1)(e), the commission shall adopt rules to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions from the industrial and manufacturing sector in the state by at least twenty percent by 2030 below the 2015 baseline established pursuant to section 25-7-140 (2)(a)(II), taking into account the factors set out in subsections (1)(e)(II) to (1)(e)(VI) of this section. The rules must include protections for disproportionately impacted communities and prioritize emission reductions that will reduce emissions of co-pollutants that adversely affect disproportionately impacted communities, be designed to accelerate near-term reductions, and secure meaningful emission reductions from this sector to be realized beginning no later than September 30, 2024. The rules must:

(A) Be consistent with the requirements of subsection (1)(e)(IX) of this section; and

(B) Require a five percent reduction in the greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy-intensive, trade-exposed manufacturing sources that currently employ best available emission control technologies for greenhouse gas emissions and best available energy efficiency practices, as determined by the commission, pursuant to subsection (1)(e)(IX)(A) of this section.

(f) (I) Definitions. The definitions in subsection (1)(e)(XI) of this section apply to this subsection (1)(f). As used in this subsection (1)(f), unless the context requires otherwise:

(A) "GHG credit" means a tradeable compliance instrument in a physical or electronic format, the use of which is authorized pursuant to a regulatory program adopted by the commission that represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gas by a regulated source.

(B) "Regulated source" means a source of greenhouse gas that is subject to a rule adopted by the commission under subsection (1)(e) of this section that imposes specific and quantifiable greenhouse gas reduction obligations upon that source or group of sources.

(C) "Trading program" means a commission-adopted regulatory program that allows for regulated sources to meet their greenhouse gas compliance obligations under subsection (1)(e) of this section through the creation, purchase, acquisition, or exchange of, or other commercial-type transaction involving, a GHG credit with other regulated sources.

(II) Greenhouse gas accounting system. Except as specified in subsection (1)(f)(III) of this section, before the commission adopts a rule or program that provides for the use of a trading program, the commission shall adopt a rule that directs the division to create a comprehensive and centralized accounting system to track emissions from, at a minimum, all regulated sources in the state covered by or that may otherwise participate in that trading program, which system must:

(A) Enable the division and the public to track emission reductions, trades, and other transactions by sources utilizing GHG credits or otherwise participating in a trading program, and to track any transactions that take place consistent with the requirements set forth in this subsection (1)(f), including all rules promulgated pursuant to this subsection (1)(f);

(B) Enable the division to prevent double counting of greenhouse gas emission reductions; and

(C) Identify regulated sources that adversely affect disproportionately impacted communities through their emissions of locally harmful air pollutants.

(III) The commission may adopt a trading program among regulated sources as necessary to timely implement subsection (1)(e)(IX) of this section if that program:

(A) Is ultimately integrated into the comprehensive and centralized accounting system developed pursuant to subsection (1)(f)(II) of this section;

(B) Enables the division to track the emissions of, and emission reductions, trades, and other transactions by, all regulated sources participating in the trading program;

(C) Enables the division to prevent double counting of greenhouse gas emission reductions; and

(D) Identifies regulated sources that adversely affect disproportionately impacted communities through their emissions of locally harmful air pollutants.

(g) With regard to the changes made in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266:

(I) Nothing:

(A) Alters the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), in either amount or timing; or

(B) Detracts from the air quality control commission's existing authority to require more than the minimum greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and deadlines previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and

(II) The changes add to, but do not otherwise alter, the air quality control commission's authority and obligation to publish and promulgate rules pursuant to this section and sections 25-7-102 (2)(g) and 25-7-140.

(2) The commission shall provide forms of application and shall receive all such applications for review of the classification of any attainment, nonattainment, or unclassifiable area within the state made pursuant to section 25-7-106 (1) or 25-7-107 (2), all applications for designation or redesignation made pursuant to section 25-7-208, and all applications for any revision of general application of the state implementation plan and shall set such applications for hearing and determination by the commission in accordance with the provisions of section 25-7-119.

(3) The commission shall employ a technical secretary and shall delegate to the secretary the duties and responsibilities as it may deem necessary; except that, notwithstanding section 24-1-105, no authority shall be delegated to the secretary to adopt, promulgate, amend, or repeal standards or rules, or to make determinations, or to issue or countermand orders of the commission. The secretary must have appropriate practical, educational, and administrative experience related to air pollution control and must be employed pursuant to the state personnel system laws. The technical secretary is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105.

(4) (a) The commission and the state board of health shall hold a joint public hearing during the month of October of each year in order to hear public comment on air pollution problems within the state, alleged sources of air pollution within the state, and the availability of practical remedies therefor; and at such hearing the technical secretary shall answer reasonable questions from the public concerning administration and enforcement of the various provisions of this article, as well as rules and regulations promulgated under the authority of this article.

(b) On or before September 30, 1993, the commission shall publish and revise from time to time thereafter, as is necessary, a regulatory agenda which includes its schedule for future rule-making and its schedule for implementing section 25-7-109.3 and other air quality programs.

(5) Prior to the hearing required under subsection (4) of this section, the commission shall prepare and make available to the public a report, which shall contain the following specific information:

(a) A description of the pollution problem in each of the polluted areas of the state, described separately for each such area;

(b) To the extent possible, the identification of the sources of air pollution in each separate area of the state, such as motor vehicles, industrial sources, and power-generating facilities;

(c) A list of all alleged violations of emission control regulations showing the status of control procedures in effect with respect to each such alleged violation; and

(d) Stationary industrial sources permitting information as follows:

(I) The total number of permits issued;

(II) The total number of hours billed for permitting;

(III) The average number of hours billed per permit; and

(IV) The number of general permits issued.

(6) and (7) Repealed.

(8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1170, § 7, effective July 1, 1992.)

(9) The commission shall adopt exhaust emissions standards for motor vehicles purchased for state use and shall assist the executive director of the department of personnel in determining those vehicles which meet or exceed such standards.

(10) The commission shall promulgate such rules and regulations as are necessary to implement the provisions of part 5 of this article concerning asbestos control.

(11) The commission shall promulgate rules concerning CFC and ozone-depleting compounds as follows:

(a) Regulations requiring the recycling or reuse of any refrigerant containing CFC which is removed from the refrigeration system of a retail store, cold storage warehouse, or commercial or industrial building by any person who installs, services, repairs, or disposes of such system as a result of service to or disposal of such system;

(b) Regulations prohibiting the intentional venting or disposal of any refrigerant containing CFC by the owner or operator of a retail store, cold storage warehouse, or commercial or industrial building and requiring the recycling or reuse of such refrigerant;

(c) Regulations requiring the use of approved motor vehicle refrigerant recycling equipment during the repair or servicing of a motor vehicle air conditioner, requiring that such repair or servicing be done by a person certified in accordance with federal regulations, and including requirements for reclamation of refrigerants during the disposal of a vehicle;

(d) Repealed.

(e) Regulations which establish requirements for recycling;

(f) Regulations which conform with the requirements of section 608 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990" to establish standards and requirements regarding the use and disposal of class I and class II ozone depleting compounds during the service, repair, or disposal of appliances and industrial process refrigeration. If federal training and certification requirements are adopted under section 609 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990" as of January 1, 1993, no state training and certification requirements shall be adopted. If the federal regulations are not adopted, then such state regulations shall contain training and certification requirements substantially similar to those required under section 609 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990". Such regulations shall also include provisions for the imposition and collection of a certification fee sufficient to implement the training, certification, and enforcement requirements of this paragraph (f).

(g) Repealed.

(h) Rules that are necessary for the imposition and collection of a fee for registering as stationary sources refrigeration systems and other appliances that contain a minimum of one hundred pounds or use a drive system of one hundred horsepower or more and use ozone-depleting compounds. The fee set by the commission shall reflect the direct and indirect costs of registering refrigeration systems and appliances; however, such fee shall not exceed seventy-five dollars per unit and shall not exceed a maximum of three hundred dollars per facility.

(12) The commission shall promulgate such rules and regulations as are necessary to implement the provisions of the emission notice and construction permit programs and the minimum elements of a permit program provided in Title V of the federal act.

(13) (a) The commission shall promulgate rules and regulations requiring motor vehicles which have manufacturer-installed diagnostic systems for emission controls to have such diagnostic systems inspected and maintained consistent with section 202 of the federal act as part of the periodic inspection of vehicle emission control systems required pursuant to this article.

(b) This subsection (13) shall take effect July 1, 1994.

(14) The commission shall repeal the clean vehicle fleet program mandated by section 246 of the federal act and shall replace such program if required by federal law.

(15) The commission shall promulgate rules and regulations as are necessary to provide an emission reduction incentive permit fee credit program which provides for a permit fee reduction in the year following the year in which a permittee achieves an early reduction in emissions of hazardous air pollutants, consistent with the provisions of section 112 of the federal act and section 25-7-114.3.

(16) The commission shall give priority to and take expeditious action upon consideration of the following:

(a) A request by a unit of local government to investigate and resolve air quality problems associated with a source;

(b) A request by a unit of local government for inclusion of a locally developed air pollution control measure in a state implementation plan;

(c) A request by a unit of local government that the commission consider local concerns respecting environmental and economic effects in the context of a proceeding where the state is targeting a source for imposition of additional air pollution controls.

(17) (a) Not later than December 31, 2002, and no less frequently than every five years thereafter, the commission shall conduct rule-making hearings to approve an update to the emission inventories from state and federal public land management agency activities on public lands resulting in emissions of any criteria pollutant, including surrogates or precursors for that pollutant, that affect any mandatory class I federal areas in Colorado by reducing visibility in such areas. At a minimum, such inventories shall report on emissions from the sources set forth in paragraph (d) of this subsection (17).

(b) The commission shall ensure that the division prepares inventories for all state land management agencies with jurisdiction over state lands, including, without limitation, the state land board, the department of agriculture, and the department of natural resources, to provide an inventory of emissions from land management activities that are sources of pollutant emissions that may affect any mandatory class I federal area in Colorado by reducing visibility in such areas; except that the commission shall exempt from the inventory requirement any sources or categories of sources that it determines to be of minor significance.

(c) The commission shall use the emission inventories provided under this subsection (17) to develop control strategies for reducing emissions within the state as a component of the visibility long-term strategies for inclusion in the state implementation plan and for inclusion in any environmental impact statement or environmental assessment required to be performed under the federal "National Environmental Policy Act of 1969", 42 U.S.C. secs. 4321 to 4347.

(d) The rule-making hearing held to approve the inventories provided under this subsection (17) shall require public participation and shall require the reporting of both current emissions and projected future emissions, over at least a five-year period, from the following sources on public land that affect any mandatory class I federal areas in Colorado:

(I) Stationary source emissions, based on existing air pollution emission notices filed with the division;

(II) Mobile sources utilizing state lands, excluding state and federal highways;

(III) Paved and unpaved roads;

(IV) Fires on public lands from all sources;

(V) Biogenic sources, including emissions from flora and fauna.

(e) Each inventory provided under this subsection (17) shall state the basis and methodology used to accumulate the data and shall be based upon data that are:

(I) Developed no later than three years prior to the submittal; and

(II) No more than five years old.

(18) Upon petition by any person or on its own motion, for good cause shown, the commission may determine that the emission inventory of any criteria pollutant, including a surrogate or precursor for that pollutant, for a region of the state is inadequate for purposes of commission rule-making or adjudications in connection with development of the state implementation plan, selection of pollution control strategies, attribution of emissions to sources or categories of sources, or findings of adverse impacts. If, after conducting a public hearing in accordance with the rule-making provisions of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., the commission finds that the emission inventory should be revised to take into consideration existing credible studies or scientific data in order to reasonably attribute emissions to source categories, it shall direct that such revision be performed prior to a final rule-making or adjudication.

(19) The commission may coordinate with the United States secretary of the interior and the United States secretary of agriculture to develop air quality management plans consistent with this article for federal lands pursuant to 16 U.S.C. sec. 530, 16 U.S.C. sec. 1604, and 43 U.S.C. sec. 1712.

(20) The commission may, within existing resources:

(a) Analyze a range of residential, commercial, and industrial biomass equipment for air emissions standards;

(b) Identify biomass equipment that meets the emissions standards; and

(c) Publicly post a statement of the parameters for equipment fueled by biomass that is smaller than one million British thermal units, as defined in section 8-20-201 (1.3), C.R.S., per hour and include a list of biomass equipment that meets the emissions standards.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1021, § 1, effective June 20; (9) added, p. 1551, § 14, effective June 20. L. 81: (9) amended, p. 1296, § 35, effective January 1, 1982. L. 84: (2) and (8) amended and (7) repealed, p. 768, §§ 3, 1, effective July 1. L. 87: (10) added, p. 1151, § 2, effective July 1. L. 89: (11) added, p. 1156, § 3, effective January 1, 1990. L. 92: (1)(c), (4), (8), and IP(11) amended and (11)(c) to (11)(g) and (12) to (16) added, pp. 1170, 1292, §§ 7, 2, effective July 1. L. 93: (11)(h) added, p. 958, § 1, effective May 28. L. 95: (1)(a)(III) added, p. 1149, § 1, effective May 31. L. 96: (1)(a)(IV) added, p. 1038, § 2, effective May 23; (9) amended, p. 1541, § 130, effective June 1; (6) repealed, p. 1257, § 149, effective August 7. L. 99: (17) and (18) added, p. 1246, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2002: (14) R&RE, p. 1066, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2003: (19) added, p. 1035, § 6, effective April 17; (11)(d) repealed, p. 724, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2005: (11)(g) repealed, p. 282, § 18, effective August 8. L. 2008: IP(11) and (11)(h) amended, p. 882, § 1, effective May 20. L. 2010: (5) amended, (HB 10-1042), ch. 209, p. 908, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2011: (14) amended, (SB 11-163), ch. 13, p. 37, § 3, effective March 9. L. 2013: (20) added, (SB 13-273), ch. 406, p. 2374, § 4, effective June 5. L. 2016: (11)(f) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 771, § 63, effective June 6. L. 2019: IP(1) amended and (1)(e) added, (HB 19-1261), ch. 355, p. 3264, § 3, effective May 30. L. 2020: (14) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1055, § 57, effective June 30. L. 2021: IP(1) amended and (1)(e)(X.4), (1)(e)(X.7), and (1)(e)(X.8) added, (SB 21-264), ch. 328, p. 2106, § 2, effective June 24; IP(1), (1)(e)(I), (1)(e)(III), and (1)(e)(VII) amended and (1)(d.5), (1)(e)(VIII)(G), (1)(e)(VIII)(H), (1)(e)(VIII)(I), (1)(e)(VIII)(J), (1)(e)(VIII.5), (1)(e)(XI)(B.5), (1)(e)(XII), (1)(e)(XIII), (1)(f), and (1)(g) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, pp. 2741, 2730, §§ 14, 6, effective July 2. L. 2022: (1)(a)(IV) amended, (SB 22-091), ch. 28, p. 169, § 7, effective August 10; (1)(e)(VIII)(H) amended, (SB 22-118), ch. 335, p. 2379, § 12, effective August 10; (3) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3368, § 50, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(e)(VIII)(C) amended and (1)(e)(VIII.1), (1)(e)(VIII.2), (1)(e)(VIII.3), (1)(e)(VIII.4), (1)(e)(VIII.5)(E), (1)(e)(VIII.5)(F), (1)(e)(VIII.5)(G), (1)(e)(VIII.5)(H), (1)(e)(VIII.6), (1)(e)(VIII.7), (1)(e)(VIII.8), and (1)(e)(VIII.9) added, (SB 23-198), ch. 352, p. 2108, § 2, effective June 5; (1)(e)(II) amended, (SB 23-016), ch. 165, p. 751, § 28, effective August 7; (1)(e)(X.4) amended, (HB 23-1301), ch. 303, p. 1828, § 41, effective August 7. L. 2026: IP(1) and (1)(e)(VIII)(F) amended and (1)(e)(VIII.5)(I), (1)(e)(XI.1), and (1)(e)(XI.2) added, (SB 26-182), ch. 143, p. 804, § 1, effective May 21.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection IP(1) by SB 21-264 and HB 21-1266 were harmonized.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act enacting subsection (1)(a)(IV), see section 1 of chapter 210, Session Laws of Colorado 1996. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing subsection (6), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2003 act enacting subsection (19), see section 1 of chapter 145, Session Laws of Colorado 2003. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act adding subsection (20), see section 1 of chapter 406, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in SB 23-198, see section 1 of chapter 352, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

(2) For sections 608 and 609 of the federal "Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990", see 42 U.S.C. §§ 7671g and 7671h, respectively.

(3) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021. For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

This section does not explicitly confer on a subordinate agency the right to seek judicial review of a decision of the air quality control commission. Weld County Colo. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Ryan, 2022 COA 26, 511 P.3d 663, aff'd on other grounds, 2023 CO 54, 536 P.3d 1254.

25-7-105.1. Federal enforceability.

(1) To the extent that any provision of this article or any standard or regulation promulgated pursuant thereto is not required by Part C (prevention of significant deterioration), Part D (nonattainment), or Title V (minimum elements of a permit program) of the federal act, or is not required by section 111 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to participate in the early reduction program of section 112 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to be excluded as a major source under this article, or is otherwise more stringent than other requirements of the federal act, such provision, standard, or regulation is hereby declared to be adopted under powers reserved to the state of Colorado pursuant to section 116 of the federal act. Any such provision, standard, or regulation adopted exclusively under state authority shall not constitute part of the state implementation plan.

(2) Whenever the division or commission grants relief to an owner or operator of a new or modified stationary source from that part of a state standard or regulation which is not required by Part C (prevention of significant deterioration), Part D (nonattainment), or Title V (minimum elements of a permit program) of the federal act, or is not required by section 111 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to participate in the early reduction program of section 112 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to be excluded as a major source under this article, or which is otherwise more stringent than other requirements of the federal act and is not included as part of the state implementation plan, such relief shall be governed exclusively by the laws of this state and the regulations of the commission.

(3) To the extent any term or condition contained in any permit issued pursuant to this article is not required by Part C (prevention of significant deterioration), Part D (nonattainment), or Title V (minimum elements of a permit program) of the federal act, or is not required by section 111 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to participate in the early reduction program of section 112 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to be excluded as a major source under this article, or is otherwise more stringent than other requirements of the federal act, such term or condition shall be subject to enforcement exclusively under the laws of this state and the regulations of the commission.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1172, § 8, effective July 1.

25-7-106. Commission - additional authority.

(1) Except as provided in sections 25-7-130 and 25-7-131, the commission shall have maximum flexibility in developing an effective air quality control program and may promulgate such combination of regulations as may be necessary or desirable to carry out that program; except that such program and regulations shall be consistent with the legislative declaration set forth in section 25-7-102. Such regulations may include, but shall not be limited to:

(a) Classification and, as appropriate, reclassification of the state into attainment, nonattainment, and unclassifiable areas, and division of the state into such control regions or areas as may be necessary or desirable for effective administration of this article;

(b) Classification and definition of different degrees or types of air pollution;

(c) Emission control regulations that are applicable to the entire state, that are applicable only within specified areas or zones of the state, or that are applicable only when a specified class of pollution is present;

(d) Development of a high altitude performance adjustment program for motor vehicles to the extent authorized by section 215 of the federal act;

(e) Development of a control or prohibition respecting the use of a fuel or fuel additives in a motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine to the extent authorized by section 211(c) of the federal act if, based on sound scientific data, the commission finds that a measurable reduction in ambient concentrations of criteria pollutants or other pollutants shall occur.

(2) The commission may hold public hearings, issue notice of hearings, issue subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence, administer oaths, and take such testimony as it deems necessary, all in conformity with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and with sections 25-7-110 and 25-7-119.

(3) The commission may adopt such rules and regulations in conformity with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., governing procedures before the commission as may be necessary to assure that hearings before the commission will be fair and impartial.

(4) (a) In the event the commission, after hearing, finds and determines that a particular style or model of automobile air pollution control device is not sufficiently effective to justify the continued connection and operation of such device, the commission shall so notify the department of revenue; thereafter, all devices of such particular style or model shall be exempt from the provisions of section 42-4-314, C.R.S.

(b) Repealed.

(4.1) Repealed.

(5) The commission may exercise all incidental powers necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.

(6) The commission may require the owner or operator, or both, of any air pollution source to:

(a) Establish and maintain reports as prescribed by the commission;

(b) Install, use, and maintain monitoring equipment or methods as prescribed by the commission;

(c) Record, monitor, and sample emissions in accordance with such methods, at such locations, at such intervals, and in such manner as the commission shall prescribe;

(d) Provide such other information as the commission may require.

(7) (a) The commission is specifically authorized and directed to develop a program to apply and enforce every relevant provision of the state implementation plan and every relevant emission control strategy to minimize emissions, including the impacts of actions by significant users of prescribed fire, including federal, state, and local government, and private land managers that are significant users of prescribed fire. The program developed by the commission under this subsection (7) shall include, but not be limited to, the imposition of any fees necessary to administer the program, including the recovery of costs by the state for the evaluation of planning documents pursuant to subsection (8) of this section, and the imposition of penalties pursuant to section 25-7-122.

(b) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that the Grand Canyon visibility transport commission's recommendations for improving western vistas report identified the emissions from fire, both wildfire and prescribed fires, as likely to have the single greatest impact on visibility at class I areas through the year 2040. The emissions from fire, both wildfire and prescribed fire, are an important episodic contributor to visibility impairing aerosols. The Grand Canyon visibility transport commission report identified that significant amounts of visibility impairment result from activities on federal lands, from mobile sources, and from Mexico.

(c) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that emissions from grassland and forest fires have substantial episodic impacts on ambient air quality throughout the state and are a major source of visibility impairment over which this state has jurisdiction but has not yet developed a comprehensive program to reduce such impairment.

(d) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that the standard in its statement of legislative purpose in section 25-7-102 of the "Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act" requiring the use of all practical methods that are technologically feasible and economically reasonable so as to reduce, prevent, and control air pollution is an appropriate standard to apply in relation to air pollution emissions resulting from the use of prescribed fire in grassland and forest management.

(e) This subsection (7) and subsection (8) of this section are adopted pursuant to section 118 of the federal act and shall be construed to exercise the full extent of the state's authority as granted by the provisions of said federal act. The federal government, as the only landowner of its size in the state and the only landowner in the state other than the state government itself that routinely prepares plans involving the management of grassland and forest lands using prescribed fire, is appropriately subject to the requirements of this section pertaining to review and approval of planning documents.

(f) Persons owning or managing large parcels of land who significantly use prescribed fire as a grassland or forest management tool shall prepare plans addressing the use and role of prescribed fire and the air quality impacts resulting therefrom, and such plans are appropriately subject to the review requirements of this section. The state, by reviewing these types of plans, can achieve significant progress towards cooperatively reducing emissions from those lands that impact visibility in Colorado.

(g) As used in this subsection (7) and in subsection (8) of this section, the term "significant user of prescribed fire" means a federal, state, or local agency or significant management unit thereof or person that collectively manages or owns more than ten thousand acres of grasslands or forest lands within the state of Colorado and that uses prescribed fire. The adoption of a fire management plan by a local or county unit of government pursuant to section 30-11-124, C.R.S., does not constitute management for purposes of this section unless the county or local unit of government owns or manages more than ten thousand acres and is a significant user of prescribed fire. "Prescribed fire" means fire that is intentionally used for grassland or forest management, regardless of whether the fire is caused by natural or human sources. Prescribed fire does not include open burning in the course of agricultural operations and does not include open burning for the purpose of maintaining water conveyance structures, unless the commission acts pursuant to section 25-7-123. The commission shall by rule exempt from the program developed pursuant to this subsection (7) those sources that have an insignificant impact on visibility and air quality.

(8) (a) The commission, in exercising the powers conferred by subsection (7) of this section and this subsection (8), shall require all significant users of prescribed fire, including federal agencies for activities directly conducted by or on behalf of federal agencies on federal lands, to minimize emissions using all available, practicable methods that are technologically feasible and economically reasonable in order to minimize the impact or reduce the potential for such impact on both the attainment and maintenance of national ambient air quality standards and the achievement of federal and state visibility goals.

(b) (I) In order to ensure compliance with the requirements of paragraph (a) of this subsection (8), significant users of prescribed fire shall submit planning documents to the commission. The commission shall then conduct a public hearing to review each planning document submitted relevant to achieving the goal of minimizing emissions and impacts as set forth in paragraph (a) of this subsection (8). Only one hearing shall be held for each planning document. The commission shall hold a hearing and complete its review of the planning documents submitted by any significant user of prescribed fire within forty-five days of their receipt by the commission, unless otherwise agreed to by the significant user of prescribed fire.

(II) As used in this paragraph (b), "planning documents" means documents that summarize the use of prescribed fire as a grassland or forest management tool and the associated discharge or release of air pollution and that demonstrate how compliance with the state standard expressed in section 25-7-102 shall be achieved. "Planning documents" shall include land management plans or a summary of the equivalent information that explains and supports the land management criteria evaluated and the decision to use prescribed fire as the fuel treatment method. Planning documents shall include a discussion of the alternatives considered and a discussion of how prescribed fire, if selected, minimizes the risk of wildfire.

(III) The commission shall have discretion to adopt rules governing the resubmission of planning documents to prevent such plans from becoming outdated.

(c) Following a public hearing, the commission shall comment and make recommendations to the significant user of prescribed fire regarding any changes to elements of the plan relating to the discharge or release of air pollutants that the commission finds necessary to comply with the state standard expressed in section 25-7-102.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1023, § 1, effective June 20. L. 81: (4) amended, p. 1944, § 5, effective July 1; (4.1) added, p. 1951, § 19, effective July 1, 1984. L. 84: (3) amended, p. 769, § 4, effective July 1; (4)(b) and (4.1) repealed, p. 1080, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1)(e) amended, p. 1073, § 1, effective April 28. L. 94: (4)(a) amended, p. 2559, § 62, effective January 1, 1995. L. 99: (7) and (8) added, p. 788, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2000: (4)(a) amended, p. 1637, § 13, effective June 1. L. 2001: (7) and (8) amended, p. 1182, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-106.1. Commission - duties - visibility standard - report. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1156, § 4, effective May 26. L. 90: (2) amended, p. 1847, § 42, effective May 31. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 1258, § 152, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-106.3. Commission - duties - wood-burning stoves - episodic no-burn days - rules.

(1) The commission shall promulgate, no later than March 1, 1990, such combination of regulations as it may find to be cost-effective and consistent with the legislative declaration set forth in section 25-7-102 in order to establish limitations on the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces during those periods of time declared by the Colorado department of health to be a high pollution day. The department may declare a high pollution day based on experienced or anticipated excessive levels of carbon monoxide or particulates when air pollution standards are exceeded for particulates, carbon monoxide, or visibility. The limitations on the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces imposed pursuant to this section may include no-burn days, and such no-burn days shall be specific to the separate airsheds within the Denver-Boulder metropolitan area. Such limitations shall be applicable only in those portions of the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson which are located in the AIR program area, as such area is defined in section 42-4-304 (20), C.R.S. Such regulations shall exclude areas above seven thousand feet unless the commission determines that particulates from wood burning in such areas are contributing to the brown cloud. Such regulations shall not apply to any person who utilizes wood-burning stoves or fireplaces as the primary source of heat in such person's place of residence. Such regulations shall permit exemptions for wood-burning stoves that meet Phase III emissions standards. For the purposes of this section, "Phase III" means wood stove standards adopted by the commission which are more strict than existing wood stove standards. The regulations promulgated pursuant to this subsection (1) shall not be effective until July 1, 1990.

(2) No regulation promulgated by the commission pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall apply within any municipality which has in effect on January 1, 1990, an ordinance mandating restricted use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces during those periods of time declared by the Colorado department of health to be high pollution days.

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1157, § 4, effective May 26. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 1922, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2560, § 63, effective January 1, 1995.

25-7-106.5. Commission - duties - alternative fuels - street-cleaning - time-shifting - reports. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1158, § 4, effective May 26. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 1258, § 152, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-106.7. Regulations - studies - AIR program area.

The authority of the commission to promulgate regulations pursuant to section 25-7-106.3 is limited to the program area, as defined in section 42-4-304 (20), C.R.S., and such regulations shall not apply outside the program area.

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1158, § 4, effective May 26. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 1923, § 3, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2560, § 64, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2001: Entire section amended, p. 1275, § 37, effective June 5.

25-7-106.8. Colorado clean vehicle fleet program. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1173, § 8, effective July 1; (1)(a), (1)(b), and (5) amended, p. 1317, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(c) and (2) amended, p. 2780, § 496, effective July 1; (4) amended, p. 2560, § 65, effective January 1, 1995. L. 95: (1)(a) amended, p. 1191, § 1, effective May 31. L. 98: (1)(a) amended, p. 1297, § 1, effective June 1. L. 99: (1)(b), (2), and (3) amended and (6) and (7) added, p. 854, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2000: (1)(a) amended, p. 763, § 3, effective September 1. L. 2002: (1)(b) to (1)(f) and (2) to (7) repealed, p. 1066, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1167), ch. 56, p. 192, § 2, effective September 14.

25-7-106.9. Alternative fuels financial incentive program. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1163, § 1, effective May 26. L. 92: Entire section amended, pp. 1175, 1315, §§ 9, 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(a) and (1)(e)(I) amended, p. 2781, § 497, effective July 1; (1)(e)(II) amended, p. 2561, § 66, effective January 1, 1995.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1997. (See L. 92, p. 1315.)

25-7-107. Commission - area classification.

(1) The commission shall, within one hundred eighty days after June 20, 1979, and thereafter from time to time, if evidence indicates a need, review the current classification of any attainment, nonattainment, or unclassifiable area within the state and shall revise the classification of any such area or part thereof which is calculated by air quality modeling or shown by monitored data or other reliable methods to be invalid.

(2) The commission shall, upon application by the owner or operator of any existing or proposed stationary source, review the designation of any attainment, nonattainment, or unclassifiable area within the state and shall revise the designation of any such area or part thereof which is calculated by air quality modeling or shown by monitored data or other reliable methods to be invalid.

(2.5) Whenever monitoring data for any pollutant for which an area is designated nonattainment demonstrate that the national ambient air quality standard for that pollutant has been attained in accordance with the criteria required under the federal act, the division and commission shall take expeditious action to redesignate the area as attainment for that pollutant.

(3) In making any determination regarding the attainment, nonattainment, or unclassifiable designation of any area within the state with regard to particulate matter, the commission shall consider and, if consistent with the requirements of Part D of the federal act, discount the effects of particulate matter not of a size or substance to adversely affect public health or welfare.

(4) All revisions of designations shall be submitted to the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1024, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: (2.5) added, p. 1177, § 10, effective July 1.

25-7-108. Commission to promulgate ambient air quality standards.

(1) In addition to the other powers and duties enumerated in this article, the commission shall have the power to adopt, promulgate, amend, and modify such standards for the quality of ambient air as may be appropriate or necessary to carry out the purposes of this article, including, but not limited to:

(a) Standards which describe the maximum concentrations of specifically described pollutants that can be tolerated, consistent with the protection of the good health of the public at large; such standards may differ for different parts of the state as may be necessitated by variations in altitude, topography, climate, or meteorology;

(b) Standards which describe the air quality goals that are to be achieved by control programs within specified periods of time; such standards may be either statewide or restricted to specified control areas; and

(c) Standards which describe varying degrees of pollution of ambient air.

(2) Ambient air standards shall include such requirements for test methods and procedures as will assure that the samples of ambient air tested are representative of the ambient air.

(3) Notwithstanding any provision of this article to the contrary, no provision of this article shall preclude the commission from adopting ambient air quality standards which are more stringent than the national ambient air quality standards.

(4) Ambient standards may only be implemented and enforced through permit terms and conditions or regulations promulgated to meet requirements for state implementation plans.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1024, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: (4) added, p. 1177, § 11, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Precise standards impractical to administer. Precise standards in the area of air pollution enactments are impractical, if not impossible, to administer. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. State, 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Broad standards sufficient. Broad standards such as "necessary" have been found sufficient as standards, although incapable of precise definition. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. State, 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

25-7-109. Commission to adopt emission control regulations - rules.

(1) (a) Except as provided in sections 25-7-130 and 25-7-131, as promptly as possible, the commission shall adopt, promulgate, and from time to time modify or repeal emission control regulations which require the use of effective practical air pollution controls:

(I) For each significant source or category of significant sources of air pollutants;

(II) For each type of facility, process, or activity which produces or might produce significant emissions of air pollutants.

(b) The requirements and prohibitions contained in such regulations shall be set forth with as much specificity and clarity as is practical. Upon adoption of an emission control regulation under subparagraph (II) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) for the control of a specific facility, process, or activity, such regulation shall apply to the exclusion of other emission control regulations adopted pursuant to subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1); prior to such adoption, the general regulations adopted pursuant to subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) shall be applicable to such facility, process, or activity. In the formulation of each emission control regulation, the commission shall take into consideration the following:

(I) The state policy regarding air pollution, as set forth in section 25-7-102;

(II) Federal recommendations and requirements;

(III) The degree to which altitude, topography, climate, or meteorology in certain portions of the state require that emission control regulations be more or less stringent than in other portions of the state;

(IV) The degree to which any particular type of emission is subject to treatment and the availability, technical feasibility, and economic reasonableness of control techniques;

(V) The extent to which the emission to be controlled is significant;

(VI) The continuous, intermittent, or seasonal nature of the emission to be controlled;

(VII) The economic, environmental, and energy costs of compliance with such emission control regulation;

(VIII) Whether an emission control regulation should be applied throughout the entire state or only within specified areas or zones of the state, and whether it should be applied only when a specified class or type of pollution is concerned.

(2) Such emission control regulations may include, but shall not be limited to, regulations pertaining to:

(a) Visible pollutants;

(b) Particulates;

(c) Sulfur oxides, sulfuric acids, organic sulfides, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides, carbon oxides, hydrocarbons, fluorides, and any other chemical substance;

(d) Odors, except for livestock feeding operations that are not housed commercial swine feeding operations as defined in section 25-8-501.1 (2)(b);

(e) Open burning activity;

(f) Organic solvents;

(g) Photochemical substances;

(h) Hazardous air pollutants and toxic air contaminants, as defined in section 25-7-109.5 (1)(i).

(3) Emission control regulations adopted pursuant to this section shall include, but shall not be limited to, regulations pertaining to the following facilities, processes, and activities:

(a) Incinerator and incinerator design;

(b) Storage and transfer of petroleum products and any other volatile organic compounds;

(c) Activities which frequently result in particulate matter becoming airborne, such as construction and demolition operations;

(d) Specifications, prohibitions, and requirements pertaining to fuels and fuel additives, such as tetraethyl lead;

(e) Wigwam waste burners, pulp mills, alfalfa dehydrators, asphalt plants, and any other industrial or commercial activity which tends to emit air pollutants as a by-product;

(f) Industrial process equipment;

(g) Industrial spraying operations;

(h) Airplanes;

(i) Diesel-powered machines, vehicles, engines, and equipment;

(j) Storage and transfer of volatile compounds and hazardous or toxic gases or other hazardous substances which may become airborne.

(4) The commission shall promulgate appropriate regulations pertaining to hazardous air pollutants.

(5) The commission shall promulgate appropriate regulations setting conditions and time limitations for periods of start-up, shutdown, or malfunction or other conditions which justify temporary relief from controls. Operations of any air pollution source during periods of start-up, shutdown, and malfunction shall not constitute representative conditions for the purpose of a performance or compliance test.

(6) The commission shall establish test methods and procedures for determining compliance with emission control regulations promulgated under this section and, in so doing, shall, to the maximum degree consistent with the purposes of this article, consider the test methods and procedures established by the United States environmental protection agency and shall adopt such test methods and procedures as shall minimize the possibility of inconsistency or duplication of effort.

(7) All regulations promulgated pursuant to this section shall conform with the provisions of part 5 of this article concerning asbestos control.

(8) (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the commission shall not regulate emissions from agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural production such as farming, seasonal crop drying, animal feeding operations that are not housed commercial swine feeding operations as defined in section 25-8-501.1 (2)(b), and pesticide application; except that the commission shall regulate such emissions if they are "major stationary sources", as that term is defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 7602 (j), or are required by Part C (prevention of significant deterioration), Part D (nonattainment), or Title V (minimum elements of a permit program), or are participating in the early reduction program of section 112 of the federal act, or is not required by section 111 of the federal act, or is not required for sources to be excluded as a major source under this article.

(b) Nothing in paragraph (a) of this subsection (8), as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

(9) (a) The commission shall adopt a procedure consistent with the federal environmental protection agency requirements for determining when there has been a net significant emissions increase which results in a major modification that subjects a source to the permitting requirements of the prevention of significant deterioration program or the nonattainment area new source review. The commission's procedure shall also prohibit sources from circumventing the new source review requirements in a manner consistent with the federal environmental protection agency guidance. Such procedure shall be the same for both the prevention of significant deterioration program and the nonattainment area new source review program and shall not apply to hazardous air pollutants. Such net emissions increase procedure shall be as described in paragraph (b) of this subsection (9), unless and until the federal environmental protection agency requires otherwise or unless after January 1, 1998, the commission:

(I) Undertakes a collaborative process with the affected industries to determine the cost and emission impacts associated with any proposed changes in this procedure;

(II) Reviews at least three years of emissions increases and decreases under the procedures described in paragraph (b) of this subsection (9);

(III) Delivers reports on the matters required in subparagraphs (I) and (II) of this paragraph (a) to the general assembly for its review;

(IV) Determines through rule-making that an applicability procedure for major modifications more stringent than that described in paragraph (b) of this subsection (9) is equitable when considering minor, area, and mobile source controls; and

(V) Determines through rule-making that such more stringent applicability procedure is necessary to attain and to maintain the national ambient air quality standards.

(b) The procedure for determining when there has been a net significant emissions increase shall be consistent with requirements of the federal environmental protection agency and:

(I) Such requirements shall apply only if there is, in the first instance, a significant emissions increase from an individual proposed project or modification. If the individual proposed project or modification will not result in a significant emissions increase, it shall be exempt from the prevention of significant deterioration program and the nonattainment area new source review requirements.

(II) If a project or modification is not exempt under subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b), each pollutant for which the project results in a significant emissions increase shall be subject to the prevention of significant deterioration program or the nonattainment area new source review requirements only if the sum of all source-wide, non-de minimis, contemporaneous, and creditable emissions increases and decreases of that pollutant or that regulated precursor exceed applicable significance levels. Each specific regulated precursor shall be considered independently in determining applicable significance levels.

(III) In determining the non-de minimis net emissions increase during the contemporaneous period, the commission's procedures shall be consistent with the federal environmental protection agency's review procedure for determining net emissions increases and decreases. Non-de minimis increases shall exclude all increases which would be exempt under commission rules from a requirement to obtain a construction permit under section 25-7-114.2.

(10) (a) The commission shall adopt rules to minimize emissions of methane and other hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, and oxides of nitrogen from oil and natural gas exploration and production facilities and natural gas facilities in the processing, gathering and boosting, storage, and transmission segments of the natural gas supply chain.

(b) (I) The commission shall review its rules for oil and natural gas well production facilities and compressor stations and specifically consider adopting more stringent provisions, including:

(A) A requirement that leak detection and repair inspections occur at all well production facilities on, at a minimum, a semiannual basis or that an alternative approved instrument monitoring method is in place pursuant to existing rules;

(B) A requirement that owners and operators of oil and gas transmission pipelines and compressor stations must inspect and maintain all equipment and pipelines on a regular basis;

(C) A requirement that oil and natural gas operators must install and operate continuous methane emissions monitors at facilities with large emissions potential, at multi-well facilities, and at facilities in close proximity to occupied dwellings; and

(D) A requirement to reduce emissions from pneumatic devices. The commission shall consider requiring oil and gas operators, under appropriate circumstances, to use pneumatic devices that do not vent natural gas.

(II) The commission may, by rule, phase in the requirement to comply with this subsection (10)(b) on the bases of production capability, type and age of oil and gas facility, and commercial availability of continuous monitoring equipment. If the commission phases in the requirement to comply with this subsection (10)(b), it shall increase the required frequency of inspections at facilities that are subject to the phase-in until the facilities achieve continuous emission monitoring.

(c) Notwithstanding the grant of authority to the energy and carbon management commission in article 60 of title 34, including specifically section 34-60-105 (1), the commission may regulate air pollution from oil and gas facilities listed in subsection (10)(a) of this section, including during preproduction activities, drilling, and completion.

(d) On or before August 31, 2026, the division shall propose rules designed to reduce emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) generated by upstream oil and gas operations, as defined by the commission by rule, including preproduction operations, between May 1 and September 30 in the eight-hour ozone control area and northern Weld county, as those terms are defined by the commission by rule, by fifty percent by 2030 relative to 2017 NOx emission levels. NOx emission levels are characterized by the most recent state inventory of NOx emissions for 2017 that the commission adopted for the purpose of inclusion in the state implementation plan for the 2015 eight-hour ozone national ambient air quality standard or as published concurrently with proposed rules consistent with this subsection (10)(d) in a notice of proposed rule-making published in accordance with section 25-7-110 (1).

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1025, § 1, effective June 20. L. 87: (7) added, p. 1151, § 3, effective July 1. L. 92: (2)(h) amended and (8) added, p. 1177, § 12, effective July 1. L. 94: (9) added, p. 1418, § 1, effective May 25. Initiated 98: (2)(d) and (8) amended, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998. L. 2005: (8) amended, p. 348, § 4, effective August 8. L. 2019: (10) added, (SB 19-181), ch. 120, p. 502, § 3, effective April 16. L. 2022: (2)(c) and (2)(h) amended, (HB 22-1244), ch. 332, p. 2332, § 3, effective June 2. L. 2023: (10)(c) amended, (SB 23-285), ch. 235, p. 1254, § 27, effective July 1. L. 2024: (10)(d) added, (SB 24-229), ch. 183, p. 986, § 2, effective May 16.

Editor's note: Subsections (2)(d) and (8) were amended by an initiated measure that was adopted by the people at the general election held November 3, 1998. The measure amending subsections (2)(d) and (8) was effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998. The vote count on the measure at the general election held November 3, 1998, was as follows:

FOR: 790,852

AGAINST: 438,873

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1244, see section 1 of chapter 332, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. For the legislative declaration in SB 24-229, see section 1 of chapter 183, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment, "Pre-Enforcement Judicial Review: CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Commission", see 58 Den. L.J. 693 (1981).

Factors to be considered in promulgation. Commission-promulgated regulations may and sometimes must be formulated with regard to the various factors which either constitute, produce, or dispel air pollution: e.g., classifying different types and degrees of air pollution; promulgating regulations applicable to either a part or the whole of the state; describing maximum concentrations of contaminants that can be tolerated depending on variations in altitude, topography, climate, or meteorology; taking into consideration the degree to which any particular type of emission is subject to treatment; and considering the continuous, intermittent, or seasonal nature of the emission to be controlled. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. State, 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Where an electrical generating unit has the same industrial grouping as two other units located on contiguous property and all three units are operated by the same entity, there was no error in concluding that the unit is not a separate source. Therefore, increased emissions from the unit should be considered in conjunction with reduced emissions from the other two units, and the source-wide emission increases did not exceed the applicable significance levels. Citizens for Clean Air & Water v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 181 P.3d 393 (Colo. App. 2008).

Applied in CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

25-7-109.1. Emergency rule-making.

In addition to all other powers of the commission, the commission, pursuant to section 24-4-103 (6), C.R.S., shall have the authority to conduct emergency rule-making for the purpose of adopting an interim emission control regulation to apply for a specified period of time in place of an existing emission control regulation or to create an emission control regulation whenever federal regulations have been adopted and become effective pursuant to section 111 of the federal act and which add to the list of categories of stationary sources, or add new or more restrictive standards of performance for new sources, or whenever federal regulations are adopted and effective pursuant to section 112 of the federal act and which modify or adopt MACT or GACT for new or existing sources, and such regulations are required to be implemented by the states. Interim emission control regulations adopted pursuant to this section shall not be effective for a period greater than twelve months from the date of adoption.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1178, § 13, effective July 1.

25-7-109.2. Small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program - rules - advisory panel - legislative declaration - repeal.

(1) The commission shall promulgate such rules, regulations, and procedures as are necessary to establish and administer the Colorado small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program consistent with the requirements of the federal act.

(2) There is hereby created a compliance advisory panel, which shall:

(a) Render advisory opinions concerning the effectiveness of the small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program, difficulties encountered, degree of enforcement, and severity of penalties;

(b) Make periodic reports to the governor and the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency;

(c) Review information for small business stationary sources to assure such information is understandable by the layperson; and

(d) Advise the small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program, which shall serve as the secretariat for the development and dissemination of such reports and advisory opinions.

(3) The panel shall consist of:

(a) Two members who are not owners or representatives of owners of small business stationary sources, appointed by the governor to represent the general public;

(b) Two members who are owners or who represent owners of small business stationary sources, one appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives and one appointed by the minority leader of the house of representatives;

(c) Two members who are owners or who represent owners of small business stationary sources, one appointed by the president of the senate and one appointed by the minority leader of the senate; and

(d) One member appointed by the executive director of the department of public health and environment to represent such department.

(4) Members of the panel shall serve for terms of three years; except that the terms shall be staggered so that no more than four members' terms expire in the same year. Each term commences on February 1 of the year of appointment. Vacancies occurring during the term of office of any member of the panel shall be filled for the unexpired portion of the regular term in the same manner as for the original appointment.

(5) In furtherance of the small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program established as provided in subsection (1) of this section, the department of public health and environment shall serve as ombudsman for small business stationary sources. The department shall carry out the ombudsman duties using personnel outside of the air pollution control division.

(6) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that this section is enacted for purposes of compliance with the provisions of section 507 of the federal act, 42 U.S.C. sec. 7661f. Subsections (2), (3), and (4) of this section and this subsection (6) are repealed, effective September 1, 2036. Prior to said repeal, the compliance advisory panel shall be reviewed by a legislative committee of reference, designated pursuant to section 2-3-1201, to conduct the review pursuant to section 2-3-1203.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1161, § 3, effective July 1; entire section added, p. 1178, § 13, effective July 1. L. 94: (3)(d) amended, p. 2782, § 498, effective July 1. L. 96: (6) amended, p. 798, § 12, effective May 23; (5) amended, p. 845, § 1, effective July 1, 1997. L. 98: (6) amended, p. 76, § 1, effective March 23. L. 2004: (6) amended, p. 349, § 16, effective July 1. L. 2005: (6) amended, p. 155, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2015: (2)(d), (4), and (6) amended, (SB 15-103), ch. 74, p. 196, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2022: (4) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 59, § 77, effective February 25. L. 2026: (6) amended, (HB 26-1208), ch. 97, p. 385, § 2, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 92-97 and Senate Bill 92-105 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3)(d), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-109.3. Colorado hazardous air pollutant control and reduction program - rules.

(1) The commission shall promulgate appropriate rules pertaining to hazardous air pollutants that are consistent with this section, section 25-7-109.5, and the requirements of and emission standards promulgated pursuant to section 112 of the federal act, including any standard required to be imposed under section 112(r) of the federal act. The commission shall monitor the progress and results of the risk studies performed under section 112 of the federal act to show that Colorado's hazardous air pollutant control and reduction program is at least as protective as the national strategy.

(2) The commission may promulgate rules pertaining to hazardous air pollutants in accordance with this section, section 25-7-109.5, and section 25-7-114.4. In order to minimize additional regulatory and compliance costs to the state's economy, any program created by the commission pursuant to this section may contain a provision that exempts from the requirements of the program those sources or categories of sources that it determines to be of minor significance. Consistent with the provisions of section 25-7-105.1, the commission shall authorize synthetic minor sources of hazardous air pollutants by the issuance of construction permits or prohibitory or other rules. The commission shall expeditiously implement this subsection (2) to ensure that all sources may be able to timely qualify as a synthetic minor source, thereby avoiding the costs of the operating permit program.

(3) (a) (I) As soon as adequate scientific, technological, and hazardous air pollutant emissions information is available, the commission may promulgate regulations for the control of hazardous air pollutants, including utilizing Colorado GACT or Colorado MACT technology-based emission reduction requirements, as defined in section 25-7-103 (6.7) and (6.8).

(II) The division may establish schedules of compliance of up to five years leading to final compliance for any such regulation, which shall be enforced through regulations or conditions in construction permits issued pursuant to section 25-7-114.2 or 25-7-114.5. In determining any schedule of compliance, the division shall consider the current availability of technology, costs of compliance, and the consequence of delay to the public health or environment or economy.

(III) The division shall issue its determination of Colorado GACT or Colorado MACT and the compliance schedule in writing.

(IV) Within thirty calendar days after receipt of a determination by the division requiring installation of Colorado GACT or Colorado MACT and the compliance schedule, pursuant to this subsection (3), a source may appeal such a determination or compliance schedule by filing with the commission a written petition requesting a hearing to review the determination on a de novo basis.

(V) Such hearing shall allow the parties to present evidence and argument on all issues and to conduct cross-examination required for full disclosure of the facts and shall otherwise be conducted in accordance with section 25-7-119.

(b) and (b.1) Repealed.

(c) The commission shall designate by regulation those classes of minor or insignificant sources of emissions of hazardous air pollutants which are exempt from the requirements of this section because their emissions of hazardous air pollutants will result in an inconsequential risk to public health.

(d) (I) A source subject to the requirements of this section may be exempt from installation of Colorado MACT or Colorado GACT or any Colorado health-based requirement if the division makes a determination that an alternative level of control, including no emission controls, will result in an inconsequential risk to public health.

(II) The division shall issue its determination of a source's request for exemption under this paragraph (d) in writing within sixty days of receipt of a complete application for an exemption and shall publish notice of its determination by at least one publication in a newspaper of general distribution in the area of the source requesting the exemption.

(III) Within thirty calendar days after receipt of a determination by the division of a request for exemption by a source under this paragraph (d), the source or any person may appeal such determination by filing with the commission a written petition requesting a hearing to review the exemption request on a de novo basis.

(IV) Such hearing shall allow the parties to present evidence and argument on all issues and to conduct cross-examination required for full disclosure of the facts and shall otherwise be conducted in accordance with section 25-7-119.

(e) Any source as defined in section 112(i) of the federal act, and regulations promulgated thereunder, that participates in the early reduction program pursuant to section 112(i) of the federal act, or this article, shall be exempt from the requirements of this section for the same period of time exemptions from federal requirements or requirements under this article are allowed under the early reduction program.

(f) and (g) Repealed.

(4) (a) (I) The commission may adopt rules pertaining to those sources identified as emitting hazardous air pollutants regulated under this section, which may include additional emission reduction requirements to address any residual risk of health effects with respect to actual persons living in the vicinity of sources after installation of technology-based controls. Imposition of such requirements may be made pursuant to section 25-7-109.5 or upon a determination by the commission that operation of sources without health-based controls does not or will not represent an inconsequential threat to public health. Rules as finally adopted pursuant to this subsection (4) may apply on a source-specific basis.

(II) Repealed.

(b) Repealed.

(c) Subject to paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), for existing sources not subject to regulation under section 25-7-114.3, or not subject to regulation as a modified source, the commission may promulgate health-based regulations on a source-by-source basis, with the exceptions specified in paragraph (d) of this subsection (4).

(d) The commission may recognize similarities among regulated sources or apply, when appropriate, previous control requirements established by the commission pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (4) in making a determination about the need for such regulation under this subsection (4). The commission shall also consider fundamentally different factors between sources in making these determinations.

(e) The commission may establish schedules of compliance leading to final compliance for any regulation promulgated pursuant to this subsection (4).

(f) A hearing conducted by the commission under this subsection (4) shall be conducted in accordance with section 25-7-110 or 25-7-119 or article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., as applicable.

(g) In reaching a determination under this subsection (4), the commission shall give consideration to the technical availability of methods of compliance, the costs of compliance, and the consequences of delay. The commission shall also consider cost-benefit analysis and risk-benefit analysis pursuant to section 24-4-103 (4.5), C.R.S.

(h) Repealed.

(5) (a) The substances listed in or pursuant to section 112(b) of the federal act, and the following substances, are declared to be hazardous air pollutants and are subject to regulation by the commission under this section:

| ​ Chemical Abstract Service Number ​ | ​ Chemical ​
(I) | 50-18-0 | Cyclophosphamide
(II) | 50-32-8 | Benzo(a)pyrene
(III) | 52-24-4 | Tris(aziridinyl)-phosphine sulfide
(IV) | 52-24-4 | Thio-tepa
(V) | 53-70-3 | Dibenz[a,h]anthracene
(VI) | 55-98-1 | 1,4-butanediol dimethanesulphonate
(VII) | 56-53-1 | Dirthylstulresterol
(VIII) | 56-55-3​ | Benz[a]anthracene
(IX) | 70-25-7 | N-methyl-n-nitro- n-nitrosoguanidine
(X) | 78-98-8 | Methylglyoxol
(XI) | 115-28-6 | Chlorendic acid
(XII) | 117-10-2 | Chrysazin
(XIII) | 122-60-1 | Phenyl glycidyl ether
(XIV) | 132-27-4 | 2-biphenylol sodium salt
(XV) | 154-93-8 | Bischloroethyl nitrosourea
(XVI) | 298-81-7 | 8-methoxypsoralen
(XVII) | 299-75-2 | Treosulphan
(XVIII) | 305-03-3 | Clorambucil
(XIX) | 370-67-2 | Azactidine
(XX) | 366-70-1 | Procarbazine hydrochloride
(XXI) | 446-86-6 | Azathioprine
(XXII) | 484-20-8 | 5-methoxypsoralen
(XXIII) | 494-03-1 | Chlornaphazine
(XXIV) | 590-96-5 | Methanol, (methyl-onn-azoxy)
(XXV) | 607-57-8 | 2-nitrofluorene
(XXVI) | 615-53-2 | N-nitroso-n-methylurethane
(XXVII) | 817-09-4 | Trichlormethine
(XXVIII) | 1188-47-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, copper (2+) salt (1:1)
(XXIX) | 1188-48-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, magnesium salt (1:1)
(XXX) | 1309-64-4 | Antimony oxide
(XXXI) | 1317-98-2 | Valentinite
(XXXII) | 1402-68-2 | Aflatoxins
(XXXIII) | 2399-81-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, beryllium salt (1:1)
(XXXIV) | 2399-83-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, barium salt (1:1)
(XXXV) | 2399-85-1 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, tripotassium salt
(XXXVI) | 2399-86-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, dipotassium salt
(XXXVII) | 2399-87-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, beryllium potassium salt (1:1)
(XXXVIII) | 2399-88-4 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, potassium magnesium salt (1:1:1)
(XXXIX) | 2399-89-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, potassium strontium salt (1:1:1)
(XL) | 2399-94-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium salt (1:1)
(XLI) | 2455-08-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium potassium salt (1:1:1)
(XLII) | 2475-45-8 | Disperse blue 1
(XLIII) | 2646-17-5 | C1 solvent orange2
(XLIV) | 3130-95-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, scandium (3+) salt (1:1)
(XLV) | 3438-06-0 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, neodymium (3+) salt (1:1)
(XLVI) | 5064-31-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, trisodium salt
(XLVII) | 5522-43-0 | 1-nitropyrene
(XLVIII) | 5798-43-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, disodium salt, compound with oxo (dihydrogen nit)
(XLIX) | 7496-02-8 | 6-nitrochrysene
(L) | 10042-84-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, sodium salt (unspecified)
(LI) | 10043-92-2 | Radon decay products
(LII) | 10413-71-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, erbium (3+) salt (3:1)
(LIII) | 12412-52-1 | Senarmontite
(LIV) | 12510-42-8 | Erionite
(LV) | 13010-47-4 | 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3- cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea
(LVI) | 13909-09-6 | 1,(2-chloroethyl)-3-(4 methyl-cyclohexyl)-1 nitrosourea
(LVII) | 14695-88-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, compound with iron chloride, as /fecl3/
(LVIII) | 14807-96-6 | Talc (containing asbestos fibers)
(LIX) | 14981-08-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium salt
(LX) | 15414-25-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, yttrium (3+) salt (1:1)
(LXI) | 15467-20-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, disodium salt
(LXII) | 15663-27-1 | Cisplatin
(LXIII) | 15844-52-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, copper (2+) complex
(LXIV) | 15934-02-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, monoammonium salt
(LXV) | 16448-54-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, iron (3+) complex
(LXVI) | 16568-02-8 | Gyromitrin
(LXVII) | 18105-03-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, mercury (2+) salt (2:3)
(LXVIII) | 18432-54-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, cadmium (2+) complex
(LXIX) | 18540-29-9 | Chromium compounds, hexavalent
(LXX) | 18662-53-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, trisodium salt monohydrate
(LXXI) | 18946-94-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, neodymium (3+) salt (1:1)
(LXXII) | 18983-72-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, beryllium potassium salt (1:1)
(LXXIII) | 18994-66-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, monosodium salt
(LXXIV) | 19010-73-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, aluminium (3+) complex
(LXXV) | 19456-58-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, inidium (3+) complex
(LXXVI) | 22965-60-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, nickel (3+) complex
(LXXVII) | 23214-92-8 | Adrianmycin
(LXXVIII) | 23255-03-0 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, disodium salt, monohydrate
(LXXIX) | 23319-51-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, cobalt (3+) complex
(LXXX) | 23555-96-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, potassium strontium salt (2:4:1)
(LXXXI) | 23555-98-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium potassium salt (2:1:4)
(LXXXII) | 25817-24-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, potassium salt
(LXXXIII) | 28444-53-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, monopotassium salt
(LXXXIV) | 28027-38-0 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, holmium salt
(LXXXV) | 29027-90-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, cerium salt
(LXXXVI) | 29507-58-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, zinc (3+) complex sodium salt
(LXXXVII) | 32685-17-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, triammonium salt
(LXXXVIII) | 34831-02-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, copper (2+) hydrogen complex
(LXXXIX) | 34831-03-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, nickel (2+) hydrogen complex
(XC) | 36711-58-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, manganese salt
(XCI) | 42397-64-8 | 1,6-dinitropyrene
(XCII) | 42397-65-9 | 1,8-dinitropyrene
(XCIII) | 46242-44-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, antimony (3+) complex
(XCIV) | 50618-02-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, tricadium (2+) complex
(XCV) | 53108-47-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, copper (2+) complex sodium salt
(XCVI) | 53108-50-2 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, cobalt (3+) hydrogen complex
(XCVII) | 53818-84-1 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, tin (2+) salt
(XCVIII) | 54749-90-5 | Chlorozotocin
(XCIX) | 57835-92-4 | 4-nitropyrene
(C) | 59865-13-3 | Cyclosporin A
(CI) | 60034-45-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium sodium salt (1:1:1)
(CII) | 60153-49-3 | 3-(n-nitrosomethylamino) propionitrile
(CIII) | 61017-62-7 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, iron (2+) complex sodium salt (1:1:1)
(CIV) | 62450-06-0 | trp-p-1
(CV) | 62450-07-1 | trp-p-2
(CVI) | 64091-91-4 | Ketone, 3-pyridyl3- (n-methyl-n-nitrosoamino) propyl
(CVII) | 67730-10-3 | 2-aminodipyrido[1,2-a3,2- d]imidazole
(CVIII) | 66730-11-4 | 2-amino-6- methyldipyrido[1,2-a32- d]imidazole
(CIX) | 68006-83-7 | 2-amino-3-methyl-9h- pyrido[2,3-b]indole
(CX) | 69679-89-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, calcium salt (2:3)
(CXI) | 71484-80-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, copper (2+) complex ammonium salt
(CXII) | 72629-49-3 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, dilithium salt
(CXIII) | 73772-91-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, magnesium salt
(CXIV) | 76180-96-6 | 2-amino-3- methylimadazo[4,5- f]quinoline
(CXV) | 79217-60-0 | Cyclosporine
(CXVI) | 79849-02-8 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, lead (2+) salt (1:1)
(CXVII) | 79915-08-5 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, lead (2+) potassium salt (1:1:1)
(CXVIII) | 79915-09-6 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, lead (2+) salt (2:3)
(CXIX) | 80508-23-2 | N-nitrosonornicotine
(CXX) | 86892-89-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, disodium ammonium salt
(CXXI) | 92474-39-0 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, trisilver salt
(CXXII) | 92988-11-9 | Nitrilotriacetic acid, strontium sodium salt
(CXXIII) | 108171-26-2 | Chlorinated paraffins (c12, 60% chlorine)
(CXXIV) | 309-00-2 | Aldrin
(CXXV) | 60-57-1 | Dieldrin
(CXXVI) | 55-18-5 | N-nitrosodiethylamine
(CXXVII) | 319-84-6 | L-hexachlorocyclohexane
(CXXVIII) | 608-73-1 | Hexachlorocyclohexane- tech
(CXXIX) | 7644-41-0 | 1,4 dichloro-2-butene
(CXXX) | 924-16-3 | N-nitroso-d-n-butyl-amine

(b) The commission may promulgate a regulation which amends by adding to, or deleting from, the list of hazardous air pollutants subject to regulation under this section within the state which are not listed as hazardous air pollutants under the federal act. In amending the list of hazardous air pollutants in paragraph (a) of this subsection (5), the commission shall utilize the same standards and criteria which section 112 of the federal act requires the administrator to utilize in amending the list of hazardous air pollutants under the federal act.

(c) The commission shall by regulation establish de minimis emission levels for each hazardous air pollutant beneath which levels emissions are considered to be of minor significance.

(d) The rule-making authorized under paragraphs (b) and (c) of this subsection (5) shall include a hearing to allow the parties to present evidence and argument on all issues and to conduct cross-examination required for full disclosure of the facts and shall otherwise be conducted in accordance with section 25-7-119.

(e) Proceedings of the commission to amend the list of hazardous air pollutants under paragraph (b) of this subsection (5) shall be conducted on a substance-by-substance basis and there shall not be a consolidation of proceedings wherein more than five substances are considered for listing as a hazardous air pollutant in one proceeding.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1180, § 13, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 1419, § 2, effective May 25; (4)(h)(I)(A) and (4)(h)(II) amended, p. 2782, § 499, effective July 1. L. 96: (1) amended, p. 1257, § 150, effective August 7. L. 2016: (3)(b.1), (3)(d)(III), (4)(d), (4)(h)(I)(A), (4)(h)(II), and (5)(b) amended and (4)(a)(II) and (4)(b) repealed, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 771, § 64, effective June 6. L. 2021: (2) amended, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2748, § 15, effective July 2. L. 2022: (1), (2), (3)(a)(I), (4)(a)(I), and (4)(h)(III) amended and (3)(b), (3)(b.1), (3)(f), and (3)(g) repealed, (HB 22-1244), ch. 332, p. 2341, § 5, effective June 2.

Editor's note: Subsection (4)(h)(III) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(h), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2022, p. 2341.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (4)(h)(I)(A) and (4)(h)(II), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

(2) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(3) For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1244, see section 1 of chapter 332, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's New Clean Air Program", see 22 Colo. Law. 541 (1993).

25-7-109.4. Air quality science advisory board - created - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1191, § 13, effective July 1. L. 98: (10)(a) amended, p. 169, § 1, effective April 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (10)(a) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2008. (See L. 98, p. 169.)

25-7-109.5. Toxic air contaminants - annual toxic emissions reporting program - monitoring program - health-based standards - emission control regulations - air toxics permitting program assessment - rules - definitions.

(1) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Adverse health effects" means the detrimental health effects from exposure to emissions of a toxic air contaminant, including the cumulative effects to health from exposure to the combined air emissions of the toxic air contaminant from multiple sources, whether the emissions are emitted routinely, intermittently, or accidentally.

(b) "Community-led monitoring programs" means air monitoring and data collection, concerning concentrations of toxic air contaminants in the ambient air, conducted by local governments, nongovernmental organizations, or community groups that is at least as stringent as the second edition of the federal environmental protection agency's "Compendium of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air".

(c) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(d) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(e) "Health-based standards" means the chronic exposure limits for each priority toxic air contaminant required to protect the public from adverse health effects of that priority toxic air contaminant, allowing for an ample margin of safety, represented as benchmark numerical concentrations in the ambient air.

(f) "Priority toxic air contaminant" means, as determined by the commission by rule under subsection (6)(a)(I) of this section, a toxic air contaminant that may pose a risk of harm to public health.

(g) (I) "Scientific community" means individuals who are professionally or academically engaged in scientific research about adverse health effects from exposure to toxic substances and have expertise in fields that include pathology, oncology, epidemiology, or toxicology.

(II) "Scientific community" includes individuals with experience in the fields of atmospheric physics, meteorology, or ambient monitoring or experience assessing the impacts of emissions of toxic air contaminants on concentrations in the ambient air.

(h) "Synthetic minor source " has the meaning set forth in section 25-7-114 (6).

(i) "Toxic air contaminant" means:

(I) A hazardous air pollutant;

(II) A covered air toxic, as defined in section 25-7-141 (2)(b); or

(III) Any other air pollutant that the commission designates as a toxic air contaminant pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(2) Rules.

(a) The commission shall promulgate rules that are necessary for the proper implementation and administration of this section.

(b) Notwithstanding any limitation in this article 7 to the contrary, the commission may adopt rules under this section that are more stringent than the corresponding requirements of the federal act and the regulations adopted pursuant to the federal act.

(3) Review of the list of toxic air contaminants - rules.

(a) The division shall publish an initial list of the toxic air contaminants designated pursuant to subsections (1)(i)(I) and (1)(i)(II) of this section by October 1, 2022.

(b) Beginning no later than September 30, 2030, and every five years thereafter, or more frequently if the commission deems it appropriate to do so, the commission shall, pursuant to subsection (1)(i)(III) of this section, review the list of toxic air contaminants and determine whether to designate any additional air pollutants as toxic air contaminants.

(c) The commission may determine that an expedited review is appropriate based on a request of any person if, as part of the request, the person demonstrates to the commission's satisfaction that new or updated scientific data related to the adverse effects of an air pollutant warrants expedited consideration for designation as a toxic air contaminant. If the commission undertakes an expedited consideration of an air pollutant for designation as a toxic air contaminant, the commission's next review of additional air pollutants must take place no later than five years after the expedited consideration.

(d) In determining whether any air pollutant should be designated by the commission as a toxic air contaminant, the commission shall consider:

(I) Input from the public and the scientific community;

(II) Existing data concerning emissions of air pollutants, including data reported to:

(A) The division concerning the emissions of toxic air pollutants; and

(B) The federal toxics release inventory pursuant to 42 U.S.C. sec. 11023 or prepared by the federal environmental protection agency's air toxics screening assessment (airtoxscreen) program;

(III) Information submitted to the commission about the toxicity of air pollutants that is publicly available and peer-reviewed related to:

(A) Potency;

(B) Mode of action;

(C) Exposure patterns;

(D) Adverse health effects; and

(E) Levels of exposure that may cause or contribute to adverse health effects, including adverse health effects arising from disproportionately high exposure of particularly vulnerable groups, including disproportionately impacted communities, infants, children, fetuses, the elderly, and people with disabilities; and

(IV) Identifications of air pollutants as toxic air contaminants in other states.

(4) Annual toxic emissions reporting program - study - rules.

(a) On or before June 30 of each year, beginning on June 30, 2024, all owners and operators of sources required to have an operating permit pursuant to section 25-7-114.3 and synthetic minor sources must submit an annual toxic emissions report to the division that reports the amount of each toxic air contaminant emitted by each source in the preceding calendar year, beginning with January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The division shall make annual toxic emissions reports submitted to the division pursuant to this subsection (4)(a) available to the public.

(b) If there is a change of ownership or control of the stationary source prior to June 30 of the year that an annual toxic emissions report must be submitted, the owner or operator as of June 30 of that year is responsible for submitting the annual toxic emissions report required under subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(c) (I) The division shall conduct a study and prepare a report that includes:

(A) An analysis of the existing requirements for reporting toxic air contaminants to the division and the federal environmental protection agency;

(B) An assessment of the availability and quality of toxic air contaminant data reported to the division and the federal environmental protection agency, with the reporting data broken down by individual toxic air contaminant, geographic area, industry sector, and whether categories of stationary sources reporting the data are sources required to have an operating permit pursuant to section 25-7-114.3, synthetic minor sources, or minor sources; and

(C) An identification of the informational gaps in the reporting of toxic air contaminants to the division and the federal environmental protection agency.

(II) The division shall provide public notice and hold at least two public meetings at which members of the public have an opportunity to comment on the report. The division shall also conduct outreach to and solicit feedback from disproportionately impacted communities and workers at stationary sources. In finalizing the report, the division shall include in the report a summary of any comments received from the public, disproportionately impacted communities, workers at stationary sources, and the scientific community and identify any significant changes made to the report based on those comments. No later than October 1, 2024, the division shall submit the finalized report to the commission.

(III) No later than April 30, 2025, the commission shall, based on the informational gaps identified in the report, consider the adoption of rules that ensure annual reports on toxic air contaminants are submitted to the division and may require additional types of information to be included in annual toxic emissions reports submitted to the division for operations and emissions occurring in calendar year 2025 and each calendar year thereafter.

(d) The commission may establish by rule a de minimis level of emissions of a toxic air contaminant beneath which an owner or operator is not required to report on the emissions of the toxic air contaminant through an annual toxic emissions report submitted pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(5) Toxic air contaminant monitoring program - reporting - rules.

(a) Beginning no later than January 1, 2024, in addition to the fenceline monitoring program established under section 25-7-141 (5) and the community-based monitoring program established under section 25-7-141 (6), the division shall develop and begin to conduct a monitoring program to determine the concentrations of toxic air contaminants in the ambient air of the state.

(b) The program shall include the installation and operation of at least six monitoring sites covering both urban and rural areas of the state. The division shall ensure that at least three monitoring sites are installed and operating by January 1, 2024, and that at least three additional monitoring sites are installed and operating by July 1, 2025. Each monitoring site must have the ability to detect trends in concentrations of various toxic air contaminants in the ambient air over time at the site.

(c) At a minimum, a monitoring site must measure the concentrations of:

(I) The toxic air contaminants identified in section 2.3 of the federal environmental protection agency's "National Air Toxics Trends Station Work Plan Template (Revised April 2019)". For the measurement of a toxic air contaminant specified in this subsection (5)(c)(I), the measurement must meet the required minimum detection limit specified for the measured air pollutant in section 3.1 of the federal environmental protection agency's "National Air Toxics Trends Station Work Plan Template (Revised April 2019)" or the most recent version.

(II) The toxic air contaminants identified in table 1.2-1 of the federal environmental protection agency's "Technical Assistance Document for the National Air Toxics Trends Stations Program (Revision 3)" from October 2016 or the most recent version. For the measurement of a toxic air contaminant specified in this subsection (5)(c)(II) and all other toxic air contaminants measured under the monitoring program, the division must specify a method detection limit for each toxic air contaminant pursuant to appendix B of 40 CFR 136.

(d) In determining the location of any new monitoring site, the division shall:

(I) Provide public notice and hold at least two public meetings where members of the public have an opportunity to comment on the division's proposed locations for the monitoring sites; and

(II) Give priority to locations that are within a disproportionately impacted community.

(e) The division may change the location of any monitoring site after following the procedure and requirements specified in subsection (5)(d) of this section.

(f) No later than July 1, 2025, and by July 1 each year thereafter, the division shall provide public notice and hold at least two public meetings at which members of the public have an opportunity to comment on the monitoring program. The division shall also conduct outreach to and solicit feedback from disproportionately impacted communities on the monitoring program.

(g) (I) No later than October 1, 2025, and by October 1 each year thereafter, the division shall prepare an annual report that summarizes the toxic air contaminant data collected by the monitoring sites in the previous calendar year. The division shall include in the report a summary of any comments received from the public, disproportionately impacted communities, and the scientific community during the two public meetings held pursuant to subsection (5)(f) of this section.

(II) Once the report is finalized, the division shall:

(A) Post the report on the division's website in both English and Spanish; and

(B) Submit the finalized report to the health and human services committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the requirement to report to the legislative committees continues indefinitely.

(h) The division shall report on the need for any additional monitoring sites for the monitoring program, and the costs associated with additional monitoring sites, to the health and human services committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, during the committees' hearings held prior to the 2027 regular session of the general assembly under the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

(6) Health-based standards - rules.

(a) The commission shall adopt rules that:

(I) No later than April 30, 2025, identify up to five priority toxic air contaminants considering:

(A) Existing data concerning toxic air contaminants gathered through division monitoring programs;

(B) Data reported to the division concerning emissions of toxic air pollutants;

(C) Data reported to the federal toxics release inventory pursuant to 42 U.S.C. sec. 11023 and data prepared by the federal environmental protection agency's air toxics screening assessment (airtoxscreen) program;

(D) Any other relevant data submitted to the commission during the rule-making process concerning the amount of emissions and concentrations of toxic air contaminants in the ambient air of the state, including data collected through community-led monitoring programs; and

(E) Input from the scientific community; and

(II) No later than April 30, 2026, propose health-based standards for priority toxic air contaminants for approval by the general assembly.

(b) In determining the health-based standards, the commission shall:

(I) Consider the best available peer-reviewed toxicity values regarding the levels of exposure to priority toxic air contaminants that may cause or contribute to adverse health effects;

(II) Consider standards adopted in other states to reduce or limit concentrations of toxic air contaminants in the ambient air;

(III) Consider the effects of exposure to priority toxic air contaminants on vulnerable groups of the state, including disproportionately impacted communities, infants, children, fetuses, the elderly, and people with disabilities;

(IV) Consider both cancer-related health risks and non-cancer-related health risks.

(V) Provide for a sufficient margin of safety that accounts for the various effects that different populations may experience from exposure to priority toxic air contaminants;

(VI) Consult with the scientific community through holding at least one public hearing specifically for this consultation; and

(VII) Identify the excess cancer and non-cancer risk levels for use in determining the health-based standards.

(c) Beginning no later than September 30, 2029, and at least once every five years thereafter, the commission shall:

(I) Determine whether to identify any additional priority toxic air contaminants considering the data described in subsection (6)(a)(I) of this section;

(II) Determine whether to include acute exposure limits for priority toxic air contaminants in the definition of health-based standards;

(III) Determine whether to revise the excess cancer and non-cancer risk levels for use in determining the health-based standards;

(IV) Review existing health-based standards to ensure that the standards sufficiently protect public health; and

(V) Determine whether to propose revisions to the general assembly to any existing health-based standards in accordance with the considerations set forth in subsection (6)(b) of this section, and, if a determination is made to revise any existing health-based standard, the commission must, within twelve months after the determination, adopt rules to that effect.

(d) No more than twelve months after the commission makes the determination pursuant to subsection (6)(c)(I) of this section, the commission shall propose to the general assembly health-based standards for any additional priority toxic air contaminants in accordance with subsection (6)(b) of this section.

(7) Emission control regulations - rules.

(a) No later than April 30, 2026, the commission shall adopt emission control regulations to reduce emissions of each priority toxic air contaminant and prioritize reductions in disproportionately impacted communities with multiple sources of emissions of priority toxic air contaminants.

(b) In determining the emission control regulations, the commission shall consider:

(I) Any emission control regulations adopted for priority toxic air contaminants in other states or by the federal government;

(II) The emission levels of a priority toxic air contaminant from different industries and categories of sources, including sources required to have an operating permit pursuant to section 25-7-114.3, synthetic minor sources, and minor sources;

(III) The degree of reduction of each priority toxic air contaminant that is achievable and technically and economically feasible, taking into account energy, environmental, and economic impacts and other costs pursuant to the requirements described in section 25-7-110.8;

(IV) The ability of emission control regulations to reduce or eliminate the emissions of a priority toxic air contaminant, including non-emitting alternative processes and control technologies; and

(V) The availability, suitability, and relative efficacy of a less hazardous substitute for a priority toxic air contaminant.

(c) For new emission sources of priority toxic air contaminants, the commission shall adopt emission control regulations that are more stringent than those adopted for existing emission sources of priority toxic air contaminants. The commission may also adopt an emissions threshold below which new emission sources shall not be required to comply with the more stringent emission control regulations.

(d) Beginning no later than September 30, 2030, and at least once every five years thereafter, the commission shall:

(I) Adopt emission control regulations for any additional priority toxic air contaminants identified by the commission in accordance with subsection (6)(c)(I) of this section; and

(II) Determine whether to revise the existing emission control regulations in accordance with the considerations set forth in subsection (7)(b) of this section.

(e) In reviewing and approving air pollution permits under section 25-7-114.3, the division shall include any applicable emission control regulations in the permit.

(f) The emission control regulations established under this subsection (7) shall not apply to any electric generating resource located within the state with a closure date no later than January 1, 2031, that has been approved by either the public utilities commission created in section 40-2-101 (1) as part of an electric resource plan or the air pollution control division as part of a clean energy plan.

(8) Air pollution regulation for sources of toxic air contaminants - assessment.

(a) No later than December 31, 2025, the division shall conduct an assessment to determine the needs of the division to administer an air permitting program to regulate new, modified, and existing stationary sources that emit levels of priority toxic air contaminants, referred to in this subsection (8) as the "air toxics permitting program".

(b) The assessment must:

(I) Evaluate air toxics permitting programs for new, modified, and existing stationary sources of priority toxic air contaminants in other states and on tribal lands;

(II) Evaluate and make recommendations regarding the scope of the air toxics permitting program, including the types of permits, stationary sources, industries, and geographic areas of the state that would be impacted by the program;

(III) Identify processes and reasonable timelines for:

(A) The notification to any stationary sources that could be subject to the air toxics permitting program;

(B) The assessment of public health risks associated with a stationary source's emissions of priority toxic air contaminants; and

(C) The assessment and implementation of strategies designed to reduce emissions of priority toxic air contaminants from a stationary source through permitting; and

(IV) Identify the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation of an air toxics permitting program for existing stationary sources and possible funding mechanisms.

(c) The division shall provide public notice and hold at least two public meetings at which members of the public have an opportunity to comment on the assessment. The division shall also conduct outreach to and solicit feedback from disproportionately impacted communities and workers at stationary sources on the assessment.

(d) In finalizing the assessment, the division shall include in the assessment a summary of any comments received from the public, workers at stationary sources, and disproportionately impacted communities and identify any significant changes made to the assessment based on such comments.

(e) The division shall report on the assessment and provide recommendations to the health and human services committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, during the committees' hearings held prior to the 2026 regular session of the general assembly under the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1244), ch. 332, p. 2332, § 4, effective June 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1244, see section 1 of chapter 332, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-7-109.6. Accidental release prevention program.

(1) The commission may promulgate such rules, regulations, and procedures as are necessary to establish and implement an accidental release prevention program consistent with and no sooner than the requirements of section 112 (r) of the federal act, including release prevention, detection, and correction requirements which may include monitoring, record-keeping, reporting, training, vapor recovery, secondary containment, and other design, equipment, work practice, and operational requirements.

(2) For purposes of this section:

(a) "Accidental release" means an unanticipated emission of a regulated substance or other extremely hazardous substance, defined pursuant to the federal act, into the ambient air from a stationary source;

(b) "Regulated substance" means those substances listed by the administrator pursuant to section 112 (r)(3) of the federal act;

(c) "Stationary source" means any buildings, structures, equipment, installations, or substance emitting stationary activities:

(I) Which belong to the same industrial group;

(II) Which are located on one or more contiguous properties;

(III) Which are under the control of the same person (or persons under common control); and

(IV) From which an accidental release may occur.

(d) "Threshold quantity" shall have the same meaning as defined in section 112 (r) of the federal act.

(3) As appropriate, rules, regulations, and procedures promulgated pursuant to this section shall:

(a) Consider the use, operation, repair, replacement, and maintenance of equipment to monitor, detect, inspect, and control such releases, including training of persons in the use and maintenance of such equipment and the conduct of periodic inspections;

(b) Include procedures and measures for emergency response after an accidental release of a regulated substance in order to protect human health and the environment;

(c) Cover storage, as well as operations;

(d) As appropriate, recognize differences in size, operations, processes, classes, and categories of sources and the voluntary actions of such sources to prevent accidental releases and respond to such releases;

(e) Require the owner or operator of stationary sources at which a threshold quantity of a regulated substance is present to prepare and implement a risk management plan to detect and prevent or minimize accidental releases of such substances from the stationary source, and to provide a prompt emergency response to any such releases in order to protect human health and the environment. Such plan shall provide for compliance with the requirements of this subsection (3) and shall also include each of the following:

(I) A hazard assessment, to be updated periodically and registered with the division, the United States environmental protection agency, and other appropriate local agencies, to assess the potential effects of an accidental release of any regulated substance;

(II) A program for preventing accidental releases of regulated substances, including safety precautions and maintenance, monitoring, and employee training measures to be used at the sources; and

(III) A response program providing for specific actions to be taken in response to an accidental release of a regulated substance so as to protect human health and the environment, including procedures for informing the public and local agencies responsible for responding to accidental releases, emergency health care, and employee training measures.

(f) Coordinate notification, reporting, and response requirements between federal, state, and local agencies to avoid duplicate notification and reporting requirements and to integrate emergency response plans.

(4) In addition to any other action taken, when the division determines that there may be an imminent and substantial endangerment to the human health or welfare or the environment because of an actual or threatened accidental release of a regulated substance, the division may take action pursuant to sections 25-7-112 and 25-7-113.

(5) The implementation and effectiveness of this section shall be contingent on the receipt of funding from the federal government in sufficient amount to totally fund the division's costs in implementing this section; except that the small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance assistance program shall be funded as provided in section 25-7-114.7.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1195, § 13, effective July 1.

25-7-110. Commission - procedures to be followed in setting standards and regulations.

(1) Prior to adopting, promulgating, amending, or modifying any ambient air quality standard authorized in section 25-7-108, or any emission control regulation authorized in section 25-7-109, or any other regulatory plans or programs authorized by sections 25-7-105 (1)(c) or 25-7-106, the commission shall conduct a public hearing thereon as provided in section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Notice of any such hearing shall conform to the requirements of section 24-4-103, C.R.S., but such notice shall be given at least sixty days prior to the hearing, and shall include each proposed regulation, and shall be mailed to all persons who have filed with the commission a written request to receive such notices.

(2) Any person desiring to propose a regulation differing from the regulation proposed by the commission or to propose a revision of limited applicability, pursuant to section 25-7-117, to the commission's proposal shall file such other proposal with the commission not less than twenty days prior to the hearing, and, when on file, such proposal shall be open for public inspection.

(3) Witnesses at the hearing shall be subject to cross-examination by or on behalf of the commission and by or on behalf of persons who have proposed regulations pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(4) Rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this article shall not take effect until after they have been published in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S., or on such later date as is stated in such rules and regulations.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1027, § 1, effective June 20.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment, "Environmental Law — Requirement of Notice in Visual Opacity Readings — Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. Western Alfalfa Corp., 94 S. Ct. 2114 (1974)", see 51 Den. L.J. 603 (1974).

25-7-110.5. Required analysis of proposed air quality rules.

(1) In addition to the requirements of section 25-7-110.8, whenever the commission proposes a rule, the technical secretary of the commission shall provide to the public upon request at cost, at the time the notice for public rule-making is published, a proposed rule-making packet containing:

(a) A memorandum of notice, as required by subsection (3) of this section;

(b) The actual language of the proposed rule;

(c) A statement describing the fiscal and economic impact of the proposed rule, as required by subsection (4) of this section;

(d) A statement describing the potential justification for terms differing from federal requirements, as required by subsection (5) of this section;

(e) On or before July 1, 1997, a statement describing the risk analysis, if required by the general assembly under subsection (6) of this section;

(f) The range of regulatory alternatives, including the no-action alternative, to be considered in adopting the proposed rule; and

(g) Any other concise background material that would assist the interested and affected public in understanding the impact of the proposed rule.

(1.5) As used in this section, "rule" includes an amendment to an existing rule.

(2) The requirements of subsections (1)(c) to (1)(f), (3)(g), and (4) of this section shall not apply to any rule-making packet for any commission rule, and the requirements of subsections (3)(g) and (4) of this section shall not apply to any commission rule, which adopts by reference applicable federal rules or which rule is adopted to implement prescriptive state statutory requirements, where the commission is allowed no significant policy-making options, or which rule will have no regulatory impact on any person, facility, or activity.

(3) Whenever the commission proposes a rule, the technical secretary of the commission, in cooperation with the proponent of the rule, shall provide a memorandum of notice containing:

(a) An explanation of the proposed rule;

(b) A disclosure of materials contained in the proposed rule;

(c) A preliminary plan for meetings with the commission staff on the proposed rule;

(d) An explanation of the problem sought to be remedied by the proposed rule;

(e) An analysis of how the proposed rule solves the problem delineated in paragraph (d) of this subsection (3);

(f) An explanation of the process that was used to develop the proposed rule;

(g) An initial analysis of the economic effects of the proposed rule pursuant to subsection (4) of this section;

(h) An explanation of the substantive differences with federal requirements and the requirements of Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, where relevant;

(i) An explanation of how the proposed rule may be implemented;

(j) Whether there will be any time constraints on the regulated community and state agencies as a result of implementation or a delay in implementation of the proposed rule;

(k) A contact person or persons who may provide additional information on the proposed rule to interested persons; and

(l) A no-action analysis.

(4) (a) Before any permanent rule is proposed pursuant to this section, an initial economic impact analysis shall be conducted in compliance with this subsection (4) of the proposed rule or alternative proposed rules. Such economic impact analysis shall be in writing, developed by the proponent, or the division in cooperation with the proponent and made available to the public at the time any request for hearing on a proposed rule is heard by the commission. A final economic impact analysis shall be in writing and delivered to the technical secretary and to all parties of record five working days prior to the prehearing conference or, if no prehearing conference is scheduled, at least ten working days before the date of the rule-making hearing. The proponent of an alternative proposal will provide, in cooperation with the division, a final economic impact analysis five working days prior to the prehearing conference. The economic impact analyses shall be based upon reasonably available data. Except where data is not reasonably available, or as otherwise provided in this section, the failure to provide an economic impact analysis of any noticed proposed rule or any alternative proposed rule will preclude such proposed rule or alternative proposed rule from being considered by the commission. Nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict the commission's authority to consider alternative proposals and alternative economic impact analyses that have not been submitted prior to the prehearing conference for good cause shown and so long as parties have adequate time to review them.

(b) Before any emergency rule is adopted, any person may request that a regulatory analysis, as defined in section 24-4-103 (4.5), C.R.S., be prepared and made available to the public five working days prior to the hearing, unless there is an imminent and serious hazard to health, welfare, or the environment.

(c) The proponent and the division shall select one or more of the following economic impact analyses. The commission may ask affected industry to submit information with regard to the cost of compliance with the proposed rule, and, if it is not provided, it shall not be considered reasonably available. The economic impact analysis required by this subsection (4) shall be based upon reasonably available data and shall consist of one or more of the following:

(I) Cost-effectiveness analyses for air pollution control that identify:

(A) The cumulative cost including but not limited to the total capital, operation, and maintenance costs of any proposed controls for affected business entity or industry to comply with the provisions of the proposal;

(B) Any direct costs to be incurred by the general public to comply with the provisions of the proposal;

(C) Air pollution reductions caused by the proposal;

(D) The cost per unit of air pollution reductions caused by the proposal; and

(E) The cost for the division to implement the provisions of the proposal; or

(II) Industry studies that examine the direct costs of the proposal on directly affected entities that may be either in the form of a business analysis (The regulatory impacts on the general business climate or subsets thereof) or an industry analysis (the regulatory impacts on specific industries), including:

(A) The characteristics and current economic conditions of the impacted business or industry sector; and

(B) The projected impacts on the growth of the affected industry sectors with and without implementation of the proposal; and

(C) How the proposal may effect or alter the growth of the affected industry sector; and

(D) The direct cost of the proposal on the affected industry sector; or

(III) An economic impact analysis that:

(A) Identifies the industrial and business sectors that will be impacted by the proposal; and

(B) Quantifies the direct cost to the primary affected business or industrial sector; and

(C) Incorporates an estimate of the economic impact of the proposal on the supporting business and industrial sectors associated with the primary affected business or industry sectors.

(d) Repealed.

(e) Except as provided in subsection (4)(f) of this section, the economic impact analysis required by this subsection (4) must not consist of an analysis of any nonmarket costs or external costs asserted to occur notwithstanding compliance by a source with applicable environmental regulations.

(f) For a rule that implements section 25-7-105 (1)(e) that may materially affect greenhouse gas emissions, the economic impact analysis required by this subsection (4) must include an analysis of the social cost of greenhouse gases related to the estimated emission reductions from the proposed rule. The analysis must use the most recent assessment of the social cost for those greenhouse gases for which the federal government has determined the cost, and the consideration of the social cost of greenhouse gases must be consistent with existing law and include use of a discount rate of no more than two and one-half percent; except that the social cost of greenhouse gases that is used may not be lower than that established in 2016, using a two and one-half percent discount rate, by the federal interagency working group on the social cost of carbon or than the final social cost of greenhouse gases, using a two and one-half percent or lower effective discount rate, established by the federal interagency working group on the social cost of greenhouse gases pursuant to federal executive order 13990, dated January 20, 2021, whichever is higher.

(g) With regard to the changes made in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266:

(I) Nothing:

(A) Alters the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), in either amount or timing; or

(B) Detracts from the air quality control commission's existing authority to require more than the minimum greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and deadlines previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and

(II) The changes add to, but do not otherwise alter, the air quality control commission's authority and obligation to publish and promulgate rules pursuant to sections 25-7-102 (2)(g), 25-7-105, and 25-7-140.

(5) (a) Whenever the commission proposes any rule that exceeds the requirements of the federal act or differs from the federal act or rules thereunder, the commission shall make available in writing a copy of any such proposed rule and a detailed, footnoted explanation of the differences between the rule and the federal requirements.

(b) The written explanation required pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (5) shall contain an explanation of the following information:

(I) Any federal requirements that are applicable to this situation with a commentary on those requirements;

(II) Whether the applicable federal requirements are performance-based or technology-based and whether there is any flexibility in those requirements, and if not, why not;

(III) Whether the applicable federal requirements specifically address the issues that are of concern to Colorado and whether data or information that would reasonably reflect Colorado's concern and situation was considered in the federal process that established the federal requirements;

(IV) Whether the proposed requirement will improve the ability of the regulated community to comply in a more cost-effective way by clarifying confusing or potentially conflicting requirements (within or cross-media), increasing certainty, or preventing or reducing the need for costly retrofit to meet more stringent requirements later;

(V) Whether there is a timing issue which might justify changing the time frame for implementation of federal requirements;

(VI) Whether the proposed requirement will assist in establishing and maintaining a reasonable margin for accommodation of uncertainty and future growth;

(VII) Whether the proposed requirement establishes or maintains reasonable equity in the requirements for various sources;

(VIII) Whether others would face increased costs if a more stringent rule is not enacted;

(IX) Whether the proposed requirement includes procedural, reporting, or monitoring requirements that are different from applicable federal requirements and, if so, why and what the "compelling reason" is for different procedural, reporting, or monitoring requirements;

(X) Whether demonstrated technology is available to comply with the proposed requirement;

(XI) Whether the proposed requirement will contribute to the prevention of pollution or address a potential problem and represent a more cost-effective environmental gain; and

(XII) Whether an alternative rule, including a no-action alternative, would address the required standard.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1335, § 2, effective July 1. L. 96: IP(1), IP(3), (4)(d), and (5)(a) amended and (1.5) added, p. 1285, § 2, effective June 1. L. 97: (4)(d) amended, p. 526, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2001: (4)(d) amended, p. 640, § 1, effective May 30. L. 2003: (4)(d) amended, p. 843, § 1, effective April 7. L. 2009: (4)(d) repealed, (HB 09-1332), ch. 318, p. 1707, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2021: (4)(e) amended and (4)(f) and (4)(g) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2748, § 16, effective July 2.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(e) provided for the repeal of subsection (6), effective July 1, 1997. (See L. 95, p. 1335.)

Cross references: For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-7-110.8. Additional requirements for commission to act under section 25-7-110.5.

(1) In issuing any final rule intended to reduce air pollution, except for any rule that adopts by reference applicable federal rules, if the commission has no discretion under state law not to adopt the rules or to adopt any alternative rule, the commission shall make a determination that:

(a) Any rule promulgated under section 25-7-110.5 is based on reasonably available, validated, reviewed, and sound scientific methodologies and that all validated, reviewed, and sound scientific methodologies and information made available by interested parties has been considered. Such review may include internal organizational review and not peer review.

(b) Evidence in the record supports the finding that the rule shall result in a demonstrable reduction in air pollution to be addressed by the rule unless such rule is administrative in nature;

(c) On and after July 1, 1997, and in conformance with guidance from the general assembly to incorporate the recommendations of the task force established in section 25-7-110.5 (6), prior to its repeal in 1997, evidence in the record supports the finding that the rule must bring about reductions in risks to human health or the environment or provide other benefits that will justify the cost to government, the regulated community, and to the public to implement and comply with the rule;

(d) The commission shall choose an alternative that is the most cost-effective under the analysis required by section 25-7-110.5 (4), provides the regulated community flexibility, and which achieves the necessary reduction in air pollution. The commission may reject the most cost-effective alternative and shall provide findings of fact detailing why the most cost-effective alternative is unacceptable.

(e) The selection of the regulatory alternative by the commission will maximize the air quality benefits of regulation pursuant to this article in the most cost-effective manner. For purposes of the required analyses under this section, prior to the completion of the rule-making required pursuant to section 25-7-110.5, no benefit (except for air pollution reductions) can be attributed to regulating a facility already operating in compliance with a permit issued pursuant to applicable law.

(1.5) As used in this section, "rule" includes an amendment to an existing rule.

(2) In the event that the commission and division fail to reasonably comply with requirements of section 25-7-110.5 or this section, the rule shall be void and unenforceable. Judicial review of agency action under this section or section 25-7-110.5 may only be obtained by parties to the rule-making hearing and can only be brought regarding deficiencies or issues alleging a failure to comply with the requirements in section 25-7-110.5 or this section raised during or before the hearing to afford the commission, its staff, or interested parties an opportunity to address the deficiencies or issues raised.

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1335, § 2, effective July 1. L. 96: IP(1) amended and (1.5) added, p. 1285, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2020: (1)(c) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 295, § 42, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-7-111. Administration of air quality control programs - directive - prescribed fire - review.

(1) The division shall administer and enforce the air quality control programs adopted by the commission. In furtherance of such responsibility of the division, the executive director of the department of public health and environment shall establish within the division a separate air quality control agency, the head of which shall be a licensed professional engineer or shall have a graduate degree in engineering or other specialty dealing with the problems of air quality control. Such person shall also have appropriate practical and administrative experience related to air quality control. Such person shall not be the technical secretary employed pursuant to section 25-7-105 (3). Any potential conflict of interest of such person shall be adequately disclosed prior to appointment and as may from time to time arise.

(2) In addition to authority specified elsewhere in this article, the division has the power to:

(a) Conduct or cause to be conducted studies and research with respect to air pollution and the control, abatement, or prevention thereof, as requested by the commission;

(b) Collect data, by means of field studies and air monitoring conducted by the division or by individual stationary sources or individual indirect air pollution sources, and determine the nature and quality of existing ambient air throughout the state;

(c) Enter and inspect any property, premises, or place for the purpose of investigating any actual, suspected, or potential source of air pollution or ascertaining compliance or noncompliance with any requirement of this article or any order or permit, or term or condition thereof, issued or promulgated pursuant to this article; and the division may, at reasonable times, have access to and copy any record, inspect any monitoring equipment or method, or sample any emissions required pursuant to section 25-7-106 (6) or part 5 of this article; except that, if such entry or inspection is denied or not consented to and no emergency exists, the division is empowered to and shall obtain from the district or county court for the district or county in which such property, premises, or place is located a warrant to enter and inspect any such property, premises, or place prior to entry and inspection. The district and county courts of this state are empowered to issue such warrants upon a proper showing of the need for such entry and inspection. Any information relating to secret processes or methods of manufacture or production obtained in the course of the inspection or investigation shall be kept confidential; except that emission data shall not be withheld from the division as confidential. A duplicate of any analytical report or observation of an air pollutant by the division shall be furnished promptly to the person who is suspected of causing such air pollution.

(d) Furnish technical advice and services relating to air pollution problems and control techniques;

(e) Inform the appropriate governmental agency of the results of atmospheric tests conducted in its jurisdiction and notify the affected city, town, county, or city and county whenever tests establish that the ambient air or source of emission of smoke or air pollution fails to meet the standards established under this article;

(f) Designate one or more persons or agencies in any area of the state as an air pollution control authority as agent of the division to exercise and perform such powers and duties of the division as may be specified in such designation;

(g) Furnish such personnel to the commission as the commission may reasonably require to carry out its duties and responsibilities under this article;

(h) Certify, or otherwise designate, to any other agency or department of this state or of any other state or of the federal government that any facility, land, building, machinery, or equipment, or any part thereof, has been constructed, erected, installed, or acquired in conformity with the requirements of this state or of this article for control of air pollution or in conformity with the requirements for control of air pollution of any other state or the federal government;

(i) Require any source to furnish information which the division may reasonably require relating to emissions of the source or to any investigation authorized by this article. If such request for information is refused, the division is empowered to and may obtain from the district or county court for the district or county in which the source is located a subpoena to compel production of such information.

(3) Repealed.

(4) The division shall assure that any information obtained by the division which is entitled to protection as a trade secret under federal or Colorado law is kept confidential and protected against disclosure, except as required by the federal act.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1027, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (2)(c) and (2)(g) amended, p. 769, § 5, effective July 1. L. 87: (2)(c) amended, p. 1152, § 4, effective July 1. L. 92: (2)(c) amended and (2)(i), (3), and (4) added, pp. 1197, 1293, 1198, §§ 14, 3, 15, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2783, § 500, effective July 1. L. 96: (3) repealed, p. 1258, § 153, effective August 7. L. 2004: (1) amended, p. 1311, § 58, effective May 28. L. 2009: (5) added, (HB 09-1199), ch. 411, p. 2278, § 4, effective June 3. L. 2019: (1) amended, (SB 19-083), ch. 13, p. 54, § 2, effective August 2.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(d) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective July 1, 2011. (See L. 2009, p. 2278.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996. For the legislative declaration in SB 19-083, see section 1 of chapter 13, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment, "Environmental Law — Requirement of Notice in Visual Opacity Readings — Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. Western Alfalfa Corp., 94 S. Ct. 2114 (1974)", see 51 Den. L.J. 603 (1974). For article, "State and Federal Legislative Response to the Asbestos Threat", see 17 Colo. Law. 1973 (1988).

The air quality control commission does not have authority to collect data, by means of field studies and air monitoring conducted by the division; the Colorado Air Pollution and Prevention Act allocates the responsibility to the division to handle air quality monitoring and to certify the required data to the federal government. Therefore, the air quality commission does not have the authority to require that the certification include supplemental information intended to show that the recorded ozone levels would have been lower if not for exceptional factors. Defend Colo. v. Polis, 2021 COA 8, 482 P.3d 531.

Inspection held not unreasonable search. Where, under the former Colorado air pollution control act, a Colorado department of health inspector entered respondent's plant yard to make a test of the plumes of smoke being emitted from respondent's plant chimneys, without a warrant or respondent's knowledge, such inspection did not amount to an unreasonable search, since the inspector had sighted what anyone in the city who was near the plant could see, plumes of smoke. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 416 U.S. 861 (1974).

25-7-112. Air pollution emergencies endangering public health anywhere in this state.

(1) Whenever the division determines, after an investigation initiated either independently by the division or upon the request of an affected member of the public living or working in the vicinity of a suspected discharge, that any person is either engaging in any activity involving a significant risk of air pollution or is discharging or causing to be discharged into the atmosphere, directly or indirectly, any air pollutants and such activity or discharge constitutes a clear, present, and immediate danger to the environment or to the health of the public, or that any such activity or discharge of air pollutants, if permitted to continue unabated, will result in a condition of clear, present, and immediate danger to the health of the public, the division shall:

(a) Issue a written cease-and-desist order to said person requiring immediate discontinuance of such activity or the discharge of such pollutant into the atmosphere, and, upon receipt of such order, such person shall immediately discontinue such activity or discharge; or

(b) Apply to any district court of this state for the district in which the said activity or discharge is occurring for a temporary restraining order, temporary injunction, or permanent injunction as provided for in the Colorado rules of civil procedure. Any such action in a district court shall be given precedence over all other matters pending in such district court. The institution of such injunction proceedings by the division shall confer upon said district court exclusive jurisdiction to determine finally the subject matter of the proceeding; or

(c) Both issue such a cease-and-desist order and apply for any such restraining order or injunction.

(1.5) (a) If, upon the request of a member of the public as described in subsection (1) of this section, the division chooses to investigate a suspected discharge, the division shall report the result of its investigation to the person who made the request and shall make such result public no later than sixty days after the completion of the investigation. If the person who made the request is dissatisfied with the result of the investigation, or if no investigation was made, such person may complain to the commission by petition.

(b) Upon receipt of a petition filed under paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.5), the commission shall promptly give notice of receipt of the petition to the owner or operator of the source of the alleged discharge, and, after considering the petition, the response, if any, of such owner or operator, and the response of the division, the commission shall respond to the petition within forty-five days after receipt by:

(I) Ordering the division to proceed with a new or further investigation under this section or section 25-7-113; or

(II) Denying the petition and stating the reasons for denial, which may include, but are not limited to, the lack of a substantial factual basis, the allegation of facts substantially similar to those at issue in a previous or currently pending investigation, or a finding that the petition was interposed for purposes of harassment or delay; or

(III) Providing an opportunity to submit additional factual information in support of, or in response to, the petition. The commission may require any new information to be submitted in writing, or it may convene an informal hearing as soon as is practicable.

(c) A hearing held pursuant to subparagraph (III) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1.5) shall be subject to the following procedural requirements:

(I) The hearing shall be conducted as an informal hearing, and, in particular, no sworn testimony shall be taken except as the commission deems necessary to clarify the factual basis of the petition;

(II) Parties may represent themselves or be represented by agents who need not be attorneys;

(III) Notice of such hearing shall be given at least twenty days prior to the hearing;

(IV) The purpose of the hearing shall be to enable the commission to decide whether to order an investigation as provided in subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1.5); and

(V) To preserve the commission's role as an appellate body, the hearing shall not be used as a forum for determining the merits of the petition.

(2) (a) Whenever the division determines, after investigation, that the condition of the ambient air in any portion of this state constitutes a clear, present, and immediate danger to the environment or to the health of the public, or that any activity or discharge of air pollutants, if permitted to continue unabated, will result in a condition of clear, present, and immediate danger to the health of the public, and that the procedures available to the division under subsection (1) of this section will not adequately protect the public, it shall immediately notify the governor of its determination of either of such conditions, and it shall request the governor to declare a state of air pollution emergency in such portion of this state.

(b) Upon such notification and request by the division, the governor is empowered to declare a state of air pollution emergency in such portion of the state and to take any and all actions necessary to protect the health of the public in such portion of the state, including, but not limited to:

(I) Ordering a halt or curtailment of the movement of all motor vehicles except emergency vehicles; and

(II) Ordering a halt or curtailment of all operations, activities, processes, or conditions which he reasonably believes to be contributing to such emergency.

(c) From time to time, whenever appropriate, the governor, in cooperation with his department heads, shall develop or modify such plans as will be necessary or appropriate to control and abate the air pollution conditions most likely to require the exercise of the powers granted in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2).

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1029, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: IP(1) and (2)(a) amended, p. 1198, § 16, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(1) amended and (1.5) added, p. 1420, § 3, effective May 25.

Cross references: For injunctions, see C.R.C.P. 65.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For comment, "Environmental Law — Requirement of Notice in Visual Opacity Readings — Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. Western Alfalfa Corp., 94 S. Ct. 2114 (1974)", see 51 Den. L.J. 603 (1974). For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

25-7-113. Air pollution emergencies endangering public welfare anywhere in this state.

(1) Whenever the division determines, after investigation, that any person is either engaging in any activity involving a significant risk of air pollution or is discharging or causing to be discharged into the atmosphere, directly or indirectly, any air pollutants and such activity or discharge does not constitute a clear, present, and immediate danger to the health of the public, but is of such a nature as to cause extreme discomfort or that it is an immediate danger to the welfare of the public because such pollutants make habitation of residences or the conduct of businesses subjected to the pollutants extremely unhealthy or disruptive, the division shall:

(a) Issue a written cease-and-desist order to said person requiring immediate discontinuance of such activity or the discharge of such pollutant into the atmosphere, and, upon receipt of such order, such person shall immediately discontinue such activity or discharge; or

(b) Apply to any district court of this state for the district in which the said activity or discharge is occurring for a temporary restraining order, temporary injunction, or permanent injunction as provided for in the Colorado rules of civil procedure. Any such action in a district court shall be given precedence over all other matters pending in such district court. The institution of such injunction proceedings by the division shall confer upon said district court exclusive jurisdiction to determine finally the subject matter of the proceeding; or

(c) Both issue such a cease-and-desist order and apply for any such restraining order or injunction.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1030, § 1, effective June 20.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

Applied in CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

25-7-114. Permit program - definitions.

As used in sections 25-7-114 to 25-7-114.7, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Affected source" means a source that includes one or more fossil-fuel-fired combustion devices subject to emission reduction requirements or limitations under subchapter IV of the federal act or this article.

(2) "Construction permit" means the same as an "emission permit" as required under this section as it existed prior to July 1, 1992, and is the permit required under section 25-7-114.2 after July 1, 1992.

(3) "Major source" means any stationary source (or group of stationary sources which have the same two-digit standard industrial code, are located on one or more contiguous or adjacent properties, and are under common control) that:

(a) Subject to the provisions of section 112 (n)(4) of the federal act, emits or has the potential to emit considering enforceable controls, in the aggregate, ten tons per year or more of any hazardous air pollutant or twenty-five tons per year or more of any combination of hazardous air pollutants, or such lesser quantity of hazardous air pollutants as may be established pursuant to the federal act; or

(b) Directly emits, or has the potential to emit, one hundred tons per year or more of any air pollutant; or

(c) Meets any of the definitions of major source set forth in Part D of subchapter I of the federal act.

(4) "Potential to emit" means the maximum capacity of a stationary source to emit a pollutant under its physical and operational design. Any physical or operational limitations on the capacity of the source to emit a pollutant, including air pollution control equipment and restrictions on hours of operation or on the type or amount of material combusted, stored, or processed, shall be treated as part of its design if the limitation or the effect it would have on emissions is enforceable and federally enforceable. Secondary emissions do not count in determining the potential to emit of a stationary source.

(5) "Schedule of compliance" means a schedule of required measures, including an enforceable sequence of actions or operations, leading to compliance with an applicable implementation plan, emission standard, emission limitation, emission prohibition, or emission control regulation.

(6) "Synthetic minor source" means, for purposes of this article, any source which would otherwise meet the definition of major source for any pollutants but for the existence of enforceable emission limitations contained in the permit or regulation applicable to that source.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1030, § 1, effective June 20. L. 82: (5)(b) amended, p. 423, § 1, effective April 23. L. 84: (5)(b) amended, p. 783, § 4, effective April 12; IP(4), (4)(f)(I)(A), (4)(f)(I)(B), (4)(f)(II), IP(4)(g)(I), (4)(g)(III), (4)(h), and (4)(i) amended, p. 770, § 6, effective July 1. L. 87: (5)(b) amended, p. 1140, § 1, effective June 10; (5) amended, p. 1138, § 1, effective July 1; (5)(b) amended, p. 1152, § 5, effective July 1. L. 89: (4)(m) and (5)(c) to (5)(f) added and (5)(a) amended, p. 1165, §§ 1, 2, effective May 26. L. 91: (5)(d)(III) amended and (5)(f) repealed, p. 940, §§ 1, 2, effective May 16. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1198, § 17, effective July 1. L. 94: (6) amended, p. 1421, § 4, effective May 25.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (5)(b) by Senate Bill 87-145, House Bill 87-1239, and House Bill 87-1372 were harmonized.

25-7-114.1. Air pollutant emission notices - rules - fees.

(1) (a) No person shall permit emission of air pollutants from, or construction or alteration of, any facility, process, or activity except residential structures from which air pollutants are, or are to be, emitted unless and until an air pollutant emission notice has been filed with the division with respect to such emission. The commission may require that air pollutant emission notices for greenhouse gas, as defined in section 25-7-140 (6), report the previous calendar year's emissions of greenhouse gas in the form of carbon dioxide equivalent. An air pollutant emission notice is valid for a period of no more than five years.

(b) With regard to the changes made in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266:

(I) Nothing:

(A) Alters the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), in either amount or timing; or

(B) Detracts from the air quality control commission's existing authority to require more than the minimum greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and deadlines previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and

(II) The changes add to, but do not otherwise alter, the air quality control commission's authority and obligation to publish and promulgate rules pursuant to sections 25-7-102 (2)(g), 25-7-105, and 25-7-140.

(2) A revised emission notice shall be filed whenever a significant change in emissions, in processes, or in the facility is anticipated or has occurred or as the commission otherwise determines to be necessary. The revised air pollutant emission notice is valid for no more than five years or until the underlying permit expires. The commission shall exempt those sources or categories of sources that it determines to be of minor significance from the requirement that an air pollutant emission notice be filed.

(3) The commission shall promulgate a list of air pollutants that are required to be reported in an air pollutant emission notice. No later than December 31, 2022, the commission shall include greenhouse gas, as defined in section 25-7-140 (6), in the list of air pollutants required to be reported in an air pollutant emission notice and shall identify the categories of sources for which and the thresholds below which greenhouse gas does not need to be reported in an air pollutant emission notice. An air pollutant emission notice for greenhouse gases need not be required for a facility or entity that is otherwise exempt from reporting greenhouse gas emissions to the division pursuant to a rule adopted by the commission. Prior to the commission's promulgation of such a list of air pollutants to be reported in an air pollutant emission notice, sources shall report any emissions of the following that are in excess of de minimis quantities:

(a) Volatile organic compounds or precursors of air quality problems in Colorado as determined by the commission by regulation;

(b) Any pollutant regulated under section 25-7-109.3 or under section 112(b) of the federal act;

(c) Any pollutant for which a national primary ambient air quality standard has been promulgated under section 109 of the federal act;

(d) All extremely hazardous substances listed pursuant to section 302(a)(2) of the federal "Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. sec. 11002 (a)(2).

(4) Each notice required by this section must specify the location at which the proposed emission will occur; the name and address of the person operating or owning the facility, process, or activity; the nature of the facility, process, or activity; and an estimate of the quantity and composition of the expected emission. The division shall provide appropriate forms on which the information required by this section must be furnished.

(5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2001, p. 640, § 2, effective May 30, 2001.)

(6) (a) For state fiscal year 2020-21, the fee for filing an air pollutant emission notice or an amendment to the notice under this section is two hundred sixteen dollars. For state fiscal year 2021-22, the fee for filing an air pollutant emission notice or an amendment to the notice under this section is two hundred forty-two dollars. Thereafter, the commission may adjust the fee by rule to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7. The money collected pursuant to this subsection (6)(a) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit it to the stationary sources control fund created in section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b)(I).

(b) Notwithstanding the amount specified for the fee in paragraph (a) of this subsection (6), the commission by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of the fee if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of the fee is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the commission by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of the fee as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1200, § 18, effective July 1. L. 93: (6) amended, p. 941, § 1, effective May 28; (3)(d) and (5)(b)(I) amended, p. 1787, § 68, effective June 6. L. 98: (6) amended, p. 1334, § 48, effective June 1. L. 2001: (2), (5), and (6)(a) amended, p. 640, § 2, effective May 30. L. 2008: (6)(a) amended, p. 882, § 2, effective May 20. L. 2018: (6)(a) amended, (HB 18-1400), ch. 218, p. 1393, § 2, effective May 18. L. 2020: (6)(a) amended, (SB 20-204), ch. 192, p. 891, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1), (2), and IP(3) amended, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2731, § 7, effective July 2. L. 2022: (4) amended, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2157, § 6, effective June 2.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1400, see section 1 of chapter 218, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

(2) For the short title ("Clean Up Colorado's Air Act") in SB 20-204, see section 1 of chapter 192, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

(3) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's New Clean Air Program", see 22 Colo. Law. 541 (1993).

25-7-114.2. Construction permits.

No person shall construct or substantially alter any building, facility, structure, or installation, except single-family residential structures, or install any machine, equipment, or other device, or commence the conduct of any such activity, or commence performance of any combinations thereof, or commence operations of any of the same which will or do constitute a new stationary source or a new indirect air pollution source without first obtaining or having a valid construction permit therefor from the division or commission, as the case may be; except that no construction permit shall be required for new indirect air pollution sources until regulations regarding construction permits for such sources have been promulgated by the commission, but in no event shall regulations governing indirect air pollution sources be more stringent than those required for compliance with the federal act and final rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto. Any emission permit validly issued prior to July 1, 1992, pursuant to section 25-7-114, as said section existed prior to July 1, 1992, and in effect on or after July 1, 1992, shall be deemed to be a valid construction permit issued pursuant to this section. The commission shall designate by regulation those classes of minor or insignificant sources of air pollution which are exempt from the requirement for a permit because of their negligible impact on air quality.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1202, § 18, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's New Clean Air Program", see 22 Colo. Law. 541 (1993).

25-7-114.3. Operating permits required for emission of pollutants.

(1) No person shall operate any of the following sources without first obtaining a renewable operating permit from the division for such source in a manner consistent with the requirements of this article and the federal act:

(a) Any affected source;

(b) Any major source;

(c) Any source required to comply with standards of performance for new stationary sources under section 111 of the federal act, unless otherwise exempted from permitting requirements pursuant to federal rules adopted in accordance with section 502 of the federal act;

(d) Any source subject to emission standards or regulations for hazardous air pollutants under section 112 of the federal act, unless otherwise exempted from federal permitting requirements pursuant to federal rules adopted in accordance with section 502 of the federal act;

(e) Any source required to have a permit pursuant to part 2 (prevention of significant deterioration program) or part 3 (attainment program) of this article, or Part C (prevention of significant deterioration of air quality) or Part D (plan requirements for nonattainment area) of subchapter I of the federal act;

(f) Any other source designated under federal law as requiring an operating permit.

(2) For those sources located in the state and participating in the federal early reductions program as specified in section 112 (i)(5) of the federal act, or the United States environmental protection agency's 33/50 program, or the state early reductions program as set forth in subsection (3) of this section, or any of such programs, the commission and division shall establish a system to credit emission permit fees to be established pursuant to sections 25-7-114.6 and 25-7-114.7 and to be assessed against such sources at a ratio of at least two-for-one for every ton of emissions reduced pursuant to the federal early reductions program, the United States environmental protection agency's 33/50 program, or the state early reductions program. A participating source shall be offered a one-time permit fee credit of two tons for each corresponding ton of its reduced emissions that are verified by the division. The permit fee credit shall be available in the year following the year in which the early reduction in emissions is achieved.

(3) The commission shall adopt the federal early reductions program specified in section 112 (i)(5) of the federal act and promulgate a state early reductions program which shall include the following elements:

(a) The state early reductions program shall be consistent with the federal early reductions program; and

(b) A six-year extension of compliance for existing sources with emission standards promulgated pursuant to section 112 (d) of the federal act if the source has achieved an emission reduction of ninety percent or more of hazardous air pollutants (ninety-five percent or more for hazardous air pollutants which are particulates); and

(c) If a source is granted a compliance extension, an alternative limitation to be established by permit to ensure continued achievement of the emission reduction; and

(d) Sources subject to and in compliance with an enforceable commitment under the federal and state early reductions programs shall be considered in compliance with all state regulations and requirements for hazardous air pollutants for the period of such commitment.

(4) For affected sources under Title V of the federal act:

(a) Operating permits and requirements for permit applications, compliance plans, and monitoring and reporting requirements shall be consistent with the provisions of Title IV as well as Title V of the federal act;

(b) In order to ensure reliability of electric power, nothing in the requirements pertaining to renewable operating permits required by this article shall be construed as requiring termination of operations of an electric utility steam generating unit for failure to have an approved permit or compliance plan;

(c) Nothing in this article shall be construed as affecting SO2 allowances given to sources affected under Title IV of the federal act.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1203, § 18, effective July 1. L. 2010: (1)(c) and (1)(d) amended, (HB 10-1042), ch. 209, p. 909, § 2, effective September 1.

25-7-114.4. Permit applications - contents - rules - definitions.

(1) The commission shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary and proper for the orderly and effective administration of construction permits and renewable operating permits. Such regulations shall be in conformity with the provisions of this article and with federal requirements, shall be in furtherance of the policy contained in section 25-7-102, and shall implement, where applicable, permit and permit application contents, procedures, requirements, and restrictions with respect to the following:

(a) Identification and address of the owner and operator of the source or facility from which the emission or emissions are to be permitted;

(b) Location, quantity, and quality characteristics of the permitted emissions;

(c) Inspection, monitoring, record-keeping, and reporting requirements consistent with standard procedures, methods, and requirements established by the division;

(d) Deadlines for submitting permit applications and compliance plans, which, for applications for renewable operating permits, shall be no later than twelve months after the source becomes subject to an approved permit program. Deadlines for submitting permit applications for renewal of renewable operating permits shall be consistent with the requirements for filing such applications promulgated under the federal act but in no event earlier than required under the federal act.

(e) Contents of compliance plans to be submitted with renewable operating permit applications, which shall include schedules of compliance and progress reports at least every six months;

(f) Annual certifications of facility compliance with permit requirements, with prompt reporting of deviations from permit requirements;

(g) Submission of pertinent plans and specifications for the facility or source from which the emission is to be permitted;

(h) Restrictions on transfers of the permit;

(i) Procedures to be followed in the event of expansion or modification of the source or facility from which the emission occurs, or change in the quality, quantity, or frequency of the emission;

(j) Duration of the permit and renewal procedures. The duration of construction permits shall be until the renewable operating permit is issued. The duration of renewable operating permits is five years.

(k) Procedures to terminate, modify, or revoke and reissue permits for cause; procedures to revise permits, prior to renewal or termination, to incorporate applicable standards and regulations adopted after the issuance of such permit as expeditiously as practicable, but not later than eighteen months after promulgation of the applicable requirement, or to incorporate otherwise applicable standards and regulations in the permit; except that no such revision shall be required if the effective date of the standards or regulation occurs after the permit term expires, such revision shall be treated as a permit renewal, and the defense established under subsection (3) of this section shall apply until the permit amendment is complete;

(l) Procedures for incorporating emission limitations and other requirements from an applicable implementation plan, and other applicable requirements, into new or renewed permits;

(m) Procedures for notifying other contiguous states whose air quality may be affected by the emissions or that are within fifty miles of the source and for submitting comments and recommendations regarding the proposed permit;

(n) Procedures for modifying or amending permits, and procedures for authorizing any change within a permitted facility without requiring a permit revision, so long as any such change is not a modification under any provision of subchapter I of the federal act, and any such change does not exceed the emissions allowable under the permit, and advance notice is given to the division and the administrator. Such advance notice shall be no earlier than that required under regulations promulgated pursuant to the federal act. Failure of the division to respond by the day following the last day of such advance notice period allows the source to proceed with any such change.

(o) Procedures to make available to the public any permit application, compliance plan, permit, and monitoring or compliance report, subject to the provisions of section 25-7-119 (4). If an applicant is required to submit information entitled to protection from disclosure, the applicant may submit such information separately.

(p) Procedures for issuing general permits after notice and an opportunity for hearing, covering numerous similar sources;

(q) Procedures for issuing single permits for a facility with multiple sources; and

(r) Requirements for permit applications, including a standard application form and criteria for determining in a timely fashion the completeness of applications.

(2) The division shall examine applications for and may issue, suspend, revoke, modify, deny, and otherwise administer all permits required under this article. Such administration shall be in accordance with the provisions of this article and regulations promulgated by the commission.

(3) (a) Compliance with all renewable operating permit terms and conditions shall be deemed compliance with section 25-7-114.3 and shall be deemed compliance with other applicable provisions of this article if:

(I) The permit includes the applicable requirements of such provisions; or

(II) The division or commission, in acting on the permit application, makes a determination that such other provisions are not applicable, and the permit includes the determination or a concise summary thereof. Such other provisions as are not applicable in each permit shall be identified upon the request of the permittee.

(b) Nothing in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) shall alter or affect:

(I) The provisions of section 25-7-112 or 25-7-113 or section 303 of the federal act;

(II) The liability of an owner or operator of a source for any violation of applicable requirements prior to or at the time of permit issuance.

(4) For any permitted sand and gravel operation or crushed stone quarry or oil and gas well operation, if a breakdown of equipment or changes in market conditions require any additional crusher or screen or skid-mounted compressor or glycol dehydrator to be brought onto a site, the air pollutant emission notice filed under section 25-7-114.1 shall also serve as an application for a permit under the provisions of this section to continue operations at such a site with alternative or additional equipment until such permit is issued stating emission limitations.

(5) Provisions for permits for sources that affect disproportionately impacted communities.

(a) Rules.

(I) No later than June 1, 2023, the commission shall adopt rules to implement the requirements of this subsection (5).

(II) The commission may set thresholds of affected pollutants below which the requirements of this section do not apply.

(III) In adopting rules to implement this subsection (5), the commission shall identify disproportionately impacted communities.

(IV) The commission shall periodically, but not less often than every three years, revisit its identification of disproportionately impacted communities and determinations of affected pollutants.

(b) Applicability and requirements.

(I) The requirements of this subsection (5)(b) apply to permits for sources of affected pollutants in disproportionately impacted communities.

(II) (A) The commission's rules must provide for enhanced modeling and monitoring requirements for new and modified sources of affected pollutants in disproportionately impacted communities that are identified or approved at the time of permit application. In adopting the rules, the commission shall also consider requiring enhanced monitoring for existing sources of affected pollutants.

(B) The commission's rules must identify the types of monitoring technology that can be used by the sources of affected pollutants and must allow for the use of alternative methods of monitoring as approved by the division.

(c) Fees. Sources of affected pollutants subject to the requirements of this subsection (5) shall pay a processing fee in conformity with section 25-7-114.7 (2)(a)(III) to cover the division's and commission's direct and indirect costs of implementing the requirements of this section. These fees shall be credited to the stationary sources control fund in accordance with section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b)(I).

(d) Definitions. As used in this subsection (5), unless the context otherwise requires:

(I) "Affected pollutants" means those air pollutants as determined by the commission with the potential to cause or contribute to significant health or environmental impacts. The term includes:

(A) Volatile organic compounds;

(B) Oxides of nitrogen;

(C) Hazardous air pollutants as identified by the commission, including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene; and

(D) Particulate matter that is two and one-half microns or smaller.

(II) "Source of affected pollutants" means a stationary source that emits any affected pollutant in an amount such that a construction permit is required under commission rules.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1205, § 18, effective July 1. L. 95: (4) added, p. 1342, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2021: (5) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2732, § 8, effective July 2.

Cross references: For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-7-114.5. Application review - public participation.

(1) Prior to submitting an application for a permit, the applicant may request and, if so requested, the division shall grant a planning meeting with the applicant. At such meeting, the division shall advise the applicant of the applicable permit requirements, including the information, plans, specifications, and data required to be furnished with the permit application.

(2) The division shall evaluate permit applications to determine, for construction permits, whether operation of the proposed new source at the date of start-up and for operating permits, whether the permitted emissions, will comply with all applicable emission control regulations, regulations for the control of hazardous pollutants, and requirements of part 2 or 3 of this article.

(3) The division shall also determine whether applications are for a new source activity that may have an impact upon areas which, as of the projected new source start-up date, are in compliance with national ambient air quality standards as of the date of the permit application or for new source activity that may have an impact upon areas which, as of the projected new source start-up date, are not in compliance with national ambient air quality standards as of the date of the permit application. In implementing this subsection (3), the division may consider more stringent methods for new sources of oxides of nitrogen in disproportionately impacted communities in the area designated nonattainment for ozone by the United States environmental protection agency.

(4) The division shall prepare its preliminary analysis regarding compliance, as set forth in subsection (2) of this section, and regarding the impact on attainment or nonattainment areas, as set forth in subsection (3) of this section, as expeditiously as possible. For construction permits not subject to part 2 of this article, such preliminary analysis shall be completed no later than sixty calendar days after receipt of a completed permit application. Applicants must be advised within sixty calendar days after receipt of any application, or supplement thereto, if and in what respects the subject application is incomplete. Upon failure of the division to so notify the applicant within sixty calendar days of its filing, the application shall be deemed complete. Applications for construction permits subject to part 2 of this article shall be approved or disapproved within twelve months of receipt of a complete application. Applications for renewable operating permits shall be approved or disapproved within eighteen months after the receipt of the completed permit application; except that those applications submitted within the first year after the effective date of the operating permit program shall be subject to a phased schedule for acting on such permit applications established by the division. The phased schedule shall assure that at least one-third of such permits will be acted on by the division annually over a three-year period. The commission may establish a phased schedule for acting on applications for which a deferral has been granted pursuant to the federal act. A timely and complete permit application operates as a defense to enforcement action for operating without a permit for the period of time during which the division or the commission is reviewing the application and until such time as the division or the commission makes a final determination on the permit application; except that this defense to an enforcement action shall not be available to an applicant which files a fraudulent application.

(5) For those types of projects or activities for which a construction permit application has been filed, defined, or designated by the commission as warranting public comment with respect thereto, the division shall, within fifteen calendar days after it has prepared its preliminary analysis, give public notice of the proposed project or activity by at least one publication in a newspaper of general distribution in the area in which the proposed project or activity, or a part thereof, is to be located or by such other method that is reasonably designed to ensure effective general public notice. The division shall also during such period of time maintain in the office of the county clerk and recorder of the county in which the proposed project or activity, or a part thereof, is located a copy of its preliminary analysis and a copy of the application with all accompanying data for public inspection. The division shall receive and consider public comment thereon for a period of thirty calendar days thereafter.

(6) (a) For any construction permit application subject to the requirements of a new or modified major source in a nonattainment area, or for prevention of significant deterioration as provided in part 2 of this article, or for any application for a renewable operating permit, within fifteen calendar days after the issuance of its preliminary analysis, the division shall:

(I) Forward to the applicant written notice of the applicant's right to a formal hearing before the commission with respect to the application; and

(II) Give public notice of the proposed source or modification and the division's preliminary analysis thereof by at least one publication in a newspaper of general distribution in the area of the proposed source or modification, or by such other method that is reasonably designed to ensure effective general public notice. Such notice shall advise of the opportunity for a public hearing for interested persons to appear and submit written or oral comments to the commission on the air quality impacts of the source or modification, the alternatives to the source or modification, the control technology required, if applicable, and other appropriate considerations. Any such notice shall be printed prominently in at least ten-point bold-faced type. The division shall receive and consider any comments submitted.

(b) If within thirty calendar days of publication of such public notice the applicant or an interested person submits a written request for a public hearing to the division, the division shall transmit such request to the commission along with the application, the division's preliminary analysis, and any written comments received by the division, within five calendar days of the end of such thirty-day period. The commission shall, within sixty calendar days after receipt of the application, comments, and analysis, unless such greater time is agreed to by the applicant and the division, hold a public hearing to elicit and record the comment of any interested person regarding the sufficiency of the preliminary analysis and whether the permit application should be approved or denied. At least thirty calendar days prior to such public hearing, notice thereof shall be mailed by the commission to the applicant, printed in a newspaper of general distribution in the area of the proposed source or modification, and submitted for public review with the county clerk and recorder of the county wherein the project or activity is proposed.

(7) (a) Within thirty calendar days following the completion of the division's preliminary analysis for applications for construction permits not subject to part 2 of this article, or within thirty calendar days following the period for public comment provided for in subsection (5) of this section, or for applications for construction permits subject to part 2 of this article and for renewable operating permits, if a hearing is held, within the appropriate time period established pursuant to this article, the division or the commission, as the case may be, shall grant or deny the permit application. Any permit required pursuant to this article shall be granted by the division or the commission, as the case may be, if it finds that:

(I) The source or activity will meet all applicable emission control regulations and regulations for the control of hazardous air pollutants;

(II) The source or activity will meet the requirements of part 2 or 3 of this article, if applicable;

(III) For construction permits, the source or activity will meet any applicable ambient air quality standards and all applicable regulations;

(III.5) For renewable operating permits, the source or activity will meet all applicable regulations; and

(IV) For renewable operating permits, the United States environmental protection agency has not made a timely objection to issuance of such permit pursuant to the federal act.

(b) Failure of the division or commission, as the case may be, to grant or deny the permit application or permit renewal application within the time prescribed shall be treated as a final permit action for purposes of obtaining judicial review in the district court in which the source is located, to require that action be taken on such application by the commission or division, as appropriate, without additional delay. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, judicial review of the division's failure to grant or deny a renewable operating permit required by Title V of the federal act is available until the division grants or denies the permit.

(c) If an applicant has submitted a timely and complete application for a renewable operating permit required by this article, including renewals, but final action has not been taken on such application, and, if required to have a construction permit, such construction permit is in place and valid, the source's failure to have a renewable operating permit shall not be a violation of this article, unless the delay in final action was due to the failure of the applicant to timely submit information required or requested by the division to process the application.

(8) If the division denies a permit or imposes conditions upon the issuance of a permit which are contested by the applicant or if the division revokes a permit pursuant to subsection (12) of this section, the applicant may request a hearing before the commission. The hearing shall be held in accordance with sections 25-7-119 and 24-4-105, C.R.S. The commission may, after review of the evidence presented at the hearing, affirm, reverse, or modify the decision of the division but shall, in any event, assure that all the requirements of subsections (6) and (7) of this section are met.

(9) Renewable operating permits shall summarize existing operating restrictions pursuant to section 25-7-114.4 (3).

(10) A permit amendment will not be required to authorize a change in practice which is otherwise permitted pursuant to this article, the state implementation plan, or the federal act merely because an existing permit does not address the practice. Changes in industrial practices and procedures that are not inconsistent with the terms of a renewable operating permit can be made without seeking any change to the terms of said permit.

(11) An order of the division or commission shall be final upon issuance. Any participant in the public comment process and any other person who could obtain judicial review under applicable law shall have standing for purposes of seeking review of any final order of the commission or division regarding applications, renewals, or revisions of any permits. The public participation requirements of subsections (5) and (6) of this section shall apply to all renewable operating permit applications, revisions, and renewals.

(12) (a) A permitted entity shall notify the division within fifteen days after the commencement of any activity for which a construction permit has been issued. Within one hundred eighty days after commencement of operation for which a construction permit has been issued, the source shall demonstrate to the division compliance with the terms and conditions of the construction permit or the division may, pursuant to rules that are adopted by the commission based upon the results of the study conducted under section 25-7-114.7 (2)(a)(V), inspect the project or activity to determine whether or not the terms and conditions of the construction permit have been properly satisfied. At the end of one hundred eighty days after the commencement of operation, the division must:

(I) Revoke the construction permit; or

(II) Continue the construction permit, if applicable; or

(III) Notify the owner or operator that the source has demonstrated compliance with the construction permit.

(b) For those sources subject to the renewable operating permit program, a renewable operating permit will be issued within the appropriate time periods if all requirements for a renewable operating permit are met by the source. The construction permit requirements shall remain in effect until the renewable operating permit is issued.

(12.5) (a) (I) Except for sources involved in agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural production such as farming, seasonal crop drying, animal feeding, or pesticide application, upon determination by the division that the criteria set forth in subsection (12.5)(b) of this section applies to a source that is not required to obtain a renewable operating permit, the division may reopen such construction permit for the purpose of imposing any or all of the following additional terms and conditions:

(A) Enhanced record-keeping requirements;

(B) Enhanced emissions and ambient monitoring requirements;

(C) Operating and maintenance requirements;

(D) Emission control requirements pursuant to section 25-7-109.3; and

(E) Additional monitoring requirements for sources affecting disproportionately impacted communities.

(II) Any such condition which is contested by the permittee may be reviewed by the commission in accordance with the provisions of subsection (7) of this section.

(b) With the exception of those sources involved in agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural production such as farming, seasonal crop drying, animal feeding, and pesticide application, a source's construction permit may be reopened for cause for the purposes of subsection (12.5)(a) of this section only upon a determination by the division that the location of the source is significant in terms of its proximity to residential or business areas or a disproportionately impacted community, and one or more of the following criteria apply to the permitted source:

(I) The control equipment utilized by the source requires an unusually high degree of maintenance or operational sensitivity when compared to control equipment in general;

(II) The design characteristics of the source require an unusually high degree of maintenance or operational sensitivity when compared to the design characteristics of all sources in general;

(III) The application of the control equipment utilized is unique or untested;

(IV) The operational variability of the source may impact the effectiveness of the controls;

(V) The emissions from the source will threaten public health, as determined pursuant to section 25-7-109.3; or

(VI) The emissions from the source will affect a disproportionately impacted community.

(c) Nothing in paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection (12.5), as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

(13) The commission shall, wherever practicable, promulgate regulations for renewable operating permit application requirements that combine requirements for construction permits with renewable operating permits to avoid duplicative efforts by the source and the division.

(14) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1042), ch. 209, p. 909, § 3, effective September 1, 2010.)

(15) Repealed.

(16) (a) If the division experiences a backlog in processing air quality permit applications and the department determines or reasonably expects that, as a result, permits would not be issued within statutory time frames, the division shall make available to sources that are not subject to permitting under part C of the federal act the option to have the permit application or the air quality modeling, or both, that is submitted with the applicant's air permit application reviewed for acceptance as demonstrating compliance by a contract consultant selected by the division in lieu of the review being conducted by division staff. The division may also enter into contracts to support the division's air quality permit programs, including the division's general permit program, and modeling to support the air quality permit programs.

(b) The division shall select and contract with qualified nongovernmental air quality consultants, modeling experts, or both to perform permit application reviews, air quality modeling reviews, or other work to support the division's air quality permit programs. The division is not subject to the requirements of the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24, in selecting and contracting with the consultants, modeling experts, or both. The division shall review and exclude from consideration as a contract air quality consultant any contractors with a conflict of interest regarding air quality permit applications or modeling. Applicants that choose consultant review of their air quality permit applications or modeling are responsible for both the consultant's costs associated with the review as well as the division's costs associated with the review and determination of the air permit application, to be paid to the division. The division shall transfer the money to the state treasurer, who shall credit it to the stationary sources control fund created in section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b)(I).

(c) The division shall use the results of the modeling conducted pursuant to subsection (16)(a) or (16)(b) of this section for purposes of the division's permit program and application analysis.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1207, § 18, effective July 1. L. 93: (7)(a) amended, p. 1923, § 4, effective July 1. L. 96: IP(12)(a) amended, p. 845, § 2, effective July 1; (15) repealed, p. 1258, § 154, effective August 7. L. 2005: IP(12.5)(a)(I) and IP(12.5)(b) amended and (12.5)(c) added, p. 349, § 5, effective August 8. L. 2010: (12)(a) and (14) amended, (HB 10-1042), ch. 209, p. 909, § 3, effective September 1. L. 2011: (16) added, (SB 11-235), ch. 307, p. 1507, § 1, effective June 9. L. 2021: IP(12.5)(a)(I), (12.5)(a)(I)(C), (12.5)(a)(I)(D), and (12.5)(b) amended and (12.5)(a)(I)(E) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2733, § 9, effective July 2. L. 2022: (7)(b) and (16) amended, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2157, § 7, effective June 2. L. 2024: (3) amended, (SB 24-229), ch. 183, p. 992, § 7, effective May 16.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing subsection (15), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

(2) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(3) For the legislative declaration in SB 24-229, see section 1 of chapter 183, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-7-114.6. Emission notice - fees.

(1) The commission shall designate by regulations those classes of minor or insignificant sources of air pollution which are exempt from the requirement for an emission notice or the payment of an emission notice filing fee because of their negligible impact upon air quality.

(2) An air pollution emission notice shall be deemed to run with the land. The moneys collected pursuant to this section and sections 25-7-403 and 25-7-510 shall be remitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the stationary sources control fund created in section 25-7-114.7 and subject to the provisions of said section.

(3) The general assembly shall direct the commission to adjust any fees imposed by this section so that the revenues approximate the annual appropriations to the division to carry out its duties under this subsection (3) with respect to stationary sources.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1214, § 18, effective July 1. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 941, § 2, effective May 28. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 1640, § 60, effective May 31.

25-7-114.7. Emission fees - stationary sources control fund - rules - report - definitions - repeal.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) Indirect and direct costs include, but are not limited to:

(I) Reviewing and acting upon any application for such a permit;

(II) Implementing and enforcing the terms and conditions of any permit or rule, not including court costs or other legal costs associated with any enforcement action;

(III) Emissions and ambient monitoring;

(IV) Preparing generally applicable regulations or guidance;

(V) Modeling, analyses, and demonstrations;

(VI) Preparing inventories and tracking emissions; and

(VII) Establishing and administering a small business stationary source technical and environmental compliance program, pursuant to section 25-7-109.2.

(b) (I) "Regulated pollutant" means:

(A) A volatile organic compound;

(B) Each pollutant regulated under section 25-7-109 or section 111 of the federal act;

(C) Each pollutant regulated under section 112 (b) of the federal act;

(D) Each pollutant for which a national primary ambient air quality standard has been promulgated, except for carbon monoxide.

(II) The term "regulated pollutant", for the purpose of assessing fees, shall not include fugitive dust or any fraction thereof.

(2) (a) (I) Except as specified in subsection (2)(a)(VII) of this section, the commission shall designate by rule those classes of sources of air pollution that are exempt from the requirement to pay an annual emission fee. Every owner or operator of an air pollution source not otherwise exempt in accordance with such commission rules shall pay an annual fee as follows:

(A) For state fiscal year 2020-21, the fee is thirty-two dollars per ton of regulated pollutant reported in the most recent air pollution emission notice on file with the division. For state fiscal year 2021-22, the fee is thirty-six dollars per ton of regulated pollutant reported in the most recent air pollution emission notice on file with the division. Thereafter, the commission may adjust the fee by rule to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7.

(A.5) A late payment fee. Such fee shall be assessed at the rate of one percent per month for accounts more than sixty days past due; except that no late payment fee may be assessed during a period in which an account is under administrative review by the division in order to respond to a reasonable request by the owner or operator of a source for allocation of the fees among multiple sources or to resolve a good-faith claim by the owner or operator of a source that there has been an error in calculation of the amount of fees due. At the end of the administrative review, the division shall inform the owner or operator of the source in writing of any findings.

(B) For state fiscal year 2020-21, in addition to the annual fee set forth in subsection (2)(a)(I)(A) of this section, for hazardous air pollutants, including ozone-depleting compounds, an annual fee of two hundred sixteen dollars per ton. For state fiscal year 2021-22, in addition to the annual fee set forth in subsection (2)(a)(I)(A) of this section, for hazardous air pollutants, including ozone-depleting compounds, there is an annual fee of two hundred thirty-nine dollars per ton. Thereafter, the commission may adjust the fee by rule to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7.

(C) Every local air pollution control authority that adopts any air pollution resolution or ordinance that is more stringent than corresponding state provisions shall pay for the state's enforcement costs.

(II) In no event shall an owner or operator of a major source pay more than a fee based upon total annual emissions of four thousand tons of each regulated pollutant per source.

(III) Every owner or operator subject to the requirements to pay fees set forth in subsection (2)(a)(I) of this section shall also pay a processing fee for the costs of processing any application other than an air pollution emission notice under this article 7. Every significant user of prescribed fire, including federal facilities, submitting a planning document to the commission pursuant to section 25-7-106 (8)(b) shall pay a fee for costs of evaluating the documents. For state fiscal year 2020-21, the division shall assess a fee for work it performs, up to a maximum of thirty hours at a rate of one hundred eight dollars and twelve cents per hour. For state fiscal year 2021-22, the division shall assess a fee for work it performs, up to a maximum of thirty hours at a rate of one hundred nineteen dollars per hour. Thereafter, the commission may adjust the fee by rule to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7. If the division requires more than thirty hours to process the application or evaluate the prescribed fire-related planning documents, the division shall provide the stationary source with an estimate of what the actual charges may be before working more than thirty hours.

(IV) and (V) Repealed.

(VI) Notwithstanding subparagraph (III) of this paragraph (a), the division shall not assess a fee for work performed to negotiate a voluntary agreement under part 12 of this article above a maximum of one hundred hours at a rate of fifty-nine dollars and ninety-eight cents per hour unless the owner or operator proposing the voluntary agreement consents to a greater fee in writing.

(VII) The commission shall establish, by rule, a fee per ton of greenhouse gas, in the form of carbon dioxide equivalent, that was reported in the most recent air pollutant emission notice on file with the division, or that was reported to the division pursuant to section 25-7-140 (2)(a)(I), in an amount that is sufficient to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7 that pertain to emissions of greenhouse gas. The commission may set thresholds of reported greenhouse gas below which no such fee shall be assessed. No more frequently than annually, the commission may adjust the fee for greenhouse gas by rule to cover the indirect and direct costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to this article 7 that pertain to emissions of greenhouse gas.

(b) (I) The moneys collected pursuant to this section shall be remitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the stationary sources control fund, which fund is hereby created. From such fund, the general assembly shall appropriate to the department of public health and environment, at least annually, such moneys as may be necessary to cover the division's direct and indirect costs required to develop and administer the programs established pursuant to parts 1 to 4 and 10 of this article for the control of air pollution from stationary sources. Any permit fee moneys not appropriated by the general assembly and any appropriated funds not spent by the division shall remain in the stationary sources control fund and shall not revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year. Any such moneys shall be separately accounted for. All interest earned on moneys in the stationary sources control fund shall remain in the fund and shall not revert to the general fund or to any other fund.

(II) Of the portion of fee revenue attributable to the increases enacted during the first regular session of the sixty-third general assembly, the department shall allocate one hundred fifty thousand dollars per year for the purpose of modernizing and maintaining the computer system used for the administration of the stationary source program so as to make the overall system more efficient, and seventy thousand dollars for the purpose of enhancing county and district public health agency participation in air quality control activities. The department may reallocate moneys between these two purposes as reasonably necessary so long as the total amount devoted to such purposes remains at two hundred twenty thousand dollars annually.

(III) The division shall expend the portion of the fee revenue collected pursuant to subsections (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), (2)(a)(III), and (2)(a)(VII) of this section and section 25-7-114.1 (6)(a) attributable to the increases authorized in 2020 by Senate Bill 20-204 and in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266 for the following purposes:

(A) Ensuring that requirements imposed by rules to minimize emissions are included in permits and complied with;

(B) Deploying more resources to find, and cause oil and gas operators to repair, leaks and releases of hydrocarbons such as benzene that contribute to ozone nonattainment and human health risks;

(C) Increasing compliance by stationary sources with all applicable air quality requirements;

(D) Increasing the number of inspections and enforcement actions taken by the division;

(E) Expanding the division's capacity to conduct monitoring of stationary source emissions;

(F) Developing new emission control strategies;

(G) Expanding the division's capacity to quickly respond to and better understand public health issues that are related to exposure to air toxics, such as benzene and other volatile organic compounds;

(H) Improving the division's complaint management systems as they relate to air quality and associated health impacts;

(I) Enabling outreach to and engagement of disproportionately impacted communities; and

(J) Paying for the environmental justice ombudsperson created in section 25-1-134.

(IV) The division shall report annually regarding how the fees authorized by this section have been utilized, what related efficiency and process improvements have been made, and a projection of short-term and long-term capital operating expenditures. Before making any fee adjustment after fiscal year 2021-22 that is authorized by section 25-7-114.1 (6)(a) or subsection (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), or (2)(a)(III) of this section, the division shall report annually about how existing fees have been utilized and engage in a stakeholder process with impacted stationary sources. The division shall initiate this stakeholder process at least six months before any rule that increases fees becomes effective unless emergency rule-making pursuant to section 24-4-103 is necessary. The stakeholder process must involve discussion of:

(A) Ongoing efficiency improvement projects and progress toward completion of those projects, including database improvements and replacing the existing air pollution emission notice process with an improved emission inventory process; and

(B) The justification and necessity of additional fee increases, including an outline of where increases in fees will be utilized moving forward.

(V) In addition to the money credited or transferred to the stationary sources control fund, the fund consists of the money transferred to the fund from the energy and carbon management cash fund pursuant to section 34-60-122 (5)(e).

(VI) (A) On July 1, 2025, the state treasurer shall transfer five million dollars from the general fund to the stationary sources control fund.

(B) On or before July 1, 2026, and each July 1 thereafter before July 1, 2029, the division shall report to the commission, the joint budget committee of the general assembly, and the health and human services committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, at a hearing held pursuant to section 2-7-203 (2)(a) of the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", on the division's implementation of efficiency improvement projects related to the stationary sources control fund.

(C) This subsection (2)(b)(VI) is repealed, effective July 1, 2029.

(c) The general assembly by bill may annually adjust the fees established in this section and in section 25-7-114.1 as necessary to cover the reasonable costs, both direct and indirect, of the stationary source program and to assure that adequate personnel and funding will be available to administer the permit program.

(d) No permit will be issued if the administrator objects to its issuance in a timely manner under this title.

(e) Repealed.

(f) Notwithstanding the amount specified for any fee in this subsection (2), the commission by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of one or more of the fees if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of one or more of the fees is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the commission by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of one or more of the fees as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

(g) (I) The division shall prioritize its use of the revenues generated by the fee increases authorized by the general assembly in 2018 to reduce permit processing times for all categories of permits through increased efficiencies and information system improvements that are identified through the stakeholder process identified in subsection (2)(g)(II) of this section.

(II) to (IV) Repealed.

(h) With regard to the changes made in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266:

(I) Nothing:

(A) Alters the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), in either amount or timing; or

(B) Detracts from the air quality control commission's existing authority to require more than the minimum greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and deadlines previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and

(II) The changes add to, but do not otherwise alter, the air quality control commission's authority and obligation to publish and promulgate rules pursuant to sections 25-7-102 (2)(g), 25-7-105, and 25-7-140.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1214, § 18, effective July 1. L. 93: IP(2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(I)(A), and (2)(b) amended, p. 941, § 3, effective May 28. L. 94: (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(b), and (2)(c) amended and (2)(a)(I)(A.5) and (2)(a)(IV) added, pp. 1390, 1392, §§ 2, 3, effective May 25; (2)(b) amended, p. 2783, § 501, effective July 1. L. 96: (1)(b)(II) amended, p. 1309, § 1, effective June 1; (2)(b) amended, p. 1451, § 2, effective June 1; (2)(a)(I)(A) and (2)(a)(IV) amended and (2)(a)(V) added, p. 846, § 3, effective July 1; (2)(e) repealed, p. 1259, § 155, effective August 7. L. 97: (1)(a)(VII) amended, p. 527, § 9, effective July 1. L. 98: (2)(f) added, p. 1335, § 49, effective June 1; (2)(a)(VI) added, p. 1050, § 2, effective July 1. L. 99: (2)(a)(III) amended, p. 790, § 2, effective May 24. L. 2001: (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), (2)(a)(III), (2)(a)(VI), (2)(b), and (2)(c) amended, p. 642, § 3, effective May 30; (2)(a)(III) amended, p. 1185, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: IP(2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), and (2)(a)(III) amended, p. 883, § 3, effective May 20. L. 2010: (2)(b)(II) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2103, § 117, effective August 11. L. 2018: (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), and (2)(a)(III) amended and (2)(g) added, (HB 18-1400), ch. 218, p. 1394, § 3, effective May 18. L. 2020: (2)(a)(I)(A), (2)(a)(I)(B), and (2)(a)(III) amended and (2)(b)(III) and (2)(b)(IV) added, (SB 20-204), ch. 192, p. 892, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(a)(II), IP(2)(a)(I), IP(2)(b)(III), and (2)(b)(III)(G) amended and (2)(a)(VII), (2)(b)(III)(I), (2)(b)(III)(J), and (2)(h) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2734, § 10, effective July 2. L. 2023: (2)(a)(VII) amended, (SB 23-016), ch. 165, p. 734, § 5, effective August 7. L. 2024: (2)(b)(V) added, (HB 24-1419), ch. 86, p. 284, § 2, effective April 18. L. 2025: (2)(b)(VI) added, (SB 25-254), ch. 328, p. 1708, § 1, effective May 31.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (2)(b) by Senate Bill 94-217 and House Bill 94-1029 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (2)(a)(IV)(C) and (2)(a)(V)(B) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(a)(IV) and (2)(a)(V), respectively, effective July 1, 1997. (See L. 96, p. 846.)

(3) Amendments to subsection (2)(a)(III) by Senate Bill 01-214 and House Bill 01-1326 were harmonized.

(4) Subsection (2)(g)(IV) provided for the repeal of subsections (2)(g)(II), (2)(g)(III), and (2)(g)(IV), effective September 1, 2023. (See L. 2018, p. 1394.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2)(b), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing subsection (2)(e), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996. For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1400, see section 1 of chapter 218, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

(2) For the short title ("Clean Up Colorado's Air Act") in SB 20-204, see section 1 of chapter 192, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

(3) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-7-114.8. Permit fee credits. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1217, § 18, effective July 1. L. 2003: Entire section repealed, p. 843, § 2, effective April 7.

25-7-115. Enforcement - civil actions - definitions - reporting.

(1) (a) The division shall enforce compliance with the emission control regulations of the commission, the requirements of the state implementation plan, and the provisions of parts 1 to 4 and part 11 of this article, including terms and conditions of any permit required pursuant to this article.

(b) The division shall enforce the provisions of part 5 of this article pursuant to sections 25-7-112, 25-7-113, and 25-7-511.

(2) (a) If a written complaint is filed with the division alleging that, or if the division itself has cause to believe that, any person is violating or failing to comply with any rule of the commission issued pursuant to parts 1 to 4 of this article 7, order issued pursuant to section 25-7-118, requirement of the state implementation plan, or provision of parts 1 to 4 of this article 7, including any term or condition of a permit required pursuant to this article 7, the division shall cause a prompt and diligent investigation to be made unless:

(I) The complaint clearly appears on its face to be frivolous, falsified, or trivial; or

(II) The complainant withdraws the complaint within the time allotted for the complaint to be investigated.

(b) Within thirty days after receipt of a complaint filed pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section, the division shall respond to a complainant to outline the steps of the complaint investigation.

(c) (I) If the division investigation determines that any violation or failure to comply exists, the division shall act expeditiously and within the period prescribed by law to formally notify the owner or operator of the air pollution source after the discovery of the alleged violation or noncompliance. The notice must specify the provision alleged to have been violated or not complied with and the facts alleged to constitute the violation or noncompliance.

(II) If the division is acting in response to a complaint, the division shall notify the complainant that an investigation has commenced at the time that the division provides notice to the owner or operator of the air pollution source pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section.

(d) The division shall accept and consider all relevant evidence it receives or acquires in investigating and determining whether a violation or noncompliance occurred, including audio, video, and testimonial evidence, unless the evidence is, on its face, falsified.

(3) (a) Within thirty calendar days after notice has been given, the division shall confer with the owner or operator of the source to determine whether a violation or noncompliance did or did not occur and, if such violation or noncompliance occurred, whether a noncompliance penalty must be assessed under subsection (5) of this section. The division shall provide an opportunity to the owner or operator at such conference, and may provide further opportunity thereafter, to submit data, views, and arguments concerning the alleged violation or noncompliance or the assessment of any noncompliance penalty.

(b) (I) If, after the conference pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section, the division determines that a violation or noncompliance has occurred, the division shall issue an order requiring the owner or operator or any other responsible person to comply.

(II) If a complaint is filed pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section alleging the violation or noncompliance, the division shall send the order to the complainant.

(III) The order issued in accordance with subsection (3)(b)(I) of this section may:

(A) Include the termination, alteration, or revocation and reissuance of the subject permit;

(B) Include the assessment of civil penalties in accordance with section 25-7-122 and subsection (3)(b)(IV) of this section;

(C) In addition to civil penalties, include a requirement to perform one or more projects to mitigate violations related to excess emissions;

(C.5) In addition to civil penalties, include a requirement to perform one or more projects to reduce the potential for a recurrence of a violation for which the division commenced enforcement pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section; and

(D) Require the calculation of a noncompliance penalty under subsection (5) of this section.

(IV) In determining the amount to assess for a civil penalty for a violation or noncompliance, the division shall:

(A) Consider the factors described in section 25-7-122 (2)(a); and

(B) Not assess a penalty for a violation or noncompliance that is less than the economic benefit that the owner or operator derived from the violation or noncompliance.

(V) Unless enforcement of its order has been stayed as provided in subsection (4)(b) of this section, the division may seek enforcement, in the district court for the district where the affected air pollution source is located, of:

(A) Pursuant to section 25-7-121 or 25-7-122, an applicable rule of the commission;

(B) An order issued pursuant to section 25-7-121 or 25-7-122 or the applicable rule of the commission;

(C) An order issued pursuant to section 25-7-118;

(D) A requirement of the state implementation plan;

(E) A provision of this article 7; or

(F) The terms or conditions of a permit required pursuant to this article 7.

(VI) The court shall issue an appropriate order, which may include a schedule for compliance by the owner or operator of the source.

(c) The order for compliance shall set forth with specificity the final determination of the division regarding the nature and extent of the violation or noncompliance by the named persons and facilities and shall also include, by reference, a summary of the proceedings at the conference held after the notice of violation and an evaluation of the evidence considered by the division in reaching its final determinations. Any order issued under this subsection (3) which is not reviewed by the commission in accordance with the provisions of subsection (4) of this section shall become final agency action.

(4) (a) (I) Within twenty calendar days after receipt of an order issued pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, the recipient thereof may file with the commission a written petition requesting a hearing to determine all or any of the following:

(A) Whether the alleged violation or noncompliance exists or did exist;

(B) Whether a revision of the state implementation plan or revision of a regulation or standard which is not part of the state implementation plan should be implemented with respect to such violation or noncompliance;

(C) Whether the owner or operator is subject to civil or noncompliance penalties under subsection (5) of this section.

(II) Such hearing shall allow the parties to present evidence and argument on all issues and to conduct cross-examination required for full disclosure of the facts and shall otherwise be conducted in accordance with section 25-7-119.

(III) If a hearing is requested pursuant to subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section, the commission shall provide at least forty-five days' notice to any complainant that filed a complaint pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section alleging a violation or noncompliance at issue in the hearing. The complainant may participate as a party to the hearing.

(b) Except with respect to actions taken pursuant to section 25-7-112 or 25-7-113, upon the filing of such petition, the order and the provisions of the state implementation plan which relate to the alleged violation or noncompliance shall be stayed pending determination of the petition by the commission. Any stay pursuant to this paragraph (b) shall be effective only as to the specific source covered by the order and such petition.

(5) (a) (I) Any order issued pursuant to subsection (3) of this section which pertains to an alleged violation described in section 120(a)(2)(A) of the federal act shall also require each person who is subject to such order, within forty-five calendar days after the issuance of such order, to calculate the penalty owed in accordance with paragraph (b) of this subsection (5) and submit the calculation, together with a payment schedule and all information necessary for an independent verification thereof, to the division. If the order has been stayed pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, the penalty calculation shall be submitted by the owner or operator to the division within forty-five calendar days after issuance of a final determination of the commission that:

(A) A violation or noncompliance occurred;

(B) If a revision to the state implementation plan has been requested, all or part of such request should be denied; except that, if only part of such request is denied, the penalty calculation shall not be submitted for any aspect of the violation or noncompliance which is excused by reason of approval of a requested revision of the state implementation plan;

(C) The violation is one described in section 120(a)(2)(A) of the federal act; and

(D) If an exemption pursuant to subsection (7) of this section has been claimed, the owner or operator is not entitled thereto.

(II) The division shall review the penalty calculation and schedule submitted pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a) and shall issue an order assessing the noncompliance penalty and providing a payment schedule therefor.

(b) (I) The amount of the penalty which shall be assessed under this subsection (5) shall be equal to:

(A) The amount, determined in accordance with section 120 of the federal act and rules and regulations promulgated under said act by the United States environmental protection agency, which shall be no less than the sum of the quarterly equivalent of the capital costs of compliance and debt service over a normal amortization period of not longer than ten years, operation and maintenance costs foregone as a result of noncompliance, and any additional value which a delay in compliance beyond July 1, 1979, may have for the owner or operator of such stationary source; less

(B) The amount of any expenditure made by the owner or operator of such stationary source during any such quarter for the purpose of bringing the source into, and maintaining compliance with, such requirement to the extent that such expenditure has not been taken into account in the calculation of the penalty under sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (I).

(II) To the extent that any expenditure under sub-subparagraph (B) of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b) made during any quarter is not subtracted for such quarter from the costs under sub-subparagraph (A) of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b), such expenditure may be subtracted for any subsequent quarter from such costs; except that in no event shall the amount paid be less than the quarterly payment minus the amount attributed to the actual cost of construction.

(c) Any penalty assessed pursuant to subsections (5) to (11) of this section shall be paid in equal quarterly installments (except as provided in sub-subparagraph (B) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (5)) for the period which begins either August 7, 1979, if notice pursuant to subsection (2) of this section is issued on or before such date or which begins on the date of issuance of notice pursuant to subsection (2) of this section if such notice is issued after August 7, 1979, and which period ends on the date on which such stationary source is estimated to come into compliance.

(d) Any person who fails to pay the amount of any penalty with respect to any stationary source under this subsection (5) on a timely basis shall be required to pay, in addition, a quarterly nonpayment penalty for each quarter during which such failure to pay persists. Such nonpayment penalty shall be in an amount equal to twenty percent of the aggregate amount of such person's penalties and nonpayment penalties with respect to such stationary source which are unpaid as of the beginning of such quarter.

(6) Within twenty calendar days after issuance of an order under subparagraph (II) of paragraph (a) of subsection (5) of this section, the owner or operator may file with the commission a written petition requesting a hearing to review such order. Within sixty calendar days after the filing of such petition, the commission shall hold a hearing and issue a decision thereon.

(7) (a) The owner or operator of any stationary source shall be exempt from the duty to pay a noncompliance penalty pursuant to this section if after notice the owner or operator demonstrates at a hearing that the failure of such stationary source to comply is due solely to:

(I) The conversion by such stationary source from the burning of petroleum products or natural gas, or both, as the primary energy source to the burning of coal pursuant to an order under section 119 of the federal act;

(II) In the case of a coal-burning source granted an extension under section 119 of the federal act, a prohibition from using petroleum products or natural gas, or both, by reason of an order under the provisions of section 2 (a) and (b) of the federal "Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974" or under any legislation which amends or supersedes those provisions;

(III) The use of innovative technology sanctioned by an enforcement order under section 113 (d)(4) of the federal act;

(IV) An inability to comply with such requirements for which the stationary source has received an order pursuant to section 25-7-118, which inability results from reasons entirely beyond the control of the owner or operator of such stationary source or of any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the owner or operator of such stationary source; or

(V) The conditions by reason of which a temporary emergency suspension is authorized under section 110 (f) or (g) of the federal act;

(b) The division may, after notice and opportunity for a public hearing, exempt the owner or operator of any stationary source from the duty to pay a noncompliance penalty pursuant to this section with respect to a particular instance of noncompliance if it finds that the instance of noncompliance is inconsequential in nature and duration. If a public hearing is requested by an interested person, the request must be transmitted to the commission within twenty calendar days after its receipt by the division. The commission shall, within sixty calendar days after its receipt of the request, hold a public hearing, and within thirty calendar days after the hearing, issue its decision.

(c) An exemption under this subsection (7) shall cease to be effective if the stationary source fails to comply with the interim emission control requirements or schedules of compliance, including increments of progress, under any such extension, order, or suspension.

(8) If the owner or operator of a stationary source who receives an order pursuant to subsection (5) of this section fails to submit a calculation of the penalty, a schedule for payment, and the information necessary for an independent verification thereof, the division may enter into a contract with a person who has no financial interest in the ownership or operation of the stationary source or in any person controlling, controlled by, or under common control with such stationary source to assist in determining the penalty assessment or payment schedule with respect to such stationary source. The cost of such contract may be added to the penalty to be assessed against the owner or operator of such stationary source.

(9) (a) The division or the commission may adjust the amount of the penalty assessment or the payment schedule proposed by the owner or operator if the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency determines that the penalty or schedule does not meet the requirements of the federal act.

(b) Upon making a determination that a stationary source which is subject to a penalty assessment pursuant to this section is in compliance, the division shall review the actual expenditures made by the owner or operator of such stationary source for the purpose of attaining and maintaining compliance and, within one hundred eighty days after such stationary source comes into compliance, shall either provide reimbursement with interest at appropriate prevailing rates for any overpayment by such person or assess and collect any additional payment with interest at prevailing rates for any underpayment by such person.

(10) Any orders, payments, sanctions, or other requirements under this section shall be in addition to any other orders, payments, sanctions, or other requirements of this article.

(11) The division or the commission may request the district attorney for the district in which the alleged violation or noncompliance, or any part thereof, occurred or may request the attorney general to bring, and if so requested it is his or her duty to bring, a suit for recovery of any penalty or nonpayment penalty, with interest, imposed pursuant to subsection (5) of this section if the penalty is not paid when due.

(12) (a) Repealed.

(b) On or before April 1, 2025, and on or before February 1 of each year thereafter, the division shall prepare an air quality enforcement report and post the report on the division's website. The first report must cover the federal fiscal year starting October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, and each subsequent report must cover the federal fiscal year period of October 1 through September 30 preceding the issuance of the report. The reports prepared pursuant to this subsection (12)(b) must include the following statewide information:

(I) The total number of enforcement actions that the division commenced pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section;

(II) The number of complaints received pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section that resulted in an enforcement action that the division commenced under subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section and the identifying case number;

(III) The total number of decisions not to impose a penalty for an enforcement action that the division commenced pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section;

(IV) The total number of formal enforcement actions that the division resolved pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section and the total number of actions that included violations within areas of concern, such as:

(A) The area that the United States environmental protection agency has designated an ozone nonattainment area; and

(B) An area that is in a disproportionately impacted community; and

(V) With respect to civil penalties assessed pursuant to section 25-7-122 (1)(b), the total amount of civil penalties, the average civil penalty, the median civil penalty, the highest civil penalty, the lowest civil penalty, and the total amount of civil penalties assessed for each action that includes violations in areas of concern, such as:

(A) The area that the United States environmental protection agency has designated an ozone nonattainment area; and

(B) An area that is in a disproportionately impacted community.

(13) The division shall implement an air quality enforcement email mailing group or a similar communication function to share enforcement-related updates with interested parties that opt in to the email mailing group or similar communication function. The division may share information through the email mailing group or similar communication function that includes:

(a) A notice of violation or noncompliance sent pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section;

(b) A settlement or other order issued pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section to resolve a case; and

(c) A link to the annual air quality enforcement benchmark report that the division prepares pursuant to subsection (12) of this section.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1034, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: IP(4)(a), (4)(b), IP(5)(a)(I), (6), (7)(b), (9)(a), and (11) amended, p. 771, § 7, effective July 1. L. 87: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1152, § 6, effective July 1. L. 92: (1)(a), (2), (3)(b), (3)(c), and (4)(a) amended, p. 1217, § 19, effective July 1. L. 97: (1)(a) amended, p. 1090, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2016: (11) amended, (HB 16-1094), ch. 94, p. 268, § 15, effective August 10. L. 2021: (3)(b) amended, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2735, § 11, effective July 2. L. 2023: (2), (3)(b), and (7)(b) amended and (4)(a)(III) added, (HB 23-1294), ch. 401, p. 2405, § 3, effective June 6. L. 2024: IP(3)(b)(III) and (3)(b)(III)(C) amended and (3)(b)(III)(C.5), (12), and (13) added, (SB 24-229), ch. 183, p. 987, § 3, effective May 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (12)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (12)(a), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 987.)

Cross references: (1) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1294, see section 1 of chapter 401, Session Laws of Colorado 2023. For the legislative declaration in SB 24-229, see section 1 of chapter 183, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

Notice of each inspection is required, regardless of when it occurs, even where the alleged violator is already the subject of a cease-and-desist order. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

When notice should be given. A party who is subject to an inspection that may result in a cease-and-desist order is entitled to notice that an inspection has been conducted within a reasonably short period of time following the inspection. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

Due process contemplates that notice should be given of a visual opacity reading by the department of health within a reasonably short period of time following the completion of inspection of air pollution. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 191 Colo. 455, 553 P.2d 811 (1976).

Because surprise may play a crucial role in the course of some inspections, prior or contemporary notice of the inspection is not required. Basic fairness is achieved in this context by delivering actual notice to a plant manager or officer or agent thereof within a short period of time following the inspection. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 191 Colo. 455, 553 P.2d 811 (1976).

Investigation of a notice of violation is not a precondition to issuance of a construction permit, because this section addresses enforcement of air quality laws and does not create a separate permitting requirement. Citizens for Clean Air & Water v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 181 P.3d 393 (Colo. App. 2008).

Sections 25-7-121 and 25-7-122 operate independently of this section. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

25-7-116. Air quality hearings board. (Repealed)

Source: Entire article R&RE, L.79, p. 1039, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section repealed, p. 768, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-117. State implementation plan - revisions of limited applicability.

(1) The commission, upon application by the owner or operator of a stationary or mobile source or as provided in section 25-7-110 (2), may revise the state implementation plan or any regulation or standard that is not part of the state implementation plan pursuant to this section if it determines that:

(a) Control techniques are not available, compliance with applicable emission control regulations would cause an unreasonable economic burden, compliance with applicable emission control regulations through new or improved technology is economically and technologically beneficial, or compliance with applicable emission control regulations would result in an arbitrary and unreasonable taking of property;

(b) The adoption of such revision would be consistent with, and aid in, implementing the legislative policy set forth in section 25-7-102; and

(c) In any event, adoption of such revision would be consistent with the requirements of section 110 of the federal act.

(2) Any revision of the state implementation plan or of a regulation or standard which is not part of the state implementation plan pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section may be adopted for such period of time as shall be specified by the commission.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1040, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: IP(1) and (2) amended, p. 772, § 8, effective July 1. L. 98: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, p. 1014, § 1, effective August 5.

25-7-118. Delayed compliance orders.

(1) The division may, after notice and an opportunity for a public hearing, issue an order for any stationary source which specifies a date for final compliance with any requirement of the state implementation plan not later than the date for attainment of any national ambient air quality standard specified in such plan and in no event longer than one year after the date the order was issued, if the requirements of this section are met. If a public hearing is requested by an interested person, the request shall, within twenty days of its receipt, be transmitted to the commission. The commission shall, within sixty days of its receipt of the request, hold a public hearing with respect thereto and, within thirty days of such hearing, issue its decision and order.

(2) An order pursuant to this section may be issued if the order:

(a) Is issued after notice to the public containing the content of the proposed order and after an opportunity for a public hearing thereon;

(b) Contains a schedule and timetable for compliance which requires final compliance as expeditiously as practical, but in no event later than July 1, 1979, or three years after the date for final compliance with such requirement that is specified in the state implementation plan, whichever is later;

(c) In the case of a major stationary source, notifies the source that it will be required to pay a penalty under section 25-7-115 in the event such stationary source fails to achieve final compliance by July 1, 1979, or by such later date as is specified in the order in accordance with section 25-7-115;

(d) Requires emission monitoring and reporting by the stationary source;

(e) Requires the stationary source to use the best practical system of emission reduction for the period during which such order is in effect and requires the stationary source to comply with such interim requirements as the division or commission determines are reasonable and practical.

(3) If any stationary source not in compliance with any requirement of the state implementation plan gives notice to the division or commission that such stationary source intends to comply by means of replacement of the facility, a complete change in its production process, or a termination of its operations, the division or commission may issue an order under this section permitting the stationary source to operate until July 1, 1979, without any interim schedule of compliance. As a condition of the issuance of any such order, the owner or operator of such stationary source shall post a bond or other surety in an amount equal to the cost of actual compliance by such facility and any economic value which may accrue to the owner or operator of such stationary source by reason of the failure to comply. If the owner or operator of a stationary source for which the bond or other surety required by this subsection (3) has been posted fails to replace the facility, change the production process, or terminate the operations as specified in the order by the required date, the owner or operator shall immediately forfeit on the bond or other surety, and the commission shall have no discretion to modify the order under this subsection (3) or to compromise the bond or other surety.

(4) Any order pursuant to this section shall be terminated if the commission determines, after notice and a hearing, that the inability of the stationary source to comply no longer exists. If the owner or operator of the stationary source to which the order is issued demonstrates that prompt termination of such order would result in undue hardship, the termination shall become effective at the earliest practicable date on which such undue hardship would not result but in no event later than the date required under this section.

(5) (a) If, on the basis of any information available to it, the division has reason to believe that a stationary source to which an order has been issued pursuant to this section is in violation of any requirement of such order or of any provision of this section, it shall notify the commission and the owner or operator of the alleged violation and may revoke such order or may commence an appropriate enforcement action pursuant to this article, or both.

(b) The owner or operator shall respond as provided in section 25-7-115, and, within sixty days after receipt of such notice, the division shall issue a determination thereon. If the division determines that the stationary source is in violation of any requirement of such order or of any provision of this section, it shall revoke such order and enforce compliance with the requirement with respect to which such order was granted or shall order payment of a penalty as provided in section 25-7-115, or both.

(6) During the period of the order issued under this section and when the owner or operator is in compliance with the terms of such order, no other enforcement action pursuant to this article shall be taken against such owner or operator based upon noncompliance during the period the order is in effect with the requirement for the stationary source covered by such order.

(7) Nothing in this section, and no delayed compliance order granted pursuant to this section, shall be construed to prevent or limit the application of the emergency provisions of section 25-7-112 or 25-7-113. No order issued under this subsection (7) shall prevent the state from assessing penalties nor otherwise affect or limit the state's authority to enforce under other provisions of this article.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1041, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (1), (2)(e), (3), and (4) amended, p. 773, § 9, effective July 1. L. 92: (1), (5)(a), and (7) amended, p. 1218, § 20, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Limits of the Law: Functional Failures of the Air Pollution Variance Board", see 44 U. Colo. L. Rev. 513 (1974). For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

Applied in CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

25-7-119. Hearings.

(1) Not more than thirty calendar days after a hearing has been requested as provided in this article 7, the commission must act upon such request. If granted, the commission shall set a time and place for the hearing not more than ninety calendar days following the first regularly scheduled commission meeting after receipt of the hearing request, unless a shorter period is otherwise specifically provided for in this article 7. Notice of the hearing must be printed in a newspaper of general circulation in the area in which the proposed project or activity is located at least thirty days prior to the date of the hearing.

(2) The division shall appear as a party in any hearing before the commission and shall have the same rights to judicial review as any other party.

(2.5) The division or the federal environmental protection agency, or both, may appear as parties pursuant to subsection (5) of this section in any hearing before the commission. The federal environmental protection agency is encouraged to participate in the hearing process early and often so that its interpretations are heard. If the federal environmental protection agency does not comply with the provisions of this subsection (2.5), the commission may not receive evidence from such agency in any hearing related to stationary sources conducted pursuant to this section, and any subsequent opinions by such agency shall carry no weight before the commission or in any judicial proceeding.

(3) All testimony taken at any such hearing before the commission shall be under oath or affirmation. A full and complete record of all proceedings and testimony presented shall be taken and filed. The stenographer shall furnish, upon payment and receipt of any fees allowed therefor, a certified transcript of the whole or any part of the record to any party in such hearing requesting the same.

(4) Any information relating to secret processes or methods of manufacture or production which may be required, ascertained, or discovered shall not be publicly disclosed in public hearings or otherwise and shall be kept confidential by any member, officer, or employee of the commission or the division. Any person seeking to invoke the protection of this subsection (4) in any hearing shall bear the burden of proving its applicability. Except as provided in the federal act, information claimed to be related to secret processes or methods of manufacture or production but which constitutes emission data may not be withheld as confidential; except that such information may be submitted under a claim of confidentiality, and the division shall not disclose any such information to the public unless required under the federal act.

(5) At any hearing, any person who is affected by the proceeding and whose interests are not already adequately represented shall have the opportunity to be a party thereto upon prior application to and approval by the commission in its sole discretion, as deemed reasonable and proper by said commission, and such person shall have the right to be heard and to cross-examine any witness.

(6) After due consideration of the written and oral statements, the testimony, and the arguments presented at any such hearing, the commission shall make its findings and order, based upon evidence in the record, or make such determination of the matter as it shall deem appropriate, consistent with the provisions of this article and any rule, regulation, or determination promulgated by the commission pursuant thereto. Unless a time period is otherwise specifically provided for in this article, such finding and order or determination shall be made within thirty calendar days after the completion of such hearing.

(7) In all proceedings before the commission with respect to any alleged violation of any provision of this article, regulation of the commission, order or permit or terms or conditions thereof, or requirement of the state implementation plan, the burden of proof shall be upon the division.

(8) The applicant for a permit or delayed compliance order, or any modification thereof, and the petitioner for any amendment to the state implementation plan shall bear the burden of proof with respect to the justification therefor and the information, data, and analysis supportive thereof or required with respect to such application or petition.

(9) Repealed.

(10) Every hearing granted by the commission shall be conducted by the commission, and every hearing shall comply with the provisions of this article and the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1042, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (1) to (7) and (10) amended and (9) repealed, pp. 774, 768, §§10, 1, effective July 1. L. 87: (10) amended, p. 971, § 84, effective March 13. L. 92: (4), (6), and (10) amended, p. 1219, § 21, effective July 1. L. 95: (2.5) added, p. 1342, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2022: (1) amended, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2158, § 8, effective June 2.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Limits of the Law: Functional Failures of the Air Pollution Variance Board", see 44 U. Colo. L. Rev. 513 (1974). For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

The board or commission possesses unfettered and sole discretion as to granting intervention. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Results of visual opacity inspection are admissible. For purposes of a hearing before the air pollution variance board, the results of visual opacity inspection are wholly relevant and admissible. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 191 Colo. 455, 553 P.2d 811 (1976).

Visual opacity tests for air pollution meet minimal due process standards and are not so arbitrary or capricious as to foreclose the finding of a violation based upon such tests alone. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 191 Colo. 455, 553 P.2d 811 (1976).

Questions as to such tests rest in discretion of trier of fact. Any question as to the method of conducting a visual opacity inspection, the qualification of the inspector, or the reliability of the testing procedure rests in the sound discretion of the trier of fact. Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. W. Alfalfa Corp., 191 Colo. 455, 553 P.2d 811 (1976).

Former subsection (9) did not require review by commission when variance is denied; rather, this section provides that, upon granting of a variance, the commission must review the variance order to determine whether the variance granted interferes with the attainment of the objectives of the air pollution control act. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Applied in CF&I Steel Corp. v. Colo. Air Pollution Control Comm'n, 199 Colo. 270, 610 P.2d 85 (1980).

25-7-120. Judicial review.

(1) Any final order or determination by the division or the commission shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with the provisions of this article and the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) Any party may move the court to remand the case to the division or the commission in the interests of justice for the purpose of adducing additional specified and material evidence and findings thereon; but such party shall show reasonable grounds for the failure to adduce such evidence previously before the division or the commission.

(3) Any proceeding for judicial review of any final order or determination of the division or the commission shall be filed in the district court for the district in which is located the air pollution source affected.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1044, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 775, § 11, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Limits of the Law: Functional Failures of the Air Pollution Variance Board", see 44 U. Colo. L. Rev. 513 (1974). For comment, "Environmental Law — Requirement of Notice in Visual Opacity Readings — Air Pollution Variance Bd. v. Western Alfalfa Corp., 94 S. Ct. 2114 (1974)", see 51 Den. L.J. 603 (1974).

Legislative intent. In prescribing a single local forum for judicial review, the general assembly intended to provide a unified, expedient, and economical means for resolving issues under the air pollution control act. Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

In enacting subsection (3), the general assembly sought to provide a single forum for judicial review of "any" final orders or determinations of the commission, since the legislative judgment was that a single, "local" forum would best ensure proper participation by all those parties which had been joined in the administrative proceeding. Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

A party seeking judicial review of a commission's final order must file a complaint within thirty-five days of the effective date of the order, even if the party first filed a motion to reconsider and the commission declined to reconsider its order. The plain language of the Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act and the State Administrative Procedure Act requires a finding that a complaint was untimely when a party filed its complaint sixty-nine days after the effective date of a final order. Sterling Ethanol v. Colo. Air Quality, 2017 COA 26, 413 P.3d 215.

Venue in another forum is improper. Where forum for judicial review is properly determined under subsection (3) of this section, venue in another forum under § 24-4-106 is improper. Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

Every order need not directly affect source. The phrase in subsection (3), "in which is located the air contamination source affected", does not mean that every appealable order or determination arising out of the agency proceeding must directly "affect" the air contamination source. Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

Collateral questions are subject to venue provisions. When an agency proceeding "affects" an air contamination source, then even collateral questions decided in that proceeding will be subject to the venue provisions of subsection (3). Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

Effect of existence of separate ancillary claim. The existence of a separate claim, ancillary to an order properly reviewed under the venue provision of subsection (3), does not create an independent basis for venue in a forum other than that prescribed by subsection (3). Air Pollution Control Comm'n v. District Court, 193 Colo. 146, 563 P.2d 351 (1977).

This section does not explicitly confer on a subordinate agency the right to seek judicial review of a decision of the air quality control commission. Weld County Colo. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Ryan, 2022 COA 26, 511 P.3d 663, aff'd on other grounds, 2023 CO 54, 536 P.3d 1254.

25-7-121. Injunctions.

(1) In the event any person fails to comply with a final order of the division or the commission that is not subject to stay pending administrative or judicial review or in the event any person violates any emission control regulation of the commission, the requirements of the state implementation plan, or any provision of or commission rule adopted pursuant to parts 1 to 4 of this article 7, including any term or condition contained in any permit required under this article 7, the division or the commission, as the case may be, may request the district attorney for the district in which the alleged violation occurs or the attorney general to bring, and if so requested it is the district attorney's or the attorney general's duty to bring, a suit for an injunction to:

(a) Prevent any further or continued violation;

(b) Reduce the potential for a recurrence of a violation for which the division has previously commenced enforcement pursuant to section 25-7-115 (2)(c)(I); or

(c) Obtain any permit required to construct or operate.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1044, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (1) and IP(2) amended, p. 775, § 12, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1220, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2016: (1) amended, (HB 16-1094), ch. 94, p. 268, § 16, effective August 10. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-229), ch. 183, p. 988, § 4, effective May 16.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 24-229, see section 1 of chapter 183, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

This section deals only with future conduct. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Injunctive relief cannot be granted until one violates a final cease-and-desist order, not subject to a stay pending review, which has been issued pursuant to the air pollution control act. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Or until notice of violation given. An injunction cannot issue until after notice is given of the alleged violation. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

The plain language found in this section and in § 25-7-122 allows the division to seek injunctions and civil penalties when a person violates an emissions control regulation of the commission or a requirement of the state implementation plan (SIP) regardless of whether the division has issued a final order. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

The use of "or" indicates that the general assembly intended to provide the division a choice: sue for violating an agency order or sue a person for violating an emission regulation. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

Any person who violates an emission regulation or the SIP shall be subject to civil penalties. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

This section and § 25-7-122 operate independently of § 25-7-115. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

The general assembly intended to allow the state, through its attorney general, to sue in a court of law without requiring a final order from the division. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

Showing of irreparable injury not necessary. The terms of this section do not dictate that a showing of irreparable injury must be made prior to the granting of an injunction. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

A violation of the air quality standards embodies sufficient injury to the public interest to permit the injunctive remedy. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

Resolution of inconsistencies with C.R.C.P. 65(d). Where the proceeding is a special statutory proceeding under the air pollution control act, any inconsistency regarding the form and scope of an injunction between C.R.C.P. 65(d) and § 25-7-102 is resolved in favor of the statutory section. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

25-7-122. Civil penalties - rules.

(1) Upon application of the division, the division may collect penalties as determined under this article 7 by instituting an action in the district court for the district in which the air pollution source affected is located, in accordance with the following provisions:

(a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1220, § 23, effective July 1, 1992.)

(b) Any person who violates any requirement or prohibition of a final order of the division or commission, an applicable emission control regulation of the commission, the state implementation plan, a construction permit, any provision for the prevention of significant deterioration under part 2 of this article 7, any provision related to attainment under part 3 of this article 7, or any provision of or commission rule adopted pursuant to section 25-7-105, 25-7-106, 25-7-106.3, 25-7-108, 25-7-109, 25-7-109.5, 25-7-111, 25-7-112, 25-7-113, 25-7-114.2, 25-7-114.5, 25-7-118, 25-7-141, 25-7-146, 25-7-206, 25-7-403, 25-7-404, 25-7-405, 25-7-407, 42-4-403, 42-4-404, 42-4-405, 42-4-406, 42-4-407, 42-4-409, 42-4-410, or 42-4-414 is subject to a civil penalty of not more than forty-seven thousand three hundred fifty-seven dollars per day for each day of the violation; except that:

(I) On or before December 31, 2021, the commission shall, by rule, annually adjust the amount of the maximum civil penalty based on the percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items and all urban consumers, or its successor index; and

(II) Civil penalties shall not be assessed or collected against persons who violate emission regulations promulgated by the commission for the control of odor until a compliance order issued pursuant to section 25-7-115 and ordering compliance with the odor regulation has been violated.

(c) Any person failing to comply with the provisions of section 25-7-114.1 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than one thousand dollars per day per violation.

(d) Any person who violates any requirement, prohibition, or order respecting an operating permit issued pursuant to section 25-7-114.3, including failure to obtain such a permit, to operate in compliance with any term or condition of the permit, or to pay the permit fee required under section 25-7-114.7 (2), or who commits a violation of section 25-7-109.6 is subject to a civil penalty of not more than forty-seven thousand three hundred fifty-seven dollars per day for each violation; except that, on or before December 31, 2021, the commission shall, by rule, annually adjust the amount of the maximum civil penalty based on the percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items and all urban consumers, or its successor index.

(e) Any person who violates any provision of section 25-7-139 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than one thousand dollars.

(f) Any person who owns or operates storage tanks at a gasoline dispensing facility, as defined by regulations promulgated by the air quality control commission, who violates any requirement to maintain a vapor collection system pursuant to air quality control regulations shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than fifteen thousand dollars per day for each day of such a violation.

(g) Any person who owns or operates a gasoline dispensing facility, as defined by regulations promulgated by the air quality control commission, who violates any requirement to maintain records required pursuant to air quality control commission regulations and the air pollution control division shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than five thousand dollars. For a second violation, the civil penalty shall be not more than ten thousand dollars. For a third or subsequent violation, the civil penalty shall be not more than fifteen thousand dollars.

(h) The division, in consultation with stakeholders from gasoline dispensing facilities and gasoline transport truck companies, as defined by regulations promulgated by the air quality control commission, shall develop design, operation, and maintenance guidelines by June 30, 2021. The guidelines will assist owners and operators of gasoline dispensing facilities and gasoline transport trucks in complying with the requirements of air quality control commission regulations.

(i) (I) Except as provided in subsection (1)(i)(II) of this section, an owner of a covered building that violates:

(A) Section 25-7-142 (3) or (6) is subject to a civil penalty of up to five hundred seventy-seven dollars for a first violation and up to two thousand three hundred dollars for each subsequent violation, which amounts the commission shall, by rule, annually adjust based on the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index, or a successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid for by urban consumers;

(B) On and after January 1, 2030, performance standards adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-7-142 or that violates the requirements of section 25-7-142 (8.6) is, for a first violation, subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two thousand three hundred dollars for every thirty days that the owner is in violation and, for each subsequent violation, subject to a penalty in an amount not to exceed five thousand eight hundred dollars for every thirty days that the owner is in violation, which amounts the commission, beginning in 2026, shall, by rule, annually adjust in accordance with subsection (1)(i)(I)(A) of this section.

(II) The division shall not assess a civil penalty for a violation related to a public building.

(II.5) Notwithstanding rules that the commission adopted before July 1, 2025, a civil penalty for a violation of section 25-7-142 or rules adopted by the commission to implement section 25-7-142 shall be determined in a manner consistent with this subsection (1)(i) and subsection (2) of this section.

(III) Notwithstanding section 25-7-129, civil penalties collected pursuant to this subsection (1)(i), as paid by owners of covered buildings for a violation of section 25-7-142 or rules adopted by the commission to implement section 25-7-142, shall be credited to the climate change mitigation and adaptation fund created in section 24-38.5-102.6.

(j) (I) A person who violates section 25-7-144 is subject to a civil penalty in the following amount:

(A) For each motor vehicle for which the violation was committed, a person who owns or operates ten or more motor vehicles as part of the person's business or commercial activities is subject to a penalty of up to one thousand dollars for a first violation, up to seven thousand five hundred dollars for a second violation, and up to fifteen thousand dollars for a third or subsequent violation; or

(B) For each motor vehicle for which the violation was committed, a person who owns or operates nine or fewer motor vehicles is subject to a penalty of up to two hundred dollars for the first violation, up to five hundred dollars for the second violation, and up to one thousand two hundred dollars for a third or subsequent violation.

(II) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(j)(I)(B) of this section, a person who violates section 25-7-144 by tampering with, or assisting another person in tampering with, an emission control system for profit is subject to a penalty under subsection (1)(j)(I)(A) of this section regardless of the number of motor vehicles owned or operated.

(III) Notwithstanding section 25-7-129, the division shall transmit civil penalties collected pursuant to this subsection (1)(j) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money:

(A) On or before June 30, 2025, to the catalytic converter identification and theft prevention grant program cash fund created in section 24-33.5-230 (5.5). The Colorado state patrol shall use the money credited to the fund to implement the catalytic converter identification and theft prevention grant program created in section 24-33.5-230 (1).

(B) On or after July 1, 2025, to the AIR account in the highway users tax fund, which account is created in section 42-3-304 (18)(a).

(2) (a) In determining the amount of any civil penalty, the division shall consider the following factors:

(I) The violator's compliance history, including the compliance history of the violator's corporate affiliates, subsidiaries, and parent organizations;

(II) Lack of good faith efforts on behalf of the violator to comply;

(III) Whether the violator previously committed the same or a similar violation, regardless of whether the division or commission commenced an enforcement action pursuant to section 25-7-115 for any such violation;

(IV) Duration of the violation;

(V) Economic benefit of noncompliance to the violator;

(VI) Impact on, or threat to, the public health or welfare or the environment as a result of the violation;

(VII) Malfeasance;

(VIII) Whether legal and factual theories were advanced for purposes of delay;

(IX) The severity of the violation or noncompliance; and

(X) Whether the violation occurred within or impacted a disproportionately impacted community.

(b) In addition to the factors set forth in subsection (2)(a) of this section, the division shall consider the following circumstances as grounds for reducing or eliminating civil penalties:

(I) The voluntary and complete disclosure by the violator of such violation in a timely fashion after discovery of the noncompliance;

(II) Full and prompt cooperation by the violator following disclosure of the violation including, when appropriate, entering into a legally enforceable commitment to undertake compliance and remedial efforts;

(III) The existence and scope of a regularized and comprehensive environmental compliance program or an environmental audit program;

(IV) Substantial economic impact of a penalty on the violator; and

(V) Repealed.

(VI) Other mitigating factors.

(c) The imposition of civil penalties may be deferred or suspended where appropriate based on consideration of the factors set forth in this subsection (2).

(3) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1044, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 775, § 13, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1220, § 23, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(b) amended, p. 1640, § 61, effective May 31; (1)(b) amended, p. 2561, § 67, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2000: (1)(e) added, p. 763, § 2, effective September 1. L. 2003: (1)(b) amended, p. 724, § 4, effective July 1; (1)(b) amended, p. 1026, § 7, effective August 6. L. 2020: IP(1) amended and (1)(f), (1)(g), and (1)(h) added, (SB 20-218), ch. 141, p. 617, § 4, effective June 29; IP(1), (1)(b), and (1)(d) amended, (HB 20-1143), ch. 219, p. 1081, § 1, effective July 2; IP(1) and (1)(b) amended, (HB 20-1167), ch. 56, p. 193, § 6, effective September 14. L. 2021: (1)(i) added, (HB 21-1286), ch. 326, p. 2085, § 4, effective September 7. L. 2022: (1)(j) added, (SB 22-179), ch. 485, p. 3522, § 3, August 10. L. 2023: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(VII), and (2)(a)(VIII) amended and (2)(a)(IX) added, (HB 23-1294), ch. 401, p. 2407, § 4, effective June 6. L. 2024: IP(1)(b), (1)(c), (2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(II), (2)(a)(III), (2)(a)(VIII), (2)(a)(IX), IP(2)(b), and (2)(b)(IV) amended, (2)(a)(X) added, and (2)(b)(V) and (3) repealed, (SB 24-229), ch. 183, p. 990, § 6, effective May 16. L. 2025: (1)(i) amended, (HB 25-1269), ch. 216, p. 991, § 5, effective May 20.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (1)(b) by Senate Bill 94-001 and Senate Bill 94-206 were harmonized.

(2) Amendments to subsection (1)(b) by Senate Bill 03-066 and House Bill 03-1053 were harmonized.

(3) (a) Amendments to subsection IP(1) by SB 20-218, HB 20-1143, and HB 20-1167 were harmonized.

(b) Amendments to subsection (1)(b) by HB 20-1143 and HB 20-1167 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1294, see section 1 of chapter 401, Session Laws of Colorado 2023. For the legislative declaration in SB 24-229, see section 1 of chapter 183, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

ANNOTATION

The plain language found in this section and in § 25-7-121 allows the division to seek injunctions and civil penalties when a person violates an emissions control regulation of the commission or a requirement of the state implementation plan (SIP) regardless of whether the division has issued a final order. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

The use of "or" indicates that the general assembly intended to provide the division a choice: sue for violating an agency order or sue a person for violating an emission regulation. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

Legislative intent to impose civil rather than criminal penalties for violation of air pollution control standards is clear from the history of the 1970 air pollution control act. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

The express language of the enforcement provisions belies any contention that the general assembly intended this section to effect criminal rather than civil penalties. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

Any person who violates an emission regulation or the SIP shall be subject to civil penalties. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

This section and § 25-7-121 operate independently of § 25-7-115. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

The general assembly intended to allow the state, through its attorney general, to sue in a court of law without requiring a final order from the division. United States v. K.P. Kauffman Co., 389 F. Supp. 3d 935 (D. Colo. 2019).

Civil penalty cannot be imposed until one violates a final cease-and-desist order, not subject to a stay pending review, which has been issued pursuant to the air pollution control act. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

Nor until notice of violation given. A civil penalty cannot be imposed until after notice is given of the alleged violation. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

No provision for jury determination. The air pollution control act contains no provision for trial by a jury or for penalty assessment by a jury. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. Air Pollution Variance Bd., 191 Colo. 463, 553 P.2d 800 (1976).

25-7-122.1. Criminal penalties.

(1) General provisions.

(a) Whenever the division has reason to believe that a person has knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), violated any requirement or prohibition of an applicable emission control regulation of the commission, state implementation plan, permit required under this article 7, or any provision for the prevention of significant deterioration under part 2 of this article 7; any provision related to attainment under part 3 of this article 7; or section 25-7-105, 25-7-106, 25-7-106.3, 25-7-108, 25-7-109, 25-7-111, 25-7-112, 25-7-113, 25-7-114.2, 25-7-114.5, 25-7-118, 25-7-206, 25-7-403, 25-7-404, 25-7-405, 25-7-407, 42-4-403, 42-4-404, 42-4-405, 42-4-406, 42-4-407, 42-4-409, or 42-4-410, the division may request either the attorney general or the district attorney for the district in which the alleged violation occurs to pursue criminal penalties under this section.

(b) Except for those violations identified in subsections (1)(c), (2), and (3) of this section, any person who knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), violates any requirement or prohibition of an applicable emission control regulation of the commission, state implementation plan, permit required under this article 7, or any provision for the prevention of significant deterioration under part 2 of this article 7; any provision related to attainment under part 3 of this article 7; or section 25-7-105, 25-7-106, 25-7-106.3, 25-7-108, 25-7-109, 25-7-109.6, 25-7-111, 25-7-112, 25-7-113, 25-7-114.2, 25-7-114.5, 25-7-118, 25-7-206, 25-7-403, 25-7-404, 25-7-405, 25-7-407, 42-4-403, 42-4-404, 42-4-405, 42-4-406, 42-4-407, 42-4-409, or 42-4-410 commits a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, may be punished by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars per day for each day of violation. Upon a second conviction for a violation of this subsection (1)(b) within two years, the maximum punishment shall be doubled.

(c) Except for those violations identified in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1) and subsections (2) and (3) of this section, any person who knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), C.R.S., violates any requirement, prohibition, or order respecting an operating permit issued pursuant to section 25-7-114.3, including but not limited to failure to obtain such a permit or to operate in compliance with any term or condition thereof or to pay the permit fee required under section 25-7-114.7 (2) is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, may be punished by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars per violation per day. Upon a second conviction for a violation of this paragraph (c) within two years, the maximum punishment shall be doubled.

(2) False statements. Any person who knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), C.R.S., makes any false material statement, representation, or certification in, or omits material information from, or knowingly alters or conceals any notice, application, record, report, plan, or other document required pursuant to this article to be either filed or maintained or falsifies, tampers with, or renders inaccurate any monitoring device or method required to be maintained or followed under this article is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, may be punished by a fine of not more than twelve thousand five hundred dollars for each instance of violation. Upon a second conviction for a violation of this subsection (2) within two years, the maximum punishment shall be doubled.

(3) (a) Knowing endangerment. Any person who knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), C.R.S., releases into the ambient air any hazardous air pollutant listed pursuant to section 112 of the federal act, or any other hazardous air pollutant as defined by this article, and who knows at the time that such action thereby places another person in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury is guilty of a felony, and upon conviction thereof, may be punished by a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars per day for each day of violation, or by imprisonment for not more than four years, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Any person committing such violation which is an organization shall, upon conviction under this subsection (3), be subject to a fine of not more than one million dollars for each such violation. Upon a second conviction for a violation of this subsection (3), the maximum punishment shall be doubled. For any air pollutant for which an emissions standard has been set, or for any source for which an operating permit has been issued under this article, a release of such pollutant in accordance with that standard or permit shall not constitute a violation of this subsection (3).

(b) In determining whether a defendant who is an individual knew that the violation placed another person in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury:

(I) The defendant is responsible only for actual awareness or actual belief possessed; and

(II) Knowledge possessed by a person other than the defendant, but not by the defendant, may not be attributed to the defendant.

(c) (I) It is an affirmative defense to a prosecution that the conduct charged was freely consented to by the person endangered and that the danger and conduct charged were reasonably foreseeable hazards of:

(A) An occupation, a business, or a profession; or

(B) Medical treatment or medical or scientific experimentation conducted by professionally approved methods and such other person had been made aware of the risks involved prior to giving consent.

(II) The defendant may establish an affirmative defense under this paragraph (c) by a preponderance of the evidence.

(d) Any person who negligently, as defined in section 18-1-501 (3), C.R.S., violates any requirement or prohibition of an applicable emission control regulation of the commission, state implementation plan, permit required under this article, or any provision for the prevention of significant deterioration under part 2 of this article, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, may be punished by a fine of not more than twelve thousand five hundred dollars per day for each day of violation.

(4) All general defenses, affirmative defenses, and bars to prosecution that may apply with respect to other criminal offenses may apply under this section and shall be determined by the courts of this state according to the principles of common law as they may be interpreted in the light of reason and experience. Concepts of justification and excuse applicable under this section may be developed in the light of reason and experience.

(5) For purposes of this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Organization" means a legal entity, other than a government, established or organized for any purpose, and such term includes a corporation, company, association, firm, partnership, joint-stock company, foundation, institution, trust, society, union, or any other association of persons.

(b) "Person" includes, in addition to the entities referred to in section 25-7-103 (19), any responsible corporate officer.

(c) "Serious bodily injury" means bodily injury which involves a substantial risk of death, unconsciousness, extreme physical pain, protracted and obvious disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1223, § 25, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 2561, § 68, effective January 1, 1995. L. 96: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 1472, § 21, effective June 1. L. 2003: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, p. 725, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2020: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, (HB 20-1167), ch. 56, p. 193, § 7, effective September 14.

25-7-122.5. Enforcement of chlorofluorocarbon regulations.

(1) Whenever the division has reason to believe that any person has violated the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to section 25-7-105 (11), the division may issue a notice of violation or a cease-and-desist order. Such notice or order shall set forth the rule or regulation alleged to have been violated, the facts constituting such violation, and any measures which the person is required to take. In addition, if the division finds that a person is in violation of any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to section 25-7-105 (11), it may assess a fine of up to one thousand dollars for each violation.

(2) Any person who has been issued a notice of violation or a cease-and-desist order or who has been ordered to pay a fine may request a hearing before the commission to contest the notice, order, or fine. Such request shall be filed within thirty days after the notice or order has been issued or the fine has been assessed. Upon such request, a hearing shall be held before the commission within a reasonable time.

(3) After a hearing pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, any person aggrieved by the determination of the commission may seek judicial review of the commission's order within thirty days after entry thereof in the district court for the judicial district in which the violation occurred.

(4) All fines collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the general fund.

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1158, § 4, effective May 26.

25-7-122.6. Administrative and judicial stays.

(1) Except with respect to emergency orders issued pursuant to sections 25-7-112 and 25-7-113, and delayed compliance orders issued pursuant to section 25-7-118, any person to whom an order has been issued by the division or the commission, or against whom an adverse determination has been made, may petition the commission or the district court for the district in which is located the air pollution source affected, as appropriate, for a stay of the effectiveness of such order or determination.

(2) Such petitions may be filed prior to any such order or determination becoming final or during any period in which such order or determination is under judicial review.

(3) Such stay shall be granted if there is probable cause to believe:

(a) That the movant will suffer irreparable harm if the motion is denied;

(b) That there will be no irreparable harm to human health, welfare, or the environment if the motion is granted; and

(c) That the movant will succeed on the merits of its case.

(4) Such order shall be stayed pending a final determination of the petition.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1223, § 25, effective July 1.

25-7-123. Open burning - penalties.

(1) (a) The commission shall adopt a program to control open burning in each portion of the state in which such control is necessary in order to carry out the policies of this article, as set forth in section 25-7-102, and to comply with the requirements of the federal act. Such program shall include emission control regulations and the designation, after public hearing and from time to time, of such portions by legal description.

(b) Open burning in the course of agricultural operations may be regulated only where the absence of regulations would substantially impede the commission in carrying out the objectives of this article. In adopting any program applicable to agricultural operations, the commission shall take into consideration the necessity of conducting open burning. For purposes of this section, "agricultural operations" does not include grassland, forest, or habitat management activities of significant users of prescribed fire conducted on lands the primary purpose of which is nonagricultural, unless a person asserts and the commission finds that the absence of regulation would substantially impede the objectives of this article. Such activities shall be deemed "commercial purposes" within the meaning of paragraph (b) of subsection (3) of this section.

(c) No permit shall be issued by the division pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section after July 1, 2002, unless such permit is consistent with the comments and recommendations of the commission concerning the planning document, as defined in section 25-7-106 (8)(b)(II), applicable to the area to be burned; except that permit conditions may be excluded from a permit if a significant user of prescribed fire demonstrates and the state finds that such conditions are inconsistent with applicable law. The division shall report all such exclusions, within thirty days after they are granted, to the governor and to the director of the legislative council. In no event shall a permit be issued unless a planning document for the area to be burned has been submitted to the commission for review, public hearing, and comment in accordance with section 25-7-106 (8). The commission shall adopt rules to provide for exceptions from the requirements of section 25-7-106 (8) when immediate issuance of a permit is necessary to protect the public health and safety.

(2) (a) Within such designated portions of the state, no person shall burn or permit to be burned on any open premises owned or controlled by such person, or on any public street, alley, or other land adjacent to such premises any rubbish, wastepaper, wood, or other flammable material, unless a permit therefor has first been obtained from the division. In granting or denying the issuance of any such permit, the division shall base its action on the location and proximity of such burning to any building or other structure, the potential contribution of such burning to air pollution in the area, climatic conditions on the day of such burning, and compliance by the applicant for the permit with applicable fire protection and safety requirements of the local authority or area.

(b) In all or any part of any portion of the state designated pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the prohibition contained in this subsection (2) may be suspended by the commission with respect to any particular type or category of open burning upon a finding that enforcement of the prohibition would neither significantly assist in the prevention, abatement, and control of air pollution nor significantly enhance the quality of the ambient air in such designated area.

(3) (a) Any person who violates paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section by burning or permitting any burning for noncommercial purposes without first having obtained a permit as required shall be subject to a civil penalty of up to five hundred dollars per day for each day during which such a violation occurs. For a second violation, the civil penalty shall be up to one thousand dollars per day for each day during which such a violation occurs. For a third or subsequent violation, the civil penalty shall be up to one thousand five hundred dollars per day for each day during which such a violation occurs.

(b) Any person who violates paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section by burning or permitting any burning for commercial purposes without first having obtained a permit as required shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars per day for each day during which such a violation occurs.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1045, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1223, § 24, effective July 1. L. 99: (1)(b) amended and (1)(c) added, p. 790, § 3, effective May 24. L. 2001: (1)(b) and (1)(c) amended, p. 1185, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2010: (3)(a) amended, (HB 10-1042), ch. 209, p. 910, § 4, effective September 1.

25-7-123.1. Statute of limitations - penalty assessment - criteria.

(1) (a) Except with respect to any action commenced to address a failure to obtain a permit required by this article 7, any action commenced for the assessment of civil penalties, pursuant to this article 7, that is not commenced within five years after the occurrence of the alleged violation is time barred.

(b) Without expanding the statute of limitations contained in subsection (1)(a) of this section, any action commenced for the assessment of civil penalties, pursuant to this article 7, except those commenced pursuant to section 25-7-122 (1)(d) or 25-7-122.1 (1)(c), that is not commenced within eighteen months after the date upon which the division discovers the alleged violation is time barred. For purposes of this section, the division discovers the alleged violation when it learns of the alleged violation or should have learned of the alleged violation by the exercise of reasonable diligence, including by receipt of actual or constructive notice.

(c) The periods of limitation described in this section do not apply where the alleged violator knowingly or willfully conceals information regarding the alleged violation.

(2) A penalty may be assessed for each day of violation. For purposes of determining the number of days of violation for which a penalty may be assessed under sections 25-7-122 and 25-7-122.1 (1), or an assessment may be made under section 25-7-115 (5), where the division has notified the source of the violation, and the division makes a prima facie showing that the conduct or events giving rise to the violation are likely to have continued or recurred past the date of notice, the days of violation shall be presumed to include the date of such notice and each and every day thereafter until the violator establishes that continuous compliance has been achieved, except to the extent that the violator can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that there were intervening days during which no violation occurred or that the violation was not continuing in nature.

(3) The division may request the district attorney for the district in which the alleged violation or noncompliance, or any part thereof, occurred or may request the attorney general to bring, and if so requested, it is the duty of such official to bring a suit for recovery or any penalty or nonpayment penalty, with interest, imposed pursuant to section 25-7-122 (civil penalties) or 25-7-122.1 (criminal penalties), if the penalty is not paid when due. The division may not revoke a permit issued pursuant to parts 1 to 4 of this article or certification issued pursuant to part 5 of this article solely for failure to pay penalties when due, unless an order is first issued and all administrative and judicial remedies are pursued unsuccessfully.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1223, § 25, effective July 1. L. 2023: (1) amended, (HB 23-1294), ch. 401, p. 2407, § 5, effective June 6. L. 2024: (1)(b) amended, (HB 24-1338), ch. 259, p. 1716, § 3, effective May 28.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1294, see section 1 of chapter 401, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-7-124. Relationship with federal government, regional agencies, and other states.

(1) The commission shall serve as the state agency for all purposes of the federal act and regulations promulgated under said act; except that the department of public health and environment shall accept and supervise the administration of loans and grants from the federal government and from other sources, public or private, which are received by the state for air pollution control purposes.

(2) Repealed.

(3) The department of public health and environment may enter into agreements with any air pollution control agencies of the federal government or other states and with regional air pollution control agencies, but any such agreement involving, authorizing, or requiring compliance in this state with any ambient air quality standard or emission control regulation shall not be effective unless or until the commission has held a hearing with respect to such standard or regulation and has adopted the same in compliance with section 25-7-110.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1046, § 1, effective June 20. L. 94: (1) and (3) amended, p. 2784, § 502, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2) repealed, p. 282, § 19, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-125. Organization within department of public health and environment.

The air quality control commission, together with the technical secretary under said commission, is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions specified in this article under the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1046, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 776, § 14, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2784, § 503, effective July 1. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (HB 23-1301), ch. 303, p. 1828, § 42, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Synthetic Fuels — Policy and Regulation", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 465 (1980).

25-7-126. Application of article.

(1) The factual or legal basis for proceedings or other actions that shall result from a violation of any emission control regulation inure solely to and shall be for the benefit of the people of the state generally, and it is not intended to create by this article, in any way, new or enlarged private rights, or to enlarge existing private rights, or to diminish private rights. A determination that air pollution exists or that any standard has been disregarded or violated, whether or not a proceeding or action may be brought by the state, shall not create by reason thereof any presumption of law or finding of fact which shall inure to or be for the benefit of any person other than the state.

(2) Other than section 25-7-112 or 25-7-113, the provisions of this article and regulations adopted under this article shall not apply to air pollution insofar as such pollution exists within the confines of a particular commercial or industrial plant, works, or shop which is the source of air pollution and shall not apply or affect the relations between employers and employees with respect to or arising out of any condition of air pollution.

(3) It is the purpose of this article to provide additional and cumulative remedies to prevent and abate air pollution. Nothing in this article shall abridge or alter rights of action or remedies existing on June 20, 1979, or after said date, nor shall any provision of this article or anything done by virtue of this article be construed as estopping individuals, cities, towns, counties, cities and counties, or duly constituted political subdivisions of the state from the exercise of their respective rights to suppress nuisances.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1046, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-127. Continuance of existing rules and orders.

(1) All rules or amendments to existing rules adopted by the commission on or after June 20, 1979, are subject to section 24-4-103.

(2) All actions, orders, and determinations by the division and the state board of health pursuant to article 29 of chapter 66, C.R.S. 1963, as that article existed on January 1, 1970, shall remain in full force and effect until countermanded or modified by the division.

(3) to (5) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1047, § 1, effective June 20. L. 80: (1) amended, p. 788, § 25, effective June 5. L. 84: (3) and (4) amended and (5) added, p. 776, § 15, effective July 1. L. 2019: (3), (4), and (5) repealed, (SB 19-083), ch. 13, p. 55, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2022: (1) amended, (SB 22-091), ch. 28, p. 169, § 8, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-083, see section 1 of chapter 13, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ANNOTATION

Section held not to constitute "ex post facto" law. Lloyd A. Fry Roofing Co. v. State, 179 Colo. 223, 499 P.2d 1176 (1972).

25-7-128. Local government - authority - penalty.

(1) Home rule cities, cities, towns, counties, and cities and counties are hereby authorized to enact local air pollution resolutions or ordinances. Every such resolution or ordinance shall provide for hearings, judicial review, and injunctions consistent with sections 25-7-118 to 25-7-121 and shall include emission control regulations which are at least the same as, or may be more restrictive than, the emission control regulations adopted pursuant to this article; except that nothing in this article shall prohibit any such local law from controlling any air pollution or air pollution source which is not subject to control under the provisions of this article and except that no permit issued under any local air pollution law with respect to any facility, activity, or process shall ever be construed to relieve any holder thereof from the duty to maintain such facility, activity, or process in compliance with the emission standards and emission control regulations adopted pursuant to this article nor to relieve the division from its duty to enforce such emission standards and emission control regulations with respect to such facility, activity, or process. Any local air pollution standards or regulations submitted and approved as revisions to the state implementation plan shall be enforced as such by the division. In order to assure coordination of efforts to control and abate air pollution, local governmental entities are encouraged to submit their adopted plans and regulations as revisions to the state implementation plan for Colorado.

(2) All local air pollution resolutions and ordinances and orders issued pursuant thereto in existence on March 1, 1979, are validated as though adopted pursuant to the authority of subsection (1) of this section; except that, if any such local resolution, ordinance, or order fails to meet the requirements of this article, the governing body under whose authority such resolution, ordinance, or order was promulgated shall have until July 1, 1979, to amend, modify, or repeal the same so that it will meet the requirements of this article, but, if not so amended, modified, or repealed, the same shall be superseded by this article.

(3) To the extent that a local air pollution resolution adopted by a county is more restrictive than an ordinance adopted by any city or town within such county, the county resolution shall apply in lieu of the city or town ordinance to the extent of the inconsistency.

(4) Any local governmental authority enforcing air pollution control regulations which shall issue any enforcement order or grant any permit shall, at the time of such issuance or granting, transmit to the commission a copy of such order or permit.

(5) Application, operation, and enforcement of valid local air pollution laws shall be completely independent of, but may be concurrent with, the application, operation, and enforcement of this article. The appointment of an air pollution control authority by the division shall in no way affect the duties and responsibilities given the same person or agency under a local air pollution law, and the appointment of an air pollution control authority by a local governmental unit shall in no way affect the duties and responsibilities given the same person or agency by the division.

(6) In order to assure coordination of efforts to control and abate air pollution, at least semiannually the commission and each air pollution control authority created by a local air pollution law shall confer and review each other's records concerning the area subject to such local law and coordinate their respective plans and programs for such area.

(7) No local air pollution control authority shall institute any system or program that:

(a) Conflicts with, or is in any way inconsistent with, air pollution emergency plans promulgated by the governor pursuant to section 25-7-112 (2);

(b) Is more stringent than a corresponding state provision with respect to measures to preserve the stratospheric ozone layer;

(c) Is more stringent than a corresponding state provision with respect to hazardous air pollutants; except that this paragraph (c) shall not limit local zoning powers and ordinances enacted pursuant to other authorities under state law;

(d) Does not contain provisions to ensure adequate reimbursement of state compliance and administrative expenses as required by section 25-7-114.7 (2)(a)(I)(C);

(e) Is more stringent than a corresponding state provision with respect to asphalt and concrete plants and crushing equipment;

(f) Imposes less restrictive requirements on its own stationary sources than those imposed on similar nongovernmental sources.

(8) Any person who violates any emission standard or emission control regulation adopted by a local governmental entity, where such local government has not submitted its standards or regulations as revisions to the state implementation plan, shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than three hundred dollars. Each day during which such a violation occurs shall be deemed a separate offense.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1047, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: (7) amended, p. 1228, § 26, effective July 1; (7) amended, p. 1293, § 4, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (7) by Senate Bill 92-105 and House Bill 92-1178 were harmonized.

ANNOTATION

A county is subordinate to the air quality control commission in the context of air quality control for purposes of determining whether a county may seek judicial review of the actions of a superior state agency. Weld County Colo. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Ryan, 2022 COA 26, 511 P.3d 663, aff'd on other grounds, 2023 CO 54, 536 P.3d 1254.

25-7-129. Disposition of fines - community impact cash fund - repeal.

(1) There is hereby created in the state treasury the community impact cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to subsection (2) of this section and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year remains in the fund.

(2) (a) The state treasurer shall credit the receipts from penalties or fines collected under sections 25-7-115, 25-7-122, and 25-7-123 in the following manner:

(I) For state fiscal year 2021-22, twenty percent of the receipts from penalties or fines collected during the fiscal year shall be credited to the fund, and eighty percent to the general fund;

(II) For state fiscal year 2022-23, forty percent of the receipts from penalties or fines collected during the fiscal year shall be credited to the fund, and sixty percent to the general fund;

(III) For state fiscal year 2023-24, sixty percent of the receipts from penalties or fines collected during the fiscal year shall be credited to the fund, and forty percent to the general fund;

(IV) For state fiscal year 2024-25, eighty percent of the receipts from penalties or fines collected during the fiscal year shall be credited to the fund, and twenty percent to the general fund; and

(V) For state fiscal year 2025-26 and any state fiscal year thereafter:

(A) The first one million dollars to the motor vehicle emissions assistance fund established in section 25-7-129.5; and

(B) One hundred percent of the remainder to the fund.

(b) This subsection (2)(b) and subsections (2)(a)(I), (2)(a)(II), (2)(a)(III), and (2)(a)(IV) of this section are repealed, effective September 1, 2027.

(3) (a) Beginning in fiscal year 2022-23, the department may expend money from the fund to provide grants for environmental mitigation projects pursuant to section 25-1-134 (2)(g)(VII).

(b) Money in the fund may also pay for the direct and indirect costs of the environmental justice advisory board created in section 25-1-134 (2), including per diem and expenses of the advisory board, and the department's costs for administering the grant program created in section 25-1-134 (2)(g)(VII).

(c) Money in the fund is exempt from section 24-75-402 (3).

(d) The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes set forth in this subsection (3).

(e) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department may expend money from the fund to accomplish the purposes set forth in this subsection (3).

(f) The department may expend money from the fund for purposes of any environmental equity and cumulative impact analyses in accordance with section 25-1-133.

(g) (I) Pursuant to the department of public health and environment's authority to expend money from the fund to provide grants for environmental mitigation projects in disproportionately impacted communities pursuant to section 25-1-134 (2)(g)(VII), the department may expend money from the fund to provide grants for municipal solid waste landfill methane emission reduction projects that are conducted in accordance with rules adopted by the commission under this article 7 and that qualify as environmental mitigation projects, as defined in section 25-1-134 (4)(b).

(II) The environmental justice advisory board, created in section 25-1-134 (2)(a), shall prioritize a grant request for the purpose of complying with municipal solid waste landfill methane emission reduction requirements from a local government that owns or operates a municipal solid waste landfill over a grant request from a private entity that owns or operates a municipal solid waste landfill.

(III) An entity shall use money expended by the department of public health and environment pursuant to subsection (3)(g)(I) of this section as supplemental funding only and not as the exclusive source of funding for compliance with municipal solid waste landfill methane emission reduction requirements. With the exception of supplemental funding grants for environmental mitigation projects provided pursuant to subsection (3)(g)(I) of this section, nothing in this subsection (3)(g) relieves an entity of the responsibility to otherwise ensure adequate funding for municipal solid waste landfill methane emission reduction projects in compliance with applicable commission rules.

(4) (a) On July 1, 2025, the state treasurer shall transfer six million dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(a.1) On June 30, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer five million one hundred sixty-two thousand three hundred seventy-three dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(a.3) On June 30, 2027, the state treasurer shall transfer five million dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(b) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2028.

(5) (a) On July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer one million seven hundred forty-eight thousand eight hundred sixty-three dollars from the fund to the information technology capital account created in section 24-75-302 (3.7).

(b) This subsection (5) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1049, § 1, effective June 20. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2740, § 13, effective July 2. L. 2025: (4) added, (SB 25-264), ch. 129, p. 506, § 33, effective April 25; IP(2)(a) and (2)(a)(V) amended, (SB 25-321), ch. 387, p. 2177, § 6, effective June 3; (3)(e) amended, (SB 25-265), ch. 130, p. 511, § 2, effective July 1; (3)(f) added, (HB 25-1267), ch. 252, p. 1263, § 5, effective August 6. L. 2026: (5) added, (HB 26-1402), ch. 254, p. 1417, § 2, effective May 29; (4)(a.1) and (4)(a.3) added and (4)(b) amended, (HB 26-1405), ch. 396, p. 2485, § 27, effective June 4; (3)(g) added, (SB 26-101), ch. 140, p. 673, § 2, August 12.

Editor's note: Section 4(2) of chapter 140 (SB 26-101), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to conduct occurring on or after August 12, 2026.

Cross references: (1) For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(2) For the legislative declaration in SB 26-101, see section 1 of chapter 140, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-7-129.5. Motor vehicle emissions assistance fund - division to provide grants - gifts, grants, or donations - definition.

(1) As used in this section, "fund" means the motor vehicle emissions assistance fund created in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) The motor vehicle emissions assistance fund is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to section 25-7-129 (2)(a)(V)(A), any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund, and any gifts, grants, and donations received under subsection (5) of this section.

(3) (a) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(b) At the end of each state fiscal year, no more than two hundred fifty thousand dollars that is unexpended and unencumbered remains in the fund.

(c) At the end of each state fiscal year, the state treasurer shall credit any unexpended and unencumbered money in excess of two hundred fifty thousand dollars remaining in the fund to the community impact cash fund created in section 25-7-129 (1).

(4) Beginning in the state fiscal year 2025-26, the division may expend money from the fund to provide grants for:

(a) Paying emissions inspection fees required by part 3 of article 4 of title 42, or rules adopted by the commission under part 3 of article 4 of title 42, for motor vehicles registered to individuals participating in an established and recognized public assistance program; or

(b) Adjustments or emissions-related repairs that are necessary and sufficient to receive a certification of emissions compliance under part 3 of article 4 of title 42 and rules adopted under part 3 of article 4 of title 42 if the adjustments or repairs are performed by:

(I) A registered repair facility or technician, as defined in section 42-4-304 (21); or

(II) A motor vehicle repair facility registered with the secretary of state and in compliance with article 9 of title 42 or registered with the division pursuant to rules adopted by the commission.

(c) To qualify for a grant under subsection (4)(b) of this section, a motor vehicle owner must:

(I) Own a motor vehicle that is required to be registered in the program area and either:

(A) Participate in an established and recognized public assistance program; or

(B) Demonstrate qualifying repair expenditures that meet or exceed the limits established to comply with section 42-4-310 (1)(d)(VI); or

(II) Own a motor vehicle that has been identified as a high emitter and participate in a voluntary study conducted by the division.

(d) Subsection (4)(c)(II) of this section does not require the division to pay a motor vehicle owner to participate in a voluntary study.

(5) The division may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes set forth in this section. The state treasurer shall credit any gifts, grants, or donations received by the division to the fund.

(6) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the division to accomplish the purposes set forth in this section.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-321), ch. 387, p. 2177, § 7, effective June 3.

25-7-130. Motor vehicle emission control studies.

(1) The department of public health and environment, motor vehicle emission control section of the air pollution control division, and the department of revenue shall develop a continuing joint program for the study of the control of motor vehicle exhaust emissions, including emissions from model year 1975 and later models. Such emission control studies shall include such investigations and evaluations of existing and available motor vehicle emission control equipment and technology and the social problems, economic impacts, effectiveness, and costs involved in the use of such technology in motor vehicle emissions inspections and maintenance programs as they may jointly recommend.

(2) (a) The department of public health and environment, motor vehicle emission control section of the air pollution control division, shall develop a pilot program for the purpose of testing a representative sample of motor vehicles with various vehicle emission control alternatives which may include emission testing and maintenance, air pollution control tune-up, and vehicle modification alternatives as determined by the commission.

(b) Based upon the results of the pilot program and emission control studies, the commission shall develop recommendations for implementing programs of emission testing or mandatory maintenance, or both; air pollution control tune-ups; and vehicle modifications, including altitude modifications and retrofit control systems, for the control of motor vehicle emissions. Such recommendations shall include information on the costs and air pollution control effectiveness of alternate control measures and legislative and regulatory measures necessary to implement an effective program. Any program recommended shall be based upon establishing statewide minimum standards and shall include more stringent standards for motor vehicles registered in air quality control basins defined by the commission.

(3) (Deleted by amendment, L. 96, p. 1259, § 156, effective August 7, 1996.)

(4) and (5) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1049, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (4) and (5) added, p. 1085, § 2, effective July 1. L. 86: (4)(c) amended, p. 1185, § 17, effective May 12. L. 94: (1), (2)(a), and IP(4)(a) amended, p. 2784, § 504, effective July 1. L. 96: (1) and (3) amended, p. 1259, § 156, effective August 7.

Editor's note: Subsection (4)(c) provided for the repeal of subsection (4), effective December 31, 1993. (See L. 86, p. 1185.) Subsection (5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective June 30, 1986. (See L. 84, p. 1085.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1) and (2)(a) and the introductory portion to subsection (4)(a), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending subsections (1) and (3), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-131. Training programs - emission controls.

(1) (a) State-employed investigators shall complete a training course and pass qualification tests as developed and approved by the commission, after conferring with the department of revenue, as related to the orientation and basic maintenance procedures on air pollution control systems installed by manufacturers. The commission may waive the requirement for completion of such a training course under such circumstances as the commission deems appropriate. Only inspectors passing said qualification tests shall perform emissions inspections. The commission may require that inspection stations have on hand any equipment necessary to complete emissions inspections as provided for in this section.

(b) Repealed.

(1.1) Repealed.

(2) The training programs provided for by this section shall be oriented toward basic motor vehicle air pollution control systems installed in motor vehicles by the manufacturers and shall be made available to motor vehicle mechanics on a voluntary basis in such air quality control areas as the commission may designate in coordination with educational facilities throughout the state in which it may certify to conduct such training.

(3) and (4) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1049, § 1, effective June 20. L. 81: (1) amended and (1.1) added, p. 1944, 1951, §§ 6, 20, effective July 1. L. 84: (1)(b) and (1.1) repealed, p. 1080, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (3) and (4) repealed, p. 1243, § 107, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing subsections (3) and (4), see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-132. Emission data - public availability - submission of 2023 reports to state auditor - definitions.

(1) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this article 7 or any other law to the contrary, all emission data received or obtained by the commission or the division shall be available to the public to the extent required by the federal act.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1050, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 776, § 16, effective June 20. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (HB 22-1361), ch. 472, p. 3451, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2024: (2)(a)(I) amended, (HB 24-1346), ch. 216, p. 1342, § 14, effective May 21.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(c) provided for the repeal of subsection (2), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2022, p. 3451.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1361, see section 1 of chapter 472, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-7-133. Legislative review and approval of state implementation plans and rules - legislative declaration - definition.

(1) (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law but subject to subsection (7) of this section, by January 15 of each year, the commission shall certify in a report to the chairperson of the legislative council in summary form any additions or changes to elements of the state implementation plan that include any new regulatory requirements or modifications to existing regulatory requirements adopted during the prior year that are to be submitted to the administrator for purposes of federal enforceability.

(b) The report must be written in plain, nontechnical language using words with common and everyday meaning that are understandable to the average reader. Copies of such report must be available to the public and submitted to each member of the general assembly.

(c) This section does not apply to control measures and strategies that have been adopted and implemented by the enacting jurisdiction of a local unit of government if the measures and strategies do not result in mandatory direct costs upon any entity other than the enacting jurisdiction.

(2) Repealed.

(2.5) (a) Until February 15 following submission of the certified report under subsection (1) of this section, any addition or change to the SIP must not be submitted to the administrator for final approval and incorporation into the SIP, unless the addition or change is designated by the governor or the governor's designee as a provisional submission.

(b) By February 15, any member of the general assembly may introduce a bill to modify or delete all or a portion of the additions or changes to the SIP in the certified report submitted pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section. Any bill introduced under this subsection (2.5)(b) does not count against the number of bills to which members of the general assembly are limited by law or joint rule of the senate and the house of representatives. During the period that any such bill introduced under this subsection (2.5)(b) is being considered, the additions or changes to the SIP may not be submitted to the administrator for final approval and incorporation into the SIP, unless designated by the governor or the governor's designee as a provisional submission.

(c) If a bill introduced under subsection (2.5)(b) of this section that seeks to modify or delete the additions or changes to the SIP does not become law, the additions or changes to the SIP must be submitted to the administrator for final approval and incorporation into the SIP. If the bill becomes law, the commission shall modify or delete the additions or changes to the SIP as directed by the bill, and any modified additions or changes to the SIP shall then be submitted to the administrator for final approval and incorporation into the SIP.

(d) As used in this subsection (2.5), "additions or changes" means additions or changes to regulatory requirements.

(3) In order to further the goals of section 25-7-105.1 in assuring that nonfederally required rules or policies are not submitted to the administrator for inclusion in a SIP, the commission shall, effective July 1, 1995, with respect to any rule or any portion thereof not required by the federal act or which is otherwise more stringent in whole or in part than requirements of the federal act, ensure that the public notice and the general statement of such rule's basis, specific statutory authority, and purpose required by section 24-4-103, C.R.S., in connection with the commission's proposal and promulgation of such rule shall also specifically identify what portion of such rule is not required by provisions of the federal act or is otherwise more stringent than requirements of the federal act.

(4) (a) The general assembly recognizes that the commission must exercise discretion in selecting from available options in developing a cost effective SIP which attains or maintains national ambient air quality standards.

(b) On or before November 15 of each year, the commission, in coordination with designated organizations for air quality planning in local areas, shall provide the legislative council:

(I) A comprehensive listing of additions or changes to elements of the SIP that the commission and local areas will consider during the following calendar year;

(II) The projected schedule for local action and commission consideration of such measures;

(III) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 187, § 1, effective March 22, 2000.)

(IV) The statutory deadline, if any, for submittal to the administrator of the change or addition to elements of the SIP and the corresponding federal sanctions or consequences for failure to submit the change or addition to elements of the SIP by the deadline under the federal act; and

(V) A brief description of the principal technical and policy issues and available options presented for decision in each addition or change to elements of the SIP.

(c) The commission, in coordination with designated organizations for air quality planning in local areas, shall communicate regularly with the legislative council regarding each of the SIP elements or revisions thereto scheduled for adoption and submission to the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency.

(5) The information required by paragraph (b) of subsection (4) of this section shall be submitted to the legislative council in the form and manner and accompanied by supporting materials prescribed by the legislative council.

(6) This section is exempt from the provisions of section 24-1-136 (11), C.R.S., and the periodic reporting requirement of this section shall remain in effect until changed by the general assembly acting by bill.

(7) (a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2003, p. 1973, § 1, effective May 22, 2003.)

(b) Any revisions to the automobile inspection and readjustment program area pursuant to section 42-4-304 (20)(d), C.R.S., that delete specific regions within that portion of the AIR program area that is approved for incorporation into the state implementation plan shall be submitted to the federal environmental protection agency as expeditiously as possible and shall not be subject to further review and approval pursuant to this section; except that the commission shall submit a report pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.

(c) Repealed.

(d) (I) The commission shall request the governor to submit the plan adopted by the commission on March 12, 2004, to reduce the amount of pollutants emitted that create ozone pollution to the federal environmental protection agency for approval and incorporation into the state implementation plan. Passage of this paragraph (d) is in lieu of, and said plan shall be deemed to have satisfied, all review requirements under this section.

(II) A regulated entity that is required to comply with the amendments to regulation number 7 adopted by the air quality control commission on March 12, 2004, to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds from atmospheric condensate storage tanks shall:

(A) Provide advance notice of the location where it intends to install an emission control unit; and

(B) Indicate whether such unit exceeds the height of the existing equipment at the facility.

(III) The regulated entity shall deliver the notice required pursuant to subsection (7)(d)(II) of this section to the local government designee, if any, registered with the energy and carbon management commission created in section 34-60-104.3 (1) for receipt of information relating to oil and gas operations within a local jurisdiction and shall include a phone number for a contact person. If the local jurisdiction does not have a local government designee, the regulated entity shall deliver the notice to the municipal clerk.

(IV) The local government shall, within ten business days after receipt of the notice, notify the regulated entity whether the local government objects to the intended installation of the emission control unit. The objection shall be based on site-specific land use issues and may not be made on a blanket basis to every proposed emission control unit installation within a local jurisdiction. If the local government fails to object within ten business days after submission of the notice, the local jurisdiction is presumed to have approved the installation of the specified emission control unit, and the regulated entity may commence such installation.

(V) If a local government designee notifies a regulated entity of its objection within ten business days after receipt of the notice of installation of an emission control unit, the regulated entity and the local jurisdiction shall endeavor to informally resolve the matter within an additional ten business days. If such attempt fails, the local jurisdiction shall have ten business days to petition the air quality control commission for an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., which petition shall be granted by the commission. The hearing shall be held and the matter decided by the commission or a hearing officer designated by the commission within forty-five calendar days after receipt of the petition by the commission. In ruling on the objection, the commission shall have the authority only to uphold or deny the objection.

(VI) The commission shall determine the procedures and criteria that govern its review of local government objections to the installation of emission control units at atmospheric condensate storage tank facilities, and the process provided thereby shall be the exclusive procedure for such disputes. No other local permit or land use approval shall be required for the installation of such emission control units.

Source: L. 79: Entire section added, p. 1552, § 15, effective June 20. L. 95: Entire section R&RE, p. 1150, §2, effective May 31. L. 2000: (1), (2), (4)(b)(I), (4)(b)(III), (4)(b)(IV), (4)(b)(V), (4)(c), and (6) amended, p. 187, § 1, effective March 22. L. 2002: (1) amended and (7) added, p. 1263, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2003: (7) amended, p. 1973, § 1, effective May 22; (7) amended, p. 1358, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2004: (7)(d) added, p. 772, § 1, effective May 20. L. 2013: (2)(c) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1688, § 77, effective August 7. L. 2022: (1) amended, (2) repealed, and (2.5) added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2158, § 9, effective June 2. L. 2023: (7)(d)(III) amended, (SB 23-285), ch. 235, p. 1254, § 28, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2)(d)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(d), effective July 1, 2001. (See L. 2000, p. 187.)

(2) Subsection (7)(c)(IV) provided for the repeal of subsection (7)(c), effective December 31, 2003. (See L. 2003, p. 1973.)

(3) Amendments to subsection (7) by House Bill 03-1313 and House Bill 03-1340 were harmonized.

25-7-133.5. Approval or rescission of specific revisions to state implementation plan (SIP) after 1996.

(1) Consistent with the provisions of section 25-7-105.1, to the extent senate bill 96-129 and senate bill 96-236, enacted at the second regular session of the sixtieth general assembly, approved submitting portions of air quality control commission regulation 1, section VI, to the federal environmental protection agency for inclusion in the state implementation plan, such approval is hereby rescinded. The inclusion of said regulation 1 in the Denver metropolitan nonattainment area state implementation plan for particulate matter (PM-10) is not affected by this rescission.

(2) Pursuant to section 25-7-133, the following revisions to the state implementation plan (SIP), which were adopted by the air quality control commission on the dates indicated and received by the legislative council for review, are approved for incorporation into the state implementation plan:

(a) The 1993 periodic emissions inventory update to the Denver metropolitan, Colorado Springs, Longmont, and Fort Collins carbon monoxide nonattainment area elements of the SIP, adopted by the air quality control commission on December 21, 1995;

(b) The emergency episode plan revisions as a part of the Denver PM-10 nonattainment area element of the SIP, adopted by the air quality control commission on January 18, 1996;

(c) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on September 19, 1996, to the Greeley carbon monoxide nonattainment area element of the SIP;

(d) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 17, 1996, to the Cañon City PM-10 nonattainment area element of the SIP;

(e) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 17, 1996, to the Steamboat Springs PM-10 nonattainment area element of the SIP;

(f) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on March 21, 1996, and June 20, 1996, to regulation number 3, concerning air pollution emission notice deferral, insignificant activities, and fugitive emissions;

(g) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on June 20, 1996, to regulation number 3, concerning prevention of significant deterioration permits, total suspended particulates, and hydrogen sulfide;

(h) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 14, 1996, to regulation number 10, concerning general conformity;

(i) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on March 21, 1996, to regulation number 11, concerning the inspection and maintenance program;

(j) Repealed.

(k) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 24, 1996, to regulation number 5, concerning the generic banking emissions/trading rules and conforming revisions to regulation number 3, part 4, section V;

(l) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on December 21, 1995, to regulations number 1 and 7, and the common provisions concerning negligibly reactive volatile organic compounds and delisting of acetone;

(m) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on December 23, 1996, to regulation number 1, concerning opacity limitations and sulfur dioxide averaging provisions for coal-fired electric utility boilers during periods of startup, shutdown, and upset;

(n) Repealed.

(o) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on April 17, 1997, to the motor vehicle emissions inspection program in all carbon monoxide nonattainment areas in the state (Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, and Greeley) under the carbon monoxide nonattainment area element of the SIP;

(p) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on January 15, 1998, redesignating Colorado Springs as an attainment area for carbon monoxide and adopting a corresponding maintenance plan;

(q) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on December 18, 1997, to the Longmont carbon monoxide maintenance plan;

(r) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on April 17, 1997, concerning long-term strategy for the element of the SIP relating to visibility in class I areas;

(s) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on November 21, 1996, to regulations number 3, 7, and 8 and common provisions, concerning negligibly reactive volatile organic compounds and regulated hazardous air pollutants;

(t) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on September 17, 1998, to regulation number 1, section II. D., concerning military smokes and obscurants training exercises;

(u) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 15, 1998, to regulation number 7, concerning emissions of volatile organic compounds;

(v) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on October 15, 1998, to regulation number 10, concerning conformity of federally funded or approved transportation plans with air quality implementation plans;

(w) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on November 19, 1998, to regulation number 11, part F (III), concerning the motor vehicle emissions inspection program for the Denver-Boulder area;

(x) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on January 16, 1998, to regulation number 12, concerning reduction of diesel vehicle emissions;

(y) Repealed.

(z) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on January 16, 1998, to section 1.11.0 of the procedural rules of the air pollution control division;

(aa) Amendments adopted by the air quality control commission on September 17, 1998, concerning ambient air quality standards for suspended particulate matter; and

(bb) (I) The "Colorado Visibility and Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Twelve Mandatory Class I Federal Areas in Colorado", adopted by the air quality control commission on January 7, 2011.

(II) The automatic expiration of the rules contained in the plan specified in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (bb) that were adopted on January 7, 2011, and that are therefore scheduled for expiration on May 15, 2012, is postponed, effective May 15, 2011.

(3) Revisions to the SIP that are adopted solely to conform the SIP to prior actions of the general assembly under section 25-7-133 and this section may be submitted to the federal environmental protection agency for final approval under section 25-7-133 (2.5) without further approval by the general assembly under section 25-7-133 or this section.

(4) If the division and the designated organization for air quality planning in the Colorado Springs area request removal of mandatory control measures that have been adequately demonstrated to be unnecessary to achieve and maintain compliance with the federal ambient air quality standards and request corresponding modifications to the mobile source emission budget, the commission shall adopt such revisions to the carbon monoxide maintenance plan for the Colorado Springs area approved pursuant to paragraph (p) of subsection (2) of this section. Notwithstanding section 25-7-133, such revisions shall be submitted to the federal environmental protection agency for incorporation into the state implementation plan as expeditiously as possible and shall not be subject to further review and approval pursuant to section 25-7-133.

(5) Revisions to the visibility component of the SIP that implement and enforce a control strategy that meets the following requirements may be submitted to the United States environmental protection agency for incorporation into the SIP as expeditiously as possible without further review and approval pursuant to section 25-7-133:

(a) On or before November 1, 2001, one or more sources have entered into a consent decree in which such sources make a judicially enforceable commitment to adopt such control strategy; and

(b) The division determines that such control strategy provides for reasonable progress:

(I) Toward the national visibility goal stated in federal rules set forth at 40 CFR 51, subpart P, and in rules of the division set forth at 5 CCR 1001-5, as said rules provided on January 1, 2001; and

(II) In reducing any present or future impairment of an air-quality-related value.

(6) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 25-7-133, revisions to the Denver metropolitan area element of the PM-10 state implementation plan adopted by the commission on April 19, 2001, are approved for incorporation into the state implementation plan, shall be submitted to the federal environmental protection agency as expeditiously as possible, and shall not be subject to further review and approval pursuant to section 25-7-133.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 381, § 1, effective April 19; (2)(n) and (3) added, pp. 1528, 1530, §§ 1, 2, effective June 3. L. 98: (2)(o), (2)(p), (2)(q), (2)(r), (2)(s), and (4) added, pp. 1009, 1010, §§ 1, 2, effective May 27. L. 99: (2)(j) and (2)(y) repealed, (2)(r) amended, and (2)(t) through (2)(aa) added, pp. 1244, 1243, §§ 2, 3, 1, effective July 1. L. 2001: (5) added, p. 208, § 1, effective March 28; (6) added, p. 900, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2011: (2)(bb) added, (HB 11-1291), ch. 144, p. 501, § 2, effective May 4; (2)(n) repealed, (HB 11-1303), ch. 264, p. 1166, § 62, effective August 10. L. 2022: (3) amended, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2161, § 10, effective June 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2011 act adding subsection (2)(bb), see section 1 of chapter 144, Session Laws of Colorado 2011.

25-7-134. Study of air quality control programs. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1159, § 4, effective May 26. L. 93: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1924, § 5, effective July 1. L. 94: (1), (2), and (4) amended, p. 2562, § 69, effective January 1, 1995. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 1259, § 158, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-135. Ozone protection fund created.

(1) There is hereby created in the state treasury an ozone protection fund, which shall consist of fees collected pursuant to section 25-7-105 (11). In accordance with section 24-36-114, C.R.S., all interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the general fund. Any moneys not appropriated by the general assembly shall remain in the ozone protection fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2003, p. 723, § 2, effective July 1, 2003.)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1294, § 5, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2785, § 505, effective July 1. L. 98: (2) amended, p. 1335, § 50, effective June 1. L. 2003: Entire section amended, p. 723, § 2, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-136. Air pollution data collection and technical evaluation - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1118, § 1, effective May 31. L. 96: IP(3)(a), (3)(a)(I), (3)(b)(I)(A), (3)(b)(II), and (4) amended and (3)(a.5) and (3.5) added, pp. 800, 802, §§1, 2, effective May 23.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1999. (See L. 96, p. 802.)

25-7-137. Requirements for legislative approval of Grand Canyon visibility transport commission or successor body advisory recommendations, reports, and interpretations.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares:

(a) That the Grand Canyon visibility transport commission (GCVTC) was created pursuant to section 169B of the federal act to issue a report directed toward protecting visibility in the Grand Canyon national park;

(b) That the GCVTC's tasks assigned under the federal act have been completed, and a successor body is being proposed;

(c) That protecting visibility is important to the people of Colorado, is an interstate issue, and is highly technical, complex, and subject to varying interpretations; and

(d) That the provisions of this section are enacted to preserve Colorado sovereignty and to enhance public notice and awareness of the GCVTC or its successor bodies' advisory recommendations, reports, or interpretations, and to ensure public confidence in the fairness of the implementation of any Colorado requirements.

(2) The governor or the governor's designee is encouraged to attend and participate in the successor body to the GCVTC. A stakeholder process shall be implemented to include representatives of the general assembly. The governor shall provide an annual report of the activities of the GCVTC or its successor bodies to the general assembly until such time as the governor has forwarded to the federal environmental protection agency notification that the state shall comply with the provisions of Title 40, code of federal regulations, part 51.308, adopted in accordance with the federal act. The goal of this process is to protect the interest of Colorado over air quality issues.

(3) No final recommendation or report or other action of the GCVTC or its successor bodies may impose any new or different requirements upon the regulated community or citizens of the state of Colorado unless approved or enacted by the general assembly acting by bill.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1625, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2000: (2) amended, p. 1552, § 29, effective August 2.

25-7-138. Housed commercial swine feeding operations - waste impoundments - odor emissions - fund created.

(1) All new or expanded anaerobic process wastewater vessels and impoundments, including, but not limited to, treatment or storage lagoons, constructed or under construction for use in connection with a housed commercial swine feeding operation as defined in section 25-8-501.1 (2)(b) shall be covered, or operated with technologies or practices that are as effective as covers at minimizing odor from the operation, to capture, recover, incinerate, or otherwise manage odorous gases to minimize, to the greatest extent practicable, the emission of such gases into the atmosphere. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall submit to the department of public health and environment information sufficient to demonstrate that the technologies and practices used are as effective as covers at minimizing odor from the operation. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall manage odor emissions such that odor emissions from the operation shall not be detected at or beyond the property boundary after the odorous air has been diluted with seven volumes of odor-free air. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall manage odor emissions such that odor emissions from the operation shall not be detected at any off-site receptor after the odorous air has been diluted with two volumes of odor-free air. For purposes of this section, "receptor" means any occupied dwelling used as a primary dwelling or its curtilage, a public or private school, or a place of business. As used in this section, "anaerobic" means a waste treatment method that, in whole or in part, does not utilize air or oxygen. All new aerobic impoundments shall employ technologies to ensure maintenance of aerobic conditions or otherwise to minimize the emission of odorous gases to the greatest extent practicable. As used in this section, "aerobic" means a waste treatment method that utilizes air or oxygen.

(2) All existing anaerobic process wastewater vessels and impoundments, including, but not limited to, aeration tanks and treatment or storage lagoons, owned or operated for use in connection with a housed commercial swine feeding operation as defined in section 25-8-501.1 (2)(b) shall be covered, or operated with technologies or practices that are as effective as covers at minimizing odor from the operation, to capture, recover, incinerate, or otherwise manage odorous gases to minimize, to the greatest extent practicable, the emission of such gases into the atmosphere. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall submit to the department of public health and environment information sufficient to demonstrate that the technologies and practices used are as effective as covers at minimizing odor from the operation. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall manage odor emissions such that odor emissions from the operation shall not be detected at or beyond the property boundary after the odorous air has been diluted with seven volumes of odor-free air. The housed commercial swine feeding operation shall manage odor emissions such that odor emissions from the operation shall not be detected at any off-site receptor after the odorous air has been diluted with two volumes of odor-free air. For purposes of this section, "receptor" means any occupied dwelling used as a primary dwelling or its curtilage, a public or private school, or a place of business. All existing aerobic impoundments shall employ technologies to ensure maintenance of aerobic conditions or otherwise to minimize the emission of odorous gases to the greatest extent practicable.

(3) The commission shall, by rules promulgated on or before March 1, 1999, require that all housed commercial swine feeding operations employ technology to minimize to the greatest extent practicable off-site odor emissions from all aspects of its operations, including odor from its swine confinement structures, manure and composting storage sites, and odor and aerosol drift from land application equipment and sites.

(4) No new land waste application site or new waste impoundment used in connection with a housed commercial swine feeding operation, shall be located less than:

(a) One mile from an occupied dwelling without the written consent of the owner of the dwelling;

(b) One mile from a public or private school without the written consent of the school's board of trustees or board of directors; and

(c) One mile from the boundaries of any incorporated municipality without the consent of the governing body of the municipality by resolution. As used in this subsection (4), a new land waste application site and new waste impoundment are those that were not in use as of June 1, 1998.

(5) The division shall enforce the provisions of this section. The division may delegate enforcement of the provisions of this section to any county or district public health agency. If the division delegates enforcement of this section, the division shall monitor the actions of any county or district public health agency as such actions pertain to enforcement of this section. The division shall assess a housed commercial swine feeding operation an annual fee, not to exceed seven cents per animal, based on the operation's working capacity, to offset the division's direct and indirect costs of enforcement, compliance, and regulation pursuant to this section. This fee shall be designated to fund an inspection and complaint response and enforcement program. By mutual agreement, any county or district public health agency that assists in enforcement of this section shall receive funding to conduct inspections and respond to complaints. As used in this subsection (5), "working capacity" means the number of swine the housed commercial swine feeding operation is capable of housing at any one time. In addition, any person who may be adversely affected by a housed commercial swine feeding operation may enforce these provisions directly against the operation by filing a civil action in the district court in the county in which the person resides.

(6) All moneys collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the housed commercial swine feeding operation fund, which fund is hereby created in the state treasury. The moneys in such fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the purposes of this section, including the reimbursement of county or district public health agencies for assistance in the enforcement of this section. Any interest earned on moneys in the fund shall remain in the fund and shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year.

Source: Initiated 98: Entire section added, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998. L. 2005: (2) and (3) amended, p. 282, § 20, effective August 8. L. 2006: (1), (2), and (5) amended and (6) added, p. 1105, § 1, effective May 25. L. 2010: (5) and (6) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2103, § 118, effective August 11.

Editor's note: (1) This section was contained in an initiated measure that was adopted by the people at the general election held November 3, 1998. The measure enacting this section was effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998.

(2) The vote count on the measure at the general election held November 3, 1998, was as follows:

FOR: 790,852

AGAINST: 438,873

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's Not-So-Little Pig Farms Meet the Big Bad Wolf", see 28 Colo. Law. 85 (June 1999).

25-7-139. Methyl tertiary butyl ether - prohibition - phase-out - civil penalty.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that methyl tertiary butyl ether ("MTBE") is an oxygenate used in gasoline and other fuel products in this state and in the United States. The general assembly also finds that MTBE may leak into and contaminate groundwater supplies, and that MTBE is water soluble and therefore is difficult and costly to remove from water. MTBE is colorless, tastes and smells like turpentine, and can be tasted and detected by smell at extremely low concentrations. MTBE may be a human carcinogen and poses other potential health risks, including but not limited to memory loss, asthma, and skin irritation.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that water is precious and vital to this state's growing population, agricultural industry, and unique environment. Therefore it is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this section to halt further contamination and pollution of this state's groundwater supplies by MTBE.

(3) (a) (I) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph (a), a person may not sell, offer for sale, or store any fuel product containing or treated with MTBE.

(II) The provisions of this paragraph (a) shall not apply if the presence of MTBE in a fuel product is caused solely by incidental commingling of MTBE with the fuel product during storage or transfer of the fuel product. In no event shall the provisions of this subsection (3) be construed to permit the knowing or willful addition of MTBE to any fuel product.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2005, p. 283, § 21, effective August 8, 2005.)

(c) For purposes of this section, "fuel product" means gasoline, reformulated gasoline, benzine, benzene, naphtha, benzol, and kerosene and any other volatile and inflammable liquid that is produced, compounded, and offered for sale or used for the purpose of generating power in internal combustion engines or generating heat or light or used for cleaning or for any other similar usage.

(4) Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be subject to a civil penalty as provided in section 25-7-122 (1)(e).

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 762, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2005: (3)(a)(I) and (3)(b) amended, p. 283, § 21, effective August 8.

25-7-140. Greenhouse gas emissions - data collection - legislative declaration - rules - reporting - forecasting - public information - definitions.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly hereby:

(a) Finds that:

(I) Greenhouse gas emissions reporting requirements were first established in Colorado in 2008 with executive order D 004-08. The policies established by this executive order were continued under the next governor and require the department of public health and environment to report every five years on estimates of greenhouse gas emissions by sector. The last report by the department was issued in 2014 and the next report is due in 2019.

(II) Executive order D 2017-015 directed the department to propose a state greenhouse gas reporting rule that mirrors the current federal reporting rule, 40 CFR 98, by December 30, 2018, and established the following goals:

(A) Reducing greenhouse gas emissions statewide by more than twenty-six percent below 2005 levels by 2025;

(B) Reducing carbon dioxide emissions from the electricity sector by twenty-five percent below 2012 levels by 2025 and thirty-five percent below 2012 levels by 2030; and

(C) Reducing electricity sales by two percent by 2020 through cost-effective energy efficiency measures; and

(b) Declares that it is in the state's interest to leverage data collected and analyses conducted for its greenhouse gas emissions inventories and forecasts and make data sets available to local governments.

(2) Rules.

(a) The commission shall:

(I) Adopt rules requiring greenhouse gas-emitting entities to monitor and publicly report their emissions as the commission deems appropriate to support Colorado's greenhouse gas emission inventory efforts and to facilitate implementation of rules that will timely achieve Colorado's greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. The commission shall consider what information is already being publicly reported by the federal environmental protection agency and tailor new reporting requirements to fill any gaps in data, as it determines is appropriate, to allow for maintaining and updating state inventories that are sufficiently comprehensive and robust. The rules must include requirements for providers of retail or wholesale electric service in the state of Colorado to track and report emissions from all generation sources within the state and elsewhere that electricity consumption by their customers in this state causes to be emitted. The commission may require emitting entities to report the amount of emissions of each of the seven individual components of greenhouse gases as well as the carbon dioxide equivalent of those emissions.

(II) Direct the division to update the statewide inventory of greenhouse gas emissions by sector, up to on an annual basis as determined by the commission, but in no event less frequently than every two years. The division shall update the inventory in a manner that allows reasonable tracking of progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions over time. The commission shall take reasonable steps to ensure that emission abatement that counts toward meeting the state's greenhouse gas emission reduction goals is durable and rigorously tracked. The inventory must include a forecast of Colorado's greenhouse gas emissions for the milestone year of 2025, as well as 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045. The division shall make publicly available the data upon which projections are based, including the sources of that data, the inputs for any model used, and a description of the analysis underlying the projections. The forecast must include at least one scenario that does not include emission reductions projected to occur from any federal, state, or local law, rule, regulation, policy, or program that is not in place as of the date of publication of the inventory. The initial inventory required under this subsection (2) must include a recalculation of Colorado's 2005 greenhouse gas emissions to serve as a baseline for measuring progress against Colorado's greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.

(III) By July 1, 2020, publish a notice of proposed rule-making that proposes rules to implement measures that would cost-effectively allow the state to meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.

(IV) With regard to the changes made in 2021 by House Bill 21-1266:

(A) Nothing alters the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), in either amount or timing, or detracts from the air quality control commission's existing authority to require more than the minimum greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and deadlines previously established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g); and

(B) The changes add to, but do not otherwise alter, the air quality control commission's authority and obligation to publish and promulgate rules pursuant to this section and sections 25-7-102 (2)(g) and 25-7-105.

(b) All rules promulgated pursuant to this section are subject to all applicable requirements, including applicable requirements specific to greenhouse gas abatement, provided in this article 7.

(3) Public information. The division shall:

(a) Publicly release the findings of the inventory on the division's website and maintain the data through at least 2030; and

(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11), report the findings to the governor, the public utilities commission, and the general assembly.

(4) Nothing in this section alters the regulatory exemptions provided in section 25-7-109 (8)(a).

(5) This section is intended to facilitate prompt state action to address greenhouse gas emissions and nothing in this section or the emissions inventory provisions in section 25-7-102 shall be construed to slow, interfere with, or impede state action to timely adopt rules that reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the state's greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.

(6) Definition. For the purposes of this section, "greenhouse gas" includes carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3).

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (SB 19-096), ch. 361, p. 3341, § 1, effective May 30. L. 2021: (2)(a)(I) and (2)(a)(II) amended and (2)(a)(IV) added, (HB 21-1266), ch. 411, p. 2749, § 17, effective July 2.

Editor's note: Section 24 of chapter 411 (HB 21-1266), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that the act changing this section applies to conduct occurring on or after July 2, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Environmental Justice Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 21-1266, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 411, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

ANNOTATION

The phrase "allow the state to meet" in subsection (2)(a)(III), in combination with the context of the statute, the larger statutory scheme, and applicable legislative history, allows the air quality control commission to initially propose rules by July 1, 2020, that only cover data collection systems and statewide greenhouse gas emission inventories to meet the statewide emission goals set forth in § 25-7-102 (2)(g). Envtl. Def. Fund v. Dept. of Pub. Health, 2022 COA 130, 524 P.3d 334.

25-7-141. Air toxics - duties of covered entities - public notice of air quality incidents - monitoring - corrective action - legislative declaration - definitions - rules.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly hereby:

(a) Finds that:

(I) Air toxics are pollutants that cause or may cause cancer or other serious health effects, such as adverse reproductive effects or birth defects, or adverse environmental and ecological effects; and

(II) Disproportionately impacted communities often include low-income neighborhoods and residents who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latino, and people of color and are disproportionately affected by air toxics emissions;

(b) Determines that:

(I) Colorado communities have a right to know about exposures to air toxics in real time;

(II) Colorado communities are increasingly concerned about the potential health impacts of air toxics resulting from routine facility operations, fugitive leaks, upset conditions, or emergency situations;

(III) Real-time air monitoring, including fenceline and community-based monitoring systems, can provide valuable air quality data to assess the potential impacts of air toxics emissions in nearby communities, to understand temporal variations in air toxics emissions, and to advise facilities of significant changes in air toxics emissions;

(IV) Community-based monitoring is useful for estimating air toxics exposures and health risks and in determining trends in air pollutant levels over time; and

(V) Fenceline monitoring is useful for detecting or estimating leaks, the quantity of fugitive emissions, and other air emissions from a certain facility; and

(c) Declares that facilities that emit air toxics have a responsibility to collect real-time air toxics data and to provide monitoring results as quickly as possible in a publicly accessible format to help communities understand their level of exposure.

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Community-based monitoring" means monitoring using equipment that measures and records air pollutant concentrations in the ambient air, including concentrations of covered air toxics, at or near sensitive receptor locations near a covered facility.

(b) "Covered air toxic" means:

(I) Hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen sulfide, and benzene; and

(II) Any other hazardous air pollutant that the commission lists, by rule, pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(c) "Covered facility" means a stationary source that is covered by one of the following North American industry classification system codes established by the federal office of management and budget:

(I) 324110, "petroleum refineries";

(II) 336413, "other aircraft parts and auxiliary equipment manufacturing";

(III) 424710, "petroleum bulk stations and terminals", if the source is within an eight-hour ozone control area and has reported emissions of benzene in its federal toxics release inventory filing pursuant to 42 U.S.C. sec. 11023 for the years 2017 through 2019, as of July 1, 2020; or

(IV) Any other code listed by rule pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(d) "Emergency notification service" has the meaning established in section 29-11-101 (11).

(e) "Fenceline monitoring" means monitoring using equipment that encompasses the covered facility and continuously measures and records air pollutant concentrations at or adjacent to a covered facility's boundary.

(f) "Incident" means the emission by a covered facility of an air pollutant at a rate or quantity that exceeds allowable emissions as a result of anticipated or unanticipated circumstances, including a malfunction, start-up, shutdown, upset, or emergency.

(g) "Method 325A" means the test method titled "Volatile Organic Compounds from Fugitive and Area Sources: Sampler Deployment and VOC Sample Collection" adopted by the air emission measurement center of the federal environmental protection agency.

(h) "Method 325B" means the test method titled "Volatile Organic Compounds from Fugitive and Area Sources: Sampler Preparation and Analysis" promulgated by the air emission measurement center of the federal environmental protection agency.

(i) "Method TO-15A" means the test method titled "Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Air Collected in Specially-Prepared Canisters and Analyzed by Gas Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)" published in the second edition of the federal environmental protection agency's "Compendium of Methods from the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air".

(j) "Notification threshold" means acute exposure levels with an averaging time of one hour as established by the division pursuant to subsection (5)(a)(III) of this section.

(k) "Optical remote sensing technology" means technology with the ability to provide real-time measurements of air pollutant concentrations along an open path as described in "EPA Handbook: Optical and Remote Sensing for Measurement and Monitoring of Emissions Flux of Gases and Particulate Matter" by the federal environmental protection agency.

(l) (I) "Petroleum refinery" means an establishment that is located on one or more contiguous or adjacent properties that processes crude oil to produce more usable products such as gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel, lubricating oils, asphalt, or petrochemical feedstocks. The term includes auxiliary facilities such as boilers, wastewater treatment plants, hydrogen production facilities, sulfur recovery plants, cooling towers, blowdown systems, compressor engines, and power plants.

(II) Petroleum refinery processes include separation processes, including atmospheric or vacuum distillation and light ends recovery; petroleum conversion processes, including cracking, reforming, alkylation, polymerization, isomerization, coking, and visbreaking; petroleum treating processes, including hydrodesulfurization, hydrotreating, chemical sweetening, acid gas removal, and deasphalting; and feedstock and product handling, including storage, crude-oil blending, non-crude-oil feedstock blending, product blending, loading, and unloading.

(m) "Real time" means the actual or near actual time during which covered air toxics or other air pollutant emissions occur.

(n) "Relevant area" means the area within three miles of a covered facility where communities may be exposed to covered air toxics.

(o) "Relevant languages" means the two most prevalent languages spoken in the relevant area, as identified in the latest American community survey published by the federal census bureau.

(3) Review of covered air toxics and industry codes for covered facilities. In order to better protect public health, the commission shall:

(a) At least every five years beginning in 2027, or more frequently if it deems it appropriate to do so, including pursuant to a request by an interested person based on data evidencing potential exposure to a pollutant at levels posing a significant risk to human health, review the best available science, the list of covered air toxics, and the North American industry classification system codes for covered facilities to determine whether additional hazardous air pollutants should be listed as covered air toxics and whether any additional stationary sources should be included as covered facilities;

(b) Based on its review, adjust the lists of covered air toxics and covered facilities by rule; and

(c) If the commission adjusts the list of covered air toxics or covered facilities, adjust by rule the annual amount that the division may annually spend to conduct the community-based monitoring required by subsection (6)(a) of this section.

(4) Emergency notifications. Each covered facility shall:

(a) Conduct outreach to representatives of the community in the relevant area to discuss communications regarding the occurrence of an incident, including:

(I) Methods by which the covered facility can disseminate information to the community in the relevant area and methods by which community members can contact the covered facility regarding an incident; and

(II) Provisions for communications in the relevant languages;

(b) Use an emergency notification service through which the covered facility will, as soon as possible, communicate in the relevant languages with, and make data available to, the community in the relevant area and the division regarding the occurrence of an incident or an exceedance of a notification threshold identified by a fenceline monitoring system;

(b.5) For two years, maintain a record of all communications made through an emergency notification service, including whether any other action was taken in response to the incident or exceedance of a notification threshold, which record must be available to the public;

(c) Implement the emergency notification service within six months after July 2, 2020; and

(d) Pay all costs associated with its use of the emergency notification service.

(5) Fenceline monitoring.

(a) (I) Beginning on January 1, 2023, a covered facility that is a petroleum refinery shall conduct fenceline monitoring of covered air toxics in real time and shall disseminate all fenceline monitoring data to the public as described in subsection (5)(h) of this section.

(II) Beginning on July 1, 2024, all covered facilities not subject to subsection (5)(a)(I) of this section shall conduct fenceline monitoring of covered air toxics in real time and shall disseminate all fenceline monitoring data to the public as described in subsection (5)(h) of this section.

(III) The division shall establish notification thresholds for each covered air toxic. In establishing the notification thresholds, the division shall take a precautionary approach to assure protection of public health. The notification thresholds:

(A) Shall be based on scientific research that is publicly available and peer-reviewed about the potential human health impacts of short-term exposures to pollutants;

(B) May be based on acute exposure levels or guidelines utilized by a federal agency or another state; and

(C) Shall be included in the fenceline monitoring plan of each covered facility.

(b) At least one year before a covered facility begins conducting fenceline monitoring, the covered facility shall submit an initial draft fenceline monitoring plan to the division. Each fenceline monitoring plan must:

(I) Provide for monitoring consistent with method 325A, method 325B, and method TO-15A combined, or the most up-to-date emissions test or measurement methods for fenceline monitoring approved or promulgated by the federal environmental protection agency;

(II) Provide for monitoring of covered air toxics using optical remote sensing technology or other monitoring technology with the ability to provide real-time spatial and temporal data to understand the type and amount of emissions;

(III) Be submitted to the division in the relevant languages; and

(IV) Identify:

(A) The equipment to be used to continuously monitor, record, and disseminate emission data for each covered air toxic in real time, including equipment to continuously record wind speed and wind direction data;

(B) Siting and equipment specifications;

(C) Procedures for air monitoring equipment maintenance and failures, maintenance plans and schedules, temporary back-up measures to implement during equipment failures, data management, quality assurance, and quality control; and

(D) Methods for disseminating fenceline monitoring data to the public, local governments, area schools, and the division in real time via the website specified in subsection (5)(h)(I) of this section.

(c) Upon receipt of an initial draft fenceline monitoring plan or plan that is resubmitted pursuant to subsection (5)(i) of this section, the division shall:

(I) Promptly post the plan on the division's website;

(II) Ensure that the plan is subject to at least ninety days of public comment;

(III) Respond in writing to all comments received;

(IV) Consult with local governments in the relevant area about the plan; and

(V) Consult community members and hold at least two public hearings regarding the plan before the division acts on the plan. The hearings must:

(A) Be held at a location near the covered facility, prioritizing disproportionately impacted communities;

(B) Be held once during the evening and once during a weekend;

(C) Be available for remote participation via the internet;

(D) Include interpretation services in the relevant languages that are not the same language in which the hearing is conducted; and

(E) Provide child care services for the attendees.

(d) (I) No later than four months after the submission of an initial draft fenceline monitoring plan or plan that is resubmitted pursuant to subsection (5)(i) of this section, the covered facility may submit a revised plan to the division.

(II) Upon receipt of a revised plan, the division shall promptly post the revised plan on the division's website. If the initial plan failed to include the required elements under subsection (5)(b) of this section, the division shall again comply with subsection (5)(c) of this section with respect to the revised plan, in which case the deadline in subsection (5)(e) of this section is extended for ninety days.

(e) If the division determines that the covered facility is emitting hazardous air pollutants in quantities that may pose a risk to public health in the relevant area, the division may require as part of the plan the reporting of pollutants other than covered air toxics that the monitors are reasonably capable of measuring. The division shall approve or disapprove a fenceline monitoring plan no later than eight months after it is initially submitted to the division. If the division disapproves of a monitoring plan, it shall promptly modify the monitoring plan to ensure compliance with subsection (5)(b) of this section prior to approval.

(f) Once the division approves a fenceline monitoring plan, the division shall promptly post the plan on its website. Within three weeks after approval, the covered facility shall make the approved plan available to the division and the public in the relevant languages, and the division shall promptly post the translated plan on the division's website. The covered facility shall make hard copies of the approved and translated plans available at any public libraries in the relevant area.

(g) If a covered facility is a major source, as that term is defined in section 25-7-114 (3), the division shall incorporate fenceline monitoring requirements into the covered facility's operating permit required by section 25-7-114.3.

(h) Each covered facility shall collect real-time data from the fenceline monitoring system, shall maintain records of the data, and shall disseminate the data to the division and the public. The dissemination must:

(I) Be available in real time on a website maintained by the covered facility and include a map of all fenceline monitoring equipment locations and the ability to access historical fenceline monitoring data;

(II) Be in the relevant languages spoken in the relevant area;

(III) Include descriptions in the relevant languages of covered air toxics and their possible health effects as specified by the federal centers for disease control and prevention; and

(IV) Include data about air concentrations of any hazardous air pollutant other than covered air toxics that the division determined under subsection (5)(e) of this section must be included in the fenceline monitoring plan.

(i) A covered facility shall update and resubmit for division approval its fenceline monitoring plan every five years; except that the division may require an updated plan before the expiration of five years based on:

(I) Its own determination that there has been a substantial change in the covered facility's operations or emissions; or

(II) A written request submitted by a member of the public that the division determines justifies an updated plan.

(6) Community-based monitoring.

(a) Beginning no later than January 1, 2023, the division shall conduct community-based monitoring of covered air toxics in the relevant areas. The community-based monitoring must occur for no less than thirty cumulative days during each quarter of every year. The division may expend up to eight hundred thousand dollars from the general fund to purchase and equip a mobile air-quality monitoring van for use in the northern metropolitan Denver area, Henderson, the city of Pueblo, and other communities, to conduct community-based monitoring pursuant to this subsection (6).

(b) Subject to subsection (3)(c) of this section, the division shall not spend more than one million dollars annually to conduct the community-based monitoring required by subsection (6)(a) of this section.

(c) No later than July 1, 2022, and every three years thereafter, the division shall:

(I) Post a list of intended community-based monitoring equipment locations on the division's website in the relevant languages;

(II) Ensure that the list of intended monitoring equipment locations is subject to at least ninety days of public comment; and

(III) Consider input from local governments and school districts in the relevant areas about the list of intended monitoring equipment locations.

(d) The division shall make community-based monitoring data available to the public.

(7) Costs paid by covered facilities.

(a) Each covered facility is responsible for the cost of installing, operating, and maintaining all fenceline monitoring equipment used pursuant to the monitoring plan as well as the cost of disseminating the data to the public.

(b) A covered facility shall pay a processing fee pursuant to section 25-7-114.7 (2)(a)(III) to cover the division's indirect and direct costs of reviewing and approving fenceline monitoring plans.

(c) Covered facilities shall pay the division for the covered facility's annual pro rata share of the direct and indirect costs of conducting community-based monitoring, which money shall be credited to the stationary sources control fund created in section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b)(I). Payment will be received in advance of performing community-based monitoring unless the division expressly authorizes reimbursement.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1265), ch. 218, p. 1079, § 1, effective July 2. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (HB 21-1189), ch. 334, p. 2150, § 1, effective June 24.

25-7-142. Energy benchmarking - data collection and access - utility requirements - task force - rules - reports - exemptions - definitions - legislative declaration.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that the regulation of building performance is a matter of statewide concern because:

(a) As of 2020, buildings represented a significant source of greenhouse gas pollution in the state of Colorado;

(b) Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with a building produce impacts far beyond its walls and the boundaries of the local government within which the building is located, including costs to utility ratepayers for increased energy production, community health costs associated with air pollution, and broader societal costs of anthropogenic climate change;

(c) Many building owners have made proactive efforts to reduce the energy use and greenhouse gas emissions of their buildings, yet more remains to be done to help the state meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals;

(d) Building tenants that pay energy bills often lack the ability to implement building upgrades that could improve performance, reduce emissions, and reduce those costs;

(e) The commission has both the statutory authority and obligation to require a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the state in every sector including buildings;

(f) (I) Benchmarking and building performance standards will support job growth in Colorado. According to the United States Climate Alliance, before January 1, 2020, the fastest growing clean energy industries in Colorado included:

(A) Traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, totaling ten thousand four hundred thirty-eight jobs; and

(B) Energy Star and efficient lighting, totaling eleven thousand one hundred fifty-six jobs.

(II) Additionally, analysis conducted by Advanced Energy Economy identified more than sixty thousand advanced energy jobs in Colorado, with more than fifty percent of those jobs in energy efficiency.

(g) The state of Colorado provides many low- and no-cost options for Colorado property owners to finance building performance improvements, including:

(I) Property-assessed clean energy financing that the Colorado new energy improvement district created in section 32-20-104 provides, whereby qualifying energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements are paid back via an assessment on annual property taxes; and

(II) Performance contracting, whereby improvements are paid for by contractually guaranteed savings from efficiency upgrades;

(h) Many public utilities in the state also provide technical assistance and financial incentives to help property owners implement building performance improvements; and

(i) It is in the interest of the state to:

(I) Establish a program to help Colorado citizens understand and track energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from large buildings; and

(II) Develop performance standards necessary to meet state greenhouse-gas-emission-reduction goals.

(1.5) The general assembly further finds and declares that:

(a) Energy consumption by Colorado's built environment, including large commercial and residential properties, is a significant contributor to statewide greenhouse gas pollution;

(b) Reducing the greenhouse gas emissions arising from energy consumption by the built environment is necessary to achieve the 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emission reduction goal set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g);

(c) The commission satisfied the objectives set forth in subsections (8)(a)(II) and (8)(c)(II) of this section by adopting benchmarking and performance standard rules in August 2023; and

(d) In implementing the requirements of this section and the commission's rules adopted pursuant to this section, the division should, consistent with section 25-7-122 (2), consider an owner's effort to comply with building performance standards when implementing enforcement and assessing penalties pursuant to section 25-7-122 and this section.

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Aggregated data" means electric or gas meter data from which any unique identifier or other personal information has been removed and that a qualifying utility collects and aggregates in at least monthly intervals for an entire covered building.

(b) "Aggregation threshold" means, for each qualifying utility, the minimum number of customer accounts associated with a covered building for which the qualifying utility may provide the owner of the covered building with aggregated data upon request without requiring each customer's consent to have the customer's energy-use data accessed or shared.

(b.5) (I) "Agricultural building" means a building or structure used to house agricultural implements, hay, unprocessed grain, poultry, livestock, or other agricultural products or inputs primarily for the purpose of maintaining or operating an agricultural process.

(II) Agricultural implements include agricultural equipment as described in section 39-3-122.

(III) Agricultural implements do not include implements that are primarily for rent or sale.

(c) "Benchmark" means to input benchmarking data into a benchmarking tool to measure and assess the energy performance and greenhouse gas pollution for a covered building for the reporting year.

(d) Except as the commission may modify by rule pursuant to subsection (7) of this section, "benchmarking data" means the information related to a covered building that is input into or calculated by a benchmarking tool and includes, at a minimum:

(I) A physical description of the covered building and descriptions of its operational characteristics, including:

(A) The name of the covered building, if any;

(B) The address of the covered building;

(C) The primary uses of the covered building;

(D) The covered building's gross floor area; and

(E) The years in which the covered building has been certified by Energy Star and the most recent date of certification, if applicable; and

(II) Data generated by the benchmarking tool, including:

(A) The Energy Star score, if available;

(B) Monthly energy use by fuel type;

(C) Site and source energy-use intensity;

(D) Weather-normalized site and source energy-use intensity;

(E) Confirmation that data quality has been checked;

(F) Annual maximum electricity demand, in kilowatts;

(G) If available for reporting through the benchmarking tool, monthly peak electricity demand; and

(H) Greenhouse gas emissions, including total, indirect, and direct emissions.

(e) Except as the commission may modify by rule pursuant to subsection (7) of this section, "benchmarking tool" means the Energy Star Portfolio Manager® or a successor online resource used to track and assess the performance of certain properties relative to similar properties.

(f) "Biomedical research laboratory" means a scientific laboratory used to conduct research relating to both biology and medicine.

(g) (I) "Campus" means a collection of two or more buildings that are owned and operated by the same person and that have a shared purpose and function as a single property.

(II) "Campus" includes two or more of the buildings that comprise the capitol complex.

(h) "Colorado energy office" or "office" means the Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101.

(i) "Correctional facility" means:

(I) A correctional facility, as defined in section 17-1-102 (1.7);

(II) A private contract prison, as defined in section 17-1-102 (7.3);

(III) A local jail, as defined in section 17-1-102 (7);

(IV) A municipal jail, as authorized in section 31-15-401 (1)(j); and

(V) A juvenile detention facility governed by part 15 of article 2.5 of title 19.

(j) (I) Except as the commission may modify by rule pursuant to subsection (7) of this section, "covered building" means a building comprising a gross floor area of fifty thousand square feet or more that is occupied by a single occupant or group of tenants.

(II) "Covered building" does not include:

(A) A storage facility, stand-alone parking garage, or airplane hangar that lacks heating and cooling;

(B) A building in which more than half of the gross floor area is used for manufacturing or industrial purposes;

(C) A single-family home, duplex, or triplex; or

(D) An agricultural building.

(k) "Energy Star" means the federal program authorized by 42 U.S.C. sec. 6294a, as amended, to help customers, businesses, and industry save money and protect the environment through the adoption of energy-efficient products and practices.

(l) "Energy Star score" means the one-to-one-hundred numeric rating generated by the Energy Star Portfolio Manager® as a measurement of a building's energy efficiency.

(m) "Energy-use intensity" means a building's energy use, expressed as total site energy use per square foot per year.

(n) "Financial hardship" means that a property is experiencing at least one of the following conditions:

(I) The property has been included on a city's, county's, or city and county's annual tax lien sale list within the previous two years;

(II) The property is an asset subject to a court-appointed receiver that controls the asset due to financial stress;

(III) The property is owned by a financial institution as a result of a default by a borrower;

(IV) The property has been acquired by a deed in lieu of foreclosure;

(V) The property is the subject of a senior mortgage subject to a notice of default; or

(VI) Due to the governor declaring a disaster emergency pursuant to section 24-33.5-704 (4), the property, in at least two of the previous five years, generated annual rental income or revenue that totals sixty percent or less of the five-year average immediately preceding the disaster emergency declaration.

(o) "Greenhouse gas" has the meaning set forth in section 25-7-140 (6).

(p) "Gross floor area" means the total building area, as measured from the outside surface of each exterior wall of the building, including above-grade and below-grade space.

(q) "Local government" means a statutory or home rule municipality, county, or city and county.

(q.5) "Operator" means an owner, tenant, or other individual or entity:

(I) Occupying or named on the utility bill for a covered building; and

(II) That has access to utility data for the covered building.

(r) "Owner" means a person possessing title to a property or the person's designated agent.

(s) "Performance standards" means standards that the commission establishes by rule pursuant to subsection (8)(c) or (8.5)(a) of this section and with which owners of covered buildings are required to comply.

(t) "Public building" means a covered building owned by:

(I) The state;

(II) A local government;

(III) A district or special district regulated under title 32;

(IV) A state institution of higher education;

(V) A private institution of higher education as defined in section 23-18-102 (9);

(VI) A school district created pursuant to article 30 of title 22; and

(VII) A charter school authorized pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22.

(u) "Qualifying utility" means:

(I) An electric or gas utility with five thousand or more active commercial and industrial service connections, accounts, or customers in the state, including:

(A) An investor-owned electric or gas utility;

(B) A cooperative electric association; or

(C) A municipally owned electric or gas utility; or

(II) A natural gas supplier with five or more active commercial or industrial connections, accounts, or customers in the state.

(v) "State institution of higher education":

(I) Has the meaning set forth in section 23-1-108 (7)(g)(II);

(II) Includes the Auraria higher education center, governed pursuant to article 70 of title 23; and

(III) Does not include a biomedical research laboratory.

(w) "Tenant" means a person that, pursuant to a rental or lease agreement, occupies or holds possession of a building or part of a building or premises.

(x) "Unique identifier" means a customer's contact information displayed on a utility bill such as the customer's name, mailing address, telephone number, or email address.

(y) "Utility customer" means the building owner or tenant listed on the utility's records as the customer liable for payment of the utility service or additional charges assessed on the utility account.

(3) Benchmarking requirements on owners and operators.

(a) Notwithstanding the rules that the commission adopted before July 2025, beginning in 2026 for 2025 benchmarking data and for each subsequent year, the owner of a covered building shall submit a report of the benchmarking data for the previous calendar year to the office on or before November 1.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (3)(a) of this section, beginning in 2025 for 2024 benchmarking data and for each subsequent year, if an owner of a covered building demonstrates to the office that it lacks access to benchmarking data, the operator of the covered building shall, on or before November 1 of each year, submit to the office a report of the benchmarking data for the covered building for the previous calendar year.

(c) Before providing a benchmarking report pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section, an owner of a covered building or operator shall run any automated data checking function of the benchmarking tool and correct any errors discovered.

(d) The following owners and operators may comply with this subsection (3) collectively at the campus-wide level:

(I) The owner or operator of multiple covered buildings that are part of a master metered group of buildings without submetering;

(II) The owner or operator of a correctional facility; and

(III) The owner or operator of a public building that is a covered building.

(4) Utility data requirements.

(a) On or before June 1, 2022, a qualifying utility shall:

(I) Establish an aggregation threshold that is four or fewer utility customer accounts;

(II) Publish its aggregation threshold on its public website; and

(III) Upon request of an owner of a covered building, begin providing energy-use data to the owner.

(b) Energy-use data that a qualifying utility provides an owner pursuant to this subsection (4) must be:

(I) Available on, or able to be requested through, an easily navigable web portal or online request form using up-to-date standards for digital authentication, including single one-time passwords or multi-factor authentication;

(II) Provided to the owner within:

(A) Ninety days after receiving the owner's valid written or electronic request if the request is received in 2022;

(B) Thirty days after receiving the owner's valid written or electronic request if the request is received in 2023 or later;

(III) Directly uploaded to the owner's benchmarking tool account, delivered in the spreadsheet template specified by the benchmarking tool, or delivered in another format approved by the office;

(IV) Provided to the owner on at least an annual basis until the owner revokes the request for energy-use data or sells the covered building;

(V) Provided in accordance with this subsection (4), regardless of whether the owner is named on the utility account for the covered building; and

(VI) If the qualifying utility is an investor-owned utility, provided in accordance with the public utilities commission's rules concerning customer data and personally identifying information.

(c) For covered buildings that do not meet the qualifying utility's aggregation threshold, and thus require utility customer consent to access or share energy-use data, the consent:

(I) May be in written or electronic form;

(II) May be provided in a lease agreement provision;

(III) Is valid until the utility customer revokes it; and

(IV) Is not required if a utility customer vacates the covered building before explicitly denying the owner consent to access and share the utility customer's energy-use data.

(d) To meet the requirements of this subsection (4), a qualifying utility that is not an investor-owned utility may seek and use grant funding from the Colorado clean energy fund, a nonprofit corporation, or the energy fund created in section 24-38.5-102.4 (1)(a)(I).

(5) Benchmarking waivers and extensions of time.

(a) An owner of a covered building may seek a waiver from the benchmarking requirements set forth in subsection (3) of this section if the owner submits documentation to, and receives approval from, the office, which documentation establishes that the covered building has met one or more of the following conditions for the calendar year to be benchmarked:

(I) The covered building was unoccupied for at least thirty consecutive days of the year;

(II) A demolition permit was issued for the entire covered building;

(III) The covered building met one or more of the conditions for financial hardship;

(IV) The covered building does not meet a qualifying utility's aggregation threshold, one or more of the utility customers refused to provide the owner with permission to access the utility customer's relevant energy-use data, the owner provides proof to the office that it requested permission from the utility customer or utility customers withholding consent at least thirty days before the benchmarking report was due, and the owner submits a plan to include an energy-use data sharing permission provision in the next lease renewal; or

(V) The covered building has four or more utility customers, is not located within a qualifying utility's service territory, and the owner is unable to get aggregated data from the utility that serves the covered building.

(b) An owner of a covered building may request a time extension from the office to submit a benchmarking report if the owner submits documentation to the office demonstrating that, despite the owner's good-faith effort, the owner was unable to complete the benchmarking report in a timely manner because of the failure or refusal of a qualifying utility or a utility customer to provide the necessary information or permission, as applicable.

(c) The office shall notify the division of all approved waivers and extensions of time, the approval of which is solely within the office's discretion.

(d) Pursuant to subsection (7) of this section, the commission may, by rule, modify the requirements for obtaining a waiver or extension of time pursuant to this subsection (5).

(6) Requirements upon sale or lease of a covered building.

(a) At the time of listing a covered building or a portion of a covered building for sale or lease, the owner of the covered building shall furnish an electronic copy of reported benchmarking data from the previous calendar year or from the most recent twelve-month period of continuous occupancy to the following:

(I) Prospective buyers or lessees;

(II) Any brokers, as defined in section 12-10-201 (6), who make inquiry about the property; and

(III) Major commercial real estate listing services on which the property is listed.

(b) Upon receipt of the benchmarking data, a commercial real estate listing service that lists properties in the state shall include in the property's listing, at a minimum, the property's Energy Star score, if applicable, and the property's energy-use intensity.

(c) If a covered building changes ownership, the former owner shall make available to the new owner the energy-use data; utility customer consent documentation, if any; and any other information about the property that is necessary to benchmark the covered building. The former owner shall transfer to the new owner both the record representing the covered building within the benchmarking tool and the request to a qualified utility for aggregated data. The new owner may request and receive from a qualifying utility the aggregated data necessary to fulfill benchmarking reporting requirements.

(7) Benchmarking rules. The commission may promulgate rules to implement the benchmarking program set forth in this section. Additionally, the commission may, by rule, modify the following:

(a) The provisions regarding waivers and extensions of time set forth in subsection (5) of this section;

(b) The definition of "benchmarking data", but only if the modified definition concerns data that:

(I) Is capable of being recorded by the benchmarking tool; and

(II) Includes the greenhouse gas emissions, the Energy Star score, if applicable, and energy-use intensity;

(c) The benchmarking tool that owners are required to use to benchmark;

(d) Data verification requirements; and

(e) After June 1, 2029, the minimum gross floor area included in the definition of "covered building".

(8) Rules.

(a) and (b) Repealed.

(c) (I) and (II) Repealed.

(III) The commission shall not adopt rules to rescind or modify the exemptions for owners of public buildings from payment of the annual fee, as set forth in section 24-38.5-112 (1)(e)(II); from payment of the building decarbonization fee, as set forth in section 24-38.5-125 (5)(b); or from payment of civil penalties, as set forth in section 25-7-122 (1)(i).

(IV) The commission shall, as necessary, adopt rules to modify or continue the performance standards until 2050 in order to achieve or exceed greenhouse gas emission reduction targets set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g).

(d) to (f) Repealed.

(8.5) 2040 performance standard targets - division to propose standards - commission to adopt rules - task force - membership - repeal.

(a) (I) To help achieve or exceed greenhouse gas emission reduction targets pursuant to subsection (8)(c)(IV) of this section, the commission shall adopt, by rule, 2040 performance standards in accordance with section 25-7-102 (2)(g).

(II) On or before June 1, 2029, the division, after consultation with the office, shall consider recommendations from the task force created pursuant to subsection (8.5)(c) of this section and shall propose 2040 performance standards to the commission for consideration in the rules adopted pursuant to subsection (8.5)(a)(I) of this section.

(b) The division, in proposing 2040 performance standards, and the commission, in adopting 2040 performance standards, shall consider whether targets that are included in the 2040 performance standards to reduce emissions from covered buildings are consistent with meeting the economy-wide emission reduction goals set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), taking into consideration:

(I) The capital planning periods for covered buildings;

(II) The feasibility of an owner planning and implementing a building upgrade project ahead of the compliance date for the 2040 performance standards that the commission sets by rule pursuant to subsection (8.5)(a)(I) of this section; and

(III) That all rules that the commission adopts must be technologically feasible and economically reasonable pursuant to the requirements set forth in section 25-7-102 (1).

(c) (I) On or before July 1, 2027, the director of the office shall appoint and convene a task force. The task force shall review the benchmarking data submitted for calendar years 2021 through 2026 and, on or before July 1, 2028, develop and provide recommendations to the division regarding the 2040 performance standards.

(II) As part of the recommendations developed pursuant to subsection (8.5)(c)(I) of this section, the task force shall consider:

(A) The economy-wide emission reduction goals set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g);

(B) The capital planning periods for covered buildings and the feasibility of an owner planning and implementing a building upgrade project ahead of the compliance date;

(C) Whether the building performance program should allow a covered building owner to meet performance targets through the implementation of energy efficiency improvements or other eligible measures;

(D) Improvements that materially advance compliance with the performance standards and avoid premature replacement of equipment that remains within its useful service life;

(E) The establishment of individualized compliance pathways, including the ability of the office to enter into agreements with covered building owners to define alternative compliance metrics and schedules that are consistent with operational necessity and that avoid unnecessary financial burdens; and

(F) Elements from prior rules regarding building performance standards, which rules may require revision. The task force shall make recommendations regarding any rule revisions that it believes are necessary.

(d) The task force consists of the following members, all of whom, except the representatives of the office, the public utilities commission, and the division, are voting members:

(I) The director of the office or the director's designee;

(II) The director of the division or the director's designee;

(III) The director of the public utilities commission or the director's designee;

(IV) One member who is an owner of commercial covered buildings or who represents owners of commercial covered buildings;

(V) One member who is an owner of a multifamily residential covered building or who represents owners of multifamily residential covered buildings;

(VI) One member who represents an affordable housing organization;

(VII) One member who has direct experience in, or is a member of an organization representing workers in, mechanical, HVAC, or electrical work at the commercial or multifamily building level;

(VIII) One member who represents architects;

(IX) One member who represents professional engineers and who has experience working on systems for buildings;

(X) One member who has extensive experience as a building operating engineer;

(XI) One member who represents an electric utility, a gas utility, or a combined electric and gas utility;

(XII) One member who is from an environmental conservation or environmental justice group with experience in energy efficiency or the built environment;

(XIII) One member who is from a local government that has enacted or adopted a benchmarking or building energy performance ordinance or resolution;

(XIV) Three members who have relevant building performance expertise, as determined by the director of the office;

(XV) One member representing hospitals or other health-care facilities; and

(XVI) One member who is a representative of a mixed-use commercial office.

(e) An individual applying to serve on the task force must submit a recommendation from a member of the group that the individual seeks to represent on the task force or, if a trade organization exists that represents the group, a recommendation from the trade organization.

(f) In making appointments to the task force, the director of the office shall strive to ensure varied geographic representation.

(g) The task force shall conduct a comprehensive economic analysis of its recommendations for the 2040 performance standards prior to providing the recommendations to the division.

(8.6) Notwithstanding any rules that the commission adopts pursuant to this section before July 1, 2025:

(a) (I) An owner of a covered building that meets its performance standards using the standard percentage reduction building performance pathway, as established by rule of the commission, may use 2019 benchmarking data as an alternate baseline if the owner submits complete and accurate 2019 benchmarking data to the office no later than November 1, 2027;

(II) An owner of a covered building located within the jurisdiction of a local government that has adopted and implemented a building performance standards program or other similar program intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from covered buildings is deemed in compliance with this section and rules adopted by the commission pursuant to this section by complying with the requirements of the local program if:

(A) The owner of the covered building maintains compliance with the local program and certifies its affirmative compliance status by submitting an affidavit, which affidavit attests that the covered building meets the requirements of the local program, in annual benchmarking reports submitted to the office; and

(B) The office has determined that the greenhouse gas emission reductions from covered buildings complying with the local program are reasonably similar to the greenhouse gas emission reductions that would have been achieved through compliance with performance standards established under this section;

(III) A local jurisdiction that has adopted and implemented a building performance standards program may issue a certification or report to the office confirming which covered buildings are in compliance with the program; and

(IV) Decisions made by the office regarding equivalence pursuant to subsection (8.6)(a)(II)(B) of this section are subject to judicial review pursuant to section 24-4-106.

(b) (I) Notwithstanding subsection (8.6)(a) of this section and any rules adopted by the commission before July 1, 2025, an owner may either comply with the 2026 performance standards or track its progress toward compliance by submitting benchmarking reports in accordance with subsections (3) and (8.6)(b)(II) of this section.

(II) Beginning with the 2025 benchmarking reports submitted in 2026, and each year thereafter, a covered building owner or operator shall, as part of its benchmarking reports submitted to the office:

(A) Respond to any standard progress-related questions included in the benchmarking form to help assess whether the building is on a path toward future compliance;

(B) Indicate whether technical assistance or guidance from the office would be helpful; and

(C) Provide any additional nonproprietary information requested by the office that is relevant to understanding implementation trends or common barriers to compliance.

(III) The reports required under subsection (8.6)(b)(II) of this section must include only answers to the questions that are minimally necessary to assess the covered building owner's progress toward the performance standard targets.

(IV) Any rules the commission adopted before July 1, 2025, that impose additional compliance obligations upon a covered building owner that fails to timely meet a building performance standard do not apply until 2031 for the 2030 building performance standards.

(V) The office shall prioritize any grant money that is made available for owners of covered buildings:

(A) That comply with or establish plans to go beyond the 2026 performance standards; or

(B) That comply with the 2030 performance standard early or establish plans to go beyond the 2030 performance standards.

(VI) Nothing in this subsection (8.6)(b) precludes or modifies the division's authority to enforce against an owner of a covered building for noncompliance with 2030 performance standards or performance standards set for subsequent years.

(8.7) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (8)(a)(II) of this section or rules adopted pursuant to that subsection, subsection (8.6) of this section is necessary for covered buildings to effectively implement the performance standards. The commission is not required to revise rules that were adopted pursuant to this section before July 1, 2025.

(8.8) (a) Energy use that a covered building owner demonstrates is attributable to electric vehicle charging shall not be included in a covered building's total energy usage for purposes of compliance with building performance standards.

(b) A covered building owner may, after consultation with the office, request documentation demonstrating that:

(I) The covered building is in current compliance with the commission's rules adopted in accordance with this section; and

(II) The covered building is on a path toward meeting upcoming compliance obligations, based on the performance standards, conditions, and building-specific plans that are in effect at the time of the covered building owner's request.

(c) Consistent with rules adopted by the commission, the office shall develop guidance concerning individualized target and compliance guidelines for covered building owners that demonstrate a significant increase in energy use due to the expansion of a data center or telecommunications operation. A covered building owner's individualized energy efficiency target can reflect increased electricity consumption over time from a data center or telecommunications operation if all cost-effective energy efficiency and electrification measures have been performed. Consistent with rules adopted by the commission regarding timelines and adjustments for building performance standard targets, individualized targets and compliance timelines may be adjusted multiple times based on the evolving growth of energy consumption by the covered building.

(9) Saving clause. This section does not restrict:

(a) The ability of a qualifying utility to provide incentives or other energy efficiency program services for covered buildings;

(b) The ability of an investor-owned utility to take credit, as deemed appropriate by the public utilities commission, for energy or greenhouse gas emission savings achieved for covered buildings;

(c) The ability of a qualified utility to set an aggregation threshold that is less than four; or

(d) A local government from adopting or implementing an ordinance or resolution that imposes more stringent benchmarking or performance standard requirements.

(10) Agricultural buildings exempted from benchmarking requirements.

(a) An owner of an agricultural building may submit for an affirmative exemption from any requirement to report benchmarking data.

(b) An owner of an agricultural building may submit for an exemption to remain valid until there is a change in ownership or a change that renders the building no longer an agricultural building.

(c) For the duration of any exemption, an owner of an agricultural building shall certify, upon request, the exemption status of any building for which an exemption has been granted.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1286), ch. 326, p. 2070, § 1, effective September 7. L. 2022: (2)(i)(V) amended, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2980, § 61, effective August 10. L. 2023: IP(8)(c)(I) and IP(8)(c)(II) amended, (SB 23-016), ch. 165, p. 734, § 6, effective August 7. L. 2025: (1.5), (2)(q.5), (8.5), (8.6), (8.7), and (8.8) added and (2)(s), (3), (8)(c)(III), and (8)(f) amended, (HB 25-1269), ch. 216, p. 978, § 3, effective May 20; (2)(b.5), (2)(j)(II)(D) and (10) added and (2)(j)(II)(B) and (2)(j)(II)(C) amended, (SB 25-039), ch. 37, p. 182, § 1, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (8)(f) was amended in HB 25-1269, effective May 20, 2025. For the amendments in HB 25-1269 in effect from May 20, 2025, to July 1, 2025, see chapter 216, Session Laws of Colorado 2025. (L. 2025, p. 978.)

(2) Subsection (8)(f) provided for the repeal of subsections (8)(a), (8)(b), (8)(c)(I), (8)(c)(II), (8)(d), (8)(e), and (8)(f), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2025, p. 978.)

25-7-143. Emergency stationary engine exception - legislative declaration - rules - notice to revisor - repeal.

[Editor's note: This section is effective (see editor's note following this section)]

(1) (a) The general assembly hereby finds that:

(I) The United States armed forces protect the United States, including the people of Colorado, from threats domestic and abroad;

(II) Colorado is home to the North American aerospace defense command, U.S. strategic command, U.S. air force space command, and U.S. northern command;

(III) These command and military facilities play a critical role in aerospace defense, including defense against intercontinental ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction; and

(IV) Regulations promulgated under the federal act authorize emergency stationary engines to operate during an emergency event.

(b) Therefore, the general assembly hereby declares that:

(I) Maintaining the operating capacity of Colorado's military facilities is critical to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Colorado;

(II) Although regulation of emissions is important to the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Colorado, failure to maintain operation at all times of these critical facilities during an emergency event could lead to severe loss of life and devastating environmental consequences in Colorado;

(III) Emergency stationary engines are critical to providing power and other services necessary to maintain the operation of these military facilities at all times;

(IV) This section is self-executing; and

(V) Creation of an exemption for emergency stationary engine use at military installations requires a change to Colorado's state implementation plan, which must be approved by the administrator of the federal environmental protection agency.

(2) Notwithstanding any requirements or emission limits established by state statute or rule, a person may operate an emergency stationary engine, as authorized by the federal act, if:

(a) The emergency stationary engine is providing electric power to or mechanical work for military facilities or facilities under the control of the United States department of defense;

(b) The emergency stationary engine is in compliance with 40 CFR 60, subparts IIII and JJJJ, as in effect on January 1, 2022;

(c) The emergency stationary engine's air pollution control and monitoring equipment is installed, operated, and maintained in compliance with the manufacturer's standards; and

(d) The emergency stationary engine is:

(I) Undergoing routine maintenance or testing; or

(II) Providing primary electrical power or mechanical work during an emergency event pursuant to 40 CFR 60 or 63, as in effect on January 1, 2022, for the duration of the emergency event.

(3) (a) A person that operates an emergency stationary engine at military facilities or facilities under the control of the United States department of defense shall:

(I) Minimize the use of emergency stationary engines as much as practicable, consistent with the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Colorado;

(II) Report an emergency event to the division within the later of forty-eight hours or by noon on the next business day after commencing operation of an emergency stationary engine because of the emergency event; and

(III) Each time an emergency stationary engine is operated, record:

(A) That the emergency stationary engine was operated;

(B) The date that the operation began;

(C) The duration of the operation;

(D) The reason for each operation, including an emergency event, maintenance, or testing; and

(E) Whether any action was taken to mitigate the use of the emergency stationary engine during the emergency event.

(b) A person that installs an emergency stationary engine shall retain for five years and make available for inspection the installation, maintenance, and operation records and data of the emergency stationary engine, including, at a minimum:

(I) Monitoring results;

(II) Operation and maintenance procedures; and

(III) Operation and maintenance records.

(4) A person that operates an emergency stationary engine at military facilities or facilities under the control of the United States department of defense shall submit a compliance report to the division annually on the date the person regularly submits reports in accordance with any permits held by the person. Each compliance report must include the following information:

(a) The installation name and address;

(b) The date of the report and the beginning and end dates of the reporting period;

(c) The information required to be recorded in subsection (3)(a)(III) of this section;

(d) Any action taken to minimize the operation of the emergency stationary engine; and

(e) A statement by the reporting person, including the person's name, title, and signature, certifying the accuracy of the report.

(5) Compliance with this section is a condition of every air quality permit issued or renewed by the division for emergency stationary engines for military facilities or facilities under the control of the United States department of defense.

(6) (a) No later than September 1, 2025, the governor or the governor's designee shall submit this section to the administrator for inclusion in Colorado's state implementation plan.

(b) This section will take effect only if the administrator approves this section's inclusion in the state implementation plan. The division shall notify the revisor of statutes in writing of the date on which the condition specified in this subsection (6)(b) has occurred by emailing the notice to revisorofstatutes.ga@coleg.gov. This section takes effect on the effective date identified in the notice that the administrator approved this section's inclusion in Colorado's state implementation plan or, if the notice does not specify that date, upon the date of the notice to the revisor of statutes.

(7) If the administrator fails to approve inclusion of this section into Colorado's state implementation plan by September 1, 2027:

(a) This section is repealed, effective October 1, 2027; and

(b) The governor or the governor's designee shall withdraw this section as a state implementation plan revision.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1372), ch. 316, p. 2251, § 2, effective June 2. L. 2025: (6)(a), IP(7), and (7)(a) amended, (SB 25-254), ch. 328, p. 1708, § 2, effective May 31.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(b) provides that this section is effective if the administrator approves this section's inclusion in the state implementation plan and the division notifies the revisor of statutes. This section takes effect on the date identified in the notice or, if the notice does not specify that date, on the date of the notice to the revisor of statutes. As of publication date, the revisor of statutes has not received the notice referred to in subsection (6)(b).

25-7-144. Tampering with motor vehicle emission control systems - violations - exceptions - rules - reporting - definitions.

(1) On or after January 1, 2024, except as provided otherwise in this section, a person shall not:

(a) Tamper with any emission control system;

(b) Sell, offer for sale, or possess for sale to an end user; advertise; manufacture; install; or use any part or component that is intended for use with, or as part of, any motor vehicle if the primary effect of using the part or component with the motor vehicle is to bypass, defeat, or render inoperative, in whole or in part, the emission control system; or

(c) Except with respect to a motor vehicle sold at wholesale or for which the associated ownership document is a salvage certificate of title, a nonrepairable title, or, if issued by another state, a similar document:

(I) Sell, lease, or rent a motor vehicle with an emission control system that has been tampered with;

(II) Offer to sell, lease, or rent a motor vehicle with an emission control system that has been tampered with; or

(III) Transfer or offer to transfer title to, or the right to possess, a motor vehicle with an emission control system that has been tampered with.

(2) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b) of this section, on or after January 1, 2024, a person shall not operate a motor vehicle with an emission control system that has been tampered with if:

(I) The motor vehicle or its engine has been granted a certificate of conformity under the federal act as meeting the federal environmental protection agency's motor vehicle emission standards or, under 42 U.S.C. sec. 7507, also known as "section 177" of the federal act, California's motor vehicle emission standards; and

(II) The person knew or, through the exercise of reasonable care, should have known that the emission control system was tampered with.

(b) A person does not operate a motor vehicle in violation of this subsection (2) if another person tampered with the emission control system in relation to, or after committing, theft of the motor vehicle, and the person operating the motor vehicle is neither a complicitor of nor an accessory to the theft.

(c) If a complaint alleging a violation of this subsection (2) is filed against a person who has already been found to have violated this subsection (2) on a previous occasion, the person is strictly liable, and evidence demonstrating the mental state required in subsection (2)(a)(II) of this section need not be shown to prove a subsequent violation.

(3) The following activities constitute separate offenses under this section:

(a) Selling, offering for sale, or possessing for sale to an end user; advertising; manufacturing; installing; or using a part or component of a motor vehicle in violation of subsection (1)(b) of this section; and

(b) Selling, leasing, or renting a motor vehicle; offering to sell, lease, or rent a motor vehicle; or transferring or offering to transfer a title or a right to possess a motor vehicle in violation of subsection (1)(c) of this section.

(4) A person does not violate subsection (1)(b) or (1)(c) of this section if the person engages in the conduct for the purpose of:

(a) Having the motor vehicle's emission control system, or an element or device of an emission control system, repaired, replaced, removed for repair, or removed for replacement to bring the motor vehicle in compliance with emission control standards under the federal act or state law; or

(b) Dismantling a motor vehicle for parts to be sold for repair or replacement purposes.

(5) (a) On and after July 1, 2025, a person is not subject to penalties or an enforcement action for a violation of this section with respect to any motor vehicle for which the person self-reports to the division that the person is not in compliance with this section. If a complaint has been filed against the person with respect to one or more motor vehicles, the person is not subject to penalties or an enforcement action for a violation of this section with respect to any additional motor vehicles for which the person self-reports that the person is not in compliance with this section.

(b) The commission may determine by rule the form, manner, and substance of information required for self-reporting under this subsection (5).

(c) Notwithstanding subsection (5)(a) of this section, if a person self-reports pursuant to this subsection (5) that the person is not in compliance with this section with respect to a motor vehicle, but the person does not become compliant with this section within twelve months after the date of self-reporting with regard to the motor vehicle:

(I) The person is subject to penalties or an enforcement action for a violation of this section with respect to that motor vehicle; and

(II) A certification of emissions control required pursuant to section 42-4-310 shall not be issued until the motor vehicle is brought into compliance with the standards described in subsection (2)(a)(I) of this section.

(d) Nothing in this subsection (5) prevents a directive to repair issued pursuant to this section from requiring compliance with the standards described in subsection (2)(a)(I) of this section.

(6) The commission may adopt rules as necessary to implement this section.

(7) (a) On or before January 1, 2025, and on or before January 1 of each year thereafter, the department of public health and environment may:

(I) Prepare an annual report summarizing the complaints filed pursuant to this section and any enforcement actions taken and penalty amounts assessed pursuant to section 25-7-122 (1)(j); and

(II) Submit the report to the house of representatives energy and environment committee and the senate transportation and energy committee, or their successor committees.

(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the reporting authorization set forth in subsection (7)(a) of this section continues indefinitely.

(8) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) (I) "Emission control system" means a device or element of design that:

(A) The original manufacturer installs on or in a motor vehicle or a motor vehicle engine; and

(B) Is certified to comply with emission control standards under the federal act or state law.

(II) "Emission control system" includes a catalytic converter and all components required to operate selective catalytic reduction as part of a diesel emissions control system.

(b) "Manufacturer" means any person that manufactures or assembles new and unused motor vehicles of a type required to be registered pursuant to section 42-3-103.

(c) "Motorcycle" means an autocycle or a motor vehicle that uses handlebars or any other device connected to the front wheel to steer and that is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground; except that the term does not include a farm tractor, low-speed electric vehicle, or low-power scooter.

(d) "Motor vehicle" has the meaning set forth in section 42-1-102 (58); except that the term does not include a motorcycle.

(e) "Tamper" means to deactivate, dismantle, defeat, bypass, alter, modify, remove, or otherwise render inoperable, in whole or in part, mechanical or electrical parts or components of an emission control system.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-179), ch. 485, p. 3523, § 5, August 10.

25-7-145. Legislative interim committee on ozone air quality - created - members - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (HB 23-1294), ch. 401, p. 2404, § 2, effective June 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (9) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2023, p. 2404.)

25-7-146. Petroleum refinery pollution - assessment - monitoring data - rules - definitions.

(1) (a) On or before January 1, 2025, the division shall hire an expert regarding air pollution control regulations for petroleum refineries. The petroleum refinery regulation expert shall:

(I) Assess the feasibility, costs, and benefits for the division to propose to the commission a rule establishing a petroleum refinery control regulation; and

(II) Assess other regulatory and nonregulatory measures.

(b) As part of the assessments required pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, the petroleum refinery regulation expert shall:

(I) Evaluate the impact that petroleum refineries have on air quality in the state, including an evaluation of criteria air pollutants listed pursuant to the federal act and hazardous air pollutants;

(II) Investigate the regulatory framework governing petroleum refineries in other states and at the federal level;

(III) Identify best practices and technologies for minimizing emissions from petroleum refineries; and

(IV) Determine actions needed to reduce emissions, including the potential for developing a specific petroleum refinery rule. If the division deems it appropriate, the division shall propose a rule specifically based on the expert's assessment on or before July 1, 2026.

(c) Notwithstanding the timeline set forth in subsection (1)(b)(IV) of this section and notwithstanding any existing authority that the commission has under the law, the commission may adopt, and the division may propose, a rule establishing a petroleum refinery control regulation at any time.

(2) (a) On and after January 1, 2025, a petroleum refinery in the state shall disseminate to the division, in real time through an application programming interface, push data gathered through:

(I) Continuous emission monitoring systems and continuous monitoring systems required under state or federal law;

(II) Fenceline monitoring systems as required under section 25-7-141 (5);

(III) Community-based monitoring required under section 25-7-141 (6); and

(IV) Compliance with a state-issued compliance order.

(b) The data disseminated to the division pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section must be provided through the push in a one-minute averaged resolution.

(c) The division shall determine the format by which a petroleum refinery must transmit the data to the division.

(3) (a) On or before December 31, 2024, a petroleum refinery shall install and operate at least six community-based monitoring systems to monitor, at a minimum, for:

(I) Benzene;

(II) Toluene;

(III) Ethylbenzene;

(IV) Xylene;

(V) Carbon monoxide;

(VI) Nitrogen dioxide;

(VII) PM2.5;

(VIII) Hydrogen sulfide;

(IX) Sulfur dioxide;

(X) Total volatile organic compounds;

(XI) Temperature;

(XII) Relative humidity;

(XIII) Wind speed; and

(XIV) Wind direction.

(b) The community-based monitoring systems installed and operated pursuant to this subsection (3) must be installed, certified, and operated in accordance with a plan developed by the division.

(4) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Application programming interface" means a set of rules, protocols, and tools that:

(I) Enable the interaction and communication between software applications;

(II) Serve as an intermediary that facilitates the exchange of data, requests, and commands between distinct software systems, allowing the distinct software systems to work together seamlessly; and

(III) Enable the development of interconnected and interoperable applications.

(b) "Community-based monitoring" has the meaning set forth in section 25-7-141 (2)(a).

(c) "Continuous emissions monitoring system" means the equipment:

(I) Required to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements set forth in a construction permit or a renewable operating permit or as set forth in federal law; and

(II) That is used to sample; condition, if applicable; analyze; and provide a record of emissions on a continuous basis.

(d) "Continuous monitoring system" means a set of instruments and equipment that is designed to continuously measure and record various parameters that may affect emissions of air pollutants in real time and is required under a construction permit, a renewable operating permit, or federal law.

(e) "Fenceline monitoring" has the meaning set forth in section 25-7-141 (2)(e).

(f) "Petroleum refinery" means a stationary source covered by the North American industry classification system code 324110, as established by the federal office of management and budget.

(g) "PM2.5" means particulate matter with a diameter of less than two and one-half micrometers.

(h) "Push" means, in the context of an application programming interface, a mechanism by which a server or data source proactively sends information or updates to the division without the division explicitly requesting the information.

(i) "Real time" means the instantaneous or near-instantaneous provision of data, without a delay of more than fifteen minutes, to ensure that data is conveyed promptly and without undue latency.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1338), ch. 259, p. 1716, § 4, effective May 28.

25-7-147. Rapid response inspection team.

(1) The division shall establish a rapid response inspection team to respond quickly to air quality complaints filed with the division. The division shall hire and develop a team to serve as the Rapid response inspection team.

(2) The rapid response inspection team shall develop processes and best practices for quickly responding to air quality complaints filed and for giving priority to air quality complaints related to adverse effects in disproportionately impacted communities of the state. The rapid response team shall also develop and implement outreach efforts to educate and engage with communities about events and conditions that lead to excess emissions within the communities. The rapid response team shall track and report on the division's website the number of complaints filed and post what, if any, formal enforcement action was taken as a result of the complaint.

(3) The rapid response inspection team shall not respond to any issue arising within the boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian or Ute Mountain Ute reservation absent the express consent of the governing body of the affected tribe. The rapid response inspection team shall refer any complaint within the jurisdiction of the Southern Ute Indian or Ute Mountain Ute tribe to the environmental programs department of the relevant tribe and may respond to the complaint only with the express consent of the governing body of the affected tribe.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1338), ch. 259, p. 1719, § 4, effective May 28.

25-7-148. Nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide emission limits for covered electric generating units after 2034 - rules - quarterly reports - recommendations to the general assembly - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) (I) "Covered electric generating unit" or "unit" means an electric generating unit that is owned or operated by an electric utility; that is located in the state; and that, in calendar year 2024, emitted two hundred tons or more of nitrogen oxides, two hundred tons or more of sulfur dioxide, or both.

(II) "Covered electric generating unit" or "unit" does not include an electric generating unit that:

(A) Burns natural gas, fuel oil, or both only; or

(B) Has both a flue gas desulfurization system and a selective catalytic reduction system installed.

(b) "Final rule" means the final rule adopted by the commission pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(2) (a) No later than July 2029, the division shall propose a final rule establishing limits on the emission of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide from each covered electric generating unit; except that the commission shall not establish emission limits for a covered electric generating unit that, before December 31, 2029, has ceased operations, converts to burn natural gas, fuel oil, or both only, or has both a flue gas desulfurization system and a selective catalytic reduction system installed.

(b) For each unit, the limit on the emission of nitrogen oxides in the final rule must be based upon, and reflective of, operation of a selective catalytic reduction system at the unit.

(c) For each unit, the limit on the emission of sulfur dioxide in the final rule must be based upon, and reflective of, operation of either a flue gas desulfurization system or a dry spray absorber at the unit.

(d) For each unit, the commission shall require compliance with the emission limits required by the final rule on and after a date that the commission determines is practicable, which date must be after December 31, 2034.

(e) A covered electric generating unit that converts to burn natural gas, fuel oil, or both only is not subject to the emission limits in the final rule.

(f) A covered electric generating unit that plans to operate after December 31, 2034, and that operates after December 31, 2034, shall install and operate the pollution controls described in subsections (2)(b) and (2)(c) of this section on or before December 31, 2034, and meet the emission limits adopted pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section unless the unit has ceased operations or has converted to burn natural gas, fuel oil, or both only on or before December 31, 2034.

(3) The owner or operator of a covered electric generating unit shall provide quarterly emission reports to the division demonstrating compliance with the final rule.

(4) (a) In an electric resource plan filed with the public utilities commission in which a utility evaluates the operation of a covered electric generating unit after December 31, 2034, the utility shall include an estimate of the costs to comply with this section.

(b) A utility that does not file an electric resource plan with the public utilities commission is encouraged to include an estimate of the costs to comply with this section in an evaluation of the operation of a covered electric generating unit after December 31, 2034, and to make the estimate publicly available.

(5) (a) On August 1, 2029, the commission shall submit to the general assembly a list of any covered electric generating units that are subject to an order issued by the United States department of energy under section 202 (c) of the federal power act.

(b) If there are any covered electric generating units that, as of the date of the submission of the list described in subsection (5)(a) of this section, are subject to an order issued by the United States department of energy under section 202 (c) of the federal power act, the commission shall also submit along with the list described in subsection (5)(a) of this section recommendations to the general assembly from stakeholders, including utilities that own or operate covered electric generating units, regarding whether to amend this section, including whether to postpone the earliest compliance deadline described in subsection (2)(d) of this section or enact any other amendments regarding covered electric generating units subject to an order issued under section 202 (c) of the federal power act.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (HB 26-1226), ch. 380, p. 2359, § 2, effective June 4.

Editor's note: Section 5 of chapter 380 (HB 26-1226), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act adding this section applies to conduct occurring on or after June 4, 2026.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 26-1226, see section 1 of chapter 380, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

PART 2

PREVENTION OF SIGNIFICANT DETERIORATION PROGRAM

25-7-201. Prevention of significant deterioration program.

(1) It is the policy of this state to prevent the significant deterioration of air quality in those portions of the state where the air quality is better than the national ambient air quality standards by means including, but not limited to, the following:

(a) Except as provided in section 25-7-209, in areas designated as Class I, II, or III, pursuant to this article and in accordance with the federal act, increases allowed in air pollutant concentrations over the baseline concentration from the construction of major stationary sources or from major modifications shall, in the case of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide, be the same as those increases established by section 163(b) of the federal act and shall, in the case of any other air pollutants, be the same as those increases established pursuant to section 166(a) of the federal act. For any period other than an annual period, the applicable maximum allowable increase may be exceeded during one such period per year at any one location.

(b) No concentration of an air pollutant shall exceed a national ambient air quality standard.

(c) No major stationary source or major modification shall be constructed unless the requirements of this part 2, as applicable, have been met.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1050, § 1, effective June 20. L. 81: (1)(c) amended, p. 1306, § 1, effective May 29.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Pollution or Resources Out-of-Place: Reclaiming Municipal Wastewater for Agricultural Use", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 559 (1982). For article, "The Colorado Prevention of Significant Deterioration of Air Quality Program", see 12 Colo. Law. 1983 (1983).

25-7-202. Definitions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1051, § 1, effective June 20. L. 81: (4)(a), (4)(b), IP(4)(c), (4)(c)(VII), (4)(d), and (5) to (7) amended and (4)(c) and (6.5) added, pp. 1306, 1308, §§ 2, 3, effective May 29. L. 84: (2) amended, p. 776, § 17, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section repealed, p. 1233, § 41, effective July 1.

25-7-203. State implementation plan - contents.

In accordance with Part C (Prevention of Significant Deterioration) of the federal act and this part 2, the commission shall incorporate in the state implementation plan emission limitations, requirements for employment of best available control technology, and such other measures as may be necessary to prevent significant deterioration of ambient air quality in each region, or portion thereof, of the state identified pursuant to section 107(d)(1)(D) or (E) of the federal act.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1053, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-204. Exclusions.

(1) The requirements of the state implementation plan for prevention of significant deterioration of ambient air quality shall not apply to a major stationary source or major modification with respect to a particular pollutant if the owner or operator demonstrates that:

(a) As to the pollutant, the source or modification is subject to part 3 of this article, and the source or modification would impact no area attaining the national ambient air quality standards (either internal or external to areas designated as nonattainment under section 107 of the federal act); or

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1229, § 27, effective July 1, 1992.)

(c) Such emissions would be from a temporary activity which will not have an adverse impact on air quality in any class I area or an area where an allowable increase over the baseline concentration is known to be violated; except that such temporary activities shall be subject to requirements related to the employment of best available control technology; or

(d) Such emissions would not be significant.

(2) The following pollutant concentrations shall be excluded in determining compliance with maximum allowable increases:

(a) Concentrations attributable to the increase in emissions from sources which have converted from the use of petroleum products, natural gas, or both, by reason of an order in effect under section 2(a) and (b) of the federal "Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974" (or any superseding legislation) over the emissions from such sources before the effective date of such an order, but not more than five years after the effective date of such an order;

(b) Concentrations attributable to the increase in emissions from sources which have converted from using natural gas by reason of a natural gas curtailment plan in effect pursuant to the federal "Power Act" over the emissions from such sources before the effective date of such plan but not more than five years after the effective date of the plan; and

(c) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1229, § 27, effective July 1, 1992.)

(d) Concentrations of particulate matter attributable to an increase in emissions from temporary activity.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1053, § 1, effective June 20. L. 81: (1)(c) amended and (1)(d) and (2) added, p. 1308, §§ 4, 5, effective May 29. L. 92: (1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) amended, p. 1229, § 27, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the "Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974", see Pub.L. 93-319, codified at 15 U.S.C. § 791 et seq.

25-7-205. Innovative technology - waivers.

The division or the commission may grant a waiver from the best available control technology requirements of this part 2 for proposed new or modified sources in order to encourage the use of an innovative technological system or systems of continuous emission reduction if the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency has delegated such authority and if the division or the commission determines, after notice and opportunity for public hearing, and after securing the consent of the governor of an affected state, to the extent that such consent may be lawfully required by the federal act, that such innovative technological system or systems of continuous emission reduction have a substantial likelihood of achieving greater continuous emission reduction than the means of emission limitation which, but for such waiver, would be required, or of achieving continuous emission reduction equivalent to that which, but for such waiver, would be required, at a lower cost in terms of energy or economic or nonair quality environmental impact. If a public hearing is requested by an interested person, the request shall, within twenty days after its receipt, be transmitted to the commission. The commission shall, within sixty days after its receipt of the request, hold a public hearing with respect thereto and shall, within thirty days after such hearing, issue its decision.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1053, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 777, § 18, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1229, § 28, effective July 1.

25-7-206. Procedure - permits.

(1) Applications for a proposed new or modified source subject to the requirements of this part 2, or any additions to such applications, shall be processed by the division and the commission as provided in sections 25-7-114 to 25-7-114.7.

(2) The owner or operator of a proposed source or modification shall submit all information determined by the division to be reasonably necessary to perform any analysis or make any determination required under this part 2.

(3) The division shall transmit to the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency a copy of each permit application relating to a major stationary source or major modification. Thereafter, the division and the commission shall provide notice to the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency of every action related to the consideration of such permit.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1053, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: (1) and (3) amended, p. 777, § 19, effective July 1. L. 92: (1) amended, p. 1230, § 29, effective July 1.

25-7-207. Exemptions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1054, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: Entire section repealed, p. 1230, § 30, effective July 1.

25-7-208. Area designations.

(1) Except as provided in section 25-7-209, all areas of the state shall initially be designated as provided in section 162 of the federal act.

(2) To the extent permitted by section 164 of the federal act, the commission may redesignate any area in the state as a Class I, Class II, or Class III area. The commission shall promulgate rules and regulations in conformity with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., establishing the procedures for such redesignations; except that:

(a) Such procedures shall be uniform for all redesignations;

(b) Any redesignation may be adopted by the commission only after reasonable notice and public hearing;

(c) All redesignations, except any established by an Indian governing body, shall be specifically approved by the governor, after consultation with the appropriate committees of the general assembly if it is in session or with the leadership of the general assembly if it is not in session, and by resolutions or ordinances enacted by the general purpose unit of local government representing a majority of the residents of the area to be redesignated;

(d) Any redesignation shall constitute a revision to the state implementation plan and shall be submitted to the administrator of the United States environmental protection agency.

(3) Any redesignations or any denial of an application for redesignation made pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall be subject to judicial review in accord with section 25-7-120.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1054, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-209. Colorado designated pristine areas for sulfur dioxide.

(1) In the following areas which were designated Colorado category I for sulfur dioxide by the commission on October 27, 1977, the increase allowed in sulfur dioxide concentrations over the baseline concentration shall be the same as the increase established by section 163(b) of the federal act for Class I areas:

(a) National parks:

(I) Rocky mountain;

(II) Mesa Verde;

(III) Great sand dunes;

(IV) Black canyon of the Gunnison;

(b) National monuments:

(I) Florissant fossil beds;

(II) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1971, § 87, effective August 5, 2009.)

(III) Colorado;

(IV) Dinosaur;

(V) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1971, § 87, effective August 5, 2009.)

(c) Forest service wilderness areas:

(I) Eagles nest;

(II) Flattops;

(III) La Garita;

(IV) Maroon bells - Snowmass;

(V) Mount Zirkel;

(VI) Rawah;

(VII) Weminuche;

(VIII) West elk;

(d) Forest service primitive areas:

(I) Uncompahgre mountain;

(II) Wilson mountain;

(e) Lands administered by the federal bureau of land management in the Gunnison gorge recreation area as of October 27, 1977.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1054, § 1, effective June 20. L. 2009: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1971, § 87, effective August 5.

ANNOTATION

This section's designation of 18 category 1 areas for sulfur dioxide increments which matched Class I increments under federal clean air act clearly intended for variance procedure allowed in § 25-7-207 to be part of a program to prevent significant deterioration of air quality and to extend class I protection to Colorado's previously designated category I areas. Environ. Def. Fund v. State Dept. of Health, 731 P.2d 773 (Colo. App. 1986).

25-7-210. Applicability.

Sections 25-7-201 and 25-7-203 to 25-7-206 shall apply only to applications for proposed new major stationary sources and major modifications which are submitted on or after the date of approval by the United States environmental protection agency of the program for prevention of significant deterioration embodied in the state implementation plan.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1055, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1230, § 31, effective July 1.

25-7-211. Visibility impairment attribution studies.

(1) Any visibility impairment reasonable attribution study pertaining to class I areas shall be subject to balanced peer review by a panel including scientists with appropriate expertise who do not have any substantive involvement with any party, shall be site-specific with respect to any suspected source of impairment and to any impacted area, shall be conducted under the oversight of the division, including, but not limited to, determination of deadlines for such study, and shall utilize study design and data collection and analytical techniques, including, but not limited to, contemporaneous ambient air quality, visibility, and meteorological sampling that allows correlation of the data relevant to any such study. With the exception of emissions from agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural activities that are exempted under section 25-7-109 (8), relevant data shall include a reasonable assessment of the contributions of emissions from reasonably identifiable sources, including natural sources, within the state and region. Any remedy selection must include relevant economic impact data. In order to minimize delay in the process, the study shall proceed as expeditiously as sound science will allow. The cost of any such study shall not be required to be paid by the department of public health and environment.

(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section, as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1615, § 1, effective May 31; entire section amended, p. 2619, § 32, effective July 1. L. 2005: Entire section amended, p. 349, § 6, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-212. Actions of federal government affecting visibility - evaluation report.

(1) As a part of the state's ongoing development and implementation of a long-term strategy in connection with visibility and air quality related values within class I areas, the division shall evaluate the extent to which the activities of the federal government are directly adversely impacting visibility and air quality related values within a class I area and make a determination whether such entities have taken or are taking all reasonable steps necessary to remedy that impact. At any time, the division may make, and a federal land manager shall respond to, reasonable requests for information necessary for the division to perform such regulation.

(2) The joint public hearing required under section 25-7-105 (4)(a) shall report on the results of the evaluation required under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) (a) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares, after reviewing the factors that contribute to regional haze and visibility impairment in Colorado, that significant contributions to regional haze and visibility impairment emanate from federal lands within the state of Colorado and from federal lands in other parts of the west. For the purpose of addressing regional haze visibility impairment in Colorado's mandatory class I federal areas, the federal land manager of each such area shall develop a plan for evaluating visibility in that area by visual observation or other appropriate monitoring technique approved by the federal environmental protection agency and shall submit such plan for approval to the division for incorporation by the commission as part of the state implementation plan. Such submittal and compliance by the federal land managers shall be done in a manner and at a time so as to meet all present or future federal requirements for the protection of visibility in any mandatory class I federal area. Such plan shall only be approved by the commission if the expense of implementing such a plan is borne by the federal government.

(b) (I) In addition to the plan submitted by each federal land manager pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the responsible federal land management agency shall provide an emission inventory to the commission of all federal land management activities in Colorado or other states that result in the emission of criteria pollutants, including surrogates or precursors for such pollutants, that affect any mandatory class I federal area in Colorado by reducing visibility in such an area. Such emission inventory shall be submitted to the commission no later than December 31, 2001, and no less frequently than every five years thereafter.

(II) Each emission inventory submitted to the commission shall be subject to approval by the commission pursuant to section 25-7-105 (17). The commission shall exempt from the inventory requirement any sources or categories of sources that it determines to be of minor significance.

(III) The commission shall adopt rules to fully implement the general assembly's intention to exercise state powers to the maximum extent allowed under section 118 of the federal act in requiring each federal land management agency with any presence in the state of Colorado to develop and submit to the division an inventory of emissions from lands, wherever situated, which could have any effect on visibility within mandatory class I federal areas located in Colorado. The commission and the division shall use the information from these emission inventories:

(A) To develop control strategies for reducing emissions within the state of Colorado as a primary component of the visibility long-term strategies for inclusion in the state implementation plan;

(B) In any environmental impact statement or environmental assessment required to be performed under the federal "National Environmental Policy Act of 1969", 42 U.S.C. secs. 4321 to 4347; and

(C) To exercise all powers and processes that exist to seek reductions in emissions outside the state of Colorado that reduce visibility in Colorado mandatory class I federal areas.

(IV) The cost of preparing and submitting inventories pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b) shall be borne by the federal government.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1392, § 4, effective May 25. L. 96: (2) amended, p. 1258, § 151, effective August 7. L. 98: (3) added, p. 115, § 1, effective August 5. L. 99: (3) amended, p. 1248, § 2, effective June 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 246, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-7-213. Visibility and air quality related values policy task force. (Repealed)

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1392, § 4, effective May 25.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1995. (See L. 94, p. 1392.)

25-7-214. Visibility impairment subcommittee. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 933, § 1, effective May 21.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective January 1, 1998. (See L. 97, p. 933.)

(2) This section was enacted as § 25-7-215 but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

PART 3

ATTAINMENT PROGRAM

25-7-301. Attainment program.

(1) The commission shall develop a program providing for the attainment and maintenance of each national ambient air quality standard in each nonattainment area of the state, in conformity with and as provided in Part D (Nonattainment Program) of the federal act.

(2) Subject to the requirement of subsection (1) of this section:

(a) The attainment program shall be designed to account for and regulate all significant sources of air pollution, including stationary, mobile, and indirect sources, and shall assure that air quality benefits of the control measures utilized bear a reasonable relationship to economic, environmental, and energy impacts and other costs of such measures; and

(b) Control measures required pursuant to the attainment program shall take into consideration the respective contributions of different categories of sources to air pollution, existing control measures, and the availability and feasibility of additional control measures.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1055, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-302. State implementation plan - contents.

The attainment program embodied in the state implementation plan may, with respect to proposed new or modified major stationary sources within nonattainment areas which would cause or contribute to a violation of a national ambient air quality standard, provide an allowance for growth while providing reasonable further progress toward attainment, and new sources may be allowed that do not result, individually or in the aggregate, in emissions that exceed the allowance. Particulate matter not of a size or substance to adversely affect public health or welfare shall not be considered in determining whether any applicable growth allowance has been consumed. Modifications to an existing facility within a source may be allowed which are accompanied by emission reduction offsets within the same source sufficient to provide no net increase in emissions of an air pollutant from the source. If an applicable growth allowance has been consumed, the attainment program shall permit sources to be constructed only if emission reduction offsets providing a greater than one-for-one emission reduction are obtained from existing sources sufficient to provide reasonable further progress toward attaining the applicable national ambient air quality standards by the attainment date prescribed under Part D (Nonattainment Program) of the federal act. Any emission offsets required for sulfur dioxide, particulates, and carbon monoxide shall provide a positive net air quality benefit in the area affected by the proposed source.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1056, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-303. Exemptions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1056, § 1, effective June 20. L. 92: Entire section repealed, p. 1230, § 32, effective July 1.

25-7-304. Emission reduction offsets.

The attainment program shall provide that emission reduction offsets which exceed those otherwise necessary to the granting of a permit under this part 3 may be preserved for sale or use in the future. Any emission reduction offset so preserved for future use and credit shall be specifically identified either in the state implementation plan or in the permit for the source as to which such offset was originally obtained. Any offsets so preserved and identified shall not in any way be condemned or taken under the provisions of articles 1 to 7 of title 38, C.R.S.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1056, § 1, effective June 20.

25-7-305. Alternative emission reduction.

The attainment program shall provide that upon application of the owner or operator of a stationary source, the commission may approve as a revision to the state implementation plan a proposal to meet the applicable requirements of the state implementation plan for a given air pollutant for two or more facilities or operations within such source through a combination of different requirements which separately may be more or less stringent than the applicable requirements of the state implementation plan; except that the total emissions from such facilities or operations shall not exceed the total emissions allowed by the applicable requirements of the state implementation plan.

Source: L. 79: Entire article R&RE, p. 1057, § 1, effective June 20. L. 84: Entire section amended, p. 777, § 20, effective July 1.

PART 4

CONTROL OF POLLUTION CAUSED BY WOOD SMOKE

25-7-401. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby declares that it is in the interest of the state to control, reduce, and prevent air pollution caused by wood smoke. It is therefore the intent of this part 4 to significantly reduce particulate and carbon monoxide emissions caused by burning wood by developing an evaluation and certification program, in the department of public health and environment, for the sale of wood stoves in Colorado and by encouraging the air quality control commission to continue efforts to educate the public about the effects of wood smoke and the desirability of achieving reduced wood smoke emissions. The general assembly hereby finds that it is beneficial to the state to implement a program of voluntary no-burn days whenever the air quality control division determines that the anticipated level of wood smoke will or is likely to have an adverse impact on the air quality in any nonattainment area in the state.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 779, § 1, effective April 12. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2785, § 506, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-402. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Evaluate" means to review wood-burning appliances' emission levels, as determined by an independent testing laboratory, and compare the emission levels to the emission performance standards established by the commission under section 25-7-403.

(2) and (3) Repealed.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 779, § 1, effective April 12. L. 87: (2) repealed, p. 1144, § 10, effective June 16; (3) repealed, p. 1144, § 10, effective July 1.

25-7-403. Commission - rule-making for wood-burning stoves.

(1) The commission shall promulgate rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this part 4 relating to wood-burning stoves in conformity with the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and which shall become effective only as provided in said article.

(2) (a) In promulgating such rules and regulations, the commission shall:

(I) Set emission performance standards for new wood stoves;

(II) Establish criteria and procedures for testing new wood stoves for compliance with the emission performance standards;

(III) Prescribe the form and content of the emission performance label to be attached to a new wood stove meeting the emission performance standards;

(IV) Establish procedures for administering the program and for collecting fees for the certification of new wood stoves;

(V) Establish fees for certifying new wood stoves at a level such that said fees reflect the direct and indirect costs of administering the program less any general fund or federal grant moneys appropriated to cover the start-up costs of the program;

(VI) Repealed.

(VII) Establish a definition for new wood stoves; and

(VIII) Establish exemptions from the provisions of this subsection (2) of the extent that such exemptions are appropriate.

(b) The moneys collected under this subsection (2) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the stationary sources control fund established in section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b). Any moneys not appropriated by the general assembly shall be retained in the stationary sources control fund and shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 780, § 1, effective April 12. L. 87: (1) and (2)(a)(V) amended, (2)(a)(VI) repealed, and (2)(a)(VII) and (2)(a)(VIII) added, pp. 1140, 1141, 1144, §§ 2, 3, 10, effective June 16. L. 92: (2)(b) amended, p. 1231, § 33, effective July 1.

25-7-404. Wood stove testing program established.

(1) There is hereby established, in the department of health, an evaluation and certification program for the control of air pollution caused by wood stove emissions, which is designed to significantly reduce particulate and carbon monoxide emissions, referred to in this part 4 as the "program".

(2) The program as implemented by rules and regulations as set forth in section 25-7-403 shall be administered by the air quality control division. The said division shall establish a program that:

(a) Determines whether or not any new wood stove complies with the emission performance standards set by the commission when tested by an independent testing laboratory;

(b) If such new wood stove complies with the emission performance standards, certifies such compliance.

(3) On or after July 1, 1985, a wood stove manufacturer or dealer may request the air quality control division to evaluate the emissions performance of any new wood stove.

(4) Repealed.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 780, § 1, effective April 12. L. 2005: (4) repealed, p. 283, § 22, effective August 8.

25-7-405. Certification required for sale.

(1) On or after January 1, 1987, a person shall not advertise to sell, offer to sell, or sell a new wood stove in Colorado unless:

(a) The particular model of wood stove or the particular configuration of wood stove appliance has been evaluated to determine its emission performance and has been certified by the air quality control division under the program established under this part 4; and

(b) An emission performance label is attached to the wood stove.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 781, § 1, effective April 12.

25-7-405.5. Resale of used noncertified wood-burning devices - prohibited.

On and after January 1, 1993, no used wood-burning device shall be sold or installed in the program area unless such device meets the most stringent standards adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-7-106.3 (1).

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1282, § 2, effective May 27; entire section added, p. 1324, § 3, effective May 27.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 92-137 and House Bill 92-1321 were harmonized.

25-7-406. Fireplace design program.

The air pollution control division shall establish a program to study the ways that differences in the structural design of fireplaces affect emissions. The objective of this program will be to determine those structural designs of fireplaces which effectively minimize emissions. The division shall conduct performance tests of different fireplace designs to identify those designs that minimize emissions.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 781, § 1, effective April 12.

25-7-407. Commission - rule-making for fireplaces.

(1) to (7) Repealed.

(8) On and after January 1, 1993, any new or remodeled fireplace to be installed in any dwelling in an area subject to wood-burning limitations provided for in section 25-7-106.3 shall be one of the following:

(a) A gas appliance;

(b) An electric device; or

(c) A fireplace or fireplace insert that meets the most stringent emissions standards for wood stoves established by the commission, or any other clean burning device that is approved by the commission.

(9) No regulation promulgated by the commission in accordance with subsection (8) of this section shall apply to any municipality or a county in the AIR program that has in effect, on and after January 1, 1993, an ordinance or building code provision substantially equivalent to the requirement set forth in subsection (8) of this section, as determined by the commission.

(10) Repealed.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 781, § 1, effective April 12. L. 87: Entire section R&RE, p. 1141, § 4, effective June 15. L. 92: (8), (9), and (10) added, p. 1281, § 1, effective May 27; (8), (9), and (10) added, p. 1323, § 2, effective May 27; (6) amended, p. 1231, § 34, effective July 1. L. 93: (10) repealed, p. 1787, § 69, effective June 6.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (9) by Senate Bill 92-137 and House Bill 92-1321 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (10) provided for the repeal of subsections (1) to (7), effective January 1, 1993. (See L. 92, pp. 1281, 1323.)

25-7-407.5. Certification required for sale. (Repealed)

Source: L. 87: Entire section added, p. 1142, § 5, effective June 16. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1283, § 4, effective May 27; entire section amended, p. 1325, § 5, effective May 27.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective January 1, 1993. (See L. 92, pp. 1283, 1325.)

25-7-408. Required compliance in building codes.

(1) (a) Repealed.

(b) On and after January 1, 1993, every board of county commissioners of a county in the AIR program area which has enacted a building code, and thereafter every board of county commissioners of a county in the AIR program area which enacts a building code, shall, pursuant to section 30-28-201 (2), C.R.S., adopt a building code provision requiring any person who installs or constructs any fireplace to comply with section 25-7-407 (8).

(2) (a) Repealed.

(b) On and after January 1, 1993, every governing body of a municipality in the AIR program area which has enacted a building code, and thereafter every governing body of a municipality in the AIR program area which enacts a building code, shall, pursuant to section 31-15-601 (2), C.R.S., adopt a building code provision requiring any person who installs or constructs any fireplace to comply with section 25-7-407 (8).

(3) Nothing in this article 7 prevents a board of county commissioners or a governing body of a municipality from enacting a building code that requires more stringent standards for wood stoves and for fireplaces, if such standards are necessary and reflect technology suitable for commercial application within the meaning of section 25-7-407 (1), as that section existed prior to its repeal in 1993.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 781, § 1, effective April 12. L. 87: Entire section amended, p. 1143, § 6, effective June 16. L. 92: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1282, § 3, effective May 27; (1) and (2) amended, p. 1324, § 4, effective May 27. L. 2020: (3) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 295, § 43, effective September 14.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsections (1) and (2) by Senate Bill 92-137 and House Bill 92-1321 were harmonized.

(2) Subsections (1)(a)(II) and (2)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (1)(a) and (2)(a), respectively, effective January 1, 1993. (See L. 92, pp. 1282, 1324.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-7-409. Voluntary no-burn days.

Whenever the air quality control division determines, after investigation, that the level of wood stove emissions anticipated will contribute adversely or is likely to have an adverse impact on the air quality in any nonattainment area in the state, the commission should implement and announce a program of voluntary no-burn days.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 782, § 1, effective April 12.

25-7-410. Applicability.

The provisions of this part 4 do not apply to a used wood stove and shall not apply to any fireplace constructed prior to the date established in section 25-7-407.

Source: L. 84: Entire part added, p. 782, § 1, effective April 12. L. 87: Entire section amended, p. 1143, § 7, effective June 16. L. 2005: Entire section amended, p. 772, § 49, effective June 1.

25-7-411. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that air pollution in the state of Colorado is a threat to the health and welfare of its citizens and that a major contributor to said pollution is wood smoke, which accounts for twenty-five to forty percent of the brown cloud, fifteen to thirty percent of small particulate matter, hereafter referred to as PM 10, up to ten percent of carbon monoxide, and a portion of toxic, cancer-causing chemicals.

(2) The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that PM 10 particulates created by wood burning threaten the public health in that said particulates are so small that they lodge in persons' lungs and inhibit the body's pulmonary function. Such pollutant is particularly damaging to persons with lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and chronic upper respiratory conditions, to the very young and elderly, and to pregnant women. The brown cloud is a threat to the economic health of the state because it discourages businesses and tourists from coming to Colorado. Wood burning is one of the most easily controllable sources of air pollution. New technologies can dramatically reduce pollution caused by wood burning. In addition, the reduction of wood burning can reduce the amount of fine particulate emissions into the air.

(3) Therefore, the general assembly finds that it is necessary to implement a plan to further reduce wood smoke emissions in the AIR program area and, therefore, enacts sections 25-7-411 to 25-7-413 to encourage and promote the reduction of wood-burning devices and the use of less polluting devices by taking advantage of new technology.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1319, § 1, effective May 27.

25-7-412. Definitions.

As used in sections 25-7-411 to 25-7-413, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Fireplace insert" means any wood-burning device designed to be installed in an existing fireplace which meets the Phase III standard, as such term is defined in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) "Phase III wood stove" means any wood-burning device that meets the most stringent standards adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-7-106.3 (1) or any nonaffected wood-burning device that is approved by the commission.

(3) "Program area" means the portions of the five counties in the AIR program area, including Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Douglas, and Jefferson, and the cities and counties of Denver and Broomfield.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1320, § 1, effective May 27. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1375), ch. 274, p. 1714, § 61, effective May 29.

25-7-413. Methods for reducing wood smoke in program area.

(1) Methods for reducing wood smoke in the program area may be implemented, as follows:

(a) Voluntary financial incentives. The lead air quality planning agency for the Denver metropolitan area shall work with other organizations to establish a program of financial incentives to encourage and defray the costs associated with conversions to Phase III wood stoves or to gas or electric devices. The program shall include incentives to use energy efficient devices.

(b) Educational program. The lead air quality planning agency for the Denver metropolitan area shall work with public and private organizations to promote the following: The voluntary upgrade of conventional wood-burning stoves to Phase III stoves and the conversion of existing conventional fireplaces to fireplace inserts or to gas or electric devices;

(c) Voluntary conversions.

(I) The commission shall establish goals for voluntary conversion of wood-burning units to cleaner burning technology to be met by December 31, 1994, and by December 31, 1997. The primary objective of the goals shall be to attain and maintain standards for particulate matter established pursuant to the federal "Clean Air Act", taking into account other strategies adopted in the state implementation plan. The goals established by the commission may not exceed the following maximum levels:

(A) The conversion or nonuse of one hundred thousand conventional wood-burning fireplaces to clean technology by December 31, 1994, and one hundred fifty thousand by December 31, 1997;

(B) The conversion or nonuse of twenty thousand conventional wood stoves to Phase III wood stoves by December 31, 1994, and thirty thousand conversions by December 31, 1997.

(II) The goals established pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (c) may be less than the maximum levels if the commission determines that such nonuse or conversions are not necessary to attain and maintain federal particulate matter standards.

(d) Contingency plan.

(I) In the event that goals established in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1) are not met, or the commission determines that wood-burning controls are necessary to either attain or maintain the standards for particulate matter established pursuant to the 1990 amendments to the federal "Clean Air Act", taking into account other strategies, the commission shall develop and implement a contingency plan.

(II) Prior to the development of the contingency plan, the commission shall contract with an independent contractor to conduct a random survey of the program area to determine public preferences for various wood smoke reduction strategies and shall hold a public hearing before adopting any recommendations concerning wood smoke reduction strategies, which recommendations shall be submitted to the general assembly for action.

(III) Strategies surveyed for public preference and considered by the commission for inclusion in the contingency plan shall include, but need not be limited to, the following:

(A) Charging a fee for residents of dwellings who wish to burn wood in a conventional stove or fireplace and using the fee for conversion incentives, enforcement of rules against burning wood without having paid a fee, and monitoring for compliance with rules;

(B) Conversion to clean burning devices upon the sale of a dwelling unit containing a conventional fireplace or non-Phase III wood stove;

(C) Removal of the exemption for primary heat sources on no-burn days;

(D) A permit-to-burn program with a maximum number of permits determined by the commission and issued in a random but proportional manner throughout the program area.

(2) Verifying voluntary conversions. To measure and verify progress in regard to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the commission shall do the following:

(a) The commission shall develop measures for obtaining from consumers in the program area pledges not to use any device other than a Phase III wood stove, fireplace insert, or a gas or electric fireplace; and

(b) The department of revenue shall adopt a procedure for tracking conversions of non-Phase III wood stoves and fireplaces and, if applicable, the number of non-Phase III wood stoves permanently destroyed, which procedure shall include a requirement that retailers regularly submit to the commission the number of consumer purchases of Phase III wood stoves or inserts or gas or electric fireplaces.

(3) Wood smoke reduction fee - termination.

(a) On and after July 1, 1992, any retailer who sells a new wood stove or insert or a gas or electric fireplace or fireplace that uses a gas or electric device in the program area shall obtain from the purchaser a signed conversion form, which form shall be provided by the department of revenue, or an entity with which the department is hereby authorized to contract, affirming the purchase of such device and indicating whether the purchase is in connection with a conversion to a cleaner burning device. In addition to obtaining the signed conversion form, the retailer shall submit to the department of revenue in accordance with paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) a fee in the amount of one dollar.

(b) On and after July 1, 1992, and in accordance with paragraph (c) of this subsection (3), the retailer shall submit to the department of revenue the conversion form along with the fee described in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3). The department of revenue shall transmit the fee to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the wood smoke reduction fund, which fund is hereby created. The moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department of revenue to cover the direct and indirect costs of developing a conversion form in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), tracking conversion in accordance with paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) and paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section, and for the department of public health and environment to conduct a survey in connection with the implementation of a contingency plan in accordance with paragraph (d) of subsection (1) of this section; except that no moneys shall be used for conducting a survey in connection with the implementation of a contingency plan in accordance with paragraph (d) of subsection (1) of this section without specific approval by the joint budget committee. In accordance with section 24-36-114, C.R.S., all interest derived from the deposit and investment of this fund shall be credited to the general fund. The department of revenue, or the entity with which the department has contracted pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), shall submit a report to the commission on the number of conversions no later than thirty days after receiving reports from retailers in accordance with paragraph (c) of this subsection (3).

(c) The retailer shall submit semi-annual reports to the department of revenue no later than on the twentieth day of the month after the close of the preceding six-month period together with the conversion forms and the remittance for all fees collected for the preceding six-month period. If no fees are submitted by the retailer, no report is necessary.

(d) Effective July 1, 1997, the wood smoke reduction fund and the wood smoke reduction fee are eliminated, and the following provisions shall apply:

(I) A retailer within the program area that sells a new wood stove or insert, or a gas or electric fireplace that uses a gas or electric device, between January 1, 1997, and June 30, 1997, shall submit a final semi-annual report to the department of revenue no later than July 20, 1997, together with:

(A) Signed conversion forms indicating whether such purchases were made in connection with a conversion to a cleaner burning device; and

(B) A remittance of the wood smoke reduction fees collected during such period.

(II) A retailer who does not have fees to remit pursuant to sub-subparagraph (B) of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (d) need not file a final semi-annual report.

(III) Moneys held by the state treasurer in the wood smoke reduction fund on July 1, 1997, and any moneys credited to the fund on or after such date shall be transferred to the general fund.

(4) Commission - rule-making. The commission may promulgate rules necessary for the effectuation of this section.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1320, § 1, effective May 27. L. 94: (3)(b) and (5) amended, p. 2786, § 507, effective July 1. L. 97: (3) amended, p. 1609, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2008: (5) repealed, p. 1907, § 102, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (3)(b) and (5), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

PART 5

ASBESTOS CONTROL

Editor's note: This part 5 was added in 1985 and was not amended prior to 1987. The substantive provisions of this part 5 were repealed and reenacted in 1987, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For the text of this part 5 prior to 1987, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

Law reviews: For article, "Recovering Asbestos Abatement Costs in Tort Actions", see 19 Colo. Law. 659 (1990).

25-7-501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby declares that it is in the interest of the general public to control the exposure of the general public to friable asbestos. It is the intent of the general assembly to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public by regulating the practice of asbestos abatement in locations to which the general public has access for the purpose of ensuring that such abatement is performed in a manner that will minimize the risk of release of asbestos. However, it is not the intent of the general assembly to regulate occupational health practices that are regulated pursuant to federal laws. It is the intent of the general assembly that the commission may adopt regulations to permit the enforcement of the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants as set forth in 42 U.S.C. sec. 7412.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly determines and declares that the enactment of this part 5 is a matter of statewide concern to achieve statewide uniformity in the regulation of such asbestos abatement practices and uniformity in the qualifications for and certification of persons who perform such abatement.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1145, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 1016, § 1, effective June 11; (1) amended, p. 1440, § 47, effective June 11. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2786, § 508, effective July 1. L. 2022: (1) amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2592, § 3, effective August 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-7-501 as it existed prior to 1987.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "State and Federal Legislative Response to the Asbestos Threat", see 17 Colo. Law. 1973 (1988).

25-7-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) "Area of public access" means any building, facility, or property, or a portion thereof, that any member of the general public can enter or can be exposed to asbestos from the area. "Area of public access" includes a single-family residential dwelling and any facility that charges the general public a fee for admission, such as any theater or arena.

(b) Repealed.

(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1)(a) of this section, a single family residential dwelling shall not be considered an area of public access for purposes of conducting asbestos abatement if the homeowner who resides in the single family dwelling that is the homeowner's primary residence requests, on a form provided by the division, that the single family dwelling not be considered an area of public access.

(2) "Asbestos" means asbestiform varieties of chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite.

(3) "Asbestos abatement" means any of the following:

(a) The wrecking or removal of structural members that contain friable asbestos-containing material;

(b) The following practices intended to prevent the escape of asbestos fibers into the atmosphere:

(I) Coating, binding, or resurfacing of walls, ceilings, pipes, or other structures for the purpose of minimizing friable asbestos-containing material from becoming airborne;

(II) Enclosing friable asbestos-containing material to make it inaccessible;

(III) Removal of friable asbestos-containing material from any pipe, duct, boiler, tank, reactor, furnace, or other structural member;

(IV) Conducting a major spill response.

(4) "Commission" means the air quality control commission created by section 25-7-104.

(5) "Division" means the division of administration in the department of public health and environment.

(5.5) "Facility" means any institutional, commercial, public, industrial, school, or residential structure; any installation; any building, including any structure, installation, or building containing condominiums or individual dwelling units operated as a residential cooperative; any ship; any railcar; and any active or inactive waste disposal site.

(6) "Friable asbestos-containing material" means any material that contains asbestos and when dry can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure and that contains more than one percent asbestos by weight, area, or volume. The term includes nonfriable forms of asbestos after such previously nonfriable material becomes damaged to the extent that when dry it can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure.

(7) "Person" means any individual, any public or private corporation, partnership, association, firm, trust, or estate, the state or any department, institution, or agency thereof, any municipal corporation, county, city and county, or other political subdivision of the state, or any other legal entity which is recognized by law as the subject of rights and duties.

(7.5) "Project manager" means a person who has satisfied the experience and academic training requirements set forth by the commission.

(8) (a) "School" means any institution that provides elementary or secondary education.

(b) and (c) Repealed.

(9) "State-owned or state-leased buildings" means structures occupied by any person which are either owned by the state or utilized by the state through leases of one year's duration or longer.

(10) "Structural member" means any beam, ceiling, floor, or wall.

(11) "Trained supervisor" means an individual certified by the division to supervise asbestos abatement pursuant to section 25-7-506.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1145, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 1016, § 2, effective June 11. L. 89: (8) amended, p. 1169, § 2, effective May 9. L. 94: (5), (8)(b), and (8)(c) amended, pp. 2787, 2702, §§ 509, 258, effective July 1. L. 95: (7.5) added, p. 20, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1) and (6) amended, p. 772, § 4, effective June 1. L. 2005: (8)(c) repealed, p. 283, § 23, effective August 8. L. 2006: (1)(b) and (8)(b) repealed, p. 125, § 10, effective March 27. L. 2022: (1)(a) and (1)(c) amended and (3)(b)(IV) and (5.5) added, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2592, § 4, effective August 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-7-502 as it existed prior to 1987.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (5), (8)(b), and (8)(c), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-503. Powers and duties of commission - rules - delegation of authority to division.

(1) The commission has the following powers and duties:

(a) To promulgate rules pursuant to section 24-4-103 regarding the following, as are necessary to implement the provisions of this part 5:

(I) Performance standards and practices for asbestos abatement;

(II) (A) Determination of a maximum allowable asbestos level, which shall be the highest level of airborne asbestos under normal conditions that allows for protection of the general public; except that, until the commission adopts by rule a level, the maximum allowable asbestos level for the protection of the general public shall be 0.01 fibers per cubic centimeter of air, measured during normal occupancy and calculated as an eight-hour time-weighted average, in accord with 29 CFR 1910.1000 (d)(1)(i).

(B) If airborne asbestos fiber levels exceed such a level, a second test of samples may be collected during normal occupancy, analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis, and calculated as an eight-hour time-weighted average in accord with 29 CFR 1910.1000 (d)(1)(i), before any order of abatement is issued.

(C) Notwithstanding the provisions of sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (II), if the asbestos level in the outside ambient air which is adjacent to an asbestos project site or area of public access exceeds 0.01 fibers per cubic centimeter of air, the existing asbestos level in such air shall be the maximum allowable asbestos level.

(III) Exemptions in emergency situations from the requirements of section 25-7-505 regarding the certificate to perform asbestos abatement;

(IV) Requirements for air pollution permits. Permits shall be required for asbestos abatement projects in any building, facility, or property, or any portion thereof, having public access; except that the requirements of this subsection (1)(a)(IV) shall not apply to asbestos abatement projects performed by an individual on a single-family residential dwelling that is the individual's primary residence.

(V) Fees for air pollution permits, site inspections, and any necessary monitoring for compliance with this part 5;

(VI) Fees for certification as: A trained supervisor, worker, project designer, inspector, management planner, and air monitoring specialist; and a general abatement contractor;

(VII) and (VIII) Repealed.

(IX) Assessment procedures that determine the need for response actions for friable asbestos-containing materials. Such procedures shall include, but not be limited to, an initial inspection to determine if asbestos-containing materials are present, visual inspection, and air monitoring that shows an airborne concentration of asbestos during normal occupancy conditions in excess of the maximum allowable level established by the commission in state-owned or state-leased buildings. Nothing in this subsection (1)(a)(IX) shall be construed to require that such assessments be made in state-owned or state-leased buildings; however, such procedures shall be followed in the event any such assessment is made.

(X) Requirements for asbestos management plans to be submitted and implemented by schools;

(XI) Fees to be collected from schools for review and evaluation of asbestos management plans;

(b) To promulgate rules pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., regarding the following, as are necessary to implement the provisions of this part 5, as required by the federal "Clean Air Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 7412 et seq., as amended:

(I) Determination of the minimum scope of asbestos abatement to which the provisions of this part 5 shall apply, but not less than:

(A) With regard to asbestos abatement projects on a single-family residential dwelling, fifty linear feet on pipes or thirty-two square feet on other materials or the equivalent of a fifty-five-gallon drum;

(B) With regard to asbestos abatement projects not subject to sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (I), two hundred sixty linear feet on pipes or one hundred sixty square feet on other materials or the equivalent of a fifty-five-gallon drum;

(II) Requirements of notification, as consistent with the federal act, to demolish, renovate, or perform asbestos abatement in any building, facility, or property, or any portion thereof, that contains asbestos, except within such minimum scope of asbestos abatement or when otherwise exempt;

(III) (A) Procedures for the inspection and monitoring of sites where demolition, renovation, or the performance of asbestos abatement is taking place, including rules assuring that aggressive air monitoring shall be utilized only in the context of conducting final clearance of an abatement project as outlined in the federal "Asbestos Hazardous Emergency Response Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. sec. 2641 et seq., and pursuant to the regulations found at 40 CFR 763. Specifications as listed in "measuring airborne asbestos following an abatement action", published by the environmental protection agency in 1985, shall be adopted by the commission as criteria for aggressive sampling.

(B) The division shall provide information to local governments to be used in connection with the issuance of a building permit regarding the need for an inspection for the presence of asbestos-containing materials prior to renovation or demolition of any building, facility, or property that may contain asbestos.

(IV) (A) Fees for notifications to demolish, renovate, or perform asbestos abatement and for any associated site inspections or necessary monitoring for compliance with this part 5.

(B) Fees pursuant to this subparagraph (IV) shall be paid on an annual basis for large contiguous facility complexes and on an individual notification basis for small noncontiguous facilities.

(V) Requirements to prevent any real or potential conflict of interest between the identification of asbestos-containing materials and the abatement of such materials, including requirements that project managers be used on projects of a certain size, that project managers be independent of the abatement contractor and work strictly on behalf of the building owner to the extent feasible, and that building owners may seek waivers from the project manager requirements.

(c) To approve the examination administered to applicants for certification as a trained supervisor pursuant to section 25-7-506;

(d) To authorize the division to:

(I) Establish procedures regarding applications, examinations, and certifications required under this part 5;

(II) Enforce compliance with the provisions of this part 5, the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and any order issued pursuant thereto.

(e) To promulgate rules setting minimum standards for sampling the asbestos in the air and standards for persons engaging in such sampling and to seek injunctive relief under section 25-7-511.5, including relief against any asbestos air sampler who acts beyond his or her level of competency. In promulgating rules setting such standards, the commission shall not use the term "air sampling professional" in such standards.

(f) (I) To adopt rules pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., setting out required training for persons applying for certification, recertification, or renewal of certificates as required by regulations promulgated by the federal environmental protection agency or the occupational safety and health administration.

(II) Training required pursuant to this paragraph (f) shall not be unduly duplicative or excessive.

(III) Refresher courses shall be required annually.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1147, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1)(a)(II) and (1)(b)(III) amended, (1)(a)(IX) R&RE, and (2) added, p. 1017, §§ 4, 3, effective June 11. L. 90: (1)(e) added, p. 1320, § 2, effective May 24. L. 92: (1)(b)(I) amended, p. 1231, § 35, effective July 1. L. 95: (1)(b) amended and (1)(f) added, p. 20, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1)(a)(IV), (1)(b)(I), and (1)(b)(III) amended, p. 772, § 5, effective June 1. L. 2006: IP(1)(a), (1)(a)(II)(A), (1)(a)(II)(B), IP(1)(b), (1)(b)(V), and (1)(e) amended, p. 123, § 6, effective March 27. L. 2020: (1)(a)(I) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1055, § 58, effective June 30. L. 2022: IP(1)(a), (1)(a)(I), (1)(a)(IV), (1)(a)(VI), (1)(a)(IX), (1)(b)(II), and (1)(b)(III)(B) amended and (1)(a)(VII), (1)(a)(VIII), and (2) repealed, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2593, § 5, effective August 10.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-7-504 as it existed prior to 1987.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "State and Federal Legislative Response to the Asbestos Threat", see 17 Colo. Law. 1973 (1988).

25-7-504. Asbestos abatement project requirements - certificate to perform asbestos abatement - certified trained persons.

(1) (a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2022.)

(b) Any person other than the general abatement contractor who inspects any building, facility, or property for the presence of asbestos, prepares management plans for public and commercial buildings, designs abatement actions in any building, facility, or property, or conducts abatement actions in any building, facility, or property shall obtain certification pursuant to section 25-7-507.

(2) (a) A general abatement contractor who conducts asbestos abatement in any building, facility, or property shall obtain a certificate to perform asbestos abatement pursuant to section 25-7-505 unless such abatement project is exempt from the requirement for certification pursuant to rules promulgated by the commission.

(b) Unless otherwise exempt, asbestos abatement shall be performed under the supervision of an individual certified by the division as a trained supervisor pursuant to section 25-7-506, who shall be at the project site at all times that work is in progress.

(3) The requirements of this section shall apply to asbestos abatement on a single-family residential dwelling; except that the requirements of this section shall not apply to any individual who performs asbestos abatement on a single-family residential dwelling that is the individual's primary residence.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1148, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (1) amended, p. 1231, § 36, effective July 1. L. 2001: (3) amended, p. 773, § 6, effective June 1. L. 2022: (1) and (2)(a) amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2594, § 6, effective August 10.

25-7-505. Certificate to perform asbestos abatement - application - approval by division - suspension or revocation of certificate.

(1) Any person may apply to the division for a certificate to perform asbestos abatement by submitting an application in the form specified by the division and by paying a fee set by the commission. Such application shall include, but shall not be limited to:

(a) A description of the applicant's employee training program for asbestos abatement;

(b) A statement identifying all individuals employed by the applicant who are certified as trained supervisors pursuant to section 25-7-506.

(2) No applicant shall be certified to perform asbestos abatement unless the applicant, or at least one of the applicant's employees, is certified as a trained supervisor pursuant to section 25-7-506.

(3) Within fifteen days after receiving an application pursuant to this section, the division shall acknowledge its receipt and notify the applicant as to whether the application is complete. Within thirty days after receiving a completed application, the division shall issue a certificate to the applicant if the division finds that, in addition to all other requirements, the employee training program for asbestos abatement described in the application is acceptable. A certificate issued by the division pursuant to this section shall be valid for three years from the date of issuance.

(4) A certificate issued pursuant to this section may be suspended or revoked for the failure to implement the employee training program for asbestos abatement described in the application submitted pursuant to this section.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1148, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-505.5. Testing for certification under part 5.

(1) The division shall develop or purchase the examinations administered pursuant to this part 5 for certification under sections 25-7-506, 25-7-506.5, and 25-7-507 and shall set the passing scores on all such examinations based on a minimum level of competency in the procedures to be followed in asbestos abatement. The division shall administer such examinations at least twice each year or more frequently if demand so warrants and shall administer such examinations at various locations in the state if demand so warrants. The purpose of the examinations required pursuant to this section is to ensure minimum competency in asbestos abatement procedures. If a person fails to achieve a passing score on any such examination, retesting of such person shall be with a different examination and after such person has completed remedial training as determined to be satisfactory to the division for minimum competency in asbestos abatement procedures. Prior to such reexamination, an applicant shall file a new application and pay a fee set by the division. Such fee shall be no greater than the amount paid for the original examination.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 25-7-506, 25-7-506.5, and 25-7-507, the division may certify an individual under this part 5 by endorsement if such individual possesses in good standing a valid license, certificate, or other registration from any other state or territory of the United States or from the District of Columbia, if the applicant presents proof satisfactory to the division that at the time of application for a Colorado certificate by endorsement the applicant possesses qualifications substantially equivalent to those of this part 5 as determined by the division.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1320, § 3, effective May 24. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 123, § 4, effective March 27.

25-7-506. Certificate of trained supervisors - application - approval by division - rules - responsibilities of trained supervisors - renewal of certificate.

(1) Any individual may apply to the division to be certified as a trained supervisor by submitting an application in the form specified by the division and paying a fee set by the commission. Within fifteen days after receiving an application, the division shall notify the applicant as to whether the application is complete.

(2) Within thirty days after receiving a completed application and the results of the examination administered pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (2), the division shall issue a certification valid for a period not to exceed five years as established by the commission by rule from the date of issuance upon a finding:

(a) That the applicant has, within twelve months prior to the date of the application, completed a training course on safe asbestos abatement procedures which has been approved by the division; and

(b) That the applicant has passed an examination administered by the division pursuant to section 25-7-505.5 on the procedures to be followed in asbestos abatement.

(3) An individual acting as a trained supervisor pursuant to this section shall be responsible for supervising a specific asbestos abatement project in such a manner as to assure that asbestos abatement is performed in compliance with the provisions of this part 5 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

(4) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1232, § 37, effective July 1, 1992.)

(5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 95, p. 22, § 3, effective July 1, 1995.)

Source: L. 87: Entire R&RE, p. 1149, § 1, effective July 1. L. 90: (2)(b) amended and (5) added, p. 1321, § 4, effective May 24. L. 92: (2) and (4) amended, p. 1232, § 37, effective July 1. L. 95: IP(2) and (5) amended, p. 22, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2006: IP(2) amended, p. 125, § 8, effective March 27.

25-7-506.5. Certification of air monitoring specialist - rules.

(1) No person may perform air monitoring or air monitoring specialist activities for asbestos, as set forth in rules promulgated by the commission, including visual clearance inspections of an asbestos abatement project, without first obtaining a certificate pursuant to this section.

(2) Any individual may apply to the division to be certified as an air monitoring specialist by submitting an application in the form specified by the division and paying a fee set by the commission. Within fifteen days after receiving an application, the division shall notify the applicant as to whether the application is complete.

(3) Within thirty days after receiving a completed application, the division shall issue a certification valid for a period not to exceed five years as established by the commission by rule from the date of issuance upon a finding that the applicant has successfully met the experience, education, examination, and training requirements and has paid a fee, as set forth in rules promulgated by the commission.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 773, § 7, effective June 1. L. 2006: (3) amended, p. 123, § 5, effective March 27.

25-7-507. Certification required under federal law for asbestos projects in facilities.

Pursuant to the federal "Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986", Public Law 99-519, codified at 15 U.S.C. sec. 2641 et seq., as amended, and the federal "Asbestos School Hazard Abatement Reauthorization Act of 1990", Public Law 101-637, as amended, the division shall certify, in the manner required under the federal law, all persons engaged in the inspection of any building, facility, or property, the preparation of management plans for any building, facility, or property, the design of abatement actions in any building, facility, or property, or the conduct of abatement actions in any building, facility, or property.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1149, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1232, § 38, effective July 1. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2594, § 7, effective August 10.

25-7-507.5. Renewal of certificates - rules - recertification.

(1) Any certificate issued pursuant to this part 5 that has lapsed shall be deemed to have expired.

(2) (a) A certificate issued pursuant to this part 5 may be renewed prior to expiration upon payment of a renewal fee set by the commission.

(b) Renewal of a certificate may be made for a period not to exceed five years as established in rules promulgated by the commission.

(3) An individual may reinstate an expired certificate within one year after such expiration upon payment of a reinstatement fee in an amount set by the commission.

(4) An individual whose certificate has lapsed for a period longer than one year after expiration shall apply to the division for certification as required by this part 5 and shall not be recertified until the division determines that such individual has fully complied with the requirements of this part 5 and any rules promulgated pursuant thereto.

(5) (a) Any individual whose certificate has lapsed because such individual has not completed the refresher course required pursuant to section 25-7-503 (1)(f) may complete such refresher course within one year after the date the certificate lapses.

(b) Completion of the refresher course shall be a requirement for recertification.

(c) (I) The commission shall promulgate rules governing refresher training programs for persons who conduct asbestos abatement activities. Such programs shall not exceed the requirements of refresher training mandated under the federal "Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986", Public Law 99-519, codified at 15 U.S.C. sec. 2641 et seq., as amended, and any rules promulgated pursuant to such federal law.

(II) In adopting rules the commission shall ensure that refresher training requirements are related to ensuring continuing competency in asbestos abatement procedures.

(III) The division shall implement a system of testing to measure the knowledge obtained by certified persons attending the refresher training programs. Such testing shall not exceed the requirements of refresher training mandated pursuant to federal law.

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 22, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2006: (2)(b) amended, p. 125, § 9, effective March 27. L. 2022: (5)(c)(I) amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2595, § 8, effective August 10.

25-7-508. Grounds for disciplinary action - letters of admonition - denial of certification - suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew - requirement for corrective education - administrative fines.

(1) When an application for certification pursuant to section 25-7-505, 25-7-506, 25-7-506.5, 25-7-507, or 25-7-507.5 is denied by the division, the applicant may contest the decision of the division by requesting a hearing before the office of administrative courts. A request for a hearing must be made within thirty calendar days after the division has issued a denial of the application in writing to the applicant. The hearing shall be held pursuant to section 25-7-119.

(2) (a) The division may take disciplinary action in the form of the issuance of a letter of admonition or, in conformity with the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., the suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew certification pursuant to section 25-7-505, 25-7-506, 25-7-506.5, 25-7-507, or 25-7-507.5, should the division find that a person certified under this part 5:

(I) Has violated or has aided and abetted in the violation of any provision of this part 5 or any rule or regulation or order of the division or commission promulgated or issued under this part 5;

(II) (A) Has been subject to a disciplinary action relating to a certification or other form of registration or license to practice asbestos abatement under this part 5 or any related occupation in any other state, territory, or country for disciplinary reasons, which action shall be deemed to be prima facie evidence of grounds for disciplinary action, including denial of certification by the division.

(B) This subparagraph (II) shall apply only to disciplinary actions based upon acts or omissions in such other state, territory, or country substantially similar to those set out as grounds for disciplinary action pursuant to this part 5.

(C) A plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent to a charge of violating a law or regulation governing the practice of asbestos removal in another state, territory, or country that is accepted by the disciplining body of such other state, territory, or country may be considered to be the same as a finding of guilt for purposes of a hearing conducted by the division pursuant to this subsection (2).

(III) Has been convicted of a felony or has had accepted by a court a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony if the felony is related to the ability to engage in activities regulated pursuant to this part 5. A certified copy of the judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction of such conviction or plea shall be conclusive evidence of such conviction or plea. In considering the disciplinary action, the division shall be governed by the provisions of section 24-5-101, C.R.S.

(IV) Has failed to report to the division a disciplinary action specified in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (a) or a felony conviction for an act specified in subparagraph (III) of this paragraph (a);

(V) Has failed to meet any permit and notification requirement or failed to correct any violations cited by the division during any inspection within a reasonable period of time;

(VI) Has used misrepresentation or fraud in obtaining or attempting to obtain a certificate under this part 5;

(VII) Has failed to adequately supervise an asbestos abatement project as a certified trained supervisor;

(VIII) Has committed any act or omission which does not meet generally accepted standards of the practice of asbestos abatement;

(IX) Has engaged in any false or misleading advertising.

(b) When a complaint or an investigation discloses an instance of misconduct which, in the opinion of the division, does not warrant suspension or revocation by the division but which should not be dismissed as being without merit, a letter of admonition may be sent by certified mail to the certified person against whom a complaint was made and a copy thereof to the person making the complaint, but, when a letter of admonition is sent by certified mail by the division to a certified person complained against, such certified person shall be advised that such person has the right to request in writing, within twenty days after proven receipt of the letter, that formal disciplinary proceedings be initiated against such person to adjudicate the propriety of the conduct upon which the letter of admonition is based. If such request is timely made, the letter of admonition shall be deemed vacated, and the matter shall be processed by means of formal disciplinary proceedings.

(3) A person aggrieved by an action taken by the division pursuant to subsection (2) of this section may contest the action by requesting a hearing before the office of administrative courts within thirty days after the applicant is notified in writing of the division's action. The hearing shall be held pursuant to section 25-7-119. Any person aggrieved by an action taken by the office of administrative courts pursuant to subsection (2) of this section may appeal the action to the court of appeals in accordance with section 24-4-106 (11), C.R.S.

(4) In addition to or in lieu of the forms of disciplinary action authorized in subsection (2) of this section, the division, in its discretion, may require corrective education in the area of asbestos abatement as a disciplinary action against a certified person when the situation so warrants, such corrective education to be directed toward weak or problematic areas of a certified person's practice.

(5) Any certified person who violates any provision of this section, in addition to any other enforcement action available under this article, may be disciplined upon a finding of misconduct by the division as follows:

(a) In any first administrative proceeding against a certified person, a fine of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars;

(b) In a second or subsequent administrative proceeding against a certified person for transactions occurring after a final agency action determining that a violation of this part 5 has occurred, a fine of not less than one thousand dollars nor more than ten thousand dollars.

(6) If a certification is revoked by the division, the person against whom such action was taken shall not apply for recertification for a period of one year after such revocation and shall be required to demonstrate compliance with any disciplinary action imposed by the division and to demonstrate competency in asbestos abatement procedures prior to receiving a new certificate.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1149, § 1, effective July 1. L. 90: (2) R&RE, (3) amended, and (4) to (6) added, pp. 1321, 1323, §§ 5, 6, effective May 24. L. 92: (1), (3), and (5) amended, p. 1232, § 39, effective July 1. L. 95: (2)(a)(II), (2)(b), and (6) amended, p. 23, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2001: IP(2)(a) amended, p. 774, § 8, effective June 1. L. 2005: (1) and (3) amended, p. 858, § 23, effective June 1. L. 2006: (1) and IP(2)(a) amended, p. 124, § 7, effective March 27.

25-7-509. Prohibition against local certification regarding asbestos abatement.

Inasmuch as uniformity in the regulation of asbestos abatement practices and uniformity in the qualifications and certification of persons performing asbestos abatement is a matter of statewide concern, no certification or licensing of asbestos abatement projects nor any examination or certification of persons certified under this part 5 shall be required by any city, town, county, or city and county; however, any such local governmental authority may impose reasonable registration requirements on any person performing asbestos abatement as a condition of performing such activity within the jurisdiction of such authority. Registration fees charged by any such local governmental authority to any such person shall not exceed those costs associated with such registration requirements and functions.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1150, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-509.5. Building permits.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2) of this section, a local government entity with authority to issue building permits shall require a property owner applying for either a permit to renovate property or a permit to demolish property to disclose, on the permit application form, whether the property owner knows if the property has been inspected for asbestos.

(2) (a) A local government entity with authority to issue building permits need not update its application forms to include the disclosure required by subsection (1) of this section until the entity otherwise creates and disseminates updated application forms pursuant to its standard practice. The local government entity need not require a property owner applying for a permit to renovate or demolish property to make the disclosure required by subsection (1) of this section until it has updated its application forms.

(b) When updating the application form for a permit to renovate property or a permit to demolish property, the local government entity shall include on the application form substantially the following information:

☐ AN ASBESTOS INSPECTION WAS CONDUCTED ON THE BUILDING MATERIALS THAT WILL BE DISTURBED BY THIS PROJECT ON OR ABOUT:

________________

(DATE)

☐ IT WAS DETERMINED THAT AN ASBESTOS INSPECTION IS NOT REQUIRED UNDER STATE LAW.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING WHETHER AN ASBESTOS INSPECTION IS REQUIRED UNDER STATE LAW FOR YOUR PERMITTED PROJECT, PLEASE CONTACT THE INDOOR ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS BEFORE BEGINNING ANY DEMOLITION OR RENOVATION.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-152), ch. 85, p. 272, § 3, effective March 29. L. 2022: (2)(b) amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2595, § 9, effective August 10.

25-7-510. Fees.

(1) (a) The fees required pursuant to this part 5 shall be established pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the commission.

(b) The commission shall adjust the fees so that the revenue generated from such fees is sufficient to cover the division's direct and indirect costs in implementing the provisions of this part 5.

(2) All fees collected by the division pursuant to this part 5 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the stationary sources control fund established pursuant to section 25-7-114.7 (2)(b). The general assembly shall appropriate to the department of public health and environment, at least annually, from the fund, an amount sufficient to implement the provisions of this part 5.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1150, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (2) amended, p. 1233, § 40, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2787, § 510, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-7-511. Enforcement - repeal.

(1) Whenever the division has reason to believe that any person has violated any of the provisions of this part 5 or the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the division may issue a notice of violation and cease-and-desist order. The notice of violation shall set forth the provision, rule, or regulation alleged to have been violated and the facts constituting such violation. The cease-and-desist order shall set forth the measures which the person shall take to eliminate the violation and the time within which these measures shall be performed. The order may require that the person stop work at the asbestos abatement project until the violation has been eliminated or may require a school to submit and implement an asbestos management plan by a date specified by the division.

(2) If the recipient of a cease-and-desist order issued pursuant to subsection (1) of this section fails to comply with the terms of the order within the time specified, the division may file an action in the district court of the county where the violation is alleged to have occurred requesting that the court order the person to comply with the cease-and-desist order. When the division alleges that the violation poses a significant danger to the health of any person, the court shall grant such action priority.

(3) Unless the division has filed an action in the district court pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, a recipient of a cease-and-desist order may request a hearing before the commission to contest the cease-and-desist order. Such request shall be filed within thirty days after the cease-and-desist order has been issued. A hearing on the cease-and-desist order shall be held pursuant to section 25-7-119.

(4) Upon a finding by the division that a person is in violation of any of the provisions of this part 5 or the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the division may assess a penalty of up to twenty-five thousand dollars per day of violation or such lesser amount as may be required by applicable federal law or regulation. In determining the amount of the penalty to be assessed, the division shall consider the seriousness of the danger to the public's health caused by the violation, whether or not the violation was willful, the duration of the violation, and the record of the person committing such violation.

(5) A person subject to a penalty assessed pursuant to subsection (4) of this section may appeal the penalty to the commission by requesting a hearing before the commission. Such request shall be filed within thirty days after the penalty assessment is issued. A hearing pursuant to this subsection (5) shall be conducted pursuant to section 25-7-119.

(6) (a) Except as described in subsection (6)(b) of this section, all penalties collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the general fund.

(b) (I) On and after July 1, 2025, all receipts from penalties collected under this section shall be credited to the rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement fund created in section 25-16-312; except that, for the 2025-26 state fiscal year and the 2026-27 state fiscal year, the credits described in this subsection (6)(b) continue only until such time as the total amount of penalties and fines collected pursuant to this section and sections 25-15-309 and 25-15-310 and credited to the rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement fund equals two hundred thousand dollars.

(II) This subsection (6)(b) is repealed, effective June 30, 2027.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1150, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2024: (6) amended, (HB 24-1457), ch. 356, p. 2433, § 2, effective August 7.

25-7-511.5. Injunctive proceedings.

(1) The division may, in the name of the people of the state of Colorado, through the attorney general of the state of Colorado, apply for an injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction:

(a) To enjoin any person from committing any act prohibited by the provisions of this part 5;

(b) To enjoin a certified person from practicing the profession for which he is certified under this part 5.

(2) If it is established that the defendant has been or is committing any act prohibited by this part 5, the court shall enter a decree perpetually enjoining said defendant from further committing said act or from practicing asbestos abatement.

(3) Such injunctive proceedings shall be in addition to and not in lieu of all penalties and other remedies provided in this part 5.

(4) When seeking an injunction under this section, the division shall not be required to allege or prove either that an adequate remedy at law does not exist or that substantial or irreparable damage would result from a continued violation.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1323, § 7, effective May 24.

25-7-511.6. Refresher training - authorization.

The commission shall promulgate rules governing refresher training programs for persons who conduct asbestos abatement activities. Such programs shall not exceed the requirements of refresher training mandated under the federal "Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986", Pub.L. 99-519, codified at 15 U.S.C. sec. 2641 et seq., as amended, and any rules promulgated under such federal law. In adopting such rules, the commission shall ensure that refresher training requirements are related to ensuring continuing competency in asbestos abatement procedures. The division shall implement a system of testing to measure the knowledge obtained by certified persons attending such programs.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1323, § 7, effective May 24. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2595, § 10, effective August 10.

25-7-512. Repeal of part.

This part 5 is repealed, effective September 1, 2027. Before the repeal, the functions of the division under this part 5 are scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 87: Entire part R&RE, p. 1151, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: Entire section amended, p. 931, § 16, effective April 28. L. 90: Entire section amended, p. 1324, § 8, effective May 24. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 688, § 57, effective April 20. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 1457, § 9, effective May 25. L. 95: Entire section amended, p. 24, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2001: Entire section amended, p. 771, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 122, § 1, effective March 27. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-152), ch. 85, p. 271, § 2, effective March 29. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (HB 22-1232), ch. 362, p. 2591, § 2, effective August 10.

PART 6

DIESEL INSPECTION PROGRAM

25-7-601 to 25-7-610. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This part 6 was added in 1988, effective January 1, 1990. For amendments to this part 6 prior to its repeal in 1995, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this part 6 were relocated to part 4 of article 4 of title 42. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said part 4 and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

(2) Section 25-7-610 provided for the repeal of this part 6, effective January 1, 1995. (See L. 94, p. 2541.)

PART 7

TRAVEL REDUCTION TASK FORCE

25-7-701 to 25-7-706. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This part 7 was added in 1990 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 1991. For the text of this part 7 prior to 1991, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-7-706 provided for the repeal of this part 7, effective July 1, 1991. (See L. 90, p. 1328.)

PART 8

TRAVEL REDUCTION PROGRAM

25-7-801 to 25-7-806. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This part 8 was added in 1991. For amendments to this part 8 prior to its repeal in 1994, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-7-806 provided for the repeal of this part 8, effective July 1, 1994. (See L. 91, p. 981.)

PART 9

CLEAN AIR TRANSIT OPTIONS

25-7-901. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby declares that the state's effort to mitigate traffic congestion and promote clean air will be served by providing clean air transit options to state employees.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 853, § 1, effective May 23.

25-7-902. Definitions.

As used in this part 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "State agency" means any department, board, bureau, commission, institution, or other agency of the state, including institutions of higher education.

(2) "State employees" means the employees of any state agency.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 853, §1, effective May 23. L. 2018: IP added, (HB 18-1375), ch. 274, p. 1714, § 62, effective May 29.

25-7-903. Clean air transit options for state employees.

Any state agency may provide clean air transit options to state employees of that agency, including, but not limited to, the use of available mass transit. The financing of any transit option offered by a state agency to state employees shall be from existing appropriations to that state agency. A transit option shall be considered a perquisite that is subject to the state controller's fiscal rules controlling perquisites under section 24-30-202 (22), C.R.S.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 853, § 1, effective May 23.

PART 10

AIR QUALITY RELATED VALUES - CLASS I FEDERAL AREAS

25-7-1001. Legislative declaration.

In order to establish a fair, practical, and cost-effective process for evaluating and, where appropriate, responding to assertions that air quality related values within Colorado's class I federal areas are being significantly and adversely affected by air pollution, such as air pollution that is causing biological harm, the general assembly hereby institutes the procedures set forth in this part 10.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1443, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1002. Air quality related values program.

(1) In addition to maintaining a program that complies with the requirements of the federal act for prevention and remediation of significant deterioration of visibility in class I federal areas, the commission, in consultation with the general assembly, the governor, and affected federal, state, and local governmental entities, shall maintain a state-retained authority program in conformance with section 25-7-105.1 for nonvisibility air quality related values, referred to in this part 10 as the "program".

(2) The commission shall develop a program under which, except for grant funds secured from other sources, the federal government undertakes the responsibility for the funding of air quality related value baseline data collection and the verification studies needed to substantiate an assertion of significant impairment, and the commission is encouraged to conduct the activities specified in this part 10 in coordination with interested state and local governmental entities and affected citizens and businesses.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1443, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1003. Definitions.

As used in this part 10:

(1) "Air quality related value (AQRV)" means a feature or property of a class I federal area other than visibility that the state of Colorado finds may be affected by air pollution. General categories of air quality related values include odor, flora, fauna, soil, water, geologic features, and cultural resources.

(2) "Air quality related value baseline data" means research data based on site-specific measurements and samplings of air quality related values within a class I federal area needed to substantiate a determination of whether or not a particular observation is within the range of naturally occurring changes or fluctuations.

(3) "Best available retrofit technology" means a control strategy for addressing emissions of a stationary source developed on a case-by-case basis after taking into consideration the costs of compliance, the energy and nonair quality environmental impacts of compliance, any existing pollution control technology in use at the source, the remaining useful life of the source, and the degree of improvement in the air quality related value that may reasonably be anticipated to result from the use of such technology.

(4) "Peer review" means a review of scientific or technical information by a balanced objective panel of experienced scientists qualified to review the subject matter involved in verifying the existence of or attributing the cause of an AQRV impairment.

(5) "Reasonably available control measure" means a control strategy for addressing emissions of a nonstationary source developed on a case-by-case basis after taking into consideration the options available to achieve emission reductions that a particular source or source category is capable of meeting as appropriate to an air quality related value if such steps may be feasibly and practicably taken considering technical and economic constraints.

(6) "Significant impairment of an air quality related value" means a measurable change in an air quality related value that is outside the probability of natural variability, that is caused by human activities, and that is causing a significant adverse effect to flora, fauna, soil, geologic features, cultural resources, or a beneficial use of water recognized under Colorado law.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1444, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1004. Administration of program by division.

(1) In administering the program, the division shall:

(a) Conduct or oversee program activities and scientific studies and determine an appropriate scope, sequence, and timetable for such studies and activities;

(b) Subject assertions by a federal land manager of air quality related value impairment in a class I federal area and studies concerning source attribution and source apportionment to peer review;

(c) Utilize the study design and data collection and analytical techniques set forth in section 25-7-211 that are relevant and appropriate to the activity or study;

(d) Assure that studies proceed as expeditiously as sound science will allow in order to minimize any delay in the process.

(2) As necessary or appropriate, the division may:

(a) Enter into memoranda of understanding for participation in the studies and activities required by this part 10;

(b) Create cooperative public-private partnerships with various entities; and

(c) Perform any other appropriate activity to carry out the intent of the program.

(3) The division shall not be required to pay the cost of any studies that are discretionary as set forth in this part 10 other than as set forth in this section. If the division determines that an air quality related value of a class I federal area has the potential to be significantly threatened by air pollution, or is being impacted by air pollution, then the division shall apply for grants or act as a catalyst to secure financial support from available funding sources in federal, state, or local governments and private entities, to identify the threat by funding the necessary air quality related value baseline data collection, or to assist in remedying the threat by funding necessary attribution or apportionment studies. The division is also authorized to act as a catalyst to secure financial support from other sources for such studies. The results of such studies and data collection shall be made available to the appropriate federal land manager and interested members of the public to assist in the management of these scenic resources and to cooperate in any needed air quality related values assessments.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1445, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1005. Verification of federal land manager's assertion of air quality related value impairment.

(1) The federal land manager of a class I federal area may initiate the procedures of this part 10 by submitting to the governor and division an assertion of significant impairment of an air quality related value, referred to in this part 10 as an "assertion". To be adequate to support a verification of impairment, the assertion shall be supported by sufficient air quality related value baseline data and site-specific evidence of impairment. The assertion may be supported in part by information that concerns other areas with a similar environment to the class I federal area asserted to be impaired, provided such information is relevant to the class I federal area asserted to be impaired and significant site-specific data is also available.

(2) Upon receipt of an assertion, the division shall initiate the following actions concurrently:

(a) Inform the commission at its next regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the receipt of an assertion, at which time the commission shall schedule the matter for a formal report from the division at the regular commission meeting that is scheduled to occur six months subsequent. All such informational briefings and formal reports on the subject shall be noticed on the published agenda of the commission.

(b) Within sixty days of receipt of the assertion, the division shall convene a peer review panel to review the assertion, its supporting documentation, including the adequacy of the baseline data and the adequacy of the site-specific and other evidence of impairment, and any other relevant information submitted to the division by the public. The requirement for peer review as specified in this paragraph (b) is waived with respect to any peer reviewer who has not submitted peer review comments within sixty days of the date on which the division certifies that the assertion, documentation, and other information has been transmitted to the individual peer reviewers.

(c) Convene a consultation process that is open to the public in order to apprise the public and potentially affected sources and source categories of all stages of the program and to solicit the scientific, technical, economic, and managerial views and assistance of the public and the potentially affected sources and source categories; and

(d) Initiate a review by division staff of the assertion and the supporting documentation submitted by the federal land manager to assess whether the federal land manager has demonstrated a significant impairment of an air quality related value in a class I federal area within Colorado.

(3) At the commission meeting required by paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section, the division shall report to the commission. The division's report shall include, but is not limited to, the conclusions of the peer review panel concerning verification of the assertion and the division's determination of whether the federal land manager has demonstrated a significant impairment of an air quality related value in a class I area within Colorado. If the division determines that the assertion has not been verified, it shall so notify the commission and the federal land manager of its findings and the fact that the proceedings authorized under this part 10 have been completed. If the division determines that the assertion has been verified, it shall proceed in accordance with the provisions of section 25-7-1006.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1445, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1006. Source attribution and control strategy development.

(1) If the division determines that the assertion has been verified, it shall:

(a) Compile a comprehensive inventory of the sources of the pollutants that are suspected to be causing the impairment;

(b) Subject the development, conduct, and results of the attribution and apportionment studies to appropriate peer review; and

(c) Perform attribution and apportionment studies to the extent feasible in order to develop for the division and the commission the identity and relative contribution of the significant contributors to air quality related value impairment, including, but not limited to, stationary sources, natural sources, wood smoke, agriculture, mining, roads, mobile source categories, and other area sources. The general assembly recognizes that the ability to attribute the cause of air pollution effects and apportion the air pollution effects among sources and source categories identified by attribution studies is an area of evolving science.

(2) (a) The funding of source attribution and apportionment studies shall be derived as provided in this subsection (2). Contributions to support the funding of such studies shall be requested from sources and source categories identified by the division as potentially contributing to the impairment.

(b) If a potential contribution to impairment is identified from federal lands or state lands, the division shall request a funding contribution for such studies from the appropriate federal or state land manager.

(c) If a potential contribution to impairment is identified from stationary sources or source categories, the division shall request a funding contribution for such studies from such sources or source categories.

(d) If a potential contribution to impairment is identified from mobile sources, the division shall seek an appropriation by the general assembly of excess funds in the AIR account in the highway users tax fund for funding contributions to such studies.

(e) The division shall annually report to the legislative council on the adequacy of funding derived pursuant to this subsection (2). If funding derived pursuant to this subsection (2) is inadequate, the legislative council may recommend that the general assembly appropriate funds from available sources for purposes of this section.

(3) Following its review and analysis of the reasonable attribution and source apportionment studies and the reports thereon from the members of the peer review panel, the division shall identify those sources and source categories within the state and region significantly contributing to air quality related value impairment.

(4) The division shall identify the sources and source categories significantly contributing to air quality related value impairment that are located outside the state and report this list to the commission, governor, and general assembly for their consideration in identifying options for remedying such impacts.

(5) The division shall issue an order to the sources and source categories significantly contributing to air quality related value impairment located within the state that have not made a voluntary enforceable commitment under section 25-7-1008.

(6) (a) An order issued pursuant to subsection (5) of this section shall require:

(I) Such sources and source categories to submit a report within a reasonable period of time;

(II) A stationary source to identify the best available retrofit technology; and

(III) Other sources and source categories to identify reasonably available control measures.

(b) After considering the responses to an order issued pursuant to subsection (5) of this section, the division shall issue a public report to the commission concerning its recommendations on air quality related value impairment, source attribution, source apportionment, and control strategy options.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1447, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1007. Commission to consider control strategies in rule-making proceeding.

(1) Upon receipt of a report under section 25-7-1006 (6)(b) from the division, and after the division has made the report available to all significant source or source categories identified pursuant to section 25-7-1006, the commission shall give notice that it is to conduct a rule-making hearing concerning the implementation of control strategies recommended in the report.

(2) In addition to other applicable rule-making provisions, the rule-making hearing shall be conducted:

(a) In reasonable proximity to the affected class I federal area;

(b) To allow sufficient time for comment and testimony by all interested persons; and

(c) To allow reasonable discovery pursuant to section 24-4-103 (13) and (14), C.R.S.

(3) (a) The commission shall order by rule implementation within a reasonable time of a practical and cost-effective control strategy or strategies that will provide reasonable progress toward remedying the impairment, if the commission finds that:

(I) The evidence in the record shows the existence of a significant impairment of an air quality related value in a class I federal area;

(II) An identifiable source or source category is responsible for significantly causing or contributing to the impairment;

(III) The best available retrofit technology exists for any such stationary source;

(IV) Reasonably available control measures exist for any such other sources or source categories;

(V) Implementation of the control strategies would make significant improvement in the impairment;

(VI) Taking into account that the ability to attribute the cause of air pollution effects and to apportion the air pollution effects among sources and source categories identified by attribution studies is an area of evolving science, a correlation of the extent of improvement in air quality related value impairment can reasonably be expected to result from imposition of a control strategy or strategies for each significant source or source category identified by the division.

(b) Within fourteen days after having received the division's report under section 25-7-1006 (6)(b), a source or source category may petition the commission, as part of its rule-making hearing conducted pursuant to this subsection (3), to make a determination that the benefits of phasing, segmenting, or excusing the control strategy or strategies outweigh the benefits of imposing the control strategy or strategies. In making such determination, the commission shall consider all economic and related costs associated with the implementation of the control strategy or strategies involving the source or source category. The burden of proof shall be on the petitioner.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1448, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1008. Voluntary agreements.

(1) The division may convene, at any appropriate time, an informal voluntary negotiation process, with appropriate public participation, to seek voluntary enforceable commitments from sources and source categories to achieve emissions reductions sufficient to make reasonable further progress in reducing any portion of the impairment.

(2) A voluntary enforceable commitment becomes enforceable through a commission rule, local ordinance or resolution, judicially enforceable consent decree, or division permit condition, as appropriate to the circumstances.

(3) If subsequent to January 15, 1996, a source or source category agrees to an enforceable commitment to adopt a control strategy that the division determines is as effective or is more effective than best available retrofit technology for stationary sources or reasonably available control measures for nonstationary sources, the division shall exempt that source or source category from the imposition of further controls pursuant to this part 10 for a period of ten years from the date established for achieving the emission reductions as specified in the voluntary enforceable agreement.

(4) If subsequent to January 15, 1996, and prior to January 15, 1998, a source or source category agrees to an enforceable commitment contained in a judicially enforceable consent decree to adopt a control strategy that the division determines provides both for reasonable progress toward the national visibility goal under 40 CFR 51, subpart P and 5 CCR 1001-4 and for reasonable progress in reducing any present or future impairment of an air quality related value, the division shall exempt that source or source category from the imposition of further controls pursuant to this part 10 for a period of ten years from the date established for achieving the emission reductions as specified in the judicially enforceable consent decree. The provisions of section 25-7-133 shall not apply to that portion of an amendment to the visibility component of the state implementation plan that implements and enforces the control strategy covered by this subsection (4).

(5) If a source or source category agrees to an enforceable commitment to adopt a control strategy that the division determines is not as effective as best available retrofit technology for stationary sources or reasonably available control measures for nonstationary sources but that the division determines will assist in making reasonable further progress in reducing impairment of an air quality related value, the commission may, after public hearing, exempt that source or source category from the imposition of further controls pursuant to this part 10 with respect to those pollutants that the source or source category has agreed to control for a period of up to ten years from the date established for achieving the emission reductions as specified in the voluntary enforceable agreement.

(6) A source that, prior to June 1, 1996, has received a permit under the federal prevention of significant deterioration program, 42 U.S.C. secs. 7470 to 7479 or sections 25-7-201 to 25-7-210, and installed pollution control measures comparable to the best available control technology pursuant to that program shall not be required to install additional control measures pursuant to this part 10 for a period of ten years from June 1, 1996, but may be required to operate pollution control equipment to its maximum efficiency. This section shall not apply to any source that is not subject to compliance with the requirements of 42 U.S.C. sec. 7651f, which establishes schedules and emission limitations for the control of nitrogen oxide emissions from certain stationary sources. Nothing in this subsection (6) shall be construed to modify the terms of any permit applicable to such source or excuse compliance with respect to any other requirement under this article or the federal act. Except for the exemption for a period of ten years provided in this subsection (6), nothing in this subsection (6) shall excuse such sources from responding to reasonable requests by the division for information required to complete inventories and attribution and apportionment studies.

Source: L. 96: Entire part added, p. 1449, § 1, effective June 1.

PART 11

LEAD-BASED PAINT ABATEMENT

25-7-1101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby declares that:

(a) Exposure of children to lead represents a significant environmental health problem that is preventable;

(b) According to the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992", 15 U.S.C. secs. 2682 and 2684, et seq., as amended, home buyers and renters must be properly informed of the risks of lead exposure to children, especially children under seven years of age;

(c) Trained and qualified individuals are needed in order to advise consumers about lead hazards in general and about specific measures that may be needed to control such hazards; and

(d) The state seeks to adopt the concept of "lead-safe" housing units and child-occupied facilities, rather than "lead-free" housing and facilities. The goal of the state should not be the removal of all lead-based paint, but the creation of housing and facilities where no significant lead-based paint hazard is present. This goal includes the removal, enclosure, or encapsulation of lead-based paint to remove lead hazards from target housing and child-occupied facilities.

(2) The general assembly declares that the enforcement of the lead-based paint abatement standards may be delegated to local health and building departments in Colorado.

(3) Therefore, the general assembly determines and declares that the enactment of this part 11 is a matter of statewide concern to achieve uniformity in the regulation of lead abatement practices and uniformity in the qualifications for and certification of persons who perform such abatement.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1086, § 2, effective July 1.

25-7-1102. Definitions.

As used in this part 11, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Abatement" means any measure or set of measures that will contain or permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards, including:

(a) The removal of lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust;

(b) The permanent containment of lead-based paint;

(c) The encapsulation of lead-based paint;

(d) The replacement or enclosure of lead-painted surfaces or fixtures;

(e) The removal or covering of lead-contaminated soil; and

(f) All preparation, cleanup, disposal, monitoring, and clearance testing activities associated with the measures described in this subsection (1).

(2) (a) "Child-occupied facility" means a building or portion of a building that:

(I) Was constructed prior to 1978;

(II) Is visited regularly by the same child who is under seven years of age;

(III) Is visited by such child on two or more days within any week, consisting of the period from Sunday through the following Saturday, with each such visit totaling three or more hours; and

(IV) Is visited by such child a total of at least sixty hours in one year.

(b) "Child-occupied facility" includes, but is not limited to, any day-care center, preschool, or kindergarten classroom constructed prior to 1978.

(3) "Commission" means the air quality control commission created by section 25-7-104.

(4) "Division" means the air pollution control division in the department of public health and environment.

(5) "Lead-based paint" means any paint containing more than six one-hundredths of one per cent by wet weight of lead metal, more than five-tenths of one percent by dry weight of lead metal, or more than one milligram per square centimeter of lead metal.

(6) "Lead-based paint hazard" means any condition that causes exposure to lead from lead-contaminated dust, lead-contaminated soil, or lead-based paint.

(7) "Target housing" means housing constructed prior to 1978 other than any zero-bedroom dwelling or any housing for the elderly or a person with a disability; except that "target housing" includes housing for the elderly or a person with a disability if a child under seven years of age resides or is expected to reside in the housing.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1086, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2023: (2)(a)(III) amended, (HB 23-1058), ch. 49, p. 178, § 1, effective March 31.

25-7-1103. Powers and duties of air quality control commission - rules.

(1) The commission shall promulgate rules pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., as necessary to implement this part 11 under the requirements of the federal "Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992", 15 U.S.C. secs. 2682, 2684, and 2686, as amended, including the following:

(a) Procedures for a training and certification program for persons and companies involved in inspection, risk assessment, planning, project design, supervision, or conduct of the abatement of surfaces containing lead-based paint, as such actions are defined in the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992", in target housing or child-occupied facilities;

(b) Performance standards and practices for lead abatement;

(c) Procedures for the approval of persons or companies who provide training or accreditation for workers, supervisors, inspectors, risk assessors, or project designers performing lead-based paint activities in target housing or child-occupied facilities;

(d) Procedures for notification to appropriate persons regarding lead-based paint projects in target housing or child-occupied facilities;

(e) Establishment of fees for certification of persons under paragraph (a) of this subsection (1), for any necessary monitoring of such persons to ensure compliance with this part 11, and for approval of persons or companies involved in the training or accreditation under paragraph (c) of this subsection (1); and

(f) (I) Requirements for each person who performs for compensation a renovation of target housing to provide a lead hazard information pamphlet to the owner and occupant of such housing prior to commencing the renovation.

(II) If the federal funding necessary to comply with this paragraph (f) is revoked, the division shall not be required to comply with this paragraph (f) until such funding is restored.

(2) (a) The requirements for the training and certification program established by the commission under paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section shall not be more stringent than:

(I) The training and certification requirements established by the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992" or federal rules promulgated pursuant to such act; or

(II) The training and certification requirements of any program that has been established under the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992" and that has been approved by the federal environmental protection agency.

(b) The commission shall consider prior experience in abatement of lead-based paint hazards when establishing training and certification requirements.

(3) The provisions of this part 11 apply only to lead-based paint hazards.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1088, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2006: IP(1) amended and (1)(f) added, p. 131, § 1, effective August 7.

25-7-1104. Duties of air pollution control division - certification of trained individuals.

(1) Pursuant to the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992", 15 U.S.C. secs. 2682 and 2684, et seq., as amended, the division shall implement, coordinate, and oversee the implementation of the rules promulgated by the commission, including, but not limited to:

(a) Certifying any person or company involved in inspection, risk assessment, planning, project design, supervision, or conduct of the abatement of surfaces containing lead-based paint, as such actions are defined in the federal "Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992", in target housing or child-occupied facilities; and

(b) Taking actions necessary to enforce such rules of the commission.

(2) Other than training and certification requirements, which are deemed to be matters of statewide concern, the division may delegate the implementation or enforcement of standards under this part 11 to local health or building departments, as appropriate, if requested by such a local department. The air quality control commission shall establish standards regarding such delegations to local health and building departments.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1089, § 2, effective July 1.

25-7-1105. Fees.

(1) (a) The commission shall promulgate rules to establish the fees required under this part 11.

(b) The commission shall adjust the fees so that the revenue generated from such fees is sufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs to implement the lead hazard reduction program under this part 11 and part 11 of article 5 of this title.

(2) All fees collected by the division or its designee pursuant to this part 11 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the lead hazard reduction cash fund established pursuant to section 25-5-1106. The general assembly shall appropriate from such fund to the department of public health and environment sufficient moneys to implement the provisions of this part 11 and part 11 of article 5 of this title.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1089, § 2, effective July 1.

25-7-1106. Enforcement.

Whenever the division or its designee has reason to believe that any person has violated any of the provisions of this part 11 or the rules promulgated thereunder, the division or its designee may commence an enforcement action pursuant to section 25-7-115.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1089, § 2, effective July 1.

25-7-1107. Applicability of article - child-occupied facilities and target housing.

Nothing in this article shall be interpreted to affect any facility or location other than a child-occupied facility or target housing.

Source: L. 97: Entire part added, p. 1089, § 2, effective July 1.

PART 12

VOLUNTARY EMISSION LIMITATIONS

25-7-1201. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that voluntary emission limitations are an effective and efficient way to reduce emissions of air pollutants. However, the uncertainty of future control requirements impedes an owner or operator of a stationary source or group of stationary sources from making the investments necessary to voluntarily reduce emissions. The department of public health and environment should encourage all owners and operators of stationary sources or groups of stationary sources to voluntarily reduce emissions by providing, to the extent possible, certainty with respect to future control requirements.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1044, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1202. Definitions.

The definitions contained in section 25-7-103 shall apply to this part 12. In addition, the following definitions shall apply to this part 12:

(1) "Actual emissions" means the average amount of emissions, calculated in tons per year, that the stationary source or group of stationary sources emitted during the three-year period immediately prior to the date the proposed voluntary agreement was submitted to the division for review so long as the three-year time period is representative of normal unit operation. A different time period may be used to calculate actual emissions if such time period is more representative of normal unit operation than the three-year period immediately prior to the date the proposed voluntary agreement was submitted to the division.

(2) "Actual emission rate" means the average rate of emissions, calculated in pounds per million BTU or a comparable measure of the mass of emissions per unit of production, that the stationary source or group of stationary sources emitted during the three-year period immediately prior to the date the proposed voluntary agreement was submitted to the division for review so long as the three-year time period is representative of normal unit operation. A different time period may be used to calculate the actual emission rate if such time period is more representative of normal unit operation than the three-year period immediately prior to the date the proposed voluntary agreement was submitted to the division.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1044, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1203. Voluntary agreements.

(1) The owner or operator of any stationary source or group of stationary sources may obtain regulatory assurance, as described in section 25-7-1204, by entering into a voluntary agreement pursuant to this part 12. The parties to the proposed voluntary agreement shall negotiate in good faith to reach a voluntary agreement as expeditiously as possible. The owner or operator shall provide the division with any information necessary to evaluate the terms and conditions of the proposed voluntary agreement. The parties to the proposed voluntary agreement shall structure the emission limitations or emission reductions contained in a voluntary agreement so as to minimize costs and maximize the operational flexibility available to the owner or operator of the stationary source or group of stationary sources by using, among other things, numeric emission limits, annual emission limits, or emissions averaging across several emission points or sources, as appropriate.

(2) The division shall evaluate the emission limitations contained in a proposed voluntary agreement to determine whether they will result in reductions in actual emissions or actual emission rates, will result in emission reductions earlier than would be required by existing laws or regulations, will result in emission reductions significantly greater than required by existing laws or regulations, and will protect human health or the environment. The division shall also evaluate the assurance period proposed in the voluntary agreement based on the following factors:

(a) The environmental benefits of the emission limitations and their significance;

(b) The time necessary to achieve the emission limitations;

(c) The capital, operating, and other costs associated with achieving the emission limitations; and

(d) The energy impacts and environmental impacts not related to air quality of achieving the emission limitations.

(3) After conducting the evaluation required in subsection (2) of this section, the division may reject any proposed voluntary agreement that does not meet the requirements of this section. If the division rejects the proposed voluntary agreement, the owner or operator of the stationary source or group of stationary sources may petition the commission for review of the proposed voluntary agreement and the division's rejection thereof in accordance with the rules promulgated by the commission.

(4) If the division finds that the emission limitations and the assurance period proposed in a voluntary agreement meet the requirements of this section, the division shall submit the proposed voluntary agreement to the commission for approval. The commission shall provide the public with notice and an opportunity to comment on the proposed voluntary agreement. The commission shall act upon the voluntary agreement as expeditiously as possible. The commission shall approve the voluntary agreement unless it finds by substantial evidence that the proposed voluntary agreement is inconsistent with the requirements of this part 12. In no event shall the commission adopt emission limitations or an assurance period different than proposed in the voluntary agreement without the express written approval of the owner or operator of the stationary source or group of stationary sources subject to the agreement.

(5) If the commission approves the proposed voluntary agreement, the emission limitations and other provisions contained in the voluntary agreement shall be enforceable under this article against the stationary source or group of stationary sources in accordance with the terms and conditions contained in the voluntary agreement. Such enforcement may include any appropriate mechanism, including rule, permit condition, or consent order.

(6) No voluntary agreement or the underlying emission limitations under subsection (1) of this section shall be made federally enforceable without the written consent of the owner or operator of the stationary source or group of stationary sources.

(7) Except as provided in this part 12 or other applicable law, no voluntary agreement entered into under this part 12 shall alter any existing federal or state requirement otherwise applicable to the stationary source or group of stationary sources subject to such agreement.

(8) The commission may adopt any rules, procedures, or combination thereof necessary to implement this part 12. Notwithstanding this authority, the division may negotiate and evaluate proposed voluntary agreements, and the commission may approve proposed voluntary agreements and review the division's rejection of a proposed voluntary agreement as of July 1, 1998.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1045, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1204. Regulatory assurances.

(1) Except as provided in this section and in section 25-7-1205, the owner or operator of a stationary source or group of stationary sources who enters into a voluntary agreement pursuant to section 25-7-1203 shall be granted the regulatory assurances provided in this section. For the assurance period set forth in the voluntary agreement, not to exceed fifteen years, a stationary source or group of stationary sources subject to the voluntary agreement shall not be required to install additional pollution control equipment or implement additional pollution control strategies to reduce emissions of the air pollutant subject to the emission limitations contained in the voluntary agreement in order to comply with:

(a) State regulatory requirements that are based exclusively on state authority and that, either directly or indirectly, necessitate reductions in the air pollutant subject to the voluntary agreement; or

(b) Federal regulatory requirements that:

(I) Either directly or indirectly necessitate reductions in emissions of the air pollutant subject to the voluntary agreement;

(II) Establish generally applicable goals for the reductions of ambient concentrations of the air pollutant subject to the voluntary agreement or its chemical products; and

(III) Do not establish requirements that apply specifically to the stationary source or group of stationary sources.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the owner or operator of the stationary source or group of stationary sources may be required to comply with federal regulatory requirements if:

(a) The owner or operator has agreed in writing to abide by the requirements; or

(b) The commission promulgates the requirements in regulations that first require all other sources, including mobile sources, of the air pollutant within the affected region within Colorado to implement all available cost-effective measures to reduce emissions of the air pollutant. Such regulations, including the requirements contained therein applicable to the stationary source or group of stationary sources subject to the voluntary agreement, shall not apply to any stationary source or group of stationary sources unless and until the general assembly acts to postpone the expiration of the regulations in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1047, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1205. Exceptions.

(1) The regulatory assurances provided in section 25-7-1204 shall not apply to the following permit requirements, emission control requirements, or emission limitations:

(a) Additional requirements provided under section 111 of the federal act, as defined in section 25-7-103 (12), or parts 2 and 3 of this article by any modification or reconstruction of a stationary source after the date of the voluntary agreement;

(b) Emission limitations established for hazardous air pollutants identified in section 112 of the federal act;

(c) Requirements established to implement Title VI and section 112 (r) of the federal act; and

(d) Requirements applicable to mobile sources.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1048, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1206. Coal-fired power plants.

(1) (a) If the owner or operator of a coal-fired power plant or group of coal-fired power plants reduces the uncontrolled sulfur dioxide emission rate, measured in either pounds per million BTU or tons per year, by an average of at least seventy percent and the actual emission rate of sulfur dioxide by an average of at least fifty percent from one or more units located within the same airshed, regardless of whether the units are located on the same plant site, and such reductions are pursuant to a voluntary agreement entered into under section 25-7-1203, the assurance period for such units shall be a period ending fifteen years after the date established for achieving the voluntary emission limitations under the agreement.

(b) If the owner or operator of any coal-fired power plant that includes one or more units, each of which already has emission control technologies in place to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by at least sixty-five percent from uncontrolled levels, significantly reduces the actual emission rate of sulfur dioxide and such reduction is pursuant to a voluntary agreement entered into under section 25-7-1203, the assurance period for such units shall be no more than fifteen years from the date the emissions reductions are achieved. Such a coal-fired power plant that is the subject of a certification of visibility impairment in a federally designated class 1 area as of July 1, 1998, may not enter into a voluntary agreement addressing the pollutants subject to the certification of visibility of impairment under section 25-7-1203 unless:

(I) The owner or operator of the plant has negotiated a settlement with the division that resolves all matters related to such certification of visibility impairment; and

(II) The voluntary agreement is fully consistent with the terms and conditions of the negotiated settlement.

(c) A coal-fired power plant or group of plants may achieve the emission reductions required by this section through a voluntary agreement that allows the plant or group of plants to control emissions by methods other than the installation and operation of pollution control equipment. Such methods may include but are not limited to burning low-sulfur coal, reducing the operation of units, retiring units, and changing fuels. If such methods are included in a voluntary agreement, the agreement shall include the procedure by which the division shall calculate the emission reductions to be obtained by such methods.

(2) It is the intent of the general assembly that the commission should consider any coal-fired power plant or power plants located within the same airshed that are achieving the emission limitations described in this section under a voluntary agreement to be in compliance with any emission limitation that is based on a technology requirement in the federal act. Such consideration should continue for a period of fifteen years after the date established in the voluntary agreement for achieving the emission limitations that are contained in the voluntary agreement. During the fifteen-year period, the commission, by rule, may require the coal-fired power plant to meet a different emission limitation based on a technology requirement in the federal act if:

(a) The commission finds that a different emission limitation is necessary to comply with the federal act; and

(b) The owner or operator of the coal-fired power plant is not required to begin installation of the required emission control technology unless and until the general assembly has acted to postpone the expiration of the commission's rule in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S.

(3) The general assembly further intends that nothing in subsection (2) of this section shall be construed to create a precedent for the application or interpretation of either the "Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act", article 7 of title 25, C.R.S., or the federal act in any circumstance other than the execution of voluntary agreements between the state of Colorado and the owners and operators of coal-fired power plants in accordance with this part 12.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1048, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1207. Allowances.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this part 12, no owner or operator of a stationary source or group of stationary sources shall lose the benefits of regulatory assurances granted under this part 12 by transferring, selling, banking, or otherwise using allowances established under Title IV of the federal act or by any other federally required trading program of regional or national applicability as a result of entering into a voluntary agreement.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1049, § 1, effective July 1.

25-7-1208. Economic or cost-effectiveness analyses not required.

Notwithstanding section 25-7-110.5, the commission shall not conduct an economic impact analysis, cost-effectiveness analysis, or any other analyses required by section 25-7-110.5 in considering a voluntary agreement or the emission limitations contained therein.

Source: L. 98: Entire part added, p. 1050, § 1, effective July 1.

PART 13

THE SOUTHERN UTE INDIAN TRIBE/ STATE OF COLORADO ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION

Law reviews: For article, "Air Pollution Control on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation", see 42 Colo. Law. 85 (Aug. 2013).

25-7-1301. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The Southern Ute Indian tribe and the state of Colorado have entered into an intergovernmental agreement, as set forth in House Bill 00-1324, enacted at the second regular session of the sixty-second general assembly and found at 24-62-101, C.R.S.;

(b) Pursuant to said intergovernmental agreement, the tribe and the state have agreed to create a tribal/state environmental commission with the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for one air quality program for all lands, all persons, and all air pollution sources within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian reservation;

(c) As governments that share contiguous physical boundaries, it is in the interest of the environment and all residents of the reservation and the state of Colorado to work together to ensure consistent and comprehensive air quality regulation on the reservation;

(d) The establishment of a single collaborative authority for all lands within the exterior boundaries of the reservation best advances rational, sound, air quality management and will minimize duplicative efforts and expenditures of monetary and program resources by the tribe and the state;

(e) Pursuant to the intergovernmental agreement, the tribe will seek delegation from the United States environmental protection agency to administer certain programs under the federal "Clean Air Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 7401 et seq. (1970), as the same is in effect on November 15, 1990, such delegation being contingent upon the existence of the tribal/state commission and the intergovernmental agreement.

(2) It is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this part 13 to establish state authority for the creation of a commission that will establish a separate reservation air program for all lands within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian reservation, as provided in the intergovernmental agreement. Therefore, for the duration of the intergovernmental agreement, all lands within the exterior boundaries of the reservation shall be subject to the authority of the commission and the provisions of the reservation air program, as described in this part 13 and in the intergovernmental agreement, and shall not be subject to the authority of the Colorado air quality control commission or the provisions of parts 1 to 12 of this article, except as otherwise provided in the intergovernmental agreement and in this part 13.

(3) In article IV of the intergovernmental agreement, the tribe and the state agreed that neither party intended to alter the existing sovereignty or jurisdiction of any party, and by approving the intergovernmental agreement, neither party conceded or agreed to any jurisdiction of the other party that would not otherwise exist. To the extent the state has jurisdiction over non-Indians on fee lands within the exterior boundaries of the reservation, it is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this part 13 that the commission shall exercise such authority for the purposes set forth in this part 13.

(4) The general assembly enacts this part 13 with the understanding that the tribe has also adopted tribal legislation that will carry out the terms of the intergovernmental agreement with respect to persons, air pollution sources, and lands within the reservation that are subject to the jurisdiction of the tribe.

(5) The general assembly hereby declares that its intent in enacting senate bill 02-235 is to ratify the continued existence of the Southern Ute Indian tribe/state of Colorado environmental commission after December 13, 2001.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 107, § 1, effective March 15. L. 2002: (5) added, p. 1093, § 1, effective June 1.

25-7-1302. Definitions.

As used in this part 13, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commission" means the Southern Ute Indian tribe/state of Colorado environmental commission established by this part 13.

(2) "Division" means the division in the department of public health and environment that pertains to air pollution control.

(3) "EPA" means the United States environmental protection agency.

(4) "Fee land" means real property located within the reservation that is owned in fee by non-Indians.

(5) "Intergovernmental agreement" means the agreement entered into by the Southern Ute Indian tribe and the state of Colorado, as set forth in House Bill 00-1324, enacted at the second regular session of the sixty-second general assembly.

(6) "Reservation" means the Southern Ute Indian reservation, the exterior boundaries of which were confirmed in the act of May 21, 1984, Pub.L. 98-290, 98 Stat. 201, 202 (found at "other provisions" note to 25 U.S.C. sec. 668).

(7) "Reservation air program" means the regulatory air quality program established by the commission for all persons, lands, and air pollution sources within the exterior boundaries of the reservation.

(8) "State" means the state of Colorado.

(9) "Tribe" means the Southern Ute Indian tribe.

(10) "Trust land" means land within the reservation held in trust by the United States of America for the benefit of the tribe or individual Indians.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 108, § 1, effective March 15. L. 2018: IP added, (HB 18-1375), ch. 274, p. 1714, § 63, effective May 29.

25-7-1303. Southern Ute Indian tribe/state of Colorado environmental commission created.

(1) There is hereby created the Southern Ute Indian tribe/state of Colorado environmental commission. The commission is not an agency of the state, but is an authority created pursuant to the intergovernmental agreement. The commission's actions are not subject to the provisions of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., but rather are subject to procedural rules adopted by the commission.

(2) The commission shall have authority to adopt air quality standards, promulgate rules and regulations, and review appealable administrative actions pertaining to the reservation air program.

(3) It is the intent of the general assembly that the commission's rules, regulations, and orders shall be effective against all persons located within the reservation over whom the state would otherwise have jurisdiction as provided by state or federal law.

(4) The commission consists of three members appointed by the tribe and three members appointed by the governor. Appointments by the governor shall be for terms of three years; except that the terms shall be staggered so that no more than two members' terms expire in the same year. The governor's appointees shall be residents of the state of Colorado. At least two of such appointees shall be residents of either Archuleta or La Plata county and at least one of such appointees shall reside on fee land.

(5) The governor may remove any member appointed by the governor at any time. The governor may not remove any member appointed by the tribe.

(6) Except as provided in section 25-7-1307, commission members shall not receive any compensation from the state of Colorado for their services in the conduct of commission business. Commission members may be reimbursed for necessary travel and other reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties out of funds collected or received by the tribe.

(7) Each member shall have one vote. The affirmative vote of a majority of all members of the commission on any matter within its powers and duties shall be required for any final determination made by the commission.

(8) The commission shall annually elect a member to preside as chair. The chair shall alternate annually between a tribal and a state member.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 109, § 1, effective March 15. L. 2002: (4) amended, p. 1093, § 2, effective June 1. L. 2010: (4) amended, (SB 10-082), ch. 182, p. 655, § 1, effective April 29. L. 2022: (4) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 60, § 78, effective February 25.

25-7-1304. Commission - powers and duties - rules.

(1) The commission shall be the air quality policy-making and the administrative review entity for the reservation air program.

(2) The duties of the commission shall include the responsibility to:

(a) Determine the specific air quality programs under the federal "Clean Air Act", or other air quality programs, that should apply to the reservation, taking into account the specific environmental, economic, geographic, and cultural needs of the reservation;

(b) Promulgate rules and regulations that are necessary for the proper implementation and administration of those programs, including determining which administrative actions are appealable to the commission;

(c) Establish procedures the commission will follow in promulgating rules and regulations and for administrative review of actions taken by the tribe;

(d) Review and approve of a long-term plan, initially prepared by the tribe, to improve and maintain air quality within the reservation, which also takes into account regional planning in the La Plata and Archuleta county region;

(e) Monitor the relationships among the state and tribal environmental protection agencies to facilitate cooperation, information sharing, technical assistance, and training;

(f) Review enforcement actions according to the commission's adopted administrative procedures;

(g) Approve and adopt fees for permits and other regulatory services conducted by the tribe or the state, after considering a proposed fee schedule prepared by the tribe, and direct payment by air pollution sources to the tribe;

(h) Ensure consistency and adherence to applicable standards and resolving disputes involving third parties;

(i) Review emission inventories as developed by the tribe and state;

(j) Conduct public hearings pertaining to the adoption of rules and regulations, or relating to enforcement and permit appeals, and to issue orders resulting from those proceedings;

(k) Request tribal staff to perform any administrative or clerical functions necessary to issue orders and conduct commission business, or the commission, at its option, may appoint a technical secretary to perform such duties; except that no authority shall be delegated to adopt, promulgate, amend, or repeal standards or regulations, or to make determinations, or to issue or countermand orders of the commission;

(l) Any other duties necessary to accomplish the purposes of the intergovernmental agreement and as authorized by the state and tribe enabling legislation.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 110, § 1, effective March 15.

25-7-1305. Administration of reservation air program.

(1) After the commission has adopted rules and regulations for the reservation air program and after the EPA has delegated to the tribe administration of programs under the federal "Clean Air Act", the tribe shall administer and enforce the standards, rules, and regulations adopted by the commission for the reservation air program. The actions of the tribe pursuant to this section and this part 13 shall apply to any non-Indian air pollution source within the reservation as if the state had taken the same action.

(2) Until the EPA delegates to the tribe the authority to administer federal "Clean Air Act" programs, the Colorado air quality control commission and the division shall have authority under this article to continue to enforce any state program or permits, laws, and regulations for any non-Indian owned air pollution sources on fee land within the reservation. The division shall afford the tribe the opportunity to participate in its regulatory activities involving such sources, including the review of permit applications, notices of violations, or other orders, inspections, and other enforcement actions.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 111, § 1, effective March 15.

25-7-1306. Agencies of state to cooperate.

(1) Agencies of the state, including but not limited to the division, may provide technical assistance, training, and consultation to the tribe to carry out the purposes of the intergovernmental agreement and this part 13.

(2) The general assembly authorizes state agencies to perform duties on behalf of the commission to administer the reservation air program. State agencies may contract with the tribe to receive payment for the reasonable cost of the services state employees perform for the tribe or the commission.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 111, § 1, effective March 15.

25-7-1307. Funding for staff and program costs.

(1) The commission shall establish fees for permits and other regulatory services provided by the division or the tribe under this part 13. The commission shall direct air pollution sources to pay said fees to the tribe. The tribe may also apply for and receive EPA grants for the administration of the reservation air program.

(2) From the fees and grants, the tribe shall fund the staff and program costs necessary to perform the tribe's duties under the intergovernmental agreement and this part 13. The tribe shall pay the state for the personal services costs, at a rate of compensation determined by contract, of any state employee who participates in the administration of the reservation air program pursuant to the intergovernmental agreement or this part 13.

(3) It is the intent of the general assembly that fees and grants shall pay the necessary expenses of the commission. If the fees and grants are not sufficient to pay the commission's expenses, then the state and the tribe shall be responsible for funding associated with the participation of their respective representatives on the commission. State funding for its expenses must come from either a separate appropriation to the division or from funds otherwise available that the state is authorized to use for such a purpose.

(4) Prior to the establishment and collection of fees from air pollution sources under the reservation air program, the tribe may have expenses associated with its administration of permits for non-Indian owned sources on fee land. If the state continues to collect fees under section 25-7-114.7 from air pollution sources on fee lands, and if the tribe has expenses associated with the administration of a state-issued permit, then the division is authorized to use such permit and other fees to pay for the tribe's personal services costs. The state is authorized to contract with the tribe setting forth the reasonable cost for such services performed by the tribe.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 112, § 1, effective March 15.

25-7-1308. Administrative and judicial review of commission actions.

(1) Prior to the formation of the commission, the adoption of the federal legislation contemplated in the intergovernmental agreement, and actual EPA delegation of federal "Clean Air Act" programs:

(a) The state, through the Colorado air quality control commission and the division, shall exercise civil and criminal enforcement jurisdiction over non-Indians on fee lands within reservation boundaries for violations of applicable air quality permits, laws, and regulations.

(b) Appeals of state air enforcement action and other air quality-related decisions may be brought in state court consistent with state law and regulation.

(c) The tribe shall exercise jurisdiction over Indians, on all lands within the boundaries of the reservation, and over non-Indians on trust land, for violations of applicable tribal air quality regulations.

(d) Nothing in this part 13 is intended to restrict, diminish, or define the jurisdiction of the EPA.

(2) Following the adoption of the federal legislation and the EPA delegation of federal "Clean Air Act" programs:

(a) The tribe shall exercise civil enforcement jurisdiction over all persons and air pollution sources on all lands within reservation boundaries for violations of the reservation air program, subject to administrative review by the commission; and

(b) Consistent with the federal legislation provided in the intergovernmental agreement, the general assembly intends that final decisions of the commission shall be subject to review in federal district court in accordance with the provisions of the federal "Administrative Procedure Act".

(3) Following the formation of the commission and the adoption of the federal legislation provided in the intergovernmental agreement, it is the intent of the general assembly that the EPA will exercise criminal enforcement jurisdiction over any persons on all lands within reservation boundaries for criminal violations of the reservation air program.

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 112, § 1, effective March 15.

Cross references: For the federal "Administrative Procedure Act", see 5 U.S.C. §§ 551-559, 701-706, 1305, 3105, 3344, 4301, 5335, 5362, and 7521; for the federal "Clean Air Act", see 42 U.S.C. § 1857 et seq.

25-7-1309. Repeal of part.

(1) This part 13 shall be repealed on the occurrence of any one of the following events:

(a) Termination of the intergovernmental agreement by either the tribe or the state; or

(b) Enactment of an explicit repeal by the general assembly, acting by separate bill.

(c) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (SB 10-082), ch. 182, p. 655, § 2, effective April 29, 2010.)

Source: L. 2000: Entire part added, p. 113, § 1, effective March 15. L. 2002: (1)(c) amended, p. 1094, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2010: (1) amended, (SB 10-082), ch. 182, p. 655, § 2, effective April 29.

PART 14

ELECTRIFYING SCHOOL BUSES GRANT PROGRAM

25-7-1401. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds that:

(a) Disproportionately impacted communities are disproportionately affected by particulate matter and nitrogen oxides arising from fossil-fuel-powered school buses, especially because the fleet yards, warehouses, fuel depots, and interstates used in conjunction with school buses are often located in disproportionately impacted communities;

(b) In addition to exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen oxides in their communities, school children are also exposed to fine particulates and other pollutants as a result of riding on fossil-fuel-powered school buses;

(c) A transition from fossil-fuel-powered school buses to electric-powered school buses will positively affect school children's health, while helping to address long-standing pollution inequities faced by disproportionately impacted communities;

(d) The federal "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act", Pub.L. 117-58, has created a competitive funding program to support the adoption of an electric school bus fleet, and a state program investing in electric school buses will help leverage the federal funds made available through the federal act to allow schools in the state to access the federal funds; and

(e) A transition to electric school buses can provide benefits to the operation of the electric grid in the state:

(I) If the timing of charging electric school buses is managed to support grid operations; and

(II) Through the potential for using batteries on electric school buses:

(A) As a source of renewable energy through vehicle-to-grid operations; and

(B) As a community resilience resource to help communities affected by power outages or disasters causing electric grid interruptions.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that:

(a) The state should help school districts procure and maintain electric-powered school buses and related infrastructure, convert fossil-fuel-powered school buses to electric-powered school buses, and facilitate the associated retirement of fossil-fuel-powered school buses; and

(b) School districts can leverage state grant money to obtain money from federal and private sources to further finance the transition to an electric-powered school bus fleet.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2151, § 3, effective June 2.

25-7-1402. Definitions.

As used in this part 14, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Charter school" means a charter school authorized pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22, the state charter school institute established pursuant to section 22-30.5-503, or an institute charter school authorized pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of title 22.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(4) "Electric-powered school bus" means a school bus that is powered solely by electricity.

(5) "Fossil-fuel-powered school bus" means a school bus powered by diesel fuel or gasoline.

(6) "Fund" means the electrifying school buses grant program cash fund created in section 25-7-1405 (1)(a).

(7) "Grant program" means the electrifying school buses grant program created in section 25-7-1403.

(8) "Nonattainment area" means an area of the state that the federal environmental protection agency has designated as being in nonattainment with a national ambient air standard.

(9) "Office" means the Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101.

(10) "School bus":

(a) Has the meaning set forth in section 42-4-707 (5)(b); and

(b) Includes any publicly or privately financed bus, van, or similar vehicle that a school district or charter school uses as part of its fleet for the routine pick-up and drop-off of students for public or charter school or school-related programming or activities.

(11) "School district" means a school district organized pursuant to article 30 of title 22. "School district" includes schools operated by tribal governments.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2153, § 3, effective June 2.

25-7-1403. Electrifying school buses grant program - creation - eligibility.

(1) (a) (I) The electrifying school buses grant program is created to allow a school district, charter school, or nonprofit partner acting on behalf of a school district or charter school to apply to the department for grant money to help finance:

(A) The procurement and maintenance of electric-powered school buses, the conversion of fossil-fuel-powered school buses to electric-powered school buses, charging infrastructure, and electrical upgrades necessary to support charging infrastructure;

(B) The retirement of fossil-fuel-powered school buses; and

(C) The school district's or charter school's administrative costs associated with such procurements, conversions, maintenance, or retirements, including any up-front administrative costs associated with developing and implementing a proposal for the procurements, conversions, maintenance, or retirements.

(II) The department shall administer the grant program, and the office shall provide technical assistance for the grant program as needed. The department of education may provide up to one-half of one full-time equivalent employee to assist with the grant program by providing technical assistance to school districts and charter schools with respect to applying for grant money and implementing projects awarded grant money.

(b) The department shall establish an application process for school districts, charter schools, and nonprofit partners acting on behalf of school districts or charter schools to apply for money under the grant program and:

(I) Post information about the grant program application process, including any application forms that the department develops for the grant program, on its website; and

(II) Share the grant program application process information with the department of education, which department shall post the information on its website.

(2) The department shall develop:

(a) Criteria for awarding grant money, which criteria must include:

(I) Giving priority to school districts and charter schools:

(A) Located in or attended by students living in disproportionately impacted communities;

(B) Located in nonattainment areas; or

(C) At which at least a certain percentage of students, as determined by the department, receive free or reduced-price lunches under a school lunch program; and

(II) A requirement that, as a condition of receiving a grant award, grantees retire or convert at least a certain percentage of their fossil-fuel-powered school buses, retire or convert their fossil-fuel-powered school buses in a certain manner, or both;

(b) Periodic reporting requirements for a grantee to demonstrate that the money awarded is being used in compliance with this part 14; and

(c) Procedures for addressing a grantee's noncompliance with this part 14, including procedures for reimbursement of money awarded.

(3) The department may use up to eight percent of the money in the fund to cover the direct and indirect costs the department incurs in administering the grant program.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2153, § 3, effective June 2.

25-7-1404. Reporting.

(1) On or before January 1, 2025, and on or before January 1 of each odd-numbered year thereafter, the department shall prepare a report summarizing the progress of the grant program and submit the report to the house of representatives education committee and energy and environment committee and the senate education committee and transportation and energy committee, or their successor committees. The department shall post a copy of each report on its website.

(2) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the reporting requirements set forth in subsection (1) of this section continue until the grant program repeals pursuant to section 25-7-1406.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2155, § 3, effective June 2.

25-7-1405. Electrifying school buses grant program cash fund - creation - gifts, grants, and donations - transfer - repeal.

(1) (a) The electrifying school buses grant program cash fund is created in the state treasury, and, except as otherwise provided in subsection (2)(b) of this section, the department shall administer the fund for the purposes of this part 14. The fund consists of any money that the general assembly may transfer or appropriate to the fund for implementation of the grant program and any federal money or gifts, grants, or donations received pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(b) (I) For the purposes of this part 14, the department may seek, accept, and expend:

(A) Money from federal sources; and

(B) Gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources.

(II) The department shall transmit any money received pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the fund.

(2) (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2)(b) of this section, the money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department, and the department may expend money in the fund for the purposes set forth in this part 14. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year remains in the fund; except that the state treasurer shall transfer any money remaining in the fund at the end of the 2032-33 state fiscal year to the general fund.

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective until July 1, 2027.] For state fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25, and subject to annual appropriation, the Colorado energy office, created in section 24-38.5-101, and the department of revenue may expend money from the fund for the administration and implementation of the innovative motor vehicles and innovative trucks tax credits created in sections 39-22-516.7 and 39-22-516.8 and for the specific ownership tax rate reduction for electric medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks that are part of a fleet as set forth in section 42-3-107 (1)(a)(IV). The office shall keep an accounting of all money expended from the fund pursuant to this subsection (2)(b) for purposes of calculating the repayment of the administrative costs required by section 24-38.5-120 (3).

(b) [Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective July 1, 2027.] For state fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25, and subject to annual appropriation, the Colorado energy office, created in section 24-38.5-101, and the department of revenue may expend money from the fund for the administration and implementation of the innovative motor vehicles and innovative trucks tax credits created in sections 39-22-516.7 and 39-22-516.8 and for the specific ownership tax rate reduction for electric medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks that are part of a fleet as set forth in section 42-3-107 (1)(a)(IV). The office shall keep an accounting of all money expended from the fund pursuant to this subsection (2)(b).

(3) Repealed.

(4) (a) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (2)(a) of this section to the contrary, on June 30, 2025, the state treasurer shall transfer fourteen million dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(b) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (2)(a) of this section to the contrary, on July 1, 2025, the state treasurer shall transfer the unexpended and unencumbered balance of the fund to the general fund.

(b.1) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (2)(a) of this section to the contrary, on July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer an amount equal to the unexpended and unencumbered balance of the fund minus seven hundred ninety-nine thousand two hundred dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(c) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2155, § 3, effective June 2. L. 2023: (1)(a) and (2) amended, (HB 23-1272), ch. 167, p. 815, § 20, effective May 11. L. 2024: (2)(b) amended, (SB 24-214), ch. 191, p. 1097, § 12, effective May 17. L. 2025: (4) added, (SB 25-264), ch. 129, p. 506, § 34, effective April 25. L. 2026: (4)(b.1) added and (4)(c) amended, (HB 26-1405), ch. 396, p. 2486, § 28, effective June 4; (2)(b) amended, (HB 26-1362), ch. 193, p. 1118, § 5, effective July 1, 2027.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (3)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (3), effective July 1, 2023. (See L. 2022, p. 2155.)

(2) Section 8 of chapter 193 (HB 26-1362), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section takes effect only if HB 26-1405 becomes law. HB 26-1405 became law and took effect June 4, 2026, and HB 26-1362 takes effect July 1, 2027.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1272, see section 1 of chapter 167, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-7-1406. Repeal of part.

This part 14 is repealed, effective September 1, 2034.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-193), ch. 300, p. 2156, § 3, effective June 2.

PART 15

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS FOR HEATING AND WATER HEATING APPLIANCES

25-7-1501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly declares that it is in the interest of the state to reduce and prevent air pollution from certain new heating and water heating appliances in order to:

(a) Protect the air that Coloradans breathe by reducing unhealthy levels of smog and ozone, which have hit record highs in Colorado in recent years and have disproportionately impacted low-income areas;

(b) Minimize health risks associated with air pollution, including respiratory ailments such as asthma and cardiovascular illnesses, which are linked to exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide;

(c) Assist Colorado counties in achieving attainment of federal ozone national ambient air quality standards;

(d) Improve the clarity of scenic views for purposes of facilitating enjoyment of Colorado's bountiful natural resources and maintain its reputation for high-quality outdoor recreation;

(e) Mitigate the effects of climate change;

(f) Contribute to the state's economy by building a trained and competitive workforce to install and maintain newly purchased appliances; and

(g) Ensure that the benefits of clean and healthy air are distributed to all parts of the state.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1711, § 9, effective August 7.

25-7-1502. Definitions.

As used in this part 15, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "BTU" means British thermal unit, which is a scientific unit of measurement equal to the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit at approximately sixty degrees Fahrenheit.

(2) "Energy Star program" has the meaning set forth in section 6-7.5-102 (24).

(3) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment or the executive director's designee.

(4) "Fan-type central furnace" means a self-contained space heater that provides for circulation of heated air at pressures other than atmospheric through ducts more than ten inches in length.

(5) (a) "Heat input" means the heat released by the combustion of fuels and is based on the gross energy content of the combustible fuel, also known as the higher heating value of fuel.

(b) "Heat input" does not include the enthalpy of incoming combustion air.

(6) "Heat output" means the enthalpy of the working fluid output of a water heater.

(7) "Manufactured home" means a prefabricated structure on a permanently attached chassis, which structure satisfies the federal manufactured home construction safety standard, as defined in section 24-32-3302 (13).

(8) "NOx" means the sum of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide.

(9) "Rated heat input capacity" means the heat input capacity specified on the nameplate of a water heater. If a water heater has been altered or modified such that its maximum heat input is different from the heat input capacity specified on the nameplate, the new maximum heat input is the water heater's rated heat input capacity.

(10) "Recreational vehicle" means a motor home, travel trailer, truck camper, or camping trailer, with or without motive power, that is designed for human occupancy and for recreational, emergency, or other use.

(11) "Water heater" means a device that heats water by combustion of fuel or through the use of electricity to a thermostatically controlled temperature not exceeding two hundred ten degrees Fahrenheit or ninety-nine degrees Celsius, for use external to the device, at a pressure not exceeding one hundred sixty pounds per square inch gauge.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1712, § 9, effective August 7.

25-7-1503. Scope and applicability - repeal.

(1) Except as described in subsection (2) of this section and as modified by rules promulgated by the executive director or the commission pursuant to section 25-7-1506, this part 15 applies to the following new products:

(a) Water heaters with a rated heat input capacity of two million BTUs per hour or less; and

(b) Fan-type central furnaces that:

(I) Require either single-phase or three-phase electric supply;

(II) Are used for comfort heating; and

(III) Have a rated heat input capacity of less than one hundred seventy-five thousand BTUs per hour and, in the case of combination heating and cooling units, a cooling rate of less than sixty-five thousand BTUs per hour.

(2) This part 15 does not apply to:

(a) Products held in inventory in Colorado on the effective date of the applicable standard;

(b) Products that were installed in manufactured homes at the time of construction;

(c) Products designed expressly for installation and use in recreational vehicles;

(d) Products that do not burn fossil fuels; or

(e) (I) Until January 1, 2031:

(A) Products fueled by propane; and

(B) Products designed and listed exclusively for installation in a manufactured home and installed as a replacement in a manufactured home.

(II) This subsection (2)(e) is repealed, effective December 31, 2031.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1713, § 9, effective August 7. L. 2026: (2)(c) and (2)(d) amended and (2)(e) added, (SB 26-002), ch. 305, p. 1750, § 2, effective August 12.

25-7-1504. Emission standards for new products.

(1) On and after January 1, 2026, except as described in section 25-7-1506, section 25-7-1503 (2), and subsection (3) of this section, a person shall not manufacture, distribute, sell, offer for sale, lease, or offer for lease in Colorado any of the following new products unless the emissions of the product do not exceed the following emissions limits, as applicable:

(a) Ten nanograms of NOx per joule for water heaters with a rated heat input capacity of up to seventy-five thousand BTUs per hour and for any unit with power assist;

(b) Fourteen nanograms of NOx per joule for water heaters with a rated heat input capacity of more than seventy-five thousand and less than two million BTUs per hour; or

(c) Fourteen nanograms of NOx per joule for fan-type central furnaces.

(2) Equipment that is certified to the most recently published version of the Energy Star program for the relevant equipment type is deemed to comply with the requirements of subsections (1) and (3) of this section.

(3) On and after January 1, 2031, a person shall not manufacture, distribute, sell, offer for sale, lease, or offer for lease in Colorado any new water heater or fan-type central furnace designed and listed exclusively for installation in a manufactured home unless the emissions of the product do not exceed forty nanograms of NOx per joule of heat input.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1714, § 9, effective August 7. L. 2026: IP(1) and (2) amended and (3) added, (SB 26-002), ch. 305, p. 1750, § 3, effective August 12.

25-7-1505. Testing - required displays - demonstrations of compliance.

(1) Manufacturers of natural-gas-fueled water heaters described in section 25-7-1503 (1)(a) shall test each applicable model for sale in Colorado in accordance with:

(a) The south coast air quality management district protocol "Nitrogen Oxides Emissions Compliance Testing for Natural Gas-Fired Water Heaters and Small Boilers", as amended;

(b) The south coast air quality management district method 100.1 "Instrumental Analyzer Procedures for Continuous Gaseous Emission Sampling", as amended; or

(c) An equivalent test protocol adopted or approved by a local, state, or federal air quality agency for determining NOx emissions from applicable fossil-fueled water heaters.

(2) Manufacturers of fan-type central furnaces described by section 25-7-1503 (1)(b) shall test each applicable model for sale in Colorado in accordance with the south coast air quality management district method 100.1 "Instrumental Analyzer Procedures for Continuous Gaseous Emission Sampling", as amended.

(2.5) Testing conducted pursuant to subsections (1) and (2) of this section must be performed using the fuel, burner, and control configuration, including any high-altitude or fuel conversion kits, test elevation or simulated elevation, and operating conditions that are representative of normal field use of the model as it is marketed for installation in Colorado.

(3) Unless a product appears in a public database of products maintained by a state or federal agency or by an environmental nonprofit organization, which database requires compliance with emission standards that are as demanding or more demanding than the emission standards described in this part 15, manufacturers of products described in section 25-7-1503 (1) shall demonstrate compliance with this part 15 for each model by either:

(a) Affixing a permanent mark, label, or tag to the product and packaging at the time of sale or installation that confirms compliance with such emission standards or compliance with equivalent emission standards; or

(b) Submitting a certification to the executive director that demonstrates compliance with emission standards required by a state or federal agency, which emission standards are as demanding or more demanding than the emission standards described in this part 15.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1714, § 9, effective August 7. L. 2025: (2) amended, (SB 25-300), ch. 428, p. 2452, § 41, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1) amended and (2.5) added, (SB 26-002), ch. 305, p. 1751, § 4, effective August 12.

25-7-1506. Rules - analysis.

(1) Notwithstanding any provision of this part 15, the executive director may promulgate rules updating any emission standard, definition, or test method established in this part 15 in order to maintain or improve consistency with other comparable standards in other states so long as the updated version results in air quality that is equal to or better than air quality achieved using the prior standard.

(2) The executive director may promulgate rules as necessary to ensure the proper implementation and enforcement of this part 15.

(3) On or before January 1, 2030, the executive director shall conduct an analysis to determine whether statewide greenhouse gas emissions from water heaters and fan-type central furnaces are declining in comparison to emission levels in 2023 in a manner that comports with the statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals set forth in section 25-7-102 (2)(g). Unless the analysis determines that the emissions trajectory is consistent with achieving the statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals, the executive director shall propose to the commission rules to bring the emission levels in line with the reduction goals. The executive director shall ensure that such rules:

(a) Take into account any emission standards that are in effect or under development in other jurisdictions or at the federal level for new water heaters and fan-type central furnaces;

(b) Take into account input from major manufacturers of water heaters, fan-type central furnaces, and other relevant equipment;

(c) Consider whether emissions standards for additional types of residential and commercial heating and water heating equipment are appropriate and necessary to meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction targets described in section 25-7-102 (2)(g);

(d) Are achievable with available technology; and

(e) Do not place an undue cost burden on consumers.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1715, § 9, effective August 7.

25-7-1507. Enforcement - verifications of compliance - civil action by attorney general - penalties.

(1) The executive director shall:

(a) Verify major retailers' and distributors' compliance with the provisions of this part 15 through online spot-checks, coordination with other states that have similar standards, or both;

(b) Conduct such verifications at least once before January 1, 2027, and again at least once before January 1, 2032;

(c) Deliver a report on the method and findings of the verifications to the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives and to the transportation and energy committee of the senate, or to any successor committees, and post the report to the department of public health and environment's website within one month after its completion; and

(d) Deliver any findings of violations to the attorney general.

(2) On or before January 1, 2025, the executive director shall establish a process whereby individuals may anonymously report potential violations of this part 15 on the department of public health and environment's public website. The executive director shall investigate any such reported potential violation and shall report any confirmed violations to the attorney general.

(3) (a) If the attorney general has probable cause to believe that any person or group of persons has violated or caused another person to violate section 25-7-1504 or 25-7-1505, the attorney general may bring a civil action on behalf of the state to seek the imposition of civil penalties as specified in this subsection (3). Any person who knowingly violates or causes another person to violate section 25-7-1504 or 25-7-1505 shall pay a civil penalty of not more than two thousand dollars for each violation, which amount shall be transferred to the state treasurer to be credited to the energy fund created in section 24-38.5-102.4.

(b) For purposes of subsection (3)(a) of this section:

(I) Each transaction or online for-sale product listing involved constitutes a separate violation; except that the maximum civil penalty per person shall not exceed five hundred thousand dollars for any related series of violations; and

(II) A court shall not impose a fine against a nonmanagerial employee of a contractor that installs, repairs, or replaces water heaters or fan-type central furnaces and collects from customers an amount representing both parts and labor.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1716, § 9, effective August 7.

PART 16

AFFORDABLE APPLIANCES FOR A HEALTHY COMMUNITY

25-7-1601. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and determines that:

(a) Rising temperatures are increasing the demand for air conditioners;

(b) Common types of air conditioners can also provide winter heating if they are configured as heat pumps, which are a more environmentally friendly option than other types of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems;

(c) The "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022", the state, and utilities are opening up opportunities to make this technology less expensive than cooling-only systems; and

(d) Colorado should be prepared to take advantage of new opportunities to the maximum extent to create a more affordable and environmentally friendly housing market and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

(2) The general assembly, therefore, determines and declares that it is in the public interest for the health and environment of the state to require that the Colorado energy office conduct a study of the technical viability, economic conditions, and workforce readiness of standards for configuring new residential air conditioners as heat pumps.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-214), ch. 191, p. 1097, § 13, effective May 17.

25-7-1602. Definitions.

As used in this part 16, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Air conditioner" means an electrically powered mechanical device that uses the refrigeration cycle to cool an interior habitable space.

(2) "Applicable air conditioner" means an air conditioner that is:

(a) New;

(b) Powered by a single-phase current;

(c) Designed and intended for residential use;

(d) Designed and intended for permanent installation; and

(e) Not designed or intended to be window mounted.

(3) "Heat pump" means an electrically powered mechanical device that uses the refrigeration cycle to transfer thermal energy from one location to another.

(4) "HVAC" means a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

(5) "Office" means the Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101 (1).

(6) "Residential" means one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, as defined in the most recent edition of the International Residential Code.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-214), ch. 191, p. 1098, § 13, effective May 17.

25-7-1603. Colorado energy office - study - accelerated adoption of heat pump technology.

(1) On or before August 1, 2024, the office shall commence a study with targeted stakeholder input to explore how to accelerate adoption of heat pump technology in Colorado through a technical standard for applicable air conditioners.

(2) In conducting the study, the office shall:

(a) Focus on a statewide point-of-sale standard on new and replacement air conditioners;

(b) Consider equipment performance in different climate zones and conditions;

(c) Consult with stakeholders from manufacturers, distributors, contractors, heat pump experts, green builders, environmental justice groups, and utilities serving retail customers;

(d) Use data and findings from recent public utility proceedings to accelerate data collection for the study;

(e) Determine the requirements for successful implementation of a statewide point-of-sale standard; and

(f) Make recommendations on how the state can address any associated needs or gaps before a statewide point-of-sale standard takes effect.

(3) In conducting the study, the office shall assess and determine:

(a) Up-front cost gaps and ongoing costs and cost savings for residential homes from implementation of a statewide point-of-sale standard;

(b) Whether and where federal, state, local, and utility incentives can cover any identified cost gaps, and make recommendations for what, if any, new incentives may be needed for income-qualified households;

(c) Any technical limitations, and potential remedies for those limitations, for a statewide point-of-sale standard;

(d) System configuration options for cold-temperature performance;

(e) Necessary customer information regarding cold-temperature performance;

(f) What, if any, exceptions or exemptions may be necessary for a statewide point-of-sale standard and how such exceptions or exemptions could be administered;

(g) Potential improvements to the state income tax credit created in section 39-22-554;

(h) Supply chain status;

(i) Contractor training needs; and

(j) Quality assurance measures.

(4) The office shall deliver the study results to the chairs of the transportation and energy committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committees, according to the following schedule:

(a) On or before January 1, 2025, the office shall deliver a progress report;

(b) On or before March 1, 2025, the office shall deliver interim results and legislative recommendations; and

(c) On or before June 1, 2025, the office shall deliver the final study and final legislative recommendations.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-214), ch. 191, p. 1098, § 13, effective May 17.

25-7-1604. Repeal of part.

This part 16 is repealed, effective July 1, 2030.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-214), ch. 191, p. 1100, § 13, effective May 17.

25-7.5 ARTICLE 7.5

Clean Motor Vehicle Fleet Support

25-7.5-101. Legislative declaration.

25-7.5-102. Definitions.

25-7.5-103. Clean fleet enterprise - creation - board - powers and duties - fees - fund - repeal.

25-7.5-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) An increasing number of fleet motor vehicles are on the road to meet increasing demands for retail deliveries and rides arranged through transportation network companies;

(b) These fleet vehicles are some of the most polluting vehicles on the road, which has resulted in additional and increasing air and greenhouse gas pollution and related adverse environmental and health impacts across the state;

(c) The adverse environmental and health impacts of increased emissions from fleet motor vehicles used to make retail deliveries and provide rides arranged through transportation network companies can be mitigated and offset by supporting the widespread adoption of electric motor vehicles for use in motor vehicle fleets;

(d) Instead of reducing the impacts of retail deliveries and rides arranged through transportation network companies by limiting retail delivery and transportation network company ride activity through regulation, it is more appropriate to continue to allow persons who receive retail deliveries and benefit from the convenience afforded by unfettered retail deliveries and to allow transportation network companies that arrange prearranged rides to continue to provide that service without undue restrictions and instead impose a small fee on each retail delivery and ride and use fee revenue to fund necessary mitigation activities; and

(e) It is necessary, appropriate, and in the best interest of the state and all Coloradans to incentivize and support the use of electric motor vehicles and, to the extent temporarily necessitated by the limitations of current electric motor vehicle technology and availability for certain fleet uses, compressed natural gas motor vehicles that are fueled by recovered methane and that produce fewer emissions than gasoline or diesel powered motor vehicles, by businesses and governmental entities that use fleets of motor vehicles, including fleets composed of personal motor vehicles owned by individual contractors who provide prearranged rides for transportation network companies or make retail deliveries, and to enable the state to achieve its stated electric motor vehicle adoption goals because increased usage of electric motor vehicles in motor vehicle fleets:

(I) Generally reduces emissions of air pollutants, including ozone precursors, particulate matter pollutants, other hazardous air pollutants, and greenhouse gases, that contribute to adverse environmental effects such as climate change and adverse human health effects, including but not limited to asthma, reduced lung capacity, increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, and lung cancer, and helps the state meet its statewide greenhouse gas pollution reduction targets established in section 25-7-102 (2)(g), comply with air quality attainment standards, and reduce adverse environmental and health impacts across the state and in communities, including but not limited to disproportionately impacted communities;

(II) Specifically reduces higher localized emissions of such air pollutants in communities, including but not limited to disproportionately impacted communities, where:

(A) Fleet yards, warehouses, distribution centers, refineries, fuel depots, waste facilities, and major interstate highways are located;

(B) Usage of fleet motor vehicles is concentrated; and

(C) Residents experience increased risks of air-pollution-related health impacts such as asthma, reduced lung capacity, increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and lung cancer; and

(III) By reducing fuel and maintenance costs, helps businesses and governmental entities operate more efficiently over time, allowing the cost savings to be reinvested in business growth or used for beneficial public purposes.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that:

(a) To incentivize, support, and accelerate the adoption of electric motor vehicles in motor vehicle fleets in the state and thereby minimize and mitigate the environmental and health impacts of the transportation system and reap the environmental, health, and business and governmental operational efficiency benefits that result from motor vehicle fleet electrification, it is necessary, appropriate, and in the best interest of the state to create a clean fleet enterprise to help businesses and governmental entities that own or operate fleets of motor vehicles use more electric motor vehicles, and, to the extent temporarily necessitated by the limitations of current electric motor vehicle technology for certain fleet uses, more compressed natural gas motor vehicles that are fueled by recovered methane, in their motor vehicle fleets;

(b) The enterprise provides business services, including remediation services, when, in exchange for the payment of fees, it:

(I) Provides financing through grant programs, rebate programs, revolving loan funds, or any other strategies that the board finds effective;

(II) Helps owners and operators of motor vehicle fleets reduce the up-front and total costs of using more electric motor vehicles, and, to the extent temporarily necessitated by the limitations of current electric motor vehicle technology for certain fleet uses, more compressed natural gas motor vehicles that are fueled by recovered methane, in their fleets;

(III) Supports companion services such as testing, inspection, and readjustment services;

(IV) Provides outreach, education, or training to support the successful application and performance of entities receiving funds;

(V) Supports the development of a clean transportation workforce that can support businesses as they transition to using more electric motor vehicles in their fleets;

(VI) Assesses and supports the implementation of cleaner and more efficient commercial vehicle technology to support motor vehicle fleet electrification;

(VII) Researches and develops strategies, business plans, and guidance to support the consistent application of grants and other enterprise business services, including remediation services;

(VIII) Contributes to the implementation of the comprehensive regulatory scheme required for the planning, funding, development, construction, maintenance, and supervision of a sustainable transportation system; and

(IX) Provides additional remediation services to offset impacts caused by fee payers as may be provided by law, including but not limited to:

(A) Incentivizing the use of clean mobile equipment;

(B) Providing planning services to support communities, including but not limited to disproportionately impacted communities; and

(C) Providing scrappage services;

(c) By providing remediation services as authorized by this section, the enterprise engages in an activity conducted in the pursuit of a benefit, gain, or livelihood and therefore operates as a business;

(d) By providing remediation services as authorized by this section, the enterprise provides a benefit to fee payers when it remediates the impacts they cause and therefore operates as a business in accordance with the determination of the Colorado supreme court in Colorado Union of Taxpayers Foundation v. City of Aspen, 2018 CO 36;

(e) Consistent with the determination of the Colorado supreme court in Nicholl v. E-470 Public Highway Authority, 896 P.2d 859 (Colo. 1995), that the power to impose taxes is inconsistent with enterprise status under section 20 of article X of the state constitution, it is the conclusion of the general assembly that the revenue collected by the enterprise is generated by fees, not taxes, because the fees imposed by the enterprise as authorized by section 25-7.5-103 (7) and (8) are:

(I) Imposed for the specific purpose of allowing the enterprise to defray the costs of providing the remediation services specified in this section, including mitigating impacts to air quality and greenhouse gas emissions caused by the activities on which the fee is assessed, and contributes to the implementation of the comprehensive regulatory scheme required for the planning, funding, development, construction, maintenance, and supervision of a sustainable transportation system; and

(II) Collected at rates that are reasonably calculated based on the impacts caused by fee payers and the cost of remediating those impacts; and

(f) So long as the enterprise qualifies as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, the revenue from the fees collected by the enterprise is not state fiscal year spending, as defined in section 24-77-102 (17), or state revenues, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(c), and does not count against either the state fiscal year spending limit imposed by section 20 of article X of the state constitution or the excess state revenues cap, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(b)(I)(D).

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-260), ch. 250, p. 1387, § 11, effective June 17.

25-7.5-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 7.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Aging heavy-duty diesel truck" means a heavy-duty diesel truck with a model year no later than 2009 that is registered, operable, and capable of independent roadway operation at the time of application.

(2) "Battery electric motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is powered exclusively by a rechargeable battery pack that can be recharged by being plugged into an external source of electricity and that has no secondary source of propulsion.

(3) "Board" means the governing board of the enterprise.

(4) "Car share ride" means a prearranged ride for which the rider agrees, at the time the rider requests the ride through a digital network, to be transported with another rider who has separately requested a prearranged ride regardless of whether or not another rider is actually transported with the rider.

(5) "Commission" means the air quality control commission created in section 25-7-104.

(6) "Compressed natural gas motor vehicle" means a vehicle that is powered by an engine fueled by compressed natural gas.

(7) "Decommission" means rendering inoperable both the engine and the chassis of an aging heavy-duty diesel truck by cutting a three-inch hole through the wall of the engine block and cutting the chassis rails in half or by similarly effective means.

(8) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 24-1-119 (1).

(9) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(10) "Electric motor vehicle" means a battery electric motor vehicle, a hydrogen fuel cell motor vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid electric motor vehicle.

(11) "Enterprise" means the clean fleet enterprise created in section 25-7.5-103 (1)(a)(I).

(12) "Fund" means the clean fleet enterprise fund created in section 25-7.5-103 (5).

(13) "Heavy-duty diesel truck" means a heavy-duty motor vehicle that:

(a) Is powered by a diesel-fueled internal combustion engine;

(b) Uses compression ignition to start the diesel-fueled internal combustion engine;

(c) Is based in the state; and

(d) Is part of a motor vehicle fleet with in-state annual miles driven of at least seventy-five percent of the motor vehicle fleet's total annual miles driven.

(14) "Heavy-duty motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating, as defined in section 42-2-402 (6), of greater than twenty-six thousand pounds.

(15) "Hydrogen fuel cell motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is powered by electricity produced from a fuel cell that uses hydrogen gas as fuel.

(16) "Inflation" means the average annual percentage change in the United States department of labor, bureau of labor statistics, consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items and all urban consumers, or its applicable predecessor or successor index, for the five years ending on the last December 31 before a state fiscal year for which an inflation adjustment to be made to the clean fleet per ride fee imposed by section 25-7.5-103 (7) or the clean fleet retail delivery fee imposed by section 25-7.5-103 (8) begins.

(17) "Medium-duty motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating, as defined in section 42-2-402 (6), of more than ten thousand pounds and not more than twenty-six thousand pounds.

(18) "Motor vehicle" has the meaning set forth in section 42-1-102 (58). The term does not include a personal delivery device.

(19) "Motor vehicle fleet" means a group of motor vehicles that is owned or operated:

(a) By a governmental entity for a public purpose including but not limited to public school transportation or law enforcement; or

(b) By a business entity for a business if:

(I) The group of motor vehicles is composed primarily of heavy-duty motor vehicles, medium-duty motor vehicles, or refrigerated trailer units; or

(II) The group of motor vehicles is owned or operated by a company that rents motor vehicles in the fleet to transportation network company drivers for use in providing transportation network company services or is owned and operated directly, or indirectly through independent contractors who own or lease individual motor vehicles in the group, by a transportation network company or by a retailer for the purpose of making retail deliveries.

(20) "New heavy-duty truck" means a heavy-duty motor vehicle that:

(a) Is a model year of 2018 or later;

(b) Is based in the state; and

(c) Is part of a motor vehicle fleet with in-state annual miles driven of at least seventy-five percent of the motor vehicle fleet's total annual miles driven.

(21) "Personal delivery device" means an autonomously operated robot that is:

(a) Designed and manufactured for the purpose of transporting tangible personal property primarily on sidewalks, crosswalks, and other public rights-of-way that are typically used by pedestrians;

(b) Weighs no more than five hundred fifty pounds, excluding any tangible personal property being transported; and

(c) Operates at speeds of less than ten miles per hour when on sidewalks, crosswalks, and other public rights-of-way that are typically used by pedestrians.

(22) "Plug-in hybrid electric motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is powered by both a rechargeable battery pack that can be recharged by being plugged into an external source of electricity and a secondary source of propulsion such as an internal combustion engine.

(23) "Prearranged ride" has the same meaning as set forth in section 40-10.1-602 (2).

(24) "Recovered methane" means any of the following if the air pollution control division determines them to provide a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions:

(a) Biomethane;

(b) Methane derived from:

(I) Municipal solid waste;

(II) Biomass pyrolysis or enzymatic biomass; or

(III) Wastewater treatment; and

(c) Coal mine methane, as defined in section 40-2-124 (1)(a)(II).

(25) "Retail delivery" has the same meaning as set forth in section 43-4-218 (2)(e).

(26) "Retailer" has the same meaning as set forth in section 39-26-102 (8).

(27) "Rider" has the same meaning as set forth in section 40-10.1-602 (5).

(28) "Tangible personal property" has the same meaning as set forth in section 39-26-102 (15).

(29) "Transportation network company" has the same meaning as set forth in section 40-10.1-602 (3).

(30) "Transportation network company driver" has the same meaning as set forth in section 40-10.1-602 (4).

(31) "Transportation network company services" has the same meaning as set forth in section 40-10.1-602 (6).

(32) "Zero emissions motor vehicle" means a battery electric motor vehicle or a hydrogen fuel cell motor vehicle.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-260), ch. 250, p. 1390, § 11, effective June 17. L. 2023: (7) amended, (HB 23-1233), ch. 245, p. 1332, § 18, effective May 23; (21) amended and (23) repealed, (SB 23-143), ch. 153, p. 651, § 4, July 1. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (SB 26-021), ch. 56, p. 235, § 1, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1233, see section 1 of chapter 245, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-7.5-103. Clean fleet enterprise - creation - board - powers and duties - fees - fund - repeal.

(1) (a) The clean fleet enterprise is hereby created in the department. The enterprise is and operates as a government-owned business within the department in order to execute its business purpose as specified in subsection (3) of this section by exercising the powers and performing the duties set forth in this section.

(b) The enterprise is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department.

(2) (a) The governing board of the enterprise consists of nine members as follows:

(I) The governor shall appoint six members with the advice and consent of the senate for terms of the length specified in subsection (2)(b) of this section. One member shall represent a disproportionately impacted community, one member shall have expertise in air pollution reduction, one member shall have expertise in transportation, one member shall have expertise in motor vehicle fleet electrification, one member shall have expertise in business or supply chain management, and one member shall represent a business that owns or operates a motor vehicle fleet. The governor shall make reasonable efforts, to the extent such applications have been submitted for consideration for the board, to consider members that reflect the state's geographic diversity when making appointments and shall make initial appointments no later than October 1, 2021.

(II) The executive director of the department or the executive director's designee;

(III) The director of the Colorado energy office or the director's designee; and

(IV) The executive director of the department of transportation or the executive director's designee.

(b) Members of the board appointed by the governor serve for terms of four years; except that four of the members initially appointed shall serve for initial terms of three years. A member who is appointed to fill a vacancy on the board shall serve the remainder of the unexpired term of the former member. The other board members serve for as long as they hold their positions or are designated to serve.

(c) Members of the board serve without compensation but must be reimbursed from money in the fund for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties pursuant to this article 7.5.

(3) The business purpose of the enterprise is to incentivize and support the use of electric motor vehicles, including motor vehicles that originally were powered exclusively by internal combustion engines but have been converted into electric motor vehicles, and, to the extent temporarily necessitated by the limitations of current electric motor vehicle technology for certain fleet uses, compressed natural gas motor vehicles that are fueled by recovered methane, and refrigerated transport units powered by zero emission technology, by businesses and governmental entities that own or operate fleets of motor vehicles, including fleets composed of personal motor vehicles owned or leased by individual contractors who provide prearranged rides for transportation network companies or deliver goods for a third-party delivery service. To allow the enterprise to accomplish this purpose and fully exercise its powers and duties through the board, the enterprise may:

(a) Impose a clean fleet per ride fee and a clean fleet retail delivery fee as authorized by subsections (7) and (8) of this section;

(b) Issue grants, loans, and rebates as authorized by subsection (9) of this section; and

(c) Issue revenue bonds payable from the revenue and other available money of the enterprise.

(4) The enterprise constitutes an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution so long as it retains the authority to issue revenue bonds and receives less than ten percent of its total annual revenue in grants from all Colorado state and local governments combined. So long as it constitutes an enterprise pursuant to this subsection (4), the enterprise is not subject to section 20 of article X of the state constitution.

(5) (a) The clean fleet enterprise fund is hereby created in the state treasury. The fund consists of clean fleet per ride fee revenue and clean fleet retail delivery fee revenue credited to the fund pursuant to subsections (7) and (8) of this section, any monetary gifts, grants, donations, or other payments received by the enterprise, any federal money that may be credited to the fund, and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the enterprise for the purposes set forth in this article 7.5 and to pay the enterprise's reasonable and necessary operating expenses, including the repayment of any loan received pursuant to subsection (5)(b) of this section.

(b) The department may transfer money from any legally available source to the enterprise for the purpose of defraying expenses incurred by the enterprise before it receives fee revenue or revenue bond proceeds. The enterprise may accept and expend any money so transferred, and, notwithstanding any state fiscal rule or generally accepted accounting principle that could otherwise be interpreted to require a contrary conclusion, such a transfer is a loan from the department to the enterprise that is required to be repaid and is not a grant for purposes of section 20 (2)(d) of article X of the state constitution or as defined in section 24-77-102 (7). All money transferred as a loan to the enterprise shall be credited to the clean fleet enterprise initial expenses fund, which is hereby created in the state treasury, and loan liabilities that are recorded in the clean fleet enterprise initial expenses fund but that are not required to be paid in the current fiscal year shall not be considered when calculating sufficient statutory fund balance for purposes of section 24-75-109. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the clean fleet enterprise initial expenses fund to the fund. The clean fleet enterprise initial expenses fund is continuously appropriated to the enterprise for the purpose of defraying expenses incurred by the enterprise before it receives fee revenue or revenue bond proceeds. As the enterprise receives sufficient revenue in excess of expenses, the enterprise shall reimburse the department for the principal amount of any loan made by the department plus interest at a rate set by the department. Upon receipt of such reimbursement, the department shall remit to the state treasurer for crediting to the general fund the amount needed to fully repay the amount of any general fund money appropriated to the department for the purpose of funding the loan made pursuant to this subsection (5)(b) plus the interest included in the reimbursement.

(6) In addition to any other powers and duties specified in this section, the board has the following general powers and duties:

(a) To adopt bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business;

(b) To acquire, hold title to, and dispose of real and personal property;

(c) In consultation with the executive director of the department, or the executive director's designee, to employ and supervise individuals, professional consultants, and contractors as are necessary in its judgment to carry out its business purpose;

(d) To contract with any public or private entity, including state agencies, consultants, and the attorney general's office, for professional and technical assistance, office space, and administrative services, advice, and other services related to the conduct of the affairs of the enterprise. The enterprise is encouraged to issue grants on a competitive basis based on written criteria established by the enterprise in advance of any deadlines for the submission of grant applications. The board shall generally avoid using sole-source contracts.

(e) To seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, donations, or other payments from private or public sources for the purposes of this article 7.5 so long as the total amount of all grants from Colorado state and local governments received in any state fiscal year is less than ten percent of the enterprise's total annual revenue for the state fiscal year. The enterprise shall transmit any money received through gifts, grants, donations, or other payments to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the fund.

(f) To provide services as set forth in subsection (9) of this section;

(g) To publish the processes by which the enterprise accepts applications, the criteria for evaluating applications, and a list of grantees or program participants pursuant to subsection (9) of this section;

(h) To promulgate rules for the sole purpose of setting the amounts of the clean fleet per ride fee and the clean fleet retail delivery fee at or below the maximum amounts authorized in this section; and

(i) To have and exercise all rights and powers necessary or incidental to or implied from the specific powers and duties granted by this section without regard to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 through 112 of title 24.

(7) (a) In furtherance of its business purpose, beginning in state fiscal year 2022-23, the enterprise shall impose a clean fleet per ride fee to be paid by a transportation network company for each prearranged ride requested and accepted through the company's digital network. For the purpose of minimizing compliance costs for transportation network companies and administrative costs for the state, the department of revenue shall collect the clean fleet per ride fee on behalf of the enterprise, and a transportation network company shall pay the fee to the department of revenue as required by section 40-10.1-607.5 (2). The enterprise shall ensure that during the first ten state fiscal years of fee collections, expenditures that support transportation network company operations equal or exceed cumulative clean fleet per ride fee revenue.

(b) For prearranged rides requested and accepted during state fiscal year 2022-23, the enterprise shall impose the clean fleet per ride fee in a maximum amount of:

(I) Three and three-quarters cents for each prearranged ride that is a car share ride or for which the driver transports the rider in a zero emissions motor vehicle; and

(II) Seven and one-half cents for every other prearranged ride.

(c) (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (7)(c)(II) of this section, for prearranged rides requested and accepted during state fiscal year 2023-24 or during any subsequent state fiscal year, the enterprise shall impose the clean fleet per ride fee in a maximum amount that is the applicable maximum amount for the prior state fiscal year adjusted for inflation. The enterprise shall notify the department of revenue of the amount of the clean fleet per ride fee to be collected for rides requested and accepted during each state fiscal year no later than March 15 of the calendar year in which the state fiscal year begins and the department of revenue shall publish the amount no later than April 15 of the calendar year in which the state fiscal year begins.

(II) The enterprise is authorized to adjust the amount of the clean fleet per ride fee for prearranged rides requested and accepted during a state fiscal year only if the rate of inflation is positive and cumulative inflation from the time of the last adjustment in the amount of the fee, when applied to the sum of the current clean fleet per ride fee and the current air pollution mitigation per ride fee imposed as required by section 43-4-1303 (7) and rounded to the nearest whole cent, will result in an increase of at least one whole cent in the total amount of the clean fleet per ride fee and the air pollution mitigation per ride fee paid by a person who requests and accepts a prearranged ride. The amount of cumulative inflation to be applied to the sum of the current clean fleet per ride fee and the current air pollution mitigation per ride fee and rounded to the nearest whole cent is the lesser of actual cumulative inflation or five percent.

(d) As required by section 40-10.1-607.5 (3)(a), the department of revenue shall transmit all net clean fleet per ride fee revenue collected to the state treasurer, who shall credit the revenue to the fund.

(8) (a) In furtherance of its business purpose, beginning in state fiscal year 2022-23, the enterprise shall impose, and the department of revenue shall collect on behalf of the enterprise, a clean fleet retail delivery fee on each retail delivery. Each retailer who makes a retail delivery shall either collect and remit or elect to pay the clean fleet retail delivery fee in the manner prescribed by the department in accordance with section 43-4-218 (6). For the purpose of minimizing compliance costs for retailers and administrative costs for the state, the department of revenue shall collect and administer the clean fleet retail delivery fee on behalf of the enterprise in the same manner in which it collects and administers the retail delivery fee imposed by section 43-4-218 (3).

(b) For retail deliveries of tangible personal property purchased during state fiscal year 2022-23, the enterprise shall impose the clean fleet retail delivery fee in a maximum amount of five and three-tenths cents.

(c) (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (8)(c)(II) of this section, for retail deliveries of tangible personal property purchased during state fiscal year 2023-24 or during any subsequent state fiscal year, the enterprise shall impose the clean fleet retail delivery fee in a maximum amount that is the maximum amount for the prior state fiscal year adjusted for inflation. The enterprise shall notify the department of revenue of the amount of the clean fleet retail delivery fee to be collected for retail deliveries of tangible personal property purchased during each state fiscal year no later than March 15 of the calendar year in which the state fiscal year begins, and the department of revenue shall publish the amount no later than April15 of the calendar year in which the state fiscal year begins.

(II) The enterprise is authorized to adjust the amount of the clean fleet retail delivery fee for retail deliveries of tangible personal property purchased during a state fiscal year only if the department of revenue adjusts the amount of the retail delivery fee imposed by section 43-4-218 (3) for retail deliveries of tangible personal property purchased during the state fiscal year.

(9) (a) In furtherance of its business purpose, and subject to the requirements set forth in this subsection (9), the enterprise is authorized to incentivize, support, and accelerate the adoption of electric motor vehicles in motor vehicle fleets and the replacement of aging heavy-duty diesel trucks with new heavy-duty trucks.

(b) The enterprise may provide funding or financing through grant programs, rebate programs, revolving loan funds, or such other strategies as the board finds effective:

(I) To help public and private owners and operators of motor vehicle fleets finance electric motor vehicle acquisitions to reduce the up-front costs of acquiring electric motor vehicles and to help public and private owners and operators of motor vehicle fleets finance acquisitions of compressed natural gas motor vehicles that are trucks if at least ninety percent of the fuel for the trucks will be recovered methane;

(II) To assess and implement cleaner mobile source technology to support electrification of motor vehicles and electric motor vehicle fleets;

(III) To coordinate engagement with public entities and owners and operators of motor vehicle fleets to develop strategies for electrifying motor vehicle fleets and other not yet electrified freight transportation and retail delivery operations that can be electrified;

(IV) To research and assess innovative and emerging motor vehicle emission strategies for motor vehicles and engines and modernize and improve current testing, inspection, and readjustment services offered by the department;

(V) To provide training and development of a clean transportation workforce to support the adoption of electric motor vehicles for use in motor vehicle fleets;

(VI) To research and develop strategies, business plans, and guidance to support the consistent application of grants and other enterprise business services, including remediation services;

(VII) To provide outreach, education, or training to support the successful application and performance by entities receiving funds;

(VIII) To provide or support the delivery of companion services such as fleet motor vehicle testing, inspection, and readjustment services;

(IX) To reduce health disparities in disproportionately impacted communities resulting from increased exposure to motor vehicle fleet emissions;

(X) To help companies that maintain motor vehicle fleets and rent motor vehicles in the fleets to transportation network company drivers for use in providing transportation network company services purchase or lease electric motor vehicles for that use;

(XI) To help transportation network companies provide incentives for transportation network company drivers to provide prearranged rides in electric motor vehicles;

(XII) To provide additional remediation services to fee payers as may be provided by law, including but not limited to incentivizing the use of clean mobile equipment, provide planning services to support communities, including but not limited to disproportionately impacted communities, or provide scrappage services;

(XIII) To help public and private owners and operators of motor vehicle fleets finance the replacement of aging heavy-duty diesel trucks with new heavy-duty trucks to reduce the up-front costs of acquiring new heavy-duty trucks through December 31, 2031, subject to the following:

(A) The purchaser of a new heavy-duty truck must surrender an aging heavy-duty diesel truck to the seller of the new heavy-duty truck at the time of the transaction;

(B) The seller of the new heavy-duty truck must decommission the aging heavy-duty diesel truck;

(C) The seller must be an authorized dealer of new heavy-duty trucks who must certify that the new heavy-duty truck meets all state and federal emissions and safety standards for its model year and that the dealer will decommission the aging heavy-duty diesel truck that the purchaser is required to surrender to the seller;

(D) The enterprise shall not expend more than twenty percent of the fund's income during a state fiscal year to replace aging heavy-duty diesel trucks with new heavy-duty trucks;

(E) The enterprise shall prioritize applications pursuant to this subsection (9)(b)(XIII) from businesses that are privately owned, independently owned, or have limited access to capital;

(F) The enterprise shall not accept an application pursuant to this subsection (9)(b)(XIII) from an owner or operator of a motor vehicle fleet that owns, leases, or operates more than fifty heavy-duty motor vehicles or from a business entity with annual gross revenue exceeding one hundred million dollars;

(G) The enterprise shall prioritize the replacement of any aging heavy-duty diesel truck that has a model year of no later than 2006; and

(H) This subsection (9)(b)(XIII) is repealed, effective July 1, 2032; and

(XIV) To seek to ensure that all projects funded by the Colorado clean fleet enterprise achieve measurable results and outcomes.

(10) The enterprise shall contract with the air pollution control division of the department to develop proposed rules for the consideration of the commission that will support the enterprise's business services, including remediation services, in a manner that maintains compliance with the federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations governing air quality. The division shall collaborate with the Colorado energy office and the department of transportation when developing the rules.

(11) (a) To ensure transparency and accountability, the enterprise shall:

(I) No later than June 1, 2022, publish and post on its website a ten-year plan that details how the enterprise will execute its business purpose during state fiscal years 2022-23 through 2031-32 and estimates the amount of funding needed to implement the plan. No later than January 1, 2032, the enterprise shall publish and post on its website a new ten-year plan for state fiscal years 2032-33 through 2041-42.

(II) Create, maintain, and regularly update on its website a public accountability dashboard that provides, at a minimum, accessible and transparent summary information regarding the implementation of its ten-year plan, the funding status and progress toward completion of each project that it wholly or partly funds, and its per project and total funding and expenditures;

(III) Engage regularly regarding its projects and activities with the public, specifically reaching out to and seeking input from communities, including but not limited to disproportionately impacted communities, and interest groups that are likely to be interested in the projects and activities; and

(IV) Prepare an annual report regarding all Colorado clean fleet activities and funding, including estimated pollution reduction benefits, and present the report to the transportation commission created in section 43-1-106 (1) and to the transportation and local government and energy and environment committees of the house of representatives and the transportation and energy committee of the senate, or any successor committees. The enterprise shall also post the annual report on its website. Notwithstanding the requirement in section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the requirement to submit the report required in this subsection (11)(a)(IV) to the specified legislative committees continues indefinitely.

(b) The enterprise is subject to the open meetings provisions of the "Colorado Sunshine Act of 1972", contained in part 4 of article 6 of title 24, and the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.

(c) For purposes of the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24, and except as may otherwise be provided by federal law or regulation or state law, the records of the enterprise are public records, as defined in section 24-72-202 (6), regardless of whether the enterprise receives less than ten percent of its total annual revenue in grants, as defined in section 24-77-102 (7), from all Colorado state and local governments combined.

(d) The enterprise is a public entity for purposes of part 2 of article 57 of title 11.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-260), ch. 250, p. 1393, § 11, effective June 17. L. 2022: (1)(b) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3369, § 51, effective August 10. L. 2023: (8)(a) amended, (SB 23-143), ch. 153, p. 651, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2026: IP(3), (6)(i), (9)(a), (9)(b)(I), (9)(b)(XI), and (11)(a)(IV) amended and (9)(b)(XIII) and (9)(b)(XIV) added, (SB 26-021), ch. 56, p. 238, § 2, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Simultaneous creation of clean fleet enterprise and three other enterprises and expansion of the duties of and renaming of another enterprise by SB 21-260 did not require voter approval under § 24-77-108 or violate the single subject rule set forth in § 21 of article V of the state constitution because none of the enterprises serve primarily the same purpose and all the enterprises, as well as the increase in the excess state revenues cap included in the bill, support the bill's single subject of ensuring the sustainability of the state's transportation system. Ams. for Prosperity v. Colo., 2025 COA 46, 571 P.3d 930.

ARTICLE 8

Water Quality Control

PART 1
GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-8-101. Short title.

25-8-102. Legislative declaration.

25-8-103. Definitions.

25-8-104. Interpretation and construction of water quality provisions.

25-8-105. Regional wastewater management plans - amendments.

25-8-106. Study - organizational placement of water quality control programs. (Repealed)

25-8-107. Cross-connection control services - backflow prevention devices - requirements - definitions.

PART 2
WATER QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION

25-8-201. Water quality control commission created.

25-8-202. Duties of commission - rules.

25-8-203. Classification of state waters.

25-8-204. Water quality standards.

25-8-205. Control regulations.

25-8-205.1. State waters protection - applicability - program to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material - duties of commission and division - applicability and scope of section - legislative declaration - definitions - rules.

25-8-205.3. Exemption from control regulations for graywater research - definition.

25-8-205.4. Statewide authorization of graywater use - local government notice required to opt out.

25-8-205.5. Pollution from agricultural chemicals - rules.

25-8-205.7. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - food crops - definitions - rules.

25-8-205.8. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - toilet flushing - definitions - rules.

25-8-205.9. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - industrial hemp - definitions - rules.

25-8-206. Prior acts validated.

25-8-207. Review of classifications and standards.

25-8-208. Emergency rule-making.

25-8-209. Water quality designations - rules.

25-8-210. Fees established administratively - rules - shareholding requirement - phase-in period - clean water cash fund - creation - repeal.

PART 3
ADMINISTRATION

25-8-301. Administration of water quality control programs.

25-8-302. Duties of division.

25-8-303. Monitoring.

25-8-304. Monitoring, recording, and reporting.

25-8-305. Annual report - repeal.

25-8-306. Authority to enter and inspect premises and records.

25-8-307. Emergencies.

25-8-308. Additional authority and duties of division - penalties.

25-8-309. Study of classification and standard issues. (Repealed)

25-8-310. Education program - storm water.

25-8-311. Water quality green infrastructure - feasibility studies - pilot projects - division collaboration with universities - legislative declaration - definitions - reports - gifts, grants, or donations - repeal.

PART 4
PROCEDURES

25-8-401. Authority and procedures for hearings.

25-8-402. Procedures to be followed in classifying state waters and setting standards and control regulations.

25-8-403. Administrative reconsideration.

25-8-404. Judicial review.

25-8-405. Samples - secret processes.

25-8-406. Administrative stays - renewal permits.

PART 5
PERMIT SYSTEM

25-8-501. Permits required for discharge of pollutants - administration.

25-8-501.1. Permit required for point source water pollution control - definitions - housed commercial swine feeding operations - legislative declaration.

25-8-502. Application - fees - funds created - public participation - rules - definitions.

25-8-503. Permits - when required and when prohibited - variances - definition.

25-8-503.5. General permits - process for changing permit requirements.

25-8-503.7. Use of qualified and independent contractors - powers and duties of the division - fees - definitions.

25-8-503.8. Documents, information, and data utilized in developing permits.

25-8-504. Agricultural wastes.

25-8-505. Permit conditions concerning publicly owned wastewater treatment works.

25-8-506. Nuclear and radioactive wastes. (Repealed)

25-8-507. Program repeal.

25-8-508. Industrial pretreatment program - creation - fees.

25-8-509. Permit conditions concerning use and disposal of biosolids.

PART 6
VIOLATIONS, REMEDIES, AND PENALTIES

25-8-601. Division to be notified of suspected violations and accidental discharges - penalty.

25-8-602. Notice of alleged violations.

25-8-603. Hearing procedures for alleged violations.

25-8-604. Suspension, modification, and revocation of permit.

25-8-605. Cease-and-desist orders.

25-8-606. Clean-up orders.

25-8-607. Restraining orders and injunctions.

25-8-608. Civil penalties - rules - water quality improvement fund created - definitions.

25-8-608.5. Nutrients grant fund - rules - repeal. (Repealed)

25-8-608.7. Natural disaster grant fund - creation - rules - repeal. (Repealed)

25-8-609. Criminal pollution - penalties.

25-8-610. Falsification and tampering - penalties.

25-8-611. Proceedings by other parties.

25-8-612. Remedies cumulative.

25-8-613. Limitation on actions.

PART 7
DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS

25-8-701. Definitions.

25-8-702. Approval for commencement of construction.

25-8-703. State contracts for construction of domestic wastewater treatment works. (Repealed)

PART 8
STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATORS

25-8-801. Definitions.

25-8-802. Storm water management system administrator.

25-8-803. Storm water management system administrator audits to support MS4 permittees' programs.

PART 9
TESTING OF DRINKING WATER IN SCHOOLS, CHILD CARE CENTERS, AND FAMILY CHILD CARE HOMES

25-8-901. Definitions.

25-8-902. School and child care clean drinking water fund - creation - repeal.

25-8-903. Testing for the presence of lead in drinking water in child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools - remediation - maintenance of records - training - inspections - enforcement - reimbursement - technical assistance - exemptions - opt out by family child care home - reports.

25-8-904. Report and recommendation regarding expansion required - legislative declaration. (Repealed)

25-8-905. Repeal of part.

PART 10
MOBILE HOME WATER QUALITY

25-8-1001. Definitions.

25-8-1002. Division duties - testing water quality at mobile home parks - parameters of testing - notice of results.

25-8-1003. Remediation.

25-8-1004. Action plan.

25-8-1005. Mobile home water quality grant program - created - grant application and award process - reporting - funding.

25-8-1006. Mobile home park water quality fund - repeal.

25-8-1007. Enforcement.

25-8-1008. This part 10 does not affect other statutory protections.

PART 11
PLASTIC PELLET-FREE WATERS ACT

25-8-1101. Short title.

25-8-1102. Definitions.

25-8-1103. Discharge of preproduction plastic materials prohibited.

PART 1

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Law reviews: For article, "The Water Quality Act of 1987", see 16 Colo. Law. 826 (1987); for article, "Water Law Requirements Affecting Environmental Compliance and Remediation Activities", see 22 Colo. Law. 299 (1993); for article, "Water Rights and Water Quality: Recent Developments", see 23 Colo. Law. 2343 (1994); for article, "Availability of the Colorado UST Fund to Property Owners and Mortgagees", see 23 Colo. Law. 873 (1994).

25-8-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Water Quality Control Act".

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1310, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For note, "A Survey of Colorado Water Law", see 47 Den. L.J. 226 (1970). For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974). For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "Pollution or Resources Out-of-Place: Reclaiming Municipal Wastewater for Agricultural Use", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 559 (1982). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "The Burden of Maintaining Colorado's Water Quality", see 18 Colo. Law. 23 (1989).

Applied in In re A-B Cattle Co. v. United States, 196 Colo. 539, 589 P.2d 57 (1978).

25-8-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) In order to foster the health, welfare, and safety of the inhabitants of the state of Colorado and to facilitate the enjoyment and use of the scenic and natural resources of the state, it is declared to be the policy of this state to prevent injury to beneficial uses made of state waters, to maximize the beneficial uses of water, and to develop waters to which Colorado and its citizens are entitled and, within this context, to achieve the maximum practical degree of water quality in the waters of the state consistent with the welfare of the state. It is further declared that pollution of state waters may constitute a menace to public health and welfare, may create public nuisances, may be harmful to wildlife and aquatic life, and may impair beneficial uses of state waters and that the problem of water pollution in this state is closely related to the problem of water pollution in adjoining states.

(2) It is further declared to be the public policy of this state to conserve state waters and to protect, maintain, and improve, where necessary and reasonable, the quality thereof for public water supplies, for protection and propagation of wildlife and aquatic life, for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and recreational uses, and for other beneficial uses, taking into consideration the requirements of such uses; to provide that no pollutant be released into any state waters without first receiving the treatment or other corrective action necessary to reasonably protect the legitimate and beneficial uses of such waters; to provide for the prevention, abatement, and control of new or existing water pollution; and to cooperate with other states and the federal government in carrying out these objectives.

(3) It is further declared that protection of the quality of state waters and the prevention, abatement, and control of water pollution are matters of statewide concern and affected with a public interest, and the provisions of this article are enacted in the exercise of the police powers of this state for the purpose of protecting the health, peace, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state.

(4) This article and the agencies authorized under this article shall be the final authority in the administration of water pollution prevention, abatement, and control. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no department or agency of the state, and no municipal corporation, county, or other political subdivision, having jurisdiction over water pollution prevention, abatement, and control, shall issue any authorization for the discharge of pollutants into state waters unless authorized to do so in accordance with this article.

(5) It is further declared that the general assembly intends that this article shall be construed to require the development of a water quality program in which the water quality benefits of the pollution control measures utilized have a reasonable relationship to the economic, environmental, energy, and public health costs and impacts of such measures, and that before any final action is taken, with the exception of any enforcement action, consideration be given to the economic reasonableness of the action. Such consideration shall include evaluation of the benefits derived from achieving the goals of this article and of the economic, environmental, public health, and energy impacts to the public and affected persons.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1310, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980). For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "The Burden of Maintaining Colorado's Water Quality", see 18 Colo. Law. 23 (1989).

The water court is not required to consider environmental factors to determine whether to grant conditional water right decree. Matter of Bd. of County Comm'rs, 891 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1995).

25-8-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Agricultural chemical" means any of the following:

(a) A pesticide as defined in section 35-10-103, C.R.S.; or

(b) A commercial fertilizer as defined in section 35-12-103, C.R.S.

(1.1) "Agricultural management area" means a designated geographic area defined by the commissioner of agriculture that includes natural or man-made features where there is a significant risk of contamination or pollution of state waters from agricultural activities conducted at or near the land surface.

(1.2) "Agricultural management plan" means any activity, procedure, or practice adopted as a rule by the commissioner of agriculture pursuant to article 4 of title 24, in consultation with the Colorado cooperative extension service established pursuant to part 7 of article 31 of title 23 and the water quality control division, to prevent or remedy the introduction of agricultural chemicals into state waters to the extent technically and economically practical.

(1.3) "Best management practices" means any voluntary activity, procedure, or practice established by the department of agriculture, in consultation with the Colorado cooperative extension service established pursuant to part 7 of article 31 of title 23 and the water quality control division, to prevent or remedy the introduction of agricultural chemicals into state waters to the extent technically and economically practical.

(1.4) "Biosolids" means the accumulated residual product resulting from a domestic wastewater treatment works or other domestic sources. "Biosolids" does not include grit or screenings from a wastewater treatment works or commercial and industrial septage or on-site wastewater treatment systems regulated by article 10 of this title.

(1.5) "Commission" means the water quality control commission created by section 25-8-201.

(1.7) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of agriculture.

(2) "Control regulation" means any regulation promulgated by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-205.

(3) "Discharge of pollutants" means the introduction or addition of a pollutant into state waters.

(4) "Division" means the division of administration of the department of public health and environment.

(5) "Domestic wastewater treatment works" means a system or facility for treating, neutralizing, stabilizing, or disposing of domestic wastewater which system or facility has a designed capacity to receive more than two thousand gallons of domestic wastewater per day. The term "domestic wastewater treatment works" also includes appurtenances to such system or facility, such as outfall sewers and pumping stations, and to equipment related to such appurtenances. The term "domestic wastewater treatment works" does not include industrial wastewater treatment plants or complexes whose primary function is the treatment of industrial wastes, notwithstanding the fact that human wastes generated incidentally to the industrial processes are treated therein.

(6) "Effluent limitation" means any restriction or prohibition established under this article or federal law on quantities, rates, and concentrations of chemical, physical, biological, and other constituents which are discharged from point sources into state waters, including, but not limited to, standards of performance for new sources, toxic effluent standards, and schedules of compliance.

(7) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment.

(8) "Federal act" means the "Federal Water Pollution Control Act", commonly referred to as the "Clean Water Act".

(8.3) (a) "Graywater" means that portion of wastewater that, before being treated or combined with other wastewater, is collected from fixtures within residential, commercial, or industrial buildings or institutional facilities for the purpose of being put to beneficial uses authorized by the commission in accordance with section 25-8-205 (1)(g); except that graywater use for purposes of scientific research must comply with the requirements of section 25-8-205.3, but need not comply with the commission's control regulations established under section 25-8-205 (1).

(b) Sources of graywater may include discharges from bathroom and laundry room sinks, bathtubs, showers, laundry machines, and other sources authorized by rule. Graywater does not include the wastewater from toilets, urinals, kitchen sinks, dishwashers, or nonlaundry utility sinks. Graywater must be collected in a manner that minimizes household wastes, human excreta, animal or vegetable matter, and chemicals that are hazardous or toxic, as determined by the commission; except that a person may collect, treat, and use graywater in a manner that departs from the commission's control regulations established under section 25-8-205 (1) if the person collects, treats, and uses graywater for purposes of scientific research in accordance with the requirements of section 25-8-205.3.

(8.4) "Graywater treatment works" means an arrangement of devices and structures used to:

(a) Collect graywater from within a building or a facility; and

(b) Treat, neutralize, or stabilize graywater within the same building or facility to the level necessary for its authorized uses.

(8.5) "Industrial discharger" means any entity which introduces pollutants into a domestic wastewater treatment works from any nondomestic source subject to regulation under section 307 (b), (c), or (d) of the federal act.

(9) "Irrigation return flow" means tailwater, tile drainage, or surfaced groundwater flow from irrigated land.

(10) "Issue" or "issuance" means the mailing to all parties of any order, permit, determination, or notice, other than notice by publication, by certified mail to the last address furnished to the agency by the person subject thereto or personal service on such person, and the date of issuance of such order, permit, determination, or notice shall be the date of such mailing or service or such later date as is stated in the order, permit, determination, or notice.

(11) "Municipality" means any regional commission, county, metropolitan district offering sanitation service, sanitation district, water and sanitation district, water conservancy district, metropolitan sewage disposal district, service authority, city and county, city, town, Indian tribe or authorized Indian tribal organization, or any two or more of them which are acting jointly in connection with a sewage treatment works.

(12) "Permit" means a permit issued pursuant to part 5 of this article.

(13) "Person" means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, state or political subdivision thereof, federal agency, state agency, municipality, commission, or interstate body.

(14) "Point source" means any discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance, including, but not limited to, any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, or vessel or other floating craft, from which pollutants are or may be discharged. "Point source" does not include irrigation return flow.

(15) "Pollutant" means dredged spoil, dirt, slurry, solid waste, incinerator residue, sewage, sewage sludge, garbage, trash, chemical waste, biological nutrient, biological material, radioactive material, heat, wrecked or discarded equipment, rock, sand, or any industrial, municipal, or agricultural waste.

(16) "Pollution" means the man-made, man-induced, or natural alteration of the physical, chemical, biological, and radiological integrity of water.

(16.5) "Pretreatment requirement and standard" means any requirement, prohibition, standard, concentration, or effluent limitation described in enforceable pretreatment requirements by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-205 (1)(b), (1)(c), or (1)(d).

(17) "Promulgate" means and includes authority to adopt, and from time to time amend, repeal, modify, publish, and put into effect.

(17.5) "Reclaimed domestic wastewater" means wastewater that has received treatment in accordance with section 25-8-205.7, 25-8-205.8, or 25-8-205.9 and that enables the wastewater to meet the requirements, prohibitions, standards, and concentration limitations adopted by the commission for subsequent reuses other than drinking.

(18) "Schedule of compliance" means a schedule of remedial measures and times including an enforceable sequence of actions or operations leading to compliance with any control regulation or effluent limitation.

(19) "State waters" means any and all surface and subsurface waters that are contained in or flow in or through this state, including wetlands, but does not include waters in sewage systems, waters in treatment works of disposal systems, waters in potable water distribution systems, and all water withdrawn for use until use and treatment have been completed.

(20) "Water quality standard" means any standard promulgated pursuant to section 25-8-204.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1311, § 1, effective July 1. L. 90: (1) R&RE and (1.1) to (1.3), (1.5), (1.7), (8.5), and (16.5) added, pp. 1329, 1337, §§ 1, 2, 1, effective July 1. L. 93: (1.4) added, p. 1578, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (4) and (7) amended, p. 2789, § 517, effective July 1. L. 2000: (17.5) added, p. 252, § 1, effective March 31. L. 2012: (1.4) amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 494, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2013: (8.3) and (8.4) added, (HB 13-1044), ch. 228, p. 1088, § 2, effective May 15. L. 2017: IP and (8.3) amended, (HB 17-1008), ch. 199, p. 722, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2018: (17.5) amended, (SB 18-038), ch. 400, p. 2365, § 1, effective August 8; (17.5) amended, (HB 18-1069), ch. 179, p. 1220, § 1, effective August 8; (17.5) amended, (HB 18-1093), ch. 171, p. 1197, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1.1), (1.2), and (1.3) amended, (SB 19-186), ch. 422, p. 3688, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2024: (19) amended, (HB 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1823, § 3, effective May 29.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (17.5) by SB 18-038, HB 18-1069, and HB 18-1093 were harmonized.

Cross references: (1) For the "Federal Water Pollution Control Act" or "Clean Water Act", see 33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (4) and (7), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act adding subsections (8.3) and (8.4), see section 1 of chapter 228, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

25-8-104. Interpretation and construction of water quality provisions.

(1) No provision of this article shall be interpreted so as to supersede, abrogate, or impair rights to divert water and apply water to beneficial uses in accordance with the provisions of sections 5 and 6 of article XVI of the constitution of the state of Colorado, compacts entered into by the state of Colorado, or the provisions of articles 80 to 93 of title 37, C.R.S., or Colorado court determinations with respect to the determination and administration of water rights. Nothing in this article shall be construed, enforced, or applied so as to cause or result in material injury to water rights. The general assembly recognizes that this article may lead to dischargers choosing consumptive types of treatment techniques in order to meet water quality requirements. Under such circumstances, the discharger must comply with all of the applicable provisions of articles 80 to 93 of title 37, C.R.S., and shall be obliged to remedy any material injury to water rights to the extent required under the provisions of articles 80 to 93 of title 37, C.R.S. The question of whether such material injury to water rights exists and the remedy therefor shall be determined by the water court. This section shall not be interpreted so as to prevent the issuance of a permit pursuant to sections 25-8-501 to 25-8-503 which is necessary to protect public health. Nothing in this article shall be construed to allow the commission or the division to require minimum streamflows or minimum water levels in any lakes or impoundments.

(2) The following criteria, in addition to those otherwise prescribed by law, shall apply to any policy, rule-making, adjudicatory, administrative, or executive decision of the water quality control commission or to any judicial decision related thereto:

(a) All state waters shall be presumed to be available for beneficial uses under and in accordance with the constitution and laws of the state; and a water right includes the right to divert as defined in section 37-92-103 (7), C.R.S., the waters of the state for application to beneficial use.

(b) The commission or division shall not require an instream flow for any purpose.

(c) Mixing zones in state waters shall be allowed in accordance with other provisions of this article in calculating the necessary degree of source pollutant control, so long as water rights are not materially injured.

(d) The commission and division shall consult with the state engineer and the water conservation board or their designees before making any decision or adopting any rule or policy which has the potential to cause material injury to water rights.

(e) Underground water may be extracted from state waters in order to treat or remove pollutants from the water extracted; except that any material injury to water rights resulting therefrom shall be remedied as required by law.

(3) The state engineer shall issue well permits pursuant to section 37-90-137 (2), C.R.S., necessary to accomplish the purposes of paragraph (e) of subsection (2) of this section. Well construction shall be in accordance with article 91 of title 37, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: Entire section amended, p. 1171, § 1, effective June 8.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "Quality Versus Quantity: The Continued Right to Appropriate — Part I", see 15 Colo. Law. 1035 (1986). For article, "The Burden of Maintaining Colorado's Water Quality", see 18 Colo. Law. 23 (1989). For article, "Water Rights Protection In Water Quality Law", see 60 U. Colo. L. Rev. 841 (1990). For article, "What is a 'Material Injury' to a Water Right?", see 19 Colo. Law. 1333 (1990).

The water court is not required to consider environmental factors to determine whether to grant conditional water right decree. Matter of Bd. of County Comm'rs, 891 P.2d 952 (Colo. 1995).

Water quality regulation that affects water rights without causing material injury or impairment is not necessarily prohibited. City of Thornton v. Bijou Irrigation Co., 926 P.2d 1 (Colo. 1996).

The legislative water quality scheme is not designed to protect against quality impacts unrelated to discharges or substitute water and specifically prohibits the water court from imposing the protective measures necessary to remedy depletive impacts of upstream appropriations on a downstream appropriator who is concerned that decreased water quantity caused by city's upstream appropriation will result in water quality problem. City of Thornton v. Bijou Irrigation Co., 926 P.2d 1 (Colo. 1996).

The legislature prohibited the Colorado water quality control commission and the water quality division from imposing minimum instream flows in the course of their water quality protection activities. City of Thornton v. Bijou Irrigation Co., 926 P.2d 1 (Colo. 1996).

Under Colorado law, water quality standards apply to discharges of pollution and not to withdrawals or appropriations of water. Colo. Wild, Inc. v. U.S. Forest Serv., 122 F. Supp. 2d 1190 (D. Colo. 2000).

25-8-105. Regional wastewater management plans - amendments.

(1) (a) Regional wastewater management plans which include plans known for purposes of the federal act as "208 plans" may be developed by designated planning agencies or by the state for nondesignated areas or for statewide purposes.

(b) Before submitting a proposed plan or amendment to the division, the designated planning agency shall hold a hearing on the proposed plan or amendment.

(c) The division shall consider any proposed plan or amendment developed by the state.

(d) Notice of a hearing to be held pursuant to this subsection (1) shall be given by at least one publication in a newspaper of general distribution in the area of the proposed plan, and actual notice shall be given to anyone requesting such notice. Such notice shall advise of the opportunity for interested persons to appear and submit written or oral comments on the proposed plan or amendment. The agency holding the hearing shall receive and consider all comments submitted on the proposed plan or amendment.

(2) Each regional wastewater management plan and each amendment to such a plan must be either developed or reviewed by the division.

(3) (a) The commission, after notice and hearing, shall approve or reject proposed regional wastewater management plans and amendments thereto. The commission shall approve, conditionally approve, or reject a plan or an amendment developed by a management or planning agency within one hundred eighty days after submittal of the plan or amendment by the management or planning agency to the division. Only those portions of a regional wastewater management plan which are adopted as a regulation by the commission pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., shall be binding on regulatory decisions, including, but not limited to, site approvals, construction grants, or point or nonpoint source control decisions. Only those plans or portions thereof which are adopted by the commission as regulations shall be binding for purposes of any federal law, regulation, or action.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the commission may delegate to the division the authority to approve, conditionally approve, or reject nonrule-making amendments to regional wastewater management plans. If the commission delegates such authority, the division shall give notice of its decision on an amendment to the commission and to anyone who has requested notice of amendments to the affected plan. Notice of such decision shall also be included on the next commission agenda. Upon a request by any affected person, the commission shall review the division's decision. The decision of the division shall be final within forty-five days after agenda notice of the decision has been given unless review is requested by an affected person.

(4) The governor may certify to the federal environmental protection agency a regional wastewater management plan or an amendment thereto which has been approved by the commission or an amendment thereto which has become final after approval by the division. The governor may designate planning agencies for the purposes of the federal act.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (3)(a) amended, p. 1019, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-106. Study - organizational placement of water quality control programs. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1298, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(1), (1)(d), and (2) amended, p. 2789, § 518, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section repealed, p. 1260, § 160, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act repealing this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-8-107. Cross-connection control services - backflow prevention devices - requirements - definitions.

(1) Nothing in this section applies to or affects any other section in this article 8.

(2) Nothing in this section requires the department of public health and environment to perform inspections.

(3) Nothing in this section requires the commission or the department of public health and environment to enforce this section.

(4) (a) On and after July 1, 2025, a certified cross-connection control technician or a licensed plumber with a cross-connection control technician certification who tests or repairs a backflow prevention device shall affix a tag on the backflow prevention device that contains the following information:

(I) The name and contact information of the business with which the certified cross-connection control technician or the licensed plumber with a cross-connection control technician certification is affiliated;

(II) The date the service was provided;

(III) A description of the service provided; and

(IV) The ASSE or ABPA certification number of the certified cross-connection control technician or the licensed plumber with a cross-connection control technician certification, along with the plumbing contractor's registration number or the license number of the master plumber attached to the contractor, issued by the state plumbing board, if applicable.

(b) A certified cross-connection control technician or a licensed plumber with a cross-connection control technician certification may document multiple services on one tag.

(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "ABPA" means the American Backflow Prevention Association or its successor organization.

(b) "ASSE" means the American Society of Sanitary Engineering or its successor organization.

(c) "Certified cross-connection control technician" means an individual who possesses a valid backflow prevention assembly tester certification from the ASSE or the ABPA.

(d) "Licensed plumber with a cross-connection control technician certification" means an individual who is a licensed plumber and possesses a valid backflow prevention assembly tester certification from the ASSE or the ABPA.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1077), ch. 39, p. 188, § 3, effective March 28.

PART 2

WATER QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION

25-8-201. Water quality control commission created.

(1) (a) (I) There is created in the department of public health and environment a water quality control commission, which is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and which exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department of public health and environment.

(II) The commission consists of nine citizens of the state appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate, for terms of three years; except that the terms must be staggered so that no more than five members' terms expire in the same year. Members of the commission must be appointed so as to achieve geographical representation and to reflect the various interests in water in the state. At least two members must reside in that portion of the state that is west of the continental divide. No more than five members of the commission may be affiliated with the same political party.

(III) At least one member of the commission must have agricultural experience, preferably a member with agricultural experience who is also regulated by the division. At least three other members of the commission must be from the community regulated by the division, employed by an entity that is subject to fees set pursuant to this article 8, and, to the extent practicable, employed by an entity that is subject to a different type of fee pursuant to this article 8 than the type of fee that the employers of the other two members are subject.

(IV) A member of the commission must have experience or training in one or more of the following areas:

(A) Science;

(B) Engineering;

(C) Technology;

(D) Industry;

(E) Construction;

(F) Labor;

(G) Agriculture;

(H) Environmental law;

(I) Environmental policy;

(J) Environmental justice;

(K) Municipal water treatment;

(L) Municipal wastewater treatment;

(M) Municipal government; or

(N) County government.

(b) Repealed.

(c) Whenever a vacancy exists, the governor shall appoint a member for the remaining portion of the unexpired term created by the vacancy, subject to confirmation by the senate.

(2) (a) The governor may remove any appointed member of the commission for malfeasance in office, failure to regularly attend meetings, or for any cause that renders such a member incapable or unfit to discharge the duties of his office.

(b) If any member of the commission is absent from two consecutive meetings, the chairman of the commission shall determine whether the cause of such absences was reasonable. If he determines that the cause of the absences was unreasonable, he shall so notify the governor who may remove such member and appoint a qualified person for the unexpired portion of the regular term, subject to confirmation by the senate.

(3) Each member of the commission not otherwise in full-time employment of the state shall receive a per diem which shall be the same amount paid to the general assembly for attendance at interim committees for each day actually and necessarily spent in the discharge of official duties, not to exceed twelve hundred dollars in any one year; and each member shall receive traveling and other necessary expenses actually incurred in the performance of his official duties as a member of the commission.

(4) The commission shall select from its own membership a chairman, a vice-chairman, and a secretary. The commission shall keep a record of its proceedings.

(5) The commission shall hold regular public meetings and may hold special meetings on the call of the chairman or vice-chairman at such other times as deemed necessary. Written notice of the time and place of each meeting shall be mailed to each member at least five days in advance.

(6) All members shall have a vote. Two-thirds of the commission shall constitute a quorum, and the concurrence of a majority of the quorum in any matter within its powers and duties shall be required for any determination made by the commission.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1314, § 1, effective July 1. L. 84: (1)(a) amended, p. 784, § 1, effective March 16. L. 96: (1)(a) amended, p. 1473, § 22, effective June 1. L. 2005: (1)(b) repealed, p. 283, § 24, effective August 8. L. 2022: (1)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 60, § 79, effective February 25; (1)(a) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3369, § 52, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(a) amended, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1110, § 3, effective May 17.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1)(a) by SB 22-013 and SB 22-162 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "Pollution or Resources Out-of-Place: Reclaiming Municipal Wastewater for Agricultural Use", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 559 (1982). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982).

25-8-202. Duties of commission - rules.

(1) The commission shall develop and maintain a comprehensive and effective program for prevention, control, and abatement of water pollution and for water quality protection throughout the entire state and, to ensure provision of continuously safe drinking water by public water systems, and, in connection therewith, shall:

(a) Classify state waters in accordance with section 25-8-203;

(b) Promulgate water quality standards in accordance with section 25-8-204;

(c) Promulgate control regulations in accordance with section 25-8-205;

(d) Promulgate permit regulations in accordance with sections 25-8-501 to 25-8-504;

(e) Perform duties assigned to the commission in part 7 of this article with respect to the location, design, construction, financing, and operation of domestic wastewater treatment plants;

(f) Review from time to time, at intervals of not more than three years, classification of waters, water quality standards, and control regulations which it has promulgated;

(g) Promulgate rules and adopt priority ranking for the administration of federal and other public source construction loans or grants, and grants from the water quality improvement fund, which the commission or the division administers and which shall not be expended for any purpose other than that for which they were provided;

(h) Advise and consult and cooperate with other agencies of the state, the federal government, and other states, and with groups, political subdivisions, and industries affected by the provisions of this article and the policies or regulations of the commission;

(i) Exercise all incidental powers necessary or proper for carrying out the purposes of this article including the powers to issue and enforce rules and orders;

(i.5) Promulgate rules and regulations to govern the division's certification activities pursuant to section 401 of the federal act;

(j) Perform such other duties as may lawfully be assigned to it by Colorado statutes;

(k) Act as an appellate body to review all determinations by the division except those determinations dealing with surface water discharge permits or portions thereof;

(l) Coordinate with the United States secretary of the interior and the United States secretary of agriculture to develop water quality management plans for federal lands pursuant to 16 U.S.C. sec. 530, 16 U.S.C. sec. 1604, and 43 U.S.C. sec. 1712;

(m) Adopt rules providing minimum standards for the location, construction, performance, installation, alteration, and use of on-site wastewater treatment systems within the state of Colorado, in accordance with section 25-10-104;

(n) Adopt minimum general sanitary standards for drinking water systems in accordance with section 25-1.5-202;

(o) Develop additions or modifications to the drinking water project eligibility list in accordance with section 37-95-107.8, C.R.S.;

(p) Establish, and revise as necessary, a schedule of nonrefundable fees to cover the reasonable costs of implementing a program for the beneficial use of biosolids, in accordance with section 30-20-110.5, C.R.S.; and

(q) Hear appeals of penalties imposed pursuant to section 25-1-114.1 (2.5) for a violation of minimum general sanitary standards and regulations for drinking water.

(2) The commission shall have authority to implement the legislative declaration as prescribed in section 25-8-102.

(3) The commission shall hold a public hearing during the month of October of each year in order to hear public comment on water pollution problems within the state, alleged sources of water pollution within this state, and the availability of practical remedies therefor; and at such hearing the commission, administrator, and division personnel shall answer reasonable questions from the public concerning administration and enforcement of the various provisions of this article, as well as rules and regulations promulgated under the authority of this article.

(4) The commission shall employ an administrator and shall delegate to such administrator such duties and responsibilities as it may deem necessary, including acting as a hearing officer for the commission; but no authority shall be delegated to such administrator to promulgate standards or regulations, or to make determinations, or to issue or countermand orders of the commission. Such administrator shall have appropriate practical, educational, and administrative experience related to water quality control and shall be employed pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the state constitution.

(5) Repealed.

(6) The commission is hereby designated as the state water pollution control agency for this state for all purposes of the federal act. The commission shall maintain a program which does not conflict with the provisions of the federal act and is hereby authorized to take all action necessary and appropriate to secure to this state, its municipalities, or intermunicipal or interstate agencies the benefits of said act.

(7) The commission and the division shall recognize water quality responsibilities of the following state agencies, referred to in this subsection (7) as the "implementing agencies": The office of mined land reclamation; the state engineer; the energy and carbon management commission created in section 34-60-104.3 (1); and the state agency responsible for activities related to the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", 42 U.S.C. sec. 6901 et seq., as amended, and related state programs. Activities subject to the jurisdiction of the implementing agencies that result in discharge to state waters shall be regulated as follows:

(a) The commission shall be solely responsible for the adoption of water quality standards and classifications for state waters affected by such discharges. Except as set forth in paragraph (b) of this subsection (7), such classifications and standards shall be implemented by the implementing agencies, after consultation with the division and the commission, through their own programs. For the purpose of subsection (7), water quality standards and classifications under this section for state waters other than surface waters shall not specify applicable points of compliance, but such points of compliance shall be adopted, in accordance with criteria established through rule-making after public hearing and consultation with the commission and division, by the appropriate agency with jurisdiction as specified in paragraph (b) of this subsection (7) so as to protect present and future beneficial uses of water.

(b) (I) The division shall be solely responsible for the issuance and enforcement of permits authorizing point source discharges to surface waters of the state affected by such discharges.

(II) Neither the commission nor the division shall require permits for, or otherwise regulate, other activities subject to the jurisdiction of the implementing agencies, unless the commission finds, after notice and public hearing, that:

(A) Such regulation is necessary to assure compliance with the federal act, the provisions of articles 80 to 93 of title 37, C.R.S., or water quality standards and classifications adopted for state waters or to protect present and future beneficial uses of water; or

(B) Such regulation is necessary to avoid the imposition of a disproportionate burden on other dischargers or classes of dischargers to the affected state waters who are subject to the requirements of this article; or

(C) The implementing agency fails to provide reasonable assurance that compliance with this subsection (7) has been obtained through its own programs.

(III) Regulation by the commission under this paragraph (b) shall be undertaken solely through the adoption of control regulations under section 25-8-205, or permit regulations under section 25-8-501, and the division may enforce such regulations as provided in this article.

(c) Nothing in this subsection (7) shall relieve any activity from participation in waste load allocation proceedings under this article or limit the emergency authority of the division pursuant to section 25-8-307.

(d) This subsection (7) is intended to restate and clarify existing law and to provide a procedure for coordination between state agencies which have responsibilities to implement water quality protection of state waters. It is not intended either to grant additional jurisdiction to any agency or to curtail the jurisdiction of any agency to fulfill its statutory responsibilities, including jurisdiction to maintain a program consistent with the requirements of the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", as amended.

(8) (a) The commission may adopt rules more stringent than corresponding enforceable federal requirements only if it is demonstrated at a public hearing, and the commission finds, based on sound scientific or technical evidence in the record, that state rules more stringent than the corresponding federal requirements are necessary to protect the public health, beneficial use of water, or the environment of the state. Those findings shall be accompanied by a statement of basis and purpose referring to and evaluating the public health and environmental information and studies contained in the record which form the basis for the commission's conclusion.

(b) The existing policies, rules, and regulations of the commission and division shall be applied in conformance with section 25-8-104 and this section.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1315, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1)(i.5) added and (6) amended, p. 906, §§ 1, 2, effective June 4. L. 88: (1)(i) amended and (1)(k) added, p. 1019, § 2, effective July 1. L. 89: (7) and (8) added, p. 1172, § 2, effective June 8. L. 92: IP(7) amended, p. 1970, § 75, effective July 1. L. 96: (5) repealed, p. 1260, § 161, effective August 7. L. 2003: (1)(l) added, p. 1036, § 8, effective April 17. L. 2005: (4) amended, p. 283, § 25, effective August 8. L. 2006: (1)(g) amended, p. 1275, § 3, effective May 26; IP(1) amended and (1)(m), (1)(n), (1)(o), and (1)(p) added, p. 1128, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2008: (1)(q) added, p. 431, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2012: (1)(m) amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 494, § 4, effective August 8. L. 2023: IP(7) amended, (SB 23-285), ch. 235, p. 1255, § 29, effective July 1.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2003 act enacting subsection (1)(l), see section 1 of chapter 145, Session Laws of Colorado 2003.

(2) For the "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", see Pub.L. 94-580, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Burden of Maintaining Colorado's Water Quality", see 18 Colo. Law. 23 (1989).

Future as well as existing sources must be considered by the commission to fulfill the purpose of the Act to maximize the beneficial uses of water. Amax, Inc. v. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 790 P.2d 879 (Colo. App. 1989).

Judicial review of the commission's regulations which are predominantly policy determinations is limited to considerations of reasonableness. Amax, Inc. v. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 790 P.2d 879 (Colo. App. 1989).

The Colorado water quality control commission and the Colorado water quality control division are expressly delegated authority to approve site locations of wastewater treatment facilities. Barr Lake Vill. Metro. District v. Colo. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 835 P.2d 613 (Colo. App. 1992).

When mining company entered into settlement agreement with the mined land reclamation division concerning a permit violation, res judicata did not apply because the division did not have the authority to enforce the permit issued by the Water Quality Control Division. Mid-Continent Res., Inc. v. Looby, 877 P.2d 1385 (Colo. App. 1994).

The state engineer's water quality control responsibilities are integrated into the general administration of water quality under the Water Quality Control Act. City of Thornton v. Bijou Irrigation Co., 926 P.2d 1 (Colo. 1996).

25-8-203. Classification of state waters.

(1) The commission may classify state waters.

(2) The types of classes shall be determined by regulations and may be based upon or intended to indicate or describe any relevant characteristic, such as:

(a) The existing extent of pollution or the maximum extent of pollution to be tolerated as a goal;

(b) Whether or not pollution arises from natural sources;

(c) Present beneficial uses of the water, or the beneficial uses that may be reasonably expected in the future for which the water is suitable in its present condition, or the beneficial uses for which it is to become suitable as a goal;

(d) The character and uses of the land area bordering the water;

(e) The need to protect the quality of the water for beneficial uses such as domestic, agricultural, municipal, and industrial uses, the protection and propagation of fish and wildlife, recreation, drinking water, or such beneficial uses as the commission deems consistent with the policies of section 25-8-102 and the need to minimize negative impacts on water rights;

(f) The type and character of the water, such as surface or subsurface, lake or stream, together with volume, flow, depth, stream gradient, temperature, surface area involved, and daily or seasonal variability of any of such characteristics. Waters in ditches and other man-made conveyance structures shall not be classified, and water quality standards shall not be applied to them but may be utilized for purposes of discharge permits.

(3) The particular class into which any particular segment of state waters is placed shall be determined by regulation.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1317, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (2)(e) amended, p. 906, § 3, effective June 4.

Cross references: For circumstances that will result in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982).

25-8-204. Water quality standards.

(1) Water quality standards shall be promulgated by the commission by regulations which describe water characteristics or the extent of specifically identified pollutants for state waters.

(2) Water quality standards may be promulgated with respect to any measurable characteristic of water, including, but not limited to:

(a) Toxic substances;

(b) Suspended solids, colloids, and combinations of solids with other suspended substances;

(c) Bacteria, fecal coliform, fungi, viruses, and other biological constituents and characteristics;

(d) Dissolved oxygen, and the extent of oxygen demanding substances;

(e) Phosphates, nitrates, and other dissolved nutrients;

(f) pH and hydrogen compounds;

(g) Chlorine, heavy metals, and other chemical constituents;

(h) Salinity, acidity, and alkalinity;

(i) Trash, refuse, oil and grease, and other foreign material;

(j) Taste, odor, color, and turbidity;

(k) Temperature.

(3) Water quality standards may be promulgated for use in connection with any one or more of the classes of state waters established by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-203 and may be made applicable with respect to any designated portion of state water or to all state waters.

(4) In promulgating water quality standards, the commission shall consider:

(a) The need for standards which regulate specified pollutants;

(b) Such information as may be available to the commission as to the degree to which any particular type of pollutant is subject to treatment; the availability, practicality, and technical and economic feasibility of treatment techniques; the impact of treatment requirements upon water quantity; and the extent to which the discharge to be controlled is significant;

(c) The continuous, intermittent, or seasonal nature of the pollutant to be controlled;

(d) The existing extent of pollution or the maximum extent of pollution to be tolerated as a goal;

(e) Whether the pollutant arises from natural sources;

(f) Beneficial uses of water; and

(g) Such information as may be available to the commission regarding the risk associated with the pollutants including its persistence, degradability, the usual or potential presence of the affected organism in any waters, the importance of the affected organisms, and the nature and extent of the effect of the pollutant on such organisms.

(5) In establishing water quality standards using statistical methodologies or in requiring the use of statistical methodologies for permit or enforcement purposes, statistical methodologies used must be based on assumptions that are compatible with the water quality data.

(6) For the purpose of implementing section 303(c)(2)(B) of the federal act, the commission may adopt numerical water quality standards for toxic pollutants listed pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the federal act for which criteria have been published under section 304(a) of the federal act, and these standards may be applied in accordance with this article to discharges of pollutants to specified portions or segments of surface waters where such pollutants may be discharged or are present in the affected surface waters and could reasonably be expected to interfere with classified uses. Monitoring requirements for discharges of such pollutants shall be reasonably related to the potential for the presence of such pollutants in the discharge at levels inconsistent with water quality standards and shall be imposed to the maximum extent practical on those responsible for the presence of the pollutants. This subsection (6) does not in any way limit the commission's authority to adopt water quality standards in order to comply with provisions of the federal act.

(7) If, after full application of publicly owned treatment work authority pursuant to section 307(b)(1) of the federal act, stream standards or effluent limitations established pursuant to subsection (6) of this section are exceeded as a result of a discharge from a publicly owned treatment work, the commission, upon request of a publicly owned treatment work, shall conduct a public hearing to investigate the source of pollution causing such exceedance.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1317, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (3) amended, p. 907, § 4, effective June 4. L. 89: (6) and (7) added, p. 1174, § 3, effective June 8. L. 96: (7) amended, p. 1260, § 162, effective August 7.

Cross references: (1) For circumstances that will result in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For note, "A Survey of Colorado Water Law", see 47 Den. L.J. 226 (1970). For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "Control of Nutrients in Colorado Surface Waters: Current Status", see 42 Colo. Law. 107 (July 2013).

Water quality standards include numerical limits on the concentration of constituents in water and descriptions of water characteristics which are sufficient to protect the particular use classifications. Amax, Inc., v. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 790 P.2d 879 (Colo. App. 1989).

25-8-205. Control regulations.

(1) The commission may promulgate control regulations for the following purposes:

(a) To describe prohibitions, standards, concentrations, and effluent limitations on the extent of specifically identified pollutants, including, but not limited to, those mentioned in section 25-8-204, that any person may discharge into any specified class of state waters;

(b) To describe pretreatment requirements, prohibitions, standards, concentrations, and effluent limitations on wastes any person may discharge into any specified class of state water from any specified type of facility, process, activity, or waste pile including, but not limited to, all types specified in section 306 (b)(1)(A) of the federal act;

(c) To describe precautionary measures, both mandatory and prohibitory, that must be taken by any person owning, operating, conducting, or maintaining any facility, process, activity, or waste pile that does cause or could reasonably be expected to cause pollution of any state waters in violation of control regulations or that does cause the quality of any state waters to be in violation of any applicable water quality standard;

(d) To adopt toxic effluent standards and pretreatment standards for pollutants which interfere with, pass through, or are otherwise incompatible with sewage treatment works;

(e) To describe requirements, prohibitions, standards, and concentration limitations on the use and disposal of biosolids to protect public health and to prevent the discharge of pollutants into state waters, except as authorized by permit. The commission requirements described pursuant to this subsection (1)(e) must not be more restrictive than the requirements adopted for solid wastes disposal sites and facilities pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 30, except as necessary to be consistent with section 405 of the federal act. Fees must be established as set forth in rules adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-210.

(f) In accordance with sections 25-8-205.7, 25-8-205.8, and 25-8-205.9, to describe requirements, prohibitions, standards, and concentration limitations on the reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater for purposes other than drinking that will protect public health and encourage the reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater;

(g) (I) To describe requirements, prohibitions, and standards for the use of graywater for nondrinking purposes, to encourage the use of graywater, and to protect public health and water quality.

(II) A city, city and county, or county that has adopted an ordinance or resolution regarding the use of graywater pursuant to section 30-11-107 (1)(kk) or 31-15-601 (1)(m) has exclusive enforcement authority regarding compliance with the ordinance or resolution.

(III) Use of graywater is allowed only in accordance with the terms and conditions of the decrees, contracts, and well permits applicable to the use of the source water rights or source water and any return flows from the source water, and graywater use shall not be allowed in a manner that is not allowed under such decrees, contracts, or permits.

(h) In accordance with section 25-8-205.1, to establish requirements, prohibitions, and standards for the discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters.

(2) In the formulation of each control regulation, the commission shall consider the following:

(a) The need for regulations that control discharges of specified pollutants that are the subject of water quality standards for the receiving state waters;

(b) The need for regulations that specify treatment requirements for various types of discharges;

(c) The degree to which any particular type of discharge is subject to treatment, the availability, practicality, and technical and economic feasibility of treatment techniques, and the extent to which the discharge to be controlled is significant;

(d) Control requirements promulgated by agencies of the federal government;

(e) The continuous, intermittent, or seasonal nature of the discharge to be controlled;

(f) Whether a regulation that is to be applicable to discharges into flowing water should be written in such a way that the degree of pollution tolerated or treatment required will be dependent upon the volume of flow of the receiving water or the extent to which the discharge is diluted therein, or the capacity of the receiving water to assimilate the discharge; and

(g) The need for specification of safety precautions that should be taken to protect water quality including, but not limited to, requirements for the keeping of logs and other records, requirements to protect subsurface waters in connection with mining and the drilling and operation of wells, and requirements as to settling ponds, holding tanks, and other treatment facilities for water that will or might enter state waters.

(3) Control regulations may be promulgated for use in connection with any one or more of the classes of state waters authorized pursuant to section 25-8-203 and may be made applicable with respect to any designated portion of state waters or to all state waters.

(4) The commission shall coordinate and cooperate with the state engineer, the Colorado water conservation board, the energy and carbon management commission created in section 34-60-104.3 (1), the state board of health, and other state agencies having regulatory powers in order to avoid adopting control regulations that would be either redundant or unnecessary.

(5) The commission shall not adopt control regulations that require agricultural nonpoint source dischargers to utilize treatment techniques that require additional consumptive or evaporative use which would cause material injury to water rights. With regard to nonpoint source water pollution control related to agricultural practices, the commission and division shall pursue incentive, grant, and cooperative programs in preference to the promulgation of control regulations. When interested water conservation districts, water conservancy districts, and conservation districts recommend nonpoint source control activities related to agricultural practices to the division and commission, the division and commission, after consultation with such districts, shall give substantial weight to the recommendations of such districts into the approved program. Except as provided by section 25-8-205.5, control regulations related to agricultural practices shall be promulgated only if incentive, grant, and cooperative programs are determined by the commission to be inadequate and such regulations are necessary to meet state law or the federal act. This subsection (5) does not allocate wasteloads or relieve any source from participation in wasteload allocations determined necessary under any duly promulgated regulations established by the water quality control commission under this section.

(6) The division may issue a variance from a control regulation of general applicability, based upon a determination that the benefits derived from meeting the control regulation do not bear a reasonable relationship to the economic, environmental, or energy impacts or other factors which are particular to the applicant in complying with the control regulation; except that such variance shall be consistent with the purposes of this article including the protection of existing beneficial uses. No variance shall be issued for longer than five years. Variances shall be granted or renewed according to the procedure established in section 25-8-401 (5).

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1318, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (5) amended, p. 1022, § 1, effective April 6. L. 90: (5) amended, p. 1330, § 3, effective July 1. L. 93: (1)(e) added, p. 1578, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1)(f) added, p. 252, § 2, effective March 31. L. 2002: (5) amended, p. 517, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1)(g) added, (HB 13-1044), ch. 228, p. 1088, § 3, effective May 15. L. 2017: (1)(g)(II) amended, (HB 17-1008), ch. 199, p. 723, § 2, effective August 9. L. 2018: (1)(f) amended, (SB 18-038), ch. 400, p. 2365, § 2, effective August 8; (1)(f) amended, (HB 18-1069), ch. 179, p. 1220, § 2, effective August 8; (1)(f) amended, (HB 18-1093), ch. 171, p. 1197, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2023: (4) amended, (SB 23-285), ch. 235, p. 1255, § 30, effective July 1; (1)(e) amended, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1119, § 10, effective July 1, 2026. L. 2024: (1)(h) added, (HB 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1805, § 1, effective May 29; (1)(g) amended, (HB 24-1362), ch. 277, p. 1842, § 4, effective January 1, 2026.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1)(f) by SB 18-038, HB 18-1069, and HB 18-1093 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act adding subsection (1)(g), see section 1 of chapter 228, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "What is a 'Material Injury' to a Water Right?", see 19 Colo. Law. 1333 (1990). For article, "Control of Nutrients in Colorado Surface Waters: Current Status", see 42 Colo. Law. 107 (July 2013).

Water quality standards may be revised pursuant to this section in addition to § 25-8-207. This section, unlike § 25-8-207, does not require findings of inconsistency. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 809 P.2d 1107 (Colo. App. 1991).

25-8-205.1. State waters protection - applicability - program to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material - duties of commission and division - applicability and scope of section - legislative declaration - definitions - rules.

(1) Legislative declaration.

(a) The general assembly finds that:

(I) On May 25, 2023, the United States supreme court issued an opinion in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency, 598 U.S. 651 (2023), that interpreted the types of water resources that are considered to be "waters of the United States", which are subject to federal permitting requirements under section 404 of the federal "Clean Water Act", Pub.L. 92-500, codified at 33 U.S.C. sec. 1251 et seq., as amended, for the discharge of dredged or fill material. The Sackett ruling became immediately effective in Colorado, and the federal environmental protection agency and the United States Army corps of engineers subsequently published new regulations seeking to conform to the Sackett ruling. As a result, federal permitting requirements for the discharge of dredged or fill material no longer apply to certain state waters, including many wetlands.

(II) As of March 2024, Colorado has not had a state program to authorize the discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters and has instead relied on the United States Army corps of engineers section 404 permit program. The new definition of "waters of the United States" under Sackett, which narrows federal jurisdiction in this area, has created a need for a state dredge and fill program. With fewer federal discharge permits being issued by the United States Army corps of engineers following Sackett, many streams, lakes, and wetlands in Colorado are at risk of irreversible harm.

(III) Some projects involving the discharge of dredged or fill material, such as those for flood control; stream restoration; water development; construction or maintenance of underground utilities, roads, transit, rail, and housing; and similar efforts that are no longer regulated by the federal act as a result of Sackett, face regulatory uncertainty unless Colorado develops its own dredge and fill program; and

(IV) The department of public health and environment led stakeholder efforts during 2023 that focused on regulatory options to address the Sackett decision, and the provisions of this section directly reflect the input received during these efforts concerning exempted activities and excluded types of waters.

(b) The general assembly further finds that:

(I) Water is Colorado's most critical natural resource, and safeguarding water quality is of paramount importance for the protection of public health and Colorado's environment;

(II) Colorado's wetlands and seasonal streams play a crucial role in maintaining water quality for drinking water and wildlife habitats, recharging groundwater, controlling floods, and keeping pollution from entering larger bodies of water;

(III) Given the crucial role that wetlands play in protecting Colorado's water resources, it is in the state's interest to expressly include "wetlands" as a category of "state waters" in the definition of that term used in this article 8. This clarification is consistent with and reiterates the department of public health and environment's longstanding recognition through rules and program implementation that wetlands are state waters deserving of protection under this article 8.

(IV) Developing a state dredge and fill program will benefit the entities that wish to engage in dredge and fill projects within Colorado because, without a discharge authorization framework, those projects will be prohibited to the detriment of Colorado's economy and general welfare;

(V) A state dredge and fill program can provide a mechanism for protecting the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of Colorado's water resources while facilitating a strong and prosperous economy; and

(VI) Notwithstanding the narrower scope of waters protected at the federal level after the Sackett decision, the United States Army corps of engineers' section 404 permit program provides a well-established and protective framework upon which Colorado should model its own dredge and fill program.

(c) Now, therefore, the general assembly declares that:

(I) This section is necessary to establish a comprehensive dredge and fill program to protect state waters, no matter how the federal term "waters of the United States" is defined in the future; and

(II) For the purpose of providing clarification concerning the limitations on the scope of Colorado's dredge and fill program going forward, the program established in this section includes:

(A) Express exemptions for certain types of activities that are not subject to dredge and fill program requirements; and

(B) Express exclusions for certain types of waters that may otherwise fall under the definition of "state waters".

(2) Applicability - limitations. Nothing in this section applies to the activities of federally recognized Indian tribes, Indians, their political subdivisions, or tribally controlled affiliates, which activities are undertaken or to be undertaken on lands within the boundaries of an Indian reservation located within the state. Additionally, nothing in this section applies to the activities of third-party non-Indian owners and operators, which activities are undertaken or to be undertaken with respect to reservation waters on Indian trust lands within the boundaries of an Indian reservation located within the state. With regard to privately owned fee land, as defined in section 25-7-1302 (4), within the boundaries of an Indian reservation located within the state, this section applies only to the discharge of dredged or fill materials of persons who are not Indians.

(3) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Clean Water Policy 17" means the division's Clean Water Policy 17, "Enforcement of Unpermitted Discharges of Dredged and Fill Material into State Waters".

(b) "Compensatory mitigation" means the restoration, reestablishment, rehabilitation, establishment, creation, enhancement, or preservation of state waters for the purpose of offsetting unavoidable adverse impacts that remain after all appropriate and practicable avoidance and minimization has been achieved.

(c) "Consultation" means to give a federal, state, local, or tribal entity the opportunity to provide special expertise to authorization processes and technical groups, act as a cooperating agency, or engage as mutually agreed by the division and the entity.

(d) (I) "Discharge of dredged or fill material" means, except as described in subsection (3)(d)(II) of this section, any addition of dredged or fill material into, including redeposit of dredged or fill material other than incidental fallback within, state waters. The term includes:

(A) The addition of dredged or fill material to a specified discharge site located in state waters;

(B) Runoff or overflow from a contained land or water disposal area; and

(C) Any addition, including redeposit other than incidental fallback, of dredged or fill material into state waters that is incidental to any activity, including mechanized land clearing, ditching, channelization, or other excavation.

(II) "Discharge of dredged or fill material" does not include:

(A) Discharges of pollutants into state waters resulting from the onshore processing of dredged material that is extracted for any commercial use other than fill, which discharges are subject to section 402 of the federal act, even though the extraction and deposit of such material may require a section 404 permit or an authorization issued pursuant to this section;

(B) Activities that involve only the cutting or removing of vegetation above the ground, such as mowing, rotary cutting, and chainsawing, so long as the activity neither substantially disturbs the vegetation's root system nor involves mechanized pushing, dragging, or other similar activities that redeposit excavated soil material; or

(C) Incidental fallback.

(e) (I) "Discharge of fill material" means, except as described in subsection (3)(e)(II) of this section, the addition of fill material into state waters. The term includes:

(A) Placement of fill material that is necessary for the construction of any structure or infrastructure in state waters;

(B) The building of any structure, infrastructure, or impoundment requiring rock, sand, dirt, or other material for its construction;

(C) Site development fills for recreational, industrial, commercial, residential, or other uses;

(D) Causeways or road fills;

(E) Dams and dikes;

(F) Artificial islands;

(G) Property protection or reclamation devices such as riprap;

(H) Levees;

(I) Placement of fill material for infrastructure such as sewage treatment facilities, intake and outfall pipes associated with power plants, and subaqueous utility lines;

(J) Placement of fill material for construction or maintenance of any liner, berm, or other infrastructure associated with solid waste landfills; and

(K) Placement of overburden, slurry, tailings, or similar mining-related materials.

(II) "Discharge of fill material" does not include:

(A) Plowing, cultivating, seeding, or harvesting for the production of food, fiber, or forest products; or

(B) Placement of pilings in state waters, unless the placement has or would have the effect of a discharge of fill material. Placement of pilings for linear projects, such as bridges, elevated walkways, and power line structures, generally does not have the effect of a discharge of fill material. Furthermore, placement of pilings in state waters for a pier, a wharf, or an individual house on stilts generally does not have the effect of a discharge of fill material. Examples of activities that would have the effect of a discharge of fill material include projects where the pilings are so closely spaced that sedimentation rates would be increased, projects in which the pilings themselves effectively would replace the bottom of a body of state waters, projects involving the placement of pilings that would reduce the reach or impair the flow or circulation of state waters, and projects involving the placement of pilings that would result in the adverse alteration or elimination of aquatic functions.

(f) "Drainage ditch" means a ditch that is designed for at least the partial purpose of increasing drainage of a particular land area or infrastructure for purposes including agriculture; transportation, including roadside and railroad transportation; mosquito abatement; and stormwater management.

(g) "Dredge and fill activity" means an activity that includes the discharge of dredged or fill material.

(h) "Dredge and fill program" means the regulatory dredge and fill discharge authorization program described by this section, including the rules promulgated by the commission, as administered by the division pursuant to this section.

(i) "Dredged material" means material that is excavated or dredged from state waters.

(j) "Dredged or fill material" means dredged material or fill material.

(k) "Ecological lift" means an improvement in the biological health, as well as the chemical, geomorphic, or hydrologic health, of an area that has been damaged, degraded, or destroyed.

(l) "Fens or peatlands" means wetlands with organic soil that are classified as a histosol in the guidance document titled "Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the United States" published by the federal natural resources conservation service.

(m) (I) "Fill material" means, except as described in subsection (3)(m)(III) of this section, material placed in state waters where the material has the effect of:

(A) Replacing any portion of state waters with upland; or

(B) Changing the bottom elevation of any portion of any state waters.

(II) "Fill material" includes rock, sand, soil, clay, plastics, construction debris, wood chips, overburden from mining or other excavation activities, and materials used to create any structure or infrastructure in state waters.

(III) "Fill material" does not include solid waste.

(n) "Isolated ordinary high watermark reaches" means reaches of state waters with an ordinary high watermark that are bordered upstream and downstream by uplands.

(o) "Isolated ponds and impoundments" means ponds and impoundments that are not within the one-hundred-year floodplain or within one thousand five hundred feet of an ordinary high watermark of other state waters. In the absence of one-hundred-year floodplain mapping by the federal emergency management agency, the one thousand five hundred feet distance criterion applies.

(p) "Isolated wetlands" means wetlands wholly surrounded by uplands. "Isolated wetlands" does not include wetlands where any portion of the wetland is within the one-hundred-year floodplain or within one thousand five hundred feet of the ordinary high watermark of other state waters. In the absence of one-hundred-year floodplain mapping by the federal emergency management agency, the one thousand five hundred feet distance criterion applies.

(q) "Kettle ponds" means lakes, ponds, or wetlands located within a formerly glaciated landscape and formed by ice blocks left by a retreating glacier.

(r) "Ordinary high watermark" means that line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics, such as:

(I) A clear, natural line impressed on the bank;

(II) Shelving;

(III) Changes in the character of soil;

(IV) Destruction of terrestrial vegetation;

(V) The presence of litter and debris; or

(VI) Other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding area.

(s) "Section 404 permit" means a permit issued by the United States Army corps of engineers pursuant to section 404 of the federal act. The term includes an individual permit, activities authorized by a nationwide or regional permit, and a letter of permission issued in accordance with regulations of the United States Army corps of engineers.

(t) "State waters" has the meaning set forth in section 25-8-103 (19).

(u) "Upland" means any land area that, under normal circumstances, is not a wetland and does not lie below the ordinary high watermark.

(v) "Wetlands" means areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and for a duration sufficient to support, under normal circumstances, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.

(4) Duties of the commission.

(a) (I) Rules for state dredge and fill discharge authorization program - definition. The commission shall promulgate rules by December 31, 2025, as necessary to implement a state dredge and fill discharge authorization program. The rules must focus on avoidance and minimization of adverse impacts and on compensation for unavoidable adverse impacts of dredge and fill activity and must incorporate the guidelines developed pursuant to section 404 (b)(1) of the federal act.

(II) The rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section must include:

(A) Procedures for the issuance, modification, and termination of individual and general authorizations, including public notice and participation requirements;

(B) The duration of authorizations; except that the duration of an authorization must not exceed five years;

(C) The establishment of authorization fees that will be utilized to implement the program pursuant to section 25-8-210;

(D) Details concerning the division's consultation with federal, state, local, and tribal entities, especially those entities with special expertise with respect to any environmental-, natural resource-, or agriculture-related issue; and

(E) An exemption for voluntary stream restoration efforts in ephemeral streams that do not require compensatory mitigation and are designed solely to provide ecological lift where the activity is taking place. As used in this subsection (4)(a)(I)(E), "ephemeral stream" means a stream channel or a reach of a stream channel that carries flow during, and for a short duration as the direct result of, precipitation events and that has a channel bottom that is always above the groundwater table.

(III) The rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section may include:

(A) Further minor clarification of the terminology used to define the exemptions and exclusions in subsections (8)(b) and (8)(d) of this section without limiting or expanding the scope of the exemptions and exclusions; and

(B) A deadline shorter than two years for the division to act upon a complete application for an individual authorization for projects that involve minimal to moderate costs and have minimal water quality impacts or limited potential water quality impacts.

(IV) (A) In promulgating the rules described in subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section, the commission shall ensure that the rules are as protective as the guidelines set forth in section 404 (b)(1) of the federal act and in effect as of May 29, 2024.

(B) If the commission finds, based on a demonstration at a public rulemaking hearing, that the guidelines set forth in section 404 (b)(1) of the federal act are not protecting state waters, the commission shall amend its rules or adopt new rules to protect state waters. Such a hearing may be initiated by the commission upon its own motion or upon a petition from the division. Any interested person may petition to the commission to initiate a hearing, and the commission may grant or deny such a request.

(C) The commission's findings to support any changes to its rules must be based on sound scientific or technical evidence in the record demonstrating that rules more protective than the guidelines set forth in section 404 (b)(1) of the federal act are necessary to protect the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of state waters. The findings must be accompanied by a statement of basis and purpose referring to and evaluating the information and studies contained in the record, which form the basis for the commission's conclusion.

(b) Rules for individual authorizations. The commission shall promulgate rules by December 31, 2025, concerning individual authorizations for dredge and fill activities. The rules must include:

(I) Application requirements, including:

(A) Project location information;

(B) A project description, including site plans;

(C) An alternatives analysis;

(D) A purpose and need statement;

(E) A description of avoidance and minimization measures;

(F) A projected impacts analysis; and

(G) A compensatory mitigation plan;

(II) A prohibition against the discharge of dredged or fill material where there is a practicable alternative to the proposed discharge that would have less adverse impact on state waters so long as the alternative does not have other significant adverse environmental consequences. Any purpose and need statement, evaluation of alternatives, and impacts analysis developed through the section 404 permitting process shall be used for the purpose of implementing this prohibition. The rules must also include criteria for the division to use to implement the prohibition.

(III) Direction to the division to include conditions in individual authorizations, which conditions are designed to:

(A) Remove or reduce the impact to state waters of a discharge of dredged or fill material;

(B) Protect downstream uses;

(C) Address the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the activity on the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of state waters; and

(D) Ensure that an authorized activity as a whole will comply with all applicable state water quality requirements, either as proposed or as conditioned in the authorization; and

(IV) Other individual authorization terms, such as monitoring, record-keeping, and reporting requirements.

(c) Rules for compensatory mitigation. The commission shall promulgate rules by December 31, 2025, to provide details concerning compensatory mitigation requirements, including methods for assuring impacts to wetlands and streams are fully compensated through functional assessments and ratios that can be applied through individual mitigation projects or by applying acre-based ratios using the watershed approach as described by the United States Army corps of engineers.

(5) Duties of the division. The division has the following duties in administering the state dredge and fill discharge authorization program:

(a) Individual authorizations.

(I) Upon the commission's promulgation of rules pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, the division shall issue individual authorizations consistent with the rules promulgated by the commission under subsection (4) of this section.

(II) In addition to any compensatory mitigation requirements the division determines are necessary to comply with the commission's rules and subsection (5)(c) of this section, for projects subject to the requirements of section 37-60-122.2 (1)(b), the division shall take into consideration the official state position regarding mitigation for fish and wildlife resources, which position is established pursuant to section 37-60-122.2 (1), and may adopt all or part of such position into individual authorizations as conditions.

(III) The division shall act upon an application for an individual authorization within two years after receiving a complete application. This period may be extended by a written agreement between the division and the applicant. This period may also be extended by the division if there are significant changes to the project that is the subject of the application or if there is significant new information concerning the environmental impacts of the project, in which case the division shall provide notice to the applicant of the extension in writing along with an explanation of the basis for the extension.

(IV) An individual authorization, including all conditions incorporated into the individual authorization, is subject to administrative reconsideration by the commission under section 25-8-403 and then judicial review under section 25-8-404.

(b) General authorizations - categories - definitions.

(I) In addition to the division's authority in subsection (5)(b)(III) of this section to issue a statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters, the division shall issue general authorizations for the discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters for categories of activities that are similar in nature and similar in impact on the quality of state waters, cause only minimal adverse impacts to state waters when performed separately, and have only minimal cumulative adverse impacts on state waters. The categories of general authorizations must correspond with the various nationwide and regional permits issued by the United States Army corps of engineers. The division may tailor the terms of certain nationwide or regional permits or create additional general authorizations to achieve greater efficiency and to address Colorado-specific needs, including but not limited to emergency response to wildfire and voluntary ecological restoration and enhancement projects.

(II) Beginning January 1, 2025, until the rules described in subsection (4) of this section are promulgated and the division issues general authorizations under the rules, the nationwide and regional general permits issued by the United States Army corps of engineers, as such permits apply to Colorado and subject to subsections (8)(b) and (8)(d) of this section, constitute valid authorizations to discharge dredged or fill material into state waters that are not subject to federal jurisdiction. The division shall recognize compliance with the applicable terms of the nationwide and regional general permits as constituting compliance with this section. Beginning January 1, 2025, an applicant seeking authorization for discharges of dredged or fill material into state waters that are not subject to federal jurisdiction shall submit to the division any preconstruction notification required under the applicable nationwide or regional general permit. If the applicable nationwide or regional general permit requires compensatory mitigation, the applicant shall obtain a temporary authorization from the division pursuant to subsection (6)(a)(II) of this section before the commencement of the activity.

(III) (A) As expeditiously as is prudent and feasible, the division shall issue a statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters. For purposes of this subsection (5)(b)(III), "isolated state waters" are isolated wetlands, isolated ponds and impoundments, and isolated ordinary highwater mark reaches.

(B) The division's statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters does not include the following state waters, which may be isolated state waters: Fens or peatlands or kettle ponds. Discharges of dredged or fill material to these isolated state waters of significance require an authorization by the division as described in subsection (5)(a), (5)(b)(I), or (5)(b)(II) of this section.

(C) The division's statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters must identify best management practices to protect isolated state waters. The statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters must not require preconstruction notification as described in subsection (5)(d) of this section.

(D) The division's statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated waters must not authorize a project where the entire project's unavoidable adverse impacts exceed one-tenth of an acre of wetlands or three-hundredths of an acre of streambed. A project in excess of one of these thresholds requires a permit by the division as described in subsection (5)(a), (5)(b)(I), or (5)(b)(II) of this section.

(E) If the division issues the statewide authorization for discharges to isolated state waters described in this subsection (5)(b)(III) prior to the commission's rule-making described in subsection (4) of this section, the division shall notice the draft general authorization for public comment for sixty days prior to its issuance. The statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters is subject to administrative review by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-403.

(F) The authorization term of the statewide general authorization for discharges to isolated state waters is five years.

(IV) General authorizations issued by the division are subject to administrative reconsideration by the commission under section 25-8-403; except that notices of authorization to conduct an activity under a general authorization are not subject to such administrative reconsideration but are subject to judicial review under section 25-8-404.

(c) Compensatory mitigation requirements.

(I) The division shall include compensatory mitigation requirements in all individual authorizations and in general authorizations where the division determines that the proposed discharge of dredged or fill material will result in:

(A) Greater than one-tenth of an acre of unavoidable adverse impacts to wetlands; or

(B) Greater than three-hundredths of an acre of unavoidable impacts to streams.

(II) Compensatory mitigation must compensate for all functions of state waters that will be lost as a result of the authorized activity. Compensatory mitigation may be accomplished through the purchase of mitigation bank credits, an in-lieu fee program, or permittee-responsible mitigation.

(d) Preconstruction notifications. The division shall utilize the existing structure of preconstruction notifications in the nationwide and regional permits issued by the United States Army corps of engineers, including general authorizations for categories of activities that do not require preconstruction notification. Where preconstruction notification is required by a general authorization before the commencement of an activity, the project proponent must provide at least thirty calendar days of preconstruction notice to the division unless a shorter notice is allowed under the terms of the applicable general authorization. After providing such preconstruction notification, the project proponent may commence the activity if:

(I) The division issues to the project proponent a notice of authorization in writing that the project proponent may commence the activity; or

(II) Forty-five calendar days elapse without the division providing the project proponent a notice of written objection to the activity or providing a notice that the division has determined the notification is incomplete, the activity does not meet the criteria for the category of activities covered by the general authorization, or the activity will not comply with all applicable federal and state statutory and regulatory requirements. A notice of written objection provided to a project proponent by the division must state the basis of the division's objections with specificity, is subject to direct judicial review under section 25-8-404, and is not subject to administrative reconsideration under section 25-8-403.

(e) Notices of authorization. The division may issue notices of authorization, where appropriate, to memorialize coverage under a general authorization. The division may include conditions in notices of authorization, on a case-by-case basis, to clarify the terms and conditions of a general authorization or to ensure that the activity will have only minimal individual and cumulative adverse impacts on state waters.

(f) Administrative guidance. The division may establish guidance to assist in administering the dredge and fill discharge authorization program. Additionally, the division may rely upon relevant guidance from the federal environmental protection agency and the United States Army corps of engineers, including technical guidance and environmental analyses under the federal "National Environmental Policy Act of 1969", 42 U.S.C. sec. 4231 et seq., as amended, in administering the program, to the extent such guidance is consistent with this section and the commission's rules.

(g) Western slope staff. The division may, to the extent resources allow, establish one or more staff positions in the western slope region of the state to assist with dredge and fill program administration in that geographic area.

(6) Repealed.

(7) Relationship to section 25-8-104. The rules promulgated pursuant to this section are subject to, and do not amend or limit, the restrictions described in section 25-8-104.

(8) Applicability and scope of dredge and fill discharge authorization program - prohibitions on discharge without an authorization - definitions.

(a) Except when conducting an exempted activity described in subsection (8)(b) of this section or when discharging into an excluded type of water described in subsection (8)(d) of this section, a person shall not discharge dredged or fill material into state waters without first obtaining coverage under a general authorization or an individual authorization for the discharge.

(b) The following activities are exempt from the requirements of this section and do not require a discharge authorization:

(I) Activities in receipt of an active section 404 permit that was issued prior to May 25, 2023;

(II) Activities in receipt of an approved jurisdictional determination issued by the United States Army corps of engineers prior to May 25, 2023, finding that the state waters into which the proposed discharge of dredged or fill material will occur are not waters of the United States unless there has been a significant hydrological change since the determination was issued;

(III) Activities in receipt of an active section 404 permit that was issued on or after May 25, 2023, except to the extent that the project area of the section 404 permit involves a discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters that have been determined by the United States Army corps of engineers to not be waters of the United States under the section 404 permit and are not otherwise excluded under this section;

(IV) Activities associated with a project for which the project proponent applied for an individual section 404 permit prior to May 25, 2023;

(V) Normal farming, silviculture, and ranching activities, such as plowing; seeding; cultivating; minor drainage; application of on-farm chemicals; harvesting for the production of food, fiber, and forest products; or upland soil and water conservation practices. As used in this subsection (8)(b)(V), "upland soil and water conservation practices" means any discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters incidental to soil and water conservation practices for the purpose of improving, maintaining, or restoring uplands, including rangeland management practices, erosion control practices, and vegetation management practices.

(VI) Maintenance, including emergency reconstruction of recently damaged parts, of currently serviceable structures, such as dikes, dams, levees, lagoons, groins, riprap, breakwaters, causeways, bridge abutments or approaches, and transportation structures. Maintenance also includes minor deviations in a structure's configuration or filled area to accommodate changes in materials, construction techniques, regulatory requirements, or construction codes or safety standards.

(VII) Construction or maintenance of farm ponds, stock ponds, farm lagoons, springs, recharge facilities located in uplands, and irrigation ditches or acequias, or maintenance of a drainage ditch, roadside ditch, or a ditch or canal conveying wastewater or water. Construction of new work or to extend, expand, or relocate an irrigation ditch or acequia for municipal or industrial purposes is not an exempt activity. As used in this subsection (8)(b)(VII):

(A) "Construction" includes new work and work that results in an extension or expansion of an existing structure, and the construction of irrigation ditches or acequias includes activities such as placement of new control structures, ditch relocation, ditch conversion into pipe, and lining, which means placing impervious material such as concrete, clay, or geotextile within the flow perimeter of an open canal, lateral, or ditch with the intent of reducing seepage losses and improving conveyance efficiency. All new lining of ditches, in instances where the ditch has not previously been lined, is considered construction.

(B) "Irrigation ditch or acequia" includes a human-made feature or a maintained natural feature if use of the maintained natural feature existed on January 1, 2024, and an upland swale that moves or conveys water to an ultimate irrigation use or place of use, or moves or conveys irrigation water, also known as "runoff", away from irrigated lands. "Irrigation ditch or acequia" may include a distribution system or its parts, including human-made canals, laterals, ditches, siphons, pumps, headgates, wing walls, weirs, diversion structures, pipes, pump systems, return structures, and such other facilities appurtenant to and functionally related to irrigation ditches. If a ditch carries water that is used for irrigation, irrigation return flows or return flow obligations, aquifer recharge, aquifer or stream augmentation or replacement, or precipitation or snowmelt that moves from an irrigated field either to or away from an area subject to being irrigated, that ditch is considered an irrigation ditch and not a drainage ditch.

(C) "Maintenance" means maintenance pertaining to a human-made structure, such as a farm pond, stock pond, or maintained spring, or a maintained natural feature conveying water for irrigation or wildlife purpose if use of the maintained natural feature existed as of January 1, 2024; maintenance pertaining to a drainage ditch, a roadside ditch, or a ditch or canal conveying wastewater or water for irrigation or for municipal purposes, domestic purposes, industrial purposes, commercial purposes, augmentation, recharge, wildlife, recreation, compact compliance, or any other purpose; and maintenance pertaining to repairs to an existing structure or feature to keep it in its existing state or proper condition or to preserve it from failure or decline. Such maintenance includes excavation of accumulated sediments back to original contours; reshaping of side-slopes; bank stabilization to prevent erosion where reasonably necessary using best management practices and, for maintenance of drainage ditches, materials that are compatible with existing bank materials; armoring, lining, and piping for the purpose of repairing a previously armored, lined, or piped section of a ditch so long as all work occurs within the footprint of the previous work; and replacement of existing control structures where the original function is not changed and original approximate capacity is not increased.

(VIII) Construction of temporary sedimentation basins on a construction site, which construction does not include placement of fill material into state waters;

(IX) Construction or maintenance of farm roads or forest roads or temporary roads for moving wildfire and post-fire mitigation equipment and related materials or mining equipment where such roads are constructed and maintained, in accordance with best management practices, to assure that flow and circulation patterns and chemical and biological characteristics of the state waters are not impaired, that the reach of the state waters is not reduced, and that any adverse impacts on the state waters will be otherwise minimized;

(X) Activities for the purpose of providing emergency response to, preventative mitigation of, or recovery from damage caused by a fire, a flood, or other natural disaster so long as the activity is conducted in a manner that minimizes the loss of state waters to the extent practicable and in accordance with best management practices that do not interfere with efforts to address the underlying emergency;

(XI) Maintenance of water reuse facilities, wastewater reclamation facilities, water management facilities, water treatment facilities, or wastewater water treatment facilities. Such maintenance includes reconstruction due to recent damage or maintenance of currently serviceable structures, such as pumps, control systems, weirs, gates, clarifiers, solids handling, filters, sedimentation basins, treatment ponds and lagoons, and related features, which maintenance activities keep the facility in its existing state or proper condition to preserve it from failure or decline.

(XII) Maintenance activities in off-channel reservoirs that do not directly affect a connected natural stream. Such maintenance includes emergency reconstruction due to recent damage; maintenance of currently serviceable structures such as spillways, outlet structures, gates, pumps, and control systems; and reshaping of side slopes, bank stabilization, or dredging, which maintenance activities keep an off-channel reservoir in its existing state or proper condition and to preserve it from failure or decline.

(XIII) Wildlife habitat management activities, including seeding, cultivating, minor drainage, vegetation management, irrigating, water management, and maintenance of ditches, dikes, embankments, impoundments, water control features, and other water conveyance features that are human-made or maintained or that occur naturally to support wildlife habitat. "Wildlife habitat management" means activities that occur on land managed primarily for wetland or riparian habitats to support wetland and riparian species and does not include activities that are incidental to land used for residential, industrial, or commercial purposes.

(c) Recapture provision - rules. Consistent with section 404 (f)(2) of the federal act, any discharge of dredged or fill material into state waters incidental to any activity that brings an area of the state waters into a use to which it was not previously subject, where the flow or circulation of state waters may be impaired or where the reach of such waters may be reduced, is not included within the exempted activities described in subsection (8)(b) of this section. The commission may further clarify the effect of this subsection (8)(c) through rule-making.

(d) Excluded types of waters - definitions. Notwithstanding the definition of "state waters" provided in section 25-8-103 (19), an authorization is not required for the discharge of dredged or fill material into the following types of waters, and such a discharge is not otherwise prohibited or regulated under this section:

(I) All portions of ditches and canals that are excavated on upland and that convey water or wastewater;

(II) Storm water control features that are constructed to convey, treat, or store storm water and that are created in upland;

(III) Artificially irrigated areas that would revert to uplands if irrigation ceased;

(IV) Artificial lakes, lagoons, or ponds that are created entirely by excavating or diking upland to collect and retain water and that are used exclusively for stock watering, irrigation, settling basins, or rice growing;

(V) Wetlands that are adjacent to a ditch or canal and supported by water in the adjacent ditch or canal;

(VI) Recharge facilities, including ponds, included in uplands for the purpose of facilitating recharge of aquifers or streams;

(VII) Artificial reflecting or swimming pools or other small ornamental bodies of water created by excavating or diking upland to retain water for primarily aesthetic reasons;

(VIII) Water-filled depressions created in uplands incidental to mining or construction activity and pits excavated in uplands for the purpose of obtaining fill, sand, or gravel unless and until the construction or excavation operation is abandoned and the resulting water feature is state waters;

(IX) Swales and erosional features, such as gullies, small washes, and rills, that do not contain wetlands or an ordinary high watermark;

(X) Groundwater. As used in this subsection (8)(d)(X), "groundwater" means subsurface waters in a zone of saturation that are or can be brought to the surface of the ground or to surface waters through wells, springs, seeps, or other discharge areas. "Groundwater" does not include wetlands.

(XI) Prior converted cropland. As used in this subsection (8)(d)(XI), "prior converted cropland" means any area that, prior to December 23, 1985, was drained or otherwise manipulated for agricultural purposes, which includes land use that makes the production of an agricultural product possible, including grazing and haying. Cropland that is left idle or fallow for conservation or agricultural purposes for any period of time remains in agricultural use and, if the cropland otherwise qualifies under this subsection (8)(d)(XI), is prior converted cropland. The commission and the division shall recognize designations of prior converted cropland made by the United States secretary of agriculture. An area is no longer considered prior converted cropland if the area is abandoned and has reverted to wetlands. Abandonment occurs when prior converted cropland is not used for, or in support of, agricultural purposes at least once in the immediately preceding five years. The division shall determine whether prior converted cropland has been abandoned, subject to appeal to the commission.

(9) For the 2024-25 state fiscal year and for each state fiscal year thereafter, if the total number of authorizations issued pursuant to subsection (5) of this section exceeds or is projected by the department of public health and environment to exceed one hundred ten authorizations, the department of public health and environment shall seek a supplemental appropriation from the general assembly to pay the costs of processing the authorizations and to ensure that authorizations are processed in a timely manner.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1805, § 2, effective May 29.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (6), effective September 1, 2026. (See L. 2024, p. 1805.)

25-8-205.3. Exemption from control regulations for graywater research - definition.

(1) Subject to the conditions set forth in subsection (2) of this section, a water utility, an institution of higher education in Colorado, or a public or private entity that a water utility or an institution of higher education in Colorado contracts with to conduct graywater research on the utility's or institution's behalf may collect, treat, and use graywater in a manner that departs from the requirements of the commission's control regulations, as promulgated pursuant to section 25-8-205 (1)(g), for the purpose of conducting scientific research on the collection, treatment, and use of graywater.

(2) A person collecting, treating, or using graywater pursuant to this section:

(a) Shall collect and use the graywater in accordance with the terms and conditions of the decrees, contracts, and well permits applicable to the use of the source water rights or source water and any return flows;

(b) Shall utilize a graywater treatment works system that incorporates a secondary water supply, such as a municipal water supply, to provide an alternative source of water if any portion of the system does not function properly; however, this subsection (2)(b) does not apply to scientific research involving the use of graywater exclusively for irrigation purposes;

(c) Repealed.

(d) May use the graywater for a nonpotable beneficial use including irrigation or toilet flushing if such use is tied to the purpose of the person's scientific research;

(e) Must comply with 45 CFR 46 and other applicable statutes and regulations for scientific research involving human exposure to graywater; and

(f) On an annual basis, shall report to the water resources and agriculture review committee, created in section 37-98-102, the results of periodic monitoring of the project conducted to assess:

(I) The functioning of the graywater treatment works system used to collect graywater; and

(II) For scientific research involving human exposure, the project's continued compliance with the requirements of the federal department of health and human services' regulations concerning the protection of human research subjects, codified in 45 CFR 46.

(3) Only an institution of higher education or a person contracting with an institution of higher education may collect, treat, and use graywater for research involving human exposure.

(4) As used in this section, "scientific research involving human exposure" means a research study in which:

(a) Empirical data is collected and analyzed about collection, treatment, or use of graywater; and

(b) Humans participate as subjects in the study.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (HB 17-1008), ch. 199, p. 723, § 3, effective August 9. L. 2022: IP(2)(f) amended, (SB 22-030), ch. 59, p. 269, § 4, effective August 10. L. 2024: (2)(c)(II) added by revision, (HB 24-1362), ch. 277, pp. 1842, 1843 §§ 5, 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(c), effective January 1, 2026. (See L. 2024, pp. 1842, 1843.)

25-8-205.4. Statewide authorization of graywater use - local government notice required to opt out.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a person may install graywater treatment works and use graywater in accordance with section 25-8-205 (1)(g) and rules adopted pursuant to section 25-8-205 (1)(g).

(2) (a) A board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality may adopt a resolution or an ordinance pursuant to section 30-11-107 (1)(kk) or 31-15-601 (1)(m):

(I) Prohibiting the installation of graywater treatment works and the use of all graywater in the county or municipality; or

(II) Prohibiting one or more categories of graywater use that the commission establishes in rules adopted pursuant to section 25-8-205 (1)(g).

(b) A board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality that adopts a resolution or an ordinance pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section shall notify the division that the board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality prohibits the use of all graywater or prohibits certain categories of graywater use in the county or municipality.

(c) A board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality that has not prohibited the installation of graywater treatment works pursuant to subsection (2)(a)(I) of this section, prior to installation of any graywater treatment works, continues to be responsible for adopting building codes that prevent graywater from entering a potable water system and for reporting to the local water utility the planned installation of graywater systems that require backflow prevention cross-connection control devices under the commission's rules for the purpose of surveying and tracking such devices. For each location within a local government's jurisdiction at which graywater treatment works have been installed, the building department of the local government shall provide the address of the location to each water utility serving that location.

(3) A board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality that sends a notice pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section may subsequently adopt a resolution pursuant to section 30-11-107 (1)(kk) or an ordinance pursuant to section 31-15-601 (1)(m) to authorize the installation of graywater treatment works and the use of graywater or to authorize categories of graywater use previously prohibited. A board or governing body that subsequently authorizes the use of graywater pursuant to this subsection (3) shall promptly notify the division of the subsequent authorization.

(4) Unless a board of county commissioners or governing body of a municipality adopts a resolution or an ordinance to the contrary, a person may install indoor graywater treatment works pursuant to subsection (1) of this section only in new construction projects.

(5) Nothing in this section requires the public disclosure of confidential information related to water rights, water supply, or water facilities.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1362), ch. 277, p. 1839, § 1, effective January 1, 2026.

25-8-205.5. Pollution from agricultural chemicals - rules.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly hereby declares that the public policy of this state is to protect state waters and the environment from impairment or degradation due to the improper use of agricultural chemicals while allowing for their proper and correct use, in particular, to provide for the management of agricultural chemicals to prevent, minimize, and mitigate their presence in state waters and to provide for the education and training of agricultural chemical applicators and the general public regarding the protection of state waters, agricultural chemical use, and the use of other agricultural methods.

(2) Repealed.

(3) Powers and duties of the commissioner of agriculture.

(a) The commissioner of agriculture shall identify agricultural management areas in the state.

(b) The commissioner shall promulgate rules for the following:

(I) Facilities for the storage of pesticides in bulk, except for facilities storing pesticides used for water treatment at public water systems, which are systems used to provide the public with piped water for human consumption, and domestic wastewater treatment works;

(II) Mixing and loading areas where any of the following are handled in any one-year period:

(A) Five hundred gallons or more, in the aggregate, of formulated product or combination of formulated products of liquid pesticides;

(B) Three thousand pounds or more, in the aggregate, of formulated product or combination of formulated products of dry pesticides;

(C) One thousand five hundred pounds or more, in the aggregate, of active ingredients of pesticides;

(III) Storage facilities where any liquid fertilizer is stored in any container or series of interconnected containers having a capacity greater than five thousand gallons;

(IV) Storage facilities where fifty-five thousand pounds or more, in the aggregate, of formulated product or combination of formulated products of bulk dry fertilizer are stored;

(V) Mixing and loading areas at any storage facility subject to the provisions of this section.

(b.1) No rule promulgated pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) shall apply to any field mixing and loading of agricultural chemicals.

(b.2) Every rule promulgated pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) shall include a three-year phase-in period after promulgation of the rule for persons subject to the rule.

(b.3) Pursuant to paragraph (h) of this subsection (3), the commissioner is authorized to enforce rules promulgated pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3).

(c) The commissioner may, in his discretion, develop best management practices for any other activity relating to the use of any agricultural chemical.

(d) If the commissioner determines that the use of best management practices is ineffective or insufficient to prevent or mitigate the pollution of state waters, the commissioner may require, by rule adopted pursuant to article 4 of title 24, the use of agricultural management plans.

(e) The commissioner is authorized to adopt, pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., any other reasonable rules and regulations for the administration and implementation of this section.

(f) The commissioner is authorized to enter into an agreement with the Colorado cooperative extension service to provide training and education as specified in subsection (4) of this section.

(g) The commissioner shall perform the monitoring specified in subsection (5) of this section. The commissioner shall enter into an agreement with the department of public health and environment to assist in the identification of agricultural management areas and to perform analysis, interpretation, and reporting of state waters monitoring data supplied by the commissioner.

(h) With respect to any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) only, the commissioner shall have the following investigation and enforcement powers:

(I) At any reasonable time during regular business hours, the commissioner shall have free and unimpeded access upon consent or upon obtaining an administrative search warrant:

(A) To all areas, buildings, yards, warehouses, and storage facilities in which any agricultural chemicals are kept, stored, handled, processed, or transported; and

(B) To all records, if any, required to be kept and to make copies of such records.

(II) The commissioner shall have full authority to administer oaths and take statements, to issue administrative subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses before him and the production of all books, memoranda, papers, and other documents, articles, or instruments, and to compel the disclosure by such witnesses of all facts known to them relative to the matters under investigation. Upon the failure or refusal of any witness to obey any subpoena, the commissioner may petition the district court, and, upon a proper showing, the court may enter an order compelling the witness to appear and testify or produce documentary evidence. Failure to obey such an order of the court shall be punishable as a contempt of court.

(III) Any complaints of record made to the commissioner and the results of his investigations may, in the discretion of the commissioner, be closed to public inspection, except as provided by court order, during the investigatory period and until dismissed or until notice of hearing and charges are served on any such person subject to a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3).

(IV) (A) Whenever the commissioner has reasonable cause to believe that a violation of any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) has occurred and immediate enforcement is deemed necessary, he may issue a cease-and-desist order, which may require any person to cease violating any such rule or regulation. Such cease-and-desist order shall set forth the rule or regulation alleged to have been violated, the facts alleged to have constituted the violation, and the requirement that all actions be ceased forthwith.

(B) At any time after the date of the service of the order to cease and desist, the person may request a hearing on the question of whether or not such violation has occurred. Such hearing shall be concluded in not more than ten days after such request, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any legal holidays, and shall be conducted pursuant to the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(C) In the event that any person fails to comply with a cease-and-desist order within twenty-four hours, the commissioner may bring a suit for a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief to prevent any further or continued violation of such order.

(D) No stay of a cease-and-desist order shall be issued before a hearing thereon involving both parties.

(E) Matters brought before a court pursuant to this section shall have preference over other matters on the court's calendar.

(V) Whenever the commissioner possesses evidence satisfactory to him that any person has engaged in or is about to engage in any act or practice constituting a violation of any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3), he may apply to any court of competent jurisdiction to temporarily or permanently restrain or enjoin the act or practice in question and to enforce compliance with the rule or regulation. In any such action, the commissioner shall not be required to plead or prove irreparable injury or the inadequacy of the remedy at law. Under no circumstances shall the court require the commissioner to post a bond.

(VI) (A) Any person who violates any rule or regulation adopted pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3) is subject to a civil penalty, as determined by the commissioner. The maximum penalty shall not exceed one thousand dollars per violation. Each day the violation occurs shall constitute a separate violation.

(B) No civil penalty may be imposed unless the person charged is given notice and opportunity for a hearing pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(C) If the commissioner is unable to collect such civil penalty or if any person fails to pay all or a set portion of the civil penalty as determined by the commissioner, the commissioner may recover such amount plus costs and attorney fees by action in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(D) Before imposing any civil penalty, the commissioner may consider the effect of such penalty on the ability of the person charged to stay in business.

(4) Training and education. The Colorado cooperative extension service, acting in cooperation with the commissioner of agriculture and pursuant to any contract authorized in paragraph (f) of subsection (3) of this section, shall disseminate information and provide training regarding agricultural management areas, best management practices, and agricultural management plans.

(5) Monitoring. Pursuant to the commissioner's duties as set forth in any contract authorized in subsection (3)(g) of this section, the commissioner shall identify agricultural management areas and shall conduct monitoring programs to determine:

(a) The presence of any agricultural chemical in state waters at a level that meets or exceeds any water quality standard applicable under this article 8 or that has a reasonable likelihood of meeting or exceeding any such standard; or

(b) The likelihood that an agricultural chemical will enter the state waters, based upon the existence of sufficient, valid scientific data that reasonably predict the behavior of a particular agricultural chemical in the soil.

(6) Reporting of monitoring results - regulation.

(a) If the division determines that any agricultural chemical exists at a level which meets or exceeds any water quality standard or which has a reasonable likelihood of meeting or exceeding any such standard, it shall so notify the commissioner of agriculture and shall provide him with any written reports it deems necessary or desirable to define the extent of such occurrence. When the commissioner has been notified of such an occurrence related to an agricultural chemical which is registered as a pesticide, he shall take reasonable steps to notify the registrant of any such pesticide. When the commissioner has been notified of such an occurrence related to any other agricultural chemical, he shall take reasonable steps to notify the distributors of such chemical in the area affected by such occurrence.

(b) Unless such occurrence is determined by the commissioner of agriculture and the water quality control commission to require a control regulation as set forth in paragraph (c) of this subsection (6), the commissioner of agriculture may promulgate rules and regulations regarding the use of any agricultural chemical giving rise to the occurrence.

(c) If continued monitoring reveals that rules and regulations adopted by the commissioner pursuant to this section are not preventing or mitigating the presence of the subject agricultural chemical to the extent necessary, the commissioner of agriculture and the water quality control commission shall confer and determine whether an amendment to such rules and regulations may be sufficient to prevent or mitigate the occurrence to the extent necessary. Only if the commissioner of agriculture and the water quality control commission determine that such rules and regulations have been or will be insufficient to meet the requirements of state law or the federal act shall the occurrence be referred to the water quality control commission for the promulgation of a control regulation. In the event that the commissioner of agriculture and the water quality control commission fail to agree on such a determination, the authority of the water quality control commission shall be final.

(7) Promulgation of control regulations.

(a) With respect to the regulation of pollutants from agricultural chemicals, the water quality control commission is authorized to promulgate control regulations only when:

(I) Any occurrence has been referred to the commission pursuant to subsection (6) of this section; or

(II) Incentive, grant, and cooperative programs are determined by the water quality control commission to be inadequate as set forth in section 25-8-205 (5).

(b) Any such control regulations shall be promulgated in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture.

(8) Groundwater protection fund - transfer of moneys to the plant health, pest control, and environmental protection cash fund - fees. The fees as specified and collected pursuant to sections 35-9-118 (3)(a) and 35-12-106 (1), C.R.S., and any civil fines imposed pursuant to subparagraph (VI) of paragraph (h) of subsection (3) of this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the plant health, pest control, and environmental protection cash fund created in section 35-1-106.3, C.R.S. Within sixty days after July 1, 2009, the unexpended and unencumbered balance of the groundwater protection fund, as that fund existed prior to July 1, 2009, shall be transferred to the plant health, pest control, and environmental protection cash fund.

(9) Repealed.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1330, § 4, effective July 1. L. 91: (8) amended, p. 1918, § 41, effective June 1. L. 93: (3)(b) amended and (3)(b.1), (3)(b.2), and (3)(b.3) added, p. 996, § 1, effective June 2. L. 94: (3)(g) amended, p. 2789, § 519, effective July 1. L. 96: (9) repealed, p. 1260, § 163, effective August 7. L. 2002: (3)(g) and IP(5) amended, p. 1101, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2009: (8) amended, (HB 09-1249), ch. 87, p. 319, § 15, effective July 1. L. 2014: (3)(b)(I) amended, (SB 14-142), ch. 65, p. 289, § 1, effective March 27. L. 2019: (1), (3)(d), (3)(g), and (5) amended and (2) repealed, (SB 19-186), ch. 422, p. 3689, § 2, effective August 2.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3)(g), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-8-205.7. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - food crops - definitions - rules.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Category 1 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and total suspended solids standards promulgated by the commission for category 1 water.

(b) "Category 2 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 2 water.

(c) "Category 3 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 3 water.

(d) "E. coli" means the Escherichia coli bacteria that are found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals.

(e) (I) "Food crop" means a crop produced for direct human consumption or a tree that produces nuts or fruit intended for direct human consumption.

(II) "Food crop" does not include a crop produced for animal consumption only; except that a crop produced where lactating dairy animals forage is a food crop.

(f) "Point of compliance" means a point, as identified by the person that treats the water, in the reclaimed domestic wastewater treatment process or the reclaimed domestic wastewater transportation process, that occurs after all treatment has been completed but before dilution and blending of the water has occurred.

(2) Reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used as follows:

(a) In compliance with the category 1 standard, for:

(I) Evaporative industrial processes;

(II) Nonevaporative industrial processes;

(III) Nondischarging construction and road maintenance;

(IV) Landscape irrigation at sites with restricted access;

(V) Zoo operations;

(VI) Nonfood crops; and

(VII) Silviculture;

(b) In compliance with the category 2 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard;

(II) Washwater applications;

(III) Landscape irrigation at sites without restricted access;

(IV) Commercial laundries;

(V) Automated vehicle washing;

(VI) Manual, nonpublic vehicle washing;

(VII) Nonresidential fire protection; and

(VIII) If used in accordance with subsection (4) of this section, irrigation of food crops for commercial use;

(c) In compliance with the category 3 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard and the category 2 standard;

(II) Landscape irrigation at sites that are controlled by residents;

(III) Residential fire protection; and

(IV) If used in accordance with subsection (3) of this section, irrigation of food crops for noncommercial use.

(3) All reclaimed domestic wastewater systems must be compliant with and installed in accordance with article 155 of title 12 and any rules promulgated pursuant to that article.

(4) In addition to complying with the category 2 standard pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(VIII) of this section or the category 3 standard pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(IV) of this section and regardless of whether the use is for food crops produced for commercial use or noncommercial use, reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used for irrigation of food crops only if the use meets the water quality standards for commercial crops set forth in the federal "FDA Food Safety Modernization Act", Pub.L. 111-353, as amended. In promulgating rules for the category 2 and category 3 standards at the point of compliance for use of reclaimed domestic wastewater for irrigation of food crops, the commission shall not promulgate any rule that is more stringent than the relevant standards set forth in the federal "FDA Food Safety Modernization Act", Pub.L. 111-353, as amended.

(5) (a) On or before December 31, 2019, the commission may promulgate rules in accordance with this section.

(b) In promulgating rules in accordance with this section, the commission:

(I) May create new categories of water quality standards beyond the three categories set forth in this section; and

(II) May recategorize any of the uses set forth in subsection (2) of this section to a less stringent category of water quality standard.

(c) The commission, by rule, may authorize additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater for any of the categories of water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or may create a new category of water quality standard for one or more additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater.

(d) The commission may promulgate rules more stringent than the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section only if the commission:

(I) Determines that the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section are not protective of public health; and

(II) Identifies:

(A) A documented incident of microbial disease that the commission determines has a reasonable potential to affect public health and for which the commission has identified as likely originating from reclaimed domestic wastewater; or

(B) A peer-reviewed published article that identifies a potential public health risk posed by the use of reclaimed domestic wastewater under the standards established in subsection (2) of this section.

(6) Following a public stakeholders process, the water quality control division may develop policy, guidance, or best management practices that are consistent with this section, as the division deems necessary to implement this section.

(7) In addition to the relief available under section 25-8-205 (6), the division may grant a user of reclaimed domestic wastewater a variance from the water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or established by rule by the commission pursuant to subsection (5) of this section if the user demonstrates to the division's satisfaction that the proposed usage of reclaimed domestic wastewater will sufficiently protect public health and the environment.

(8) Use of reclaimed domestic wastewater is allowed only in accordance with the terms and conditions of the decrees, contracts, and well permits applicable to the use of the source water rights or source water and any return flows therefrom.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1093), ch. 171, p. 1197, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1)(f) amended, (HB 19-1200), ch. 78, p. 283, § 1, effective August 2; (3) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1704, § 162, effective October 1.

25-8-205.8. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - toilet flushing - definitions - rules.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Category 1 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and total suspended solids standards promulgated by the commission for category 1 water.

(b) "Category 2 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 2 water.

(c) "Category 3 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 3 water.

(d) "E. coli" means the Escherichia coli bacteria that are found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals.

(e) (I) "Food crop" means a crop produced for direct human consumption or a tree that produces nuts or fruit intended for direct human consumption.

(II) "Food crop" does not include a crop produced for animal consumption only; except that a crop produced where lactating dairy animals forage is a food crop.

(f) "Point of compliance" means, except as provided in subsection (1.5) of this section, a point, as identified by the person that treats the water, in the reclaimed domestic wastewater treatment process or the reclaimed domestic wastewater transportation process, that occurs after all treatment has been completed but before dilution and blending of the water has occurred.

(1.5) With regard to reclaimed domestic wastewater used for indoor nonpotable uses within a building where the general public can access the plumbing fixtures that are used to deliver the reclaimed domestic wastewater, the commission may promulgate rules to require a point of compliance for disinfection residual, which rules must:

(a) Be based on a determination that the additional point of compliance would protect public health; and

(b) Establish a point of compliance for disinfection residual at a single location between where reclaimed domestic wastewater is delivered to the occupied premises and before the water is distributed for use in the occupied premises.

(2) Reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used as follows:

(a) In compliance with the category 1 standard, for:

(I) Evaporative industrial processes;

(II) Nonevaporative industrial processes;

(III) Nondischarging construction and road maintenance;

(IV) Landscape irrigation at sites with restricted access;

(V) Zoo operations;

(VI) Irrigation of crops that are not food crops; and

(VII) Silviculture;

(b) In compliance with the category 2 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard;

(II) Washwater applications;

(III) Landscape irrigation at sites without restricted access;

(IV) Commercial laundries;

(V) Automated vehicle washing;

(VI) Manual, nonpublic vehicle washing; and

(VII) Nonresidential fire protection;

(c) In compliance with the category 3 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard and the category 2 standard;

(II) Landscape irrigation at sites that are controlled by residents;

(III) Residential fire protection; and

(IV) Toilet and urinal flushing in:

(A) Multifamily residential structures, only if the toilet and urinal installations are conducted in accordance with article 155 of title 12 and rules promulgated pursuant to that article. Any toilet or urinal installation must conform to article 155 of title 12 and rules promulgated pursuant to that article.

(B) Nonresidential structures, only if the toilet and urinal installations are conducted in accordance with article 155 of title 12 and rules promulgated pursuant to that article. Any toilet or urinal installation must conform to article 155 of title 12 and rules promulgated pursuant to that article.

(3) (a) (I) On or before December 31, 2019, and except as provided in subsection (3)(a)(II) of this section, the commission may promulgate rules in accordance with this section.

(II) Notwithstanding subsection (3)(a)(I) of this section, the state plumbing board shall promulgate rules governing the installation and inspection of toilet and urinal systems and structures for which reclaimed domestic wastewater is used pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(IV) of this section.

(b) In promulgating rules in accordance with this section, the commission:

(I) May create new categories of water quality standards beyond the three categories set forth in this section; and

(II) May recategorize any of the uses set forth in subsection (2) of this section to a less stringent category of water quality standard.

(c) The commission, by rule, may authorize additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater for any of the categories of water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or may create a new category of water quality standard for one or more additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater.

(d) The commission may promulgate rules more stringent than the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section only if the commission:

(I) Determines that the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section are not protective of public health; and

(II) Identifies:

(A) A documented incident of microbial disease that the commission determines has a reasonable potential to affect public health and for which the commission has identified as likely originating from reclaimed domestic wastewater; or

(B) A peer-reviewed published article that identifies a potential public health risk posed by the use of reclaimed domestic wastewater under the standards established in subsection (2) of this section.

(4) Following a public stakeholders process, the water quality control division may develop policy, guidance, or best management practices that are consistent with this section, as the division deems necessary to implement this section.

(5) In addition to the relief available under section 25-8-205 (6), the division may grant a user of reclaimed domestic wastewater a variance from the water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or established by rule by the commission pursuant to subsection (3) of this section if the user demonstrates to the division's satisfaction that the proposed usage of reclaimed domestic wastewater will sufficiently protect public health and the environment.

(6) Use of reclaimed domestic wastewater is allowed only in accordance with the terms and conditions of the decrees, contracts, and well permits applicable to the use of the source water rights or source water and any return flows therefrom.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1069), ch. 179, p. 1220, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1)(f) amended and (1.5) added, (HB 19-1200), ch. 78, p. 283, § 2, effective August 2; (2)(c)(IV) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1704, § 163, effective October 1.

25-8-205.9. Control regulations for reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater - industrial hemp - definitions - rules.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Category 1 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and total suspended solids standards promulgated by the commission for category 1 water.

(b) "Category 2 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 2 water.

(c) "Category 3 standard" means a water quality standard for reclaimed domestic wastewater:

(I) Requiring, at a minimum, that the water has received secondary treatment with filtration and disinfection; and

(II) For which, at the point of compliance, the water meets the E. coli and turbidity standards promulgated by the commission for category 3 water.

(d) "E. coli" means the Escherichia coli bacteria that are found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals.

(e) (I) "Food crop" means a crop produced for direct human consumption or a tree that produces nuts or fruit intended for direct human consumption.

(II) "Food crop" does not include a crop produced for animal consumption only; except that a crop produced where lactating dairy animals forage is a food crop.

(f) "Industrial hemp" has the same meaning as set forth in section 35-61-101 (7).

(g) "Point of compliance" means a point, as identified by the person that treats the water, in the reclaimed domestic wastewater treatment process or the reclaimed domestic wastewater transportation process, that occurs after all treatment has been completed but before dilution and blending of the water has occurred.

(2) Reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used as follows:

(a) In compliance with the category 1 standard, for:

(I) Evaporative industrial processes;

(II) Nonevaporative industrial processes;

(III) Nondischarging construction and road maintenance;

(IV) Landscape irrigation at sites with restricted access;

(V) Zoo operations;

(VI) When not used as a food crop, irrigation of industrial hemp or another crop; and

(VII) Silviculture;

(b) In compliance with the category 2 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard;

(II) Washwater applications;

(III) Landscape irrigation at sites without restricted access;

(IV) Commercial laundries;

(V) Automated vehicle washing;

(VI) Manual, nonpublic vehicle washing; and

(VII) Nonresidential fire protection;

(c) In compliance with the category 3 standard, for:

(I) All of the uses for which reclaimed domestic wastewater may be used in compliance with the category 1 standard and the category 2 standard;

(II) Landscape irrigation at sites that are controlled by residents; and

(III) Residential fire protection.

(3) All reclaimed domestic wastewater systems must be compliant with and installed in accordance with article 155 of title 12 and any rules promulgated pursuant to that article.

(4) (a) On or before December 31, 2019, the commission may promulgate rules in accordance with this section.

(b) In promulgating rules in accordance with this section, the commission:

(I) May create new categories of water quality standards beyond the three categories set forth in this section; and

(II) May recategorize any of the uses set forth in subsection (2) of this section to a less stringent category of water quality standard.

(c) The commission, by rule, may authorize additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater for any of the categories of water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or may create a new category of water quality standard for one or more additional uses of reclaimed domestic wastewater.

(d) The commission may promulgate rules more stringent than the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section only if the commission:

(I) Determines that the standards and categories set forth in subsection (2) of this section are not protective of public health; and

(II) Identifies:

(A) A documented incident of microbial disease that the commission determines has a reasonable potential to affect public health and for which the commission has identified as likely originating from reclaimed domestic wastewater; or

(B) A peer-reviewed published article that identifies a potential public health risk posed by the use of reclaimed domestic wastewater under the standards established in subsection (2) of this section.

(5) Following a public stakeholders process, the water quality control division may develop policy, guidance, or best management practices that are consistent with this section, as the division deems necessary to implement this section.

(6) In addition to the relief available under section 25-8-205 (6), the division may grant a user of reclaimed domestic wastewater a variance from the water quality standards set forth in subsection (2) of this section or established by rule by the commission pursuant to subsection (4) of this section if the user demonstrates to the division's satisfaction that the proposed usage of reclaimed domestic wastewater will sufficiently protect public health and the environment.

(7) Use of reclaimed domestic wastewater is allowed only in accordance with the terms and conditions of the decrees, contracts, and well permits applicable to the use of the source water rights or source water and any return flows therefrom.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-038), ch. 400, p. 2366, § 3, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1)(g) amended, (HB 19-1200), ch. 78, p. 284, § 3, effective August 2; (3) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1704, § 164, effective October 1.

25-8-206. Prior acts validated.

(1) All acts, hearings, orders, rules, regulations, and standards adopted by the water pollution control commission as constituted and empowered by the laws of this state prior to July 6, 1973, which were valid prior to said date, shall be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the commission under the authority of this article, and no provision of this article shall be construed to repeal or in any way invalidate any actions, orders, rules, regulations, or water quality standards adopted by said commission prior to said date.

(2) All acts, hearings, orders, rules, regulations, and standards adopted by the water quality control commission as constituted and empowered by the laws of this state prior to July 1, 1981, which were valid prior to said date, shall be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the commission under the authority of this article, and no provision of this article shall be construed to repeal or in any way invalidate any actions, orders, rules, regulations, or water quality standards adopted by said commission prior to said date.

(3) All acts, orders, and rules adopted by the state board of health under the authority of part 2 of article 1.5 of this title, part 1 of article 10 of this title, and section 30-20-110.5, C.R.S., prior to July 1, 2006, that were valid prior to said date and not otherwise subject to judicial review shall, to the extent that they are not inconsistent with said provisions, be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the commission under the authority of such provisions of law. No provision of this article shall be construed to validate any actions, orders, or rules that were not valid when adopted by the board of health prior to such date.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1320, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2006: (3) added, p. 1129, § 5, effective July 1.

25-8-207. Review of classifications and standards.

(1) The commission, upon petition or upon its own motion, shall review, pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., any classification, standard, designation, or regulation adopted pursuant to sections 25-8-203, 25-8-204, and 25-8-209 for consistency with this subsection (1) and consistency with the policies set forth in sections 25-8-102 and 25-8-104. Rule-making hearings on petitions filed under this subsection (1) shall be held expeditiously with respect to such classifications, standards, designations, or regulations adopted prior to July 1, 1992. The commission shall make a finding of inconsistency where:

(a) Use classifications and water quality standards for aquatic life are more stringent than is necessary to protect fish life, shellfish life, and wildlife in water body segments which are reasonably capable of sustaining such fish life, shellfish life, and wildlife from the standpoint of physical, streambed, flow, habitat, climatic, and other pertinent characteristics;

(b) Any use classifications or water quality standards were adopted based upon material assumptions that were in error or no longer apply; or

(c) Any designation does not conform with the provisions of section 25-8-209.

(2) Where the commission determines that an inconsistency exists, it shall declare the inconsistent classifications or standards void ab initio and shall simultaneously establish appropriate classifications or standards.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 907, § 5, effective June 4. L. 92: IP(1) amended and (1)(c) added, p. 1299, § 3, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1992 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 188, Session Laws of Colorado 1992.

ANNOTATION

Water quality standards may be revised pursuant to § 25-8-204 in addition to this section. Section 25-8-204, unlike this section, does not require findings of inconsistency. Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 809 P.2d 1107 (Colo. App. 1991).

25-8-208. Emergency rule-making.

In addition to all other powers of the commission, the commission, pursuant to section 24-4-103 (6), C.R.S., shall have the authority to conduct emergency rule-making for the purpose of adopting an interim standard to apply for a specified period of time in place of an existing water quality standard. The commission shall hold emergency rule-making hearings to consider the adoption of such an interim standard whenever it finds, in its discretion, that the petitioner requesting such rule-making has established exigent circumstances which warrant the emergency action.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 907, § 5, effective June 4.

25-8-209. Water quality designations - rules.

(1) The commission may adopt the following water quality designations:

(a) Outstanding waters;

(b) Use-protected waters.

(2) The commission shall promulgate criteria governing the designations provided in subsection (1) of this section. Such criteria shall be consistent with the provisions of this section and sections 25-8-102 and 25-8-104.

(3) Outstanding waters.

(a) Outstanding waters shall be maintained and protected at their existing quality. Segments shall not be designated as outstanding waters unless the commission determines that:

(I) The quality of the waters is better than necessary to support propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on the water based upon water quality standards for indicator parameters identified by the commission in the criteria promulgated under the provisions of subsection (2) of this section;

(II) The waters constitute an outstanding natural resource; and

(III) Protection of such resource requires protection in addition to that provided by the combination of water quality classifications and standards and the protection afforded reviewable waters under the provisions of subsection (5) of this section.

(b) All waters that were designated as high quality 1 by the commission prior to July 1, 1992, are hereby designated as outstanding waters.

(4) Use-protected waters.

(a) Use-protected waters are those waters with existing quality that is not better than necessary to support propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on the water.

(b) The commission shall utilize the criteria promulgated by rule pursuant to subsection (2) of this section in designating waters as use-protected.

(c) The quality of waters designated as use-protected may be altered if that quality provided for in applicable water quality classifications and standards is maintained.

(5) Reviewable waters. Waters that are not designated as outstanding waters or use-protected waters shall be referred to as reviewable waters. The existing quality of reviewable waters shall be maintained and protected unless it is determined that allowing lower water quality is necessary to accommodate important economic or social development in the area in which the waters are located, which shall include all areas directly impacted by the proposed activity. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this subsection (5), that quality which is provided for in applicable water quality classifications and standards shall be maintained for reviewable waters.

(6) Water quality designations and reviewable waters provisions shall not be utilized by the commission or by any other state, federal, or local agency in a manner that is contrary to the provisions of section 25-8-104.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1299, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2022: (4) amended, (HB 22-1322), ch. 460, p. 3270, § 2, effective June 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1992 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 188, Session Laws of Colorado 1992.

25-8-210. Fees established administratively - rules - shareholding requirement - phase-in period - clean water cash fund - creation - repeal.

(1) (a) On or before October 31, 2025, the commission shall establish the following fees by rule:

(I) Drinking water fees assessed on public water systems pursuant to section 25-1.5-209 (1), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(II) Commerce and industry sector permitting fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.1)(b), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(III) Construction sector permitting fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.1)(c), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(IV) Pesticide sector permitting fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.1)(d), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(V) Public and private utilities sector permitting fees pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.1)(e), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(VI) Municipal separate storm sewer system sector permitting fees pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.1)(f), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(VII) Review fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.2) for requests for certification under section 401 of the federal act, as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(VIII) Preliminary effluent limitation determination fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.3)(b), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(IX) Wastewater site application and design review fees assessed pursuant to section 25-8-502 (1.3)(c), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026;

(X) On-site wastewater treatment system fees assessed pursuant to section 25-10-107 (3), including rules establishing the percentage of the on-site wastewater treatment system fees collected that a county may retain to cover the county's administrative costs, as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026; and

(XI) Biosolids management program fees assessed pursuant to section 30-20-110.5 (1), as that section existed prior to its repeal on July 1, 2026.

(b) The commission shall set the fees and periodically adjust the fees, and the general assembly may, by bill, annually adjust the fees, in an amount sufficient to cover the division's direct and indirect costs associated with administering and implementing the federal act, the federal "Safe Drinking Water Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 300f et seq., section 25-1-114.1, part 2 of article 1.5 of this title 25, this article 8, and the "On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems Act", article 10 of this title 25.

(c) (I) The fee-setting rules adopted pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section must become effective on or before January 1, 2026. If the commission adopts rules authorizing the division to phase in the fee-setting rules, the division may require permit applicants, permit holders, and public water systems to pay fees as set by the fee-setting rules instead of the fees set forth in statute before July 1, 2026.

(II) If the commission establishes a process for the division's phase in of the fee-setting rules pursuant to subsection (1)(c)(I) of this section, the commission's rules must establish a process for the division's phase in of the fee-setting rules. The process established by rule must include notice to permit applicants, permit holders, and public water systems regarding the process, including requirements to post the process on the division's website and engage in community outreach regarding the process.

(III) This subsection (1)(c) is repealed, effective September 1, 2027.

(d) On or before December 31, 2025, the commission shall establish by rule the authorization fees for the dredge and fill program, as defined in section 25-8-205.1 (3). The division shall transmit the fees collected pursuant to the commission's fee-setting rules adopted under this subsection (1)(d) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the clean water cash fund created in subsection (4) of this section.

(2) (a) Before the commission adopts the fee-setting rules pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section or adopts any subsequent adjustments to the fees, and in accordance with section 25-8-502 (1.5)(c)(I)(B), the department of public health and environment shall conduct outreach to obtain stakeholder input regarding the total funding for the division, including federal money, money from the general fund, and all cash fees.

(b) Through the stakeholder process, the department of public health and environment shall identify the fee revenue needed for evaluation of the feasibility of treatment methods required to meet water quality standards and other regulations adopted or proposed for adoption, including the funding needed:

(I) To support the development of variances;

(II) To improve permit issuance processes to increase efficiency and facilitate the timely issuance of new permits;

(III) For renewal permits, permit modifications, and reducing permit backlog; and

(IV) For the preparation of cost-benefit analyses and regulatory analyses when required pursuant to section 24-4-103 (2.5) or (4.5) of the "State Administrative Procedure Act".

(c) In conducting stakeholder outreach, the department of public health and environment shall discuss with stakeholders the options for setting a cap on the amount of fee increases.

(d) Through the stakeholder process, the department of public health and environment shall seek input from:

(I) Owners and operators of regulated drinking water systems;

(II) Permit holders;

(III) County representatives;

(IV) Representatives of other local governments;

(V) Conservation groups;

(VI) Environmental justice groups; and

(VII) Community members, including members of disproportionately impacted communities as defined in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(e) The department of public health and environment shall conduct outreach to and engagement of disproportionately impacted communities pursuant to this subsection (2) in accordance with section 24-4-109 (3).

(3) (a) Repealed.

(b) On and after July 1, 2026, the division shall transmit:

(I) The fees collected pursuant to the commission's fee-setting rules adopted under subsections (1)(a)(II) to (1)(a)(XI) of this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the clean water cash fund created in subsection (4) of this section; and

(II) The fees collected pursuant to the commission's fee-setting rules adopted under subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the drinking water cash fund created in section 25-1.5-209 (2).

(4) (a) The clean water cash fund is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of:

(I) Fees collected pursuant to the commission's fee-setting rules adopted pursuant to subsections (1)(a)(II) to (1)(a)(XI) of this section;

(I.2) Fees collected pursuant to section 25-8-503.7 (3);

(I.5) Money that the general assembly transfers to the fund pursuant to subsection (4)(d) of this section;

(II) Any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund; and

(III) Any federal funds credited to the fund.

(b) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the clean water cash fund to the fund.

(c) The general assembly shall annually appropriate money from the sources specified in subsections (1)(a)(I) and (1)(a)(II) of this section in the clean water cash fund to the department for use by the division for the division's administration and implementation of the federal act and this article 8.

(d) For the 2026-27 state fiscal year and for each state fiscal year thereafter, the state treasurer shall transfer two hundred forty-eight thousand three hundred four dollars from the general fund to the clean water cash fund.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1111, § 4, effective May 17. L. 2024: (1)(d), (4)(a)(I.5), and (4)(d) added, (HB 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1823, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2025: (4)(a)(I.2) added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2479, § 6, effective June 4.

Editor's note: Subsection (3)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (3)(a), effective September 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 1111.)

PART 3

ADMINISTRATION

25-8-301. Administration of water quality control programs.

(1) The department of public health and environment shall administer and enforce the water quality control programs adopted by the commission.

(2) In furtherance of such responsibility of the department, the executive director shall maintain within the division a separate water quality control agency.

(3) The director of said water quality control agency shall be employed pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the state constitution. He or she shall be a licensed professional engineer or have a graduate degree in engineering or other specialty dealing with the problems of pollution and shall also have appropriate practical and administrative experience related to such problems. Such person shall not be the administrator employed pursuant to section 25-8-202 (4).

(4) The division shall act as staff to the commission in commission proceedings other than adjudicatory or appellate proceedings in which the division is a party.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1320, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (1) amended, p. 2789, § 520, effective July 1. L. 2004: (3) amended, p. 1312, § 59, effective May 28.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982).

25-8-302. Duties of division.

(1) The division shall:

(a) Carry out the enforcement provisions of this article, including the seeking of criminal prosecution of violations and such other judicial relief as may be appropriate;

(b) Administer the permit system as provided in part 5 of this article;

(c) Monitor waste discharges and the state waters as provided in section 25-8-303;

(d) Submit an annual report to the commission as provided in section 25-8-305;

(e) Maintain a mailing list of persons requesting notice of actions by the division or by the commission and notify persons on the list of such actions, for which service the division shall assess a fee to cover the costs thereof;

(f) Review and certify, conditionally certify, or deny requests for certifications under the provisions of section 401 of the federal act and this article, known as "401 certificates". Conditions attached to the division's certification shall only implement rules which the commission has made applicable to 401 certifications. General or nationwide permits under section 404 of the federal act shall be certified for use in Colorado without the imposition of any additional state conditions. Appeals by an affected entity of a final 401 certification decision of the division shall be heard in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., of the "State Administrative Procedure Act".

(g) Perform such other duties as may lawfully be assigned to it.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1321, § 1, effective July 1. L. 82: (1)(b) amended, p. 625, § 29, effective April 2. L. 85: (1)(f) amended, p. 908, § 6, effective June 4.

25-8-303. Monitoring.

(1) The division shall take such samplings as may be necessary to enable it to determine the quality of every reasonably accessible segment of state waters, wherever practical. In sampling such waters the division shall give consideration to characteristics such as those listed in section 25-8-204 (2), but if pollution is suspected the sampling shall not be limited or restricted by reason of the fact that no water quality standard has been promulgated for the suspected type of pollution.

(2) As to every segment of state waters so sampled, the division shall endeavor to determine the nature and amount of each pollutant, whether a new or different water quality standard is needed, the source of each pollutant, the place where each such pollutant enters the water, and the names and addresses of each person responsible for or in control of each entry.

(3) As to each separate pollution source identified, the division shall:

(a) Determine what control regulations are applicable, if any;

(b) Determine whether the discharge is covered by a permit and whether or not any condition of the permit is being violated;

(c) Determine what further control measures with respect to such pollution source are practicable.

(4) The division shall inform the commission of any unusual problem which creates difficulties in abating pollution.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1321, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-304. Monitoring, recording, and reporting.

(1) The owner or operator of any facility, process, or activity from which a discharge of pollutants is made into state waters or into any municipal domestic wastewater treatment works shall, according to standard procedures and methods prescribed by the division:

(a) Establish and maintain records;

(b) Make reports;

(c) Install, calibrate, use, and maintain monitoring methods and equipment, including biological and indicator pollutant monitoring methods;

(d) Sample discharges;

(e) Provide additional reasonably available information relating to discharges into domestic wastewater treatment works.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1322, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-305. Annual report - repeal.

(1) (a) On or before October 1 of each year, the division through the executive director shall report to the commission on the effectiveness of this article 8 and shall include in such report any recommendations the division may have with respect to any regulatory or legislative changes that may be needed or desired. The report must include the then-current monitoring information that has been obtained pursuant to section 25-8-303.

(b) The executive director shall also submit the report to the house of representatives agriculture, water, and natural resources committee and the senate agriculture and natural resources committee, or their successor committees. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), this reporting requirement continues indefinitely.

(2) The annual report described in subsection (1) of this section must include information on the division's:

(a) Implementation of the discharge permitting program established in part 5 of this article 8;

(b) Inspections performed;

(c) Enforcement actions under this article 8;

(d) Establishment of any new rules and standards;

(e) Assessment of any emerging trends that the division perceives in issues pertaining to water quality;

(f) Ratio of general fund appropriations to cash fund appropriations that were authorized for the state fiscal year immediately preceding the date of the report;

(g) Revenue and expenditures, including for the division's general administration needs, the division's administration of the clean water and drinking water programs, and the division's allocation of any increased fees established through section 25-8-210 for services that the division provides. The department shall present this information as part of the department's annual "SMART Act" presentation pursuant to section 2-7-203.

(h) Timing in considering and issuing permits, including the number of years administratively continued permits have been pending, categorized by years pending, and a narrative description of the division's plan for processing administratively continued permits that have been administratively continued for longer than five years.

(3) Repealed.

(4) (a) For the report that the division submits in 2025, the report must include:

(I) A description of the fee structure proposed or included in rules that the commission has proposed or adopted pursuant to section 25-8-210 (1)(a);

(II) If the rules proposed or adopted pursuant to section 25-8-210 (1)(a) modify a fee structure set forth in statute, the reasons for the change in the fee structure; and

(III) A summary of options for setting a cap on the amount of fee increases and the department of public health and environment's recommendations on setting a cap based on stakeholder feedback.

(b) The report that the division submits in 2026 must include a detailed discussion of how the division has prioritized reducing the water quality permit backlog, implemented recommendations from permittees for permitting efficiency, and increased the number of safe drinking water program inspections.

(c) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

(5) (a) On or before October 1, 2026, and for each year thereafter, the report described in subsection (1) of this section must provide an overall understanding of the state of implementation of the dredge and fill discharge authorization program described in section 25-8-205.1. For this purpose, the division shall develop a twelve-month reporting period. At a minimum, the report must include:

(I) Program staffing and budget over the twelve-month reporting period;

(II) General authorization program components over the twelve-month reporting period, including:

(A) The total number of preconstruction notifications or coverage verification requests received during the twelve-month reporting period;

(B) The total number of projects authorized to proceed during the twelve-month reporting period;

(C) The total number of projects authorized to proceed during the twelve-month reporting period that included special conditions;

(D) The total number of projects authorized to proceed under section 25-8-205.1 (5)(d) during the twelve-month reporting period;

(E) The total number of projects denied general authorization coverage during the twelve-month reporting period and a summary of the reasons for denials;

(F) The range of time and average time required to process preconstruction notifications and coverage verification requests from receipt to final decision during the twelve-month reporting period; and

(G) The total number of full-time employees tasked with processing preconstruction notifications, coverage verification requests, and technical assistance during the twelve-month reporting period; and

(III) Individual authorization program components, including:

(A) The total number of authorization applications received during the twelve-month reporting period;

(B) The total number of projects authorized to proceed during the twelve-month reporting period;

(C) The total number of projects denied authorization coverage during the twelve-month reporting period and a summary of the reasons for denials;

(D) The total number of applications awaiting action at the end of the twelve-month reporting period;

(E) The range of time and average time required to process individual authorization applications from receipt to final decision during the twelve-month reporting period; and

(F) The total number of full-time employees tasked with processing individual authorizations during the twelve-month reporting period.

(b) On a quarterly basis, the division shall report to the joint budget committee the number of individual dredge and fill authorizations and notices of authorization that the division projects to issue for the fiscal year. The division shall submit these reports so that they coincide with quarterly budget forecasts.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1322, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 191, § 2, effective March 23. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 1907, § 103, effective August 5. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 94, § 6, effective March 16. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1118, § 9, effective May 17. L. 2024: (5) added, (HB 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1825, § 7, effective May 29. 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1823, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2025: (2)(f) and (4)(b) amended and (2)(h) and (4)(c) added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2475, § 1, effective June 4.

Editor's note: Subsection (3)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (3), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 1118.)

25-8-306. Authority to enter and inspect premises and records.

(1) The division has the power, upon presentation of proper credentials, to enter and inspect at any reasonable time and in a reasonable manner any property, premise, or place for the purpose of investigating any actual, suspected, or potential source of water pollution, or ascertaining compliance or noncompliance with any control regulation or any order promulgated under this article. Such entry is also authorized for the purpose of inspecting and copying records required to be kept concerning any effluent source.

(2) In the making of such inspections, investigations, and determinations, the division, insofar as practicable, may designate as its authorized representatives any qualified personnel of the department of agriculture. The division may also request assistance from any other state or local agency or institution.

(3) If such entry or inspection is denied or not consented to, the division is empowered to and shall obtain, from the district or county court for the judicial district or county in which such property, premise, or place is located, a warrant to enter and inspect any such property, premise, or place prior to entry and inspection. The district and county courts of the state of Colorado are empowered to issue such warrants upon a proper showing of the need for such entry and inspection.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1322, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-307. Emergencies.

Whenever the division determines, after investigation, that any person is discharging or causing to be discharged or is about to discharge into any state waters, directly or indirectly, any pollutant which in the opinion of the division constitutes a clear, present, and immediate danger to the health or livelihood of members of the public, the division shall issue its written order to said person that he must immediately cease or prevent the discharge of such pollutant into such waters and thereupon such person shall immediately discontinue such discharge. Concurrently with the issuance of such order, the division may seek a restraining order or injunction pursuant to section 25-8-607.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1322, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-308. Additional authority and duties of division - penalties.

(1) In addition to the authority specified elsewhere in this article 8, the division has the power to:

(a) Conduct or cause to be conducted studies, research, and demonstrations with respect to water pollution and the control, abatement, or prevention thereof, as requested by the commission;

(b) Furnish technical advice and services relating to water pollution problems and control techniques;

(c) Designate one or more persons or agencies in any area of the state as a water quality control authority, as agent of the division, to exercise and perform such powers and duties of the division as may be specified in such designation;

(d) Administer, in compliance with regulations and the priority ranking adopted by the commission, loans and grants from the federal government and from other public sources;

(e) Advise, consult, cooperate, and enter into agreements with other agencies of the state, the federal government, other states, and interstate agencies, and with groups, political subdivisions, and industries affected by the provisions of this article and the policies of the commission; but any such agreement involving, authorizing, or requiring compliance in this state with any standard or regulation shall not be effective unless or until the commission has held a hearing with respect to such standard or regulation and has adopted the same in compliance with this article;

(f) Certify, when requested, the existence of any facility, land, building, machinery, equipment, treatment works, or sewage or disposal systems as have been acquired, constructed, or installed in conformity with the purposes of this article;

(g) Take such action in accordance with rules and orders promulgated by the commission as may be necessary to prevent, abate, and control pollution;

(h) Implement a program, in accordance with section 25-8-205.7, 25-8-205.8, or 25-8-205.9 and rules and orders of the commission, for the reuse of reclaimed domestic wastewater for purposes other than drinking.

(2) Except as provided in section 25-8-608, all fines and penalties for violations of this article 8 must be transmitted to the state treasurer for deposit to the credit of the general fund.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1323, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2) amended, p. 1079, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1)(h) added, p. 252, § 3, effective March 31. L. 2006: (2) amended, p. 1273, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2017: (2) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1408, § 88, effective May 25. L. 2018: IP(1) and (1)(h) amended, (SB 18-038), ch. 400, p. 2369, § 4, effective August 8; IP(1) and (1)(h) amended, (HB 18-1069), ch. 179, p. 1224, § 4, effective August 8; IP(1) and (1)(h) amended, (HB 18-1093), ch. 171, p. 1201, § 4, effective August 8.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1)(h) by SB 18-038, HB 18-1069, and HB 18-1093 were harmonized.

25-8-309. Study of classification and standard issues. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 1656, § 1, effective June 7. L. 2005: Entire section repealed, p. 284, § 26, effective August 8.

25-8-310. Education program - storm water.

(1) The division may develop education programs for use by state and local governmental entities.

(2) The educational programs developed in accordance with subsection (1) of this section shall be designed to inform the public about storm water quality problems resulting from:

(a) The washing of motor vehicles on nonpermeable surfaces and the advantages of washing motor vehicles at car wash facilities that comply with recognized industry water conservation and water quality control standards;

(b) The disposal of leaves, litter, pet wastes, and debris in street gutters and storm drains;

(c) The disposal of used oil, antifreeze, paints, and other household chemicals in storm sewers or drains; and

(d) Soil erosion on property due to lack of planting of ground cover and stabilization of erosion-prone areas.

(3) The division may obtain gifts, grants, and donations to fund the costs of developing the education programs described in subsection (1) of this section. If the funding necessary to comply with said subsection (1) is not obtained, the division shall not be required to comply with said subsection (1) until such funding is obtained.

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 1252, § 2, effective August 3.

25-8-311. Water quality green infrastructure - feasibility studies - pilot projects - division collaboration with universities - legislative declaration - definitions - reports - gifts, grants, or donations - repeal.

(1) (a) The general assembly finds and determines that green infrastructure may provide significant benefits to water and wastewater providers and water users in Colorado by:

(I) Supporting cost-effective, holistic solutions for the attainment of water quality standards;

(II) In furtherance of the Colorado pollutant trading policy, helping owners and operators of water and wastewater treatment facilities meet state and federal water quality standards without having to invest in gray infrastructure upgrades; and

(III) To finance the monitoring, management, conservation, and water quality improvement of both surface and groundwater in the state, connecting operators of water and wastewater treatment facilities with new, climate-focused sources of financing and capital, including carbon credits and wildfire mitigation investments.

(b) The general assembly declares that:

(I) The university of Colorado and Colorado state university should conduct, and the division may advise on, a feasibility study regarding the use of green infrastructure and develop pilot projects to demonstrate green infrastructure in Colorado; and

(II) Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize or encourage speculation in the development of a water right, as defined in section 37-92-103 (12), or any violation of:

(A) The "Water Right Determination and Administration Act of 1969", article 92 of title 37;

(B) A court decree establishing water rights or conditional water rights pursuant to section 37-92-301;

(C) A well permit for use of underground water, as defined in section 37-92-103 (11), issued pursuant to article 90 of title 37;

(D) A substitute water supply plan approved pursuant to section 37-92-308; or

(E) An interruptible water supply agreement approved pursuant to section 37-92-309.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Alternative compliance program" means a program established to comply with state and federal water quality standards through the use of green infrastructure.

(b) "Colorado pollutant trading policy" means the "Colorado Pollutant Trading Policy" published by the division in October 2004.

(c) "Federal water quality trading policy" means the United States environmental protection agency's "Water Quality Trading Policy" published in 2003.

(d) "Gray infrastructure" means traditional, centralized water quality treatment facilities, such as wastewater treatment facilities or drinking water treatment plants.

(e) "Green infrastructure" means a strategically planned, managed, and interconnected network of green spaces, such as conserved natural areas and features, public and private conservation lands, and private working lands with conservation value.

(3) (a) On or before October 1, 2024, the university of Colorado and Colorado state university, in collaboration with the division, shall start to conduct a feasibility study regarding the use of green infrastructure in the state. The feasibility study must include a determination of whether and how:

(I) Green infrastructure, rather than traditional gray infrastructure, may be used in an alternative compliance program using mechanisms described in the Colorado pollutant trading policy and the federal water quality trading policy;

(II) New sources of funding through environment-focused mechanisms, such as green bonds, mitigation banking, climate finance, and carbon credits, may:

(A) Reduce costs associated with complying with state and federal water quality standards; and

(B) Provide funding for green infrastructure projects prior to the issuance of a water quality permit;

(III) An alternative compliance program may be aligned with other state and community interests including wildfire mitigation; and

(IV) The use of alternative compliance programs would reduce costs for the department of public health and environment, municipalities, and other water and wastewater providers in the state in comparison to using gray infrastructure to comply with state and federal water quality standards.

(b) (I) The universities shall complete, and the division may advise on, the feasibility study on or before April 1, 2026. With consideration given to the findings of the feasibility study, the universities, with the approval of the division, shall establish up to three pilot projects in the state to demonstrate the:

(A) Use of green infrastructure in an alternative compliance program; and

(B) Financing of an alternative compliance program with one or more sources of funding listed in subsection (3)(a)(II) of this section.

(II) A pilot project established pursuant to this subsection (3)(b) may be operated for up to five years. The universities may provide technical assistance to the operator of a pilot project that the division approves under this subsection (3)(b), and the universities shall recommend for the division's approval the design, size, and monitoring requirements for each pilot project.

(c) On or before November 1, 2026, the division, in coordination with the entities listed in subsection (3)(a) of this section, shall submit a report and, on or before February 1, 2027, make a presentation summarizing the progress on the feasibility study and any pilot projects to the water resources and agriculture review committee created in section 37-98-102 (1)(a)(I). The committee may request similar reports and presentations be made in any year after 2027 in which the feasibility study or a pilot project is being conducted pursuant to this subsection (3).

(d) The report must include:

(I) Any conclusions of the division, in coordination with the entities listed in subsection (3)(a) of this section, regarding the potential success of alternative compliance programs or funding sources listed in subsection (3)(a)(II) of this section; and

(II) Any recommendations for legislative or administrative action needed to promote the use of alternative compliance programs or the funding sources listed in subsection (3)(a)(II) of this section.

(4) In developing the feasibility study pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section, any pilot projects pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section, and any legislative or administrative recommendations pursuant to subsection (3)(d)(II) of this section, the entities listed in subsection (3)(a) of this section must take into account:

(a) The Colorado pollutant trading policy;

(b) The federal water quality trading policy; and

(c) The prior appropriation system established in sections 5 and 6 of article XVI of the state constitution and the "Water Right Determination and Administration Act of 1969", article 92 of title 37.

(5) (a) The universities listed in subsection (3)(a) of this section may use their existing resources to help finance the feasibility study and the pilot projects.

(b) The department of public health and environment or any entity listed in subsection (3)(a) of this section may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations for the implementation of this section.

(6) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2032.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-037), ch. 243, p. 1604, § 1, effective August 7.

PART 4

PROCEDURES

25-8-401. Authority and procedures for hearings.

(1) The commission or the division may hold public hearings, which shall be held pursuant to and in conformity with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and with this article.

(2) The commission may adopt such rules and regulations governing procedures and hearings before the commission or division as may be necessary to assure that such procedures and hearings will be fair and impartial. Such rules and regulations shall be consistent with the pertinent provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(3) In all proceedings before the commission or the division with respect to any alleged violation of any control regulation, permit, or order, the burden of proof shall be upon the division.

(4) Except for classification and water quality standard-setting proceedings, the commission or the department of public health and environment may designate a hearing officer or an administrative law judge pursuant to part 10 of article 30 of title 24, C.R.S., subject to appropriations made to the department of public health and environment. When appropriate, the hearing officer may be an employee of the department of public health and environment or a member of or the administrator of the commission.

(5) (a) Any request for a variance with respect to a permit condition shall be made within thirty days after issuance by the division of the final permit. Requests for variances from any other application of a control regulation shall be made within thirty days of legal notice by the division of the regulation or prior to operation of any new or expanded facility which would be affected by the control regulations. A variance may also be sought within thirty days of facts becoming available which had not been reasonably available to the applicant prior to that time or upon application to the commission for good cause shown.

(b) The division shall approve or disapprove any variance request and issue its decision within ninety days after receipt of the variance request. Notice of a variance request shall be sent to anyone who has requested such notice and shall be included on the next commission agenda. In the case of a variance being granted prior to the final permit being issued, the division shall publish for public notice and comment the entire draft permit with the variance incorporated therein. In the case of a variance granted after a final permit has been issued, the division shall publish for public notice and comment the variance as a proposed modification to the permit. Within forty-five days of issuance of a variance decision by the division which does not involve discharge permit conditions required by the federal act, the commission on its own motion or on the motion of the division or any interested person may decide to review the variance decision. In such event, a hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., shall be held, and the commission may affirm, modify, or deny the decision. Variance decisions of the division which involve discharge permit conditions required by the federal act shall be subject to review by an administrative law judge of the department of personnel pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., as part of any challenge to the conditions of a final discharge permit issued by the division.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1323, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (5)(b) amended, p. 908, § 7, effective June 4. L. 87: (4) and (5)(b) amended, p. 972, § 85, effective March 13. L. 94: (4) amended, p. 2789, § 521, effective July 1. L. 95: (5)(b) amended, p. 663, § 97, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (4), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1995 act amending this section, see section 112 of chapter 167, Session Laws of Colorado 1995.

ANNOTATION

Applied in Colorado Water Quality Control Comm'n v. Town of Frederick, 641 P.2d 958 (Colo. 1982).

25-8-402. Procedures to be followed in classifying state waters and setting standards and control regulations.

(1) Prior to the classification of state waters and promulgating any water quality standard or any control regulation authorized in this article, the commission shall conduct a public hearing thereon as provided in section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Notice of any such hearing shall conform to the requirements of section 24-4-103, C.R.S., but such notice shall be given at least sixty days prior to the hearing and shall include each proposed standard or regulation.

(2) Any person desiring to propose a standard or regulation differing from the standard or regulation proposed by the commission shall file such other written proposal with the commission not less than twenty days prior to the hearing, and, when on file, such proposal shall be open for public inspection.

(3) Witnesses at the hearing shall be subject to cross-examination by or on behalf of the commission, by or on behalf of persons who have proposed standards or regulations pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, and by or on behalf of persons who have obtained party status to the proceeding.

(4) Standards or regulations promulgated pursuant to this section shall take effect as provided in section 24-4-103 (5), C.R.S.

(5) Any emergency rule-making proceedings by the commission shall be conducted pursuant to section 24-4-103 (6), C.R.S., and not pursuant to this section. Any rule adopted pursuant to such proceedings may be effective for a specified period longer than one hundred twenty days, but not later than one year, if the commission determines that such longer period is necessary to complete rule-making pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., to reconsider the emergency rule.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1324, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (5) added, p. 908, § 8, effective June 4. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 1020, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2010: (5) amended, (HB 10-1346), ch. 137, p. 461, § 2, effective April 15.

25-8-403. Administrative reconsideration.

During the time permitted for seeking judicial review of any final order or determination of the commission or division, any party directly affected by such order or determination may apply to the commission or division, as appropriate, for a hearing or rehearing with respect to, or reconsideration of, such order or determination. The determination by the commission or division of whether to grant or deny the application for a hearing, rehearing, or reconsideration shall be made within ten days after receipt by the commission or division of such application. Such determination by the commission may be made by telephone or mail or at a meeting, but in any event shall be confirmed at the next meeting of the commission. If the application for a hearing, rehearing, or reconsideration is granted, the order or determination to which such application pertains shall not be considered final for purposes of judicial review, and the commission or the division may affirm, reverse, or modify, in whole or in part, the pertinent order or determination; thereafter such order or determination shall be final and not subject to stay or reconsideration under this section.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1325, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Applied in Colorado Water Quality Control Comm'n v. Town of Frederick, 641 P.2d 958 (Colo. 1982).

25-8-404. Judicial review.

(1) Any final rule, order, or determination by the division or the commission, including but not limited to classification of state waters, approval of areawide waste treatment management plans, water quality standards, site approvals, permits, control regulations, enforcement orders, cease-and-desist orders, and clean-up orders, shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with the provisions of this article and article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. All regulations, orders, and determinations of the commission or division shall be adopted, promulgated, or issued in accordance with the provisions of said article 4 of title 24.

(2) Any proceeding for judicial review of any final order or determination of the commission or division shall be filed in the district court for the district in which the pollution source affected is located.

(3) Any proceeding for judicial review of any final rule, order, or determination of the commission or division shall be filed within thirty days after said rule, order, or determination has become final. Rule-making determinations shall become final in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act". Quasi-judicial determinations shall become final upon issuance of such determinations to those parties to the proceedings. The period for filing the action for judicial review shall be stayed while any application for a hearing, rehearing, or reconsideration is pending pursuant to section 25-8-403, and the period during which any such application is pending shall extend the time for filing a proceeding for judicial review an equal length of time.

(4) (a) Except with respect to emergency orders issued pursuant to section 25-8-307, any person to whom a cease-and-desist order, clean-up order, or other order has been issued by the division or commission, or against whom an adverse determination has been made, may petition the district court for a stay of the effectiveness of such order or determination. Such petition shall be filed in the district court in which the pollution source affected is located.

(b) Such petitions may be filed prior to any such order or determination becoming final or during any period in which such order or determination is under judicial review.

(c) Such stay shall be granted by the court if there is probable cause to believe that refusal to grant a stay will cause serious harm to the affected person or any other person, and:

(I) That the alleged violation or activity to which the order or determination pertains will not continue, or if it does continue, any harmful effects on state waters will be alleviated promptly after the cessation of the violation or activity; or

(II) That the refusal to grant a stay would be without sufficient corresponding public benefit.

(5) Any party may move the court to remand the case to the division or the commission in the interests of justice, for the purpose of adducing additional specified and material evidence, and findings thereon; but such party shall show reasonable grounds for the failure to adduce such evidence previously before the division or the commission.

(6) If the court does not stay the effectiveness of an order of the commission or division, the court shall enforce compliance with that order by issuing a temporary restraining order or injunction at the request of the commission or division.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1325, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Formal party status is not prerequisite to right of judicial review under § 24-4-106 (4), and by analogy, under subsections (1) and (2) so long as the concerned plaintiff can show that it is adversely affected or aggrieved by any agency action. Town of Frederick v. Colo. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 628 P.2d 129 (Colo. App. 1980).

Where there is no final order, judicial review is not available under this section. Nat'l Wildlife Fed'n v. Cotter Corp., 665 P.2d 598 (Colo. 1983).

The standard for review of the constitutionality of administrative regulations is beyond a reasonable doubt and not clear and convincing evidence. Stone Envir. Eng. Serv. v. State Dept. of Health, 762 P.2d 737 (Colo. App. 1988).

The doctrine of separation of powers prohibits the court from ordering an administrative agency to perform a certain function. Stone Envir. Eng. Serv. v. State Dept. of Health, 762 P.2d 737 (Colo. App. 1988).

Complaint seeking district court review of executive director's order was properly dismissed as falling outside the 30-day window for seeking judicial review under this statute. The deadline for seeking judicial review under this statute, and not the 35-day deadline provided under the State Administrative Procedure Act, applied to the final order regarding appellant's groundwater discharge permit. Peabody Sage Creek Min. v. Pub. Health, 2020 COA 127, 484 P.3d 730.

Applied in Colo. Water Quality Control Comm'n v. Town of Frederick, 641 P.2d 958 (Colo. 1982); Parrish v. Water Quality Control Div., 934 P.2d 913 (Colo. App. 1997).

25-8-405. Samples - secret processes.

(1) If samples of water or water pollutants are taken for analysis, the person believed to be responsible for any suspected violation or who is or will be subject to any remedial action shall be notified immediately of the collection of the samples and a representative portion of the sample shall be furnished immediately upon request to said person. A representative portion of such sample shall be furnished to any suspected violator whenever any remedial action is taken with respect thereto by the division. A duplicate of every analytical report pertaining to such sample shall also be furnished as soon as practicable to such person. Any request for a sample split shall be made within six months of the notification of the collection of samples.

(2) Any information relating to any secret process, method of manufacture or production, or sales or marketing data which may be acquired, ascertained, or discovered, whether in any sampling investigation, emergency investigation, or otherwise, shall not be publicly disclosed by any member, officer, or employee of the commission or the division, but shall be kept confidential. Any person seeking to invoke the protection of this subsection (2) shall bear the burden of proving its applicability. This section shall never be interpreted as preventing full disclosure of effluent data.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1326, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) amended, p. 1020, § 4, effective July 1.

25-8-406. Administrative stays - renewal permits.

If a permittee requests a hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., challenging final action by the division in regard to any terms and conditions of a renewal permit, said permit shall become effective in its entirety unless a stay is granted pursuant to this section. The division may stay any contested terms and conditions of a permit for good cause shown. The division shall act on any stay request within ten days of receipt thereof. Any stay granted under this section shall expire when a final determination is made after the conclusion of the hearing held pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S. During the period of any such stay, the corresponding terms and conditions of the prior permit shall be in effect. Action by the division granting or denying a stay pursuant to this section shall be final agency action subject to de novo determination pursuant to section 25-8-404.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 909, § 9, effective June 4.

PART 5

PERMIT SYSTEM

Law reviews: For article, "Land and Natural Resources", which discusses Tenth Circuit decisions dealing with water quality control, see 63 Den. U.L. Rev. 417 (1986); for article, "Section 319 and Hydrologic Modifications: Another Assault - Parts I and II", see 19 Colo. Law. 2251 and 2445 (1990); for article, "The Impact of § 319: A Rebuttal", see 20 Colo. Law. 67 (1991).

25-8-501. Permits required for discharge of pollutants - administration.

(1) No person shall discharge any pollutant into any state water from a point source without first having obtained a permit from the division for such discharge, and no person shall discharge into a ditch or man-made conveyance for the purpose of evading the requirement to obtain a permit under this article. No person covered by this article shall use or dispose of biosolids, except as authorized by regulations that shall not be more restrictive than the requirements adopted for solid wastes disposal sites and facilities pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., except as necessary to be consistent with section 405 of the federal act. Existing authorization for the use or disposal of biosolids shall continue until permits are issued in accordance with this part 5. Each application for a permit duly filed under the federal act shall be deemed to be a permit application filed under this article, and each permit issued pursuant to the federal act shall be deemed to be a temporary permit issued under this article which shall expire upon expiration of the federal permit.

(2) (a) The division shall examine applications for and may issue, suspend, revoke, modify, deny, and otherwise administer permits for the discharge of pollutants into state waters and for the use and disposal of biosolids. The administration shall be in accordance with this article 8 and rules adopted by the commission. Until modified pursuant to this article 8, final permits shall be governed by their existing limitations.

(b) Upon receipt of an application to modify a permit, the division shall limit its review and, as appropriate, its approval or denial of the application, to the scope of the specific requests contained in the application.

(3) The commission shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary and proper for the orderly and effective administration of permits for the discharge of pollutants, which regulations shall include, but not be limited to, procedures for the issuance of a variance pursuant to section 25-8-503 (4), and shall also require that, in appropriate circumstances, the effluent limitations contained in a permit shall be adjusted to account for the pollutants contained in the discharger's intake water. Such regulations shall be consistent with the provisions of this article and with federal requirements and shall be in furtherance of the policy contained in section 25-8-102. Such regulations shall establish a permit process that allows permit conditions to remain in effect as long as circumstances dictate those conditions. In order to comply with federal requirements, but not to lessen compliance with federal standards, such permit process may require periodic renewal of permits even where minimal or no changes in the permit conditions are necessary. Renewal shall be required where more than minimal changes in permit conditions are necessary. The regulations may pertain to and implement, among other matters, permit and permit application contents, procedures, requirements, and restrictions with respect to the following:

(a) Identification and address of the owner and operator of the activity, facility, or process from which the discharge is to be permitted;

(b) Location and quantity and quality characteristics of the permitted discharge;

(c) Effluent limitations and conditions for treatment prior to discharge to a publicly owned treatment works;

(d) Monitoring as well as record-keeping and reporting requirements consistent with standard procedures and methods established by the division;

(e) Schedules of compliance;

(f) Procedures to be followed by division personnel for entering and inspecting premises;

(g) Submission of pertinent plans and specifications for the facility, process, or activity which is the source of a waste discharge;

(h) Restrictions on transfers of the permit;

(i) Procedures to be followed in the event of expansion or modification of the process, facility, or activity from which the discharge occurs or the quality, quantity, or frequency of the discharge;

(j) Duration of the permit and renewal procedures using a risk-based approach that limits the amount of work required to renew permits that have minimal or no changes in the permit conditions to streamline the renewal process;

(k) Authority of the division to require changes in plans and specifications for control facilities as a condition for the issuance of a permit;

(l) Identification of control regulations over which the permit takes precedence and identification of control regulations over which a permit may never take precedence;

(m) Notice requirements of any intent to construct, install, or alter any process, facility, or activity that is likely to result in a new or altered discharge;

(n) Effectiveness under this article of permit applications submitted to and permits issued by the federal government under the federal act.

(4) Nothing in any permit shall ever be construed to prevent or limit the application of any emergency power of the division.

(5) Every permit issued for a domestic wastewater treatment works shall contain such terms and conditions as the division determines to be necessary or desirable to assure continuing compliance with applicable control regulations. Such terms and conditions may require that whenever deemed necessary by the division to assure such compliance the permittee shall:

(a) Require pretreatment of effluent from industrial, governmental, or commercial facilities, processes, and activities before such effluent is received into the gathering and collection system of the permittee;

(b) Prohibit any connection to any municipal permittee's interceptors and collection system that would result in receipt by such municipal permittee of any effluent other than sewage required by law to be received by such permittee;

(c) Include specified terms and conditions of its permit in all contracts for receipt by the permittee of any effluent not required to be received by a municipal permittee;

(d) Initiate engineering and financial planning for expansion of the domestic wastewater treatment works whenever throughput and treatment reaches eighty percent of design capacity;

(e) Commence construction of such domestic wastewater treatment works expansion whenever throughput and treatment reaches ninety-five percent of design capacity or, in the case of a municipality, either commence such construction or cease issuance of building permits within such municipality until such construction is commenced; except that building permits may continue to be issued for any construction which would not have the effect of increasing the input of domestic wastewater to the sewage treatment works of the municipality involved. The term "commence construction", as used in this paragraph (e), includes execution of, and commencement of work under, contracts for engineering design, plans, and specifications for erection, building, alteration, remodeling, improvement, or extension of treatment works and commitment to the completion of construction of such treatment works prior to exceeding permit effluent limitations based upon facility design and capacity or execution of a contract for the construction thereof.

(6) Inclusion of the requirements authorized by paragraph (d) of subsection (5) of this section shall be presumed unnecessary to assure compliance upon a showing that the area served by a domestic wastewater treatment works has a stable or declining population; but this provision shall not be construed as preventing periodic review by the division should it be felt that growth is occurring or will occur in the area.

(7) [Editor's note: Subsection (7) is effective August 12, 2027.] Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, the division shall not issue a permit for the discharge of plastic pellets or other preproduction plastic materials into state waters.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1326, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (5)(e) amended, p. 1074, § 1, effective June 10. L. 85: (2) amended, p. 909, § 10, effective June 4. L. 93: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1579, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2001: IP(3) and (3)(j) amended, p. 41, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (2) amended, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2476, § 2, effective June 4. L. 2026: (7) added, (SB 26-016), ch. 30, p. 136, § 3, effective August 12, 2027.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 30 (SB 26-016), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to conduct occurring on or after August 12, 2027.

Cross references: (1) For circumstances resulting in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

(2) For the legislative declaration in SB 26-016, see section 1 of chapter 30, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980). For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982). For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

Guidelines for establishing rules and regulations applying to individual disposal systems were unconstitutionally vague. Guidelines which required that effluent at point of sampling "consistently meet" each specified standard was unconstitutionally vague and resulted in a denial of due process. Stone Envir. Eng. Serv. v. State Dept. of Health, 762 P.2d 737 (Colo. App. 1988).

25-8-501.1. Permit required for point source water pollution control - definitions - housed commercial swine feeding operations - legislative declaration.

(1) The people of the state of Colorado hereby find, determine, and declare that the advent of large housed commercial swine feeding operations in Colorado has presented new challenges to ensuring that the quality of the state's environment is preserved and protected. As distinguished from more traditional operations that historically have characterized Colorado's livestock industry, large housed swine feeding operations use significant amounts of process water for flushing and disposing of swine waste, commonly store this waste in large impoundments, and dispose of it through land application. The waste storage, handling and disposal by such operations are particularly odorous and offensive. The people further find that it is necessary to ensure that the storage and land application of waste by housed commercial swine feeding operations is done in a responsible manner, so as not to adversely impact Colorado's valuable air, land and water resources.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Agronomic rate of application" means the rate of application of nutrients to plants that is necessary to satisfy the plants' nutritional requirements while strictly minimizing the amount of nutrients that run off to surface waters or which pass below the root zone of the plants, as specified by the most current published fertilizer suggestions of the Colorado state university cooperative extension service for the plants, or most closely related plant type, to which the nutrients are applied.

(b) "Housed commercial swine feeding operation" means a housed swine feeding operation that is capable of housing eight hundred thousand pounds or more of live animal weight of swine at any one time or is deemed a commercial operation under local zoning or land use regulations. Two or more housed swine confined feeding operations shall be considered to comprise a single housed commercial swine feeding operation if they are under common or affiliated ownership or management, and are adjacent to or utilize a common area or system for manure disposal, are integrated in any way, are located or discharge within the same watershed or into watersheds that are hydrologically connected, or are located on or discharge onto land overlying the same groundwater aquifer.

(c) "Housed swine feeding operation" means the practice of raising swine in buildings, or other enclosed structures wherein swine of any size are fed for forty-five days or longer in any twelve-month period, and crop or forage growth or production is not sustained in the area of confinement.

(d) "Process wastewater" means any process-generated wastewater used in a housed commercial swine feeding operation, including water used for feeding, flushing, or washing, and any water or precipitation that comes into contact with any manure, urine, or any product used in or resulting from the production of swine.

(3) No person shall operate, construct, or expand a housed commercial swine feeding operation without first having obtained an individual discharge permit from the division.

(4) On or before March 31, 1999, the commission shall promulgate rules necessary to ensure the issuance and effective administration and enforcement of permits under this section by July 1, 1999. Such rules shall incorporate the preceding subsection (3) and shall, at a minimum, require:

(a) That the owner or operator of a housed commercial swine feeding operation must obtain division approval of construction, operations and swine waste management plans that, for any land waste application, includes a detailed agronomic analysis. Said plans shall employ the best available waste management practices, provide for remediation of residual soil and groundwater contamination, and ensure that disposal of solid or liquid waste to the soil not exceed agronomic rates of application.

(b) That appropriate setbacks for maintaining water quality be established for land waste application areas and waste impoundments;

(c) That waste impoundments or manure stock piles shall not be located within a one-hundred-year floodplain unless proper flood proofing measures are designed and constructed;

(d) That the owner or operator of the housed commercial swine feeding operation shall provide financial assurances for the final closure of the housed commercial swine feeding operation, the conduct of any necessary postclosure activities, the undertaking of any corrective action made necessary by migration of contaminants from the housed commercial swine feeding operation into the soil and groundwater, or cleanup of any spill or breach;

(e) That the owner or operator of a housed commercial swine feeding operation shall ensure that no solid or liquid waste generated by it shall be applied to land by any person at a rate that exceeds, in amount or duration, the agronomic rate of application; and

(f) That, because waste storage and disposal by housed commercial swine feeding operations pose particular jeopardy for state trust lands, in light of the mandate in the Colorado constitution, article IX, section 10, that state land board trust lands be held in trust and be protected and enhanced to promote long-term productivity and sound stewardship, the construction, operations and waste management plans approved for housed commercial swine feeding operations on such lands, shall not permit the degradation of the physical attributes or value of any state trust lands.

(5) Any spill or contamination by a housed commercial swine feeding operation shall be reported immediately to the division and the county or district public health agency for the county in which the housed commercial swine feeding operation is conducted, and, within twenty-four hours after the spill or contamination, a written report shall be filed with the division and the county or district public health agency for the county in which the housed commercial swine feeding operation is conducted.

(6) Housed commercial swine feeding operations shall submit to the division and the county or district public health agency quarterly, comprehensive monitoring reports and agronomic analyses that demonstrate that the operation has land-applied solid and liquid waste at no greater than agronomic rates. The division shall require the sampling and monitoring of chemical and appropriate biological parameters to protect the quality and existing and future beneficial uses of groundwater including, at a minimum, nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, and salts. At a minimum, the monitoring program shall include quarterly samples, analysis, and reporting of the groundwater, soils within the root zone, and soils beneath the root zone within each waste application site, and shall also include monitoring to ensure that no excessive seepage occurs from any waste impoundments.

(7) Repealed.

(8) The division shall enforce the provisions of this section and shall take immediate enforcement action against any housed commercial swine feeding operation that has exceeded the agronomic rate limit of this section. In addition, any person who may be adversely affected by a housed commercial swine feeding operation may enforce these provisions directly against the operation by filing a civil action in the district court in the county in which the person resides.

(9) These provisions shall not preclude any local government from imposing requirements more restrictive than those contained in this section.

Source: Initiated 98: Entire section added, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998. L. 2007: (7) repealed, p. 1454, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2010: (5) and (6) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2104, § 119, effective August 11.

Editor's note: (1) This section was contained in an initiated measure that was adopted by the people at the general election held November 3, 1998. The measure enacting this section was effective upon the proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998.

(2) The vote count on the measure at the general election held November 3, 1998, was as follows:

FOR: 790,852

AGAINST: 438,873

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's Not-So-Little Pig Farms Meet the Big Bad Wolf", see 28 Colo. Law. 85 (June 1999).

25-8-502. Application - fees - funds created - public participation - rules - definitions.

(1) For the purposes of this section:

(a) "Animal feeding operation" or "CAFO" means a lot or facility, other than an aquatic animal production facility, where:

(I) Animals, other than aquatic animals, have been, are, or will be stabled or confined and fed or maintained for a total of forty-five days or more in any twelve-month period; and

(II) Crops, vegetation, forage growth, or post-harvest residues are not sustained in the normal growing season over any portion of the lot or facility.

(b) "Categorical effluent standards" means those standards established by the federal environmental protection agency pursuant to section 307 (b) of the federal act.

(c) "Discharge" means the discharge of pollutants, and includes land application.

(d) "Gallons per day" is based on design capacity of the facility, not flow.

(e) "Land application" is any discharge being applied to the land for treatment purposes.

(f) "Municipal separate storm sewer system" or "MS4" means a conveyance or system of conveyances, including roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, man-made channels, or storm drains, that is:

(I) Owned or operated by a state, city, town, county, district, association, or other public body created by or pursuant to state law having jurisdiction over disposal of sewage, industrial wastes, storm water, or other wastes, including special districts under state law such as a sewer district, flood control district, drainage district, or similar entity, or a designated and approved management agency under section 208 of the federal act that discharges to state waters;

(II) Designed or used for collecting or conveying storm water;

(III) Not a combined sewer; and

(IV) Not part of a publicly owned treatment works.

(g) "Significant industrial discharger" means an industrial discharger that meets one or more criteria established by the federal environmental protection agency pursuant to section 307 (b) of the federal act.

(1.1) For each regulated activity listed in this subsection (1.1), the division may assess an annual permit fee and a nonrefundable permit application fee for new permits, which nonrefundable permit application fee is in an amount that equals fifty percent of the annual permit fee. The full amount of the application fee is credited toward the annual permit fee. All such fees must be in accordance with the following schedules:

(a) The animal agriculture sector includes annual fee schedules for regulated activities associated with animal feeding operations as follows:

(I) General permit: The division shall assess a CAFO an annual permit fee not to exceed seven hundred fifty dollars plus nine cents per animal unit, based on the CAFO's permitted capacity.

(II) Individual permit: The division shall assess a CAFO an annual permit fee not to exceed one thousand five hundred dollars plus nine cents per animal unit, based on the CAFO's permitted capacity.

(III) The division shall assess an unpermitted CAFO an annual administrative fee, not to exceed six cents per animal unit, based upon the CAFO's registered capacity, to cover the direct and indirect costs associated with the environmental agriculture program, including inspections, compliance assurance, compliance assistance, and associated regulatory interpretation and review.

(IV) (A) Repealed.

(B) The division shall assess on each housed commercial swine feeding operation an annual permit fee, not to exceed twenty-six cents per animal, based on the operation's working capacity, to offset the direct and indirect costs of the program created in section 25-8-501.1.

(C) As used in this subsection (1.1)(a)(IV), "working capacity" means the number of swine the housed commercial swine feeding operation is capable of housing at any one time.

(b) to (f) Repealed.

(1.2) and (1.3) Repealed.

(1.4) The division may establish an interim fee that must be consistent and equitable with the fees contained in subsection (1.1) of this section in any case where a facility other than those listed must be permitted. This interim fee applies until the date of adjournment sine die of the next regular session of the general assembly following imposition of the interim fee.

(1.5) Repealed.

(1.6) There is hereby created the animal feeding operations fund, which consists of all fees collected for regulated activities associated with the animal agriculture sector in paragraph (a) of subsection (1.1) of this section, as well as all fees collected for services provided by the division associated with the animal agriculture sector in subsection (1.3) of this section. The division shall transmit the fees to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the animal feeding operations fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the animal feeding operations fund at the end of any fiscal year remain in the animal feeding operations fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund or any other fund. The general assembly shall annually appropriate the moneys in the animal feeding operations fund to the department of public health and environment for the direct and indirect costs associated with the permitting and oversight of animal feeding operations under this article.

(1.7) (a) The department of public health and environment shall report annually to:

(I) The senate agriculture and natural resources committee and the house of representatives agriculture, water, and natural resources committee, or their successor committees, on:

(A) The environmental agriculture program. The report must include the number of permits processed, the number of inspections conducted, the number of enforcement actions taken, and the costs associated with all program activities during the preceding year. The department shall submit the report on or before March 31 of each year.

(B) Repealed.

(II) The joint budget committee by November 1 of each year regarding the fee revenue received from each sector specified in subsection (1.1)(a) of this section, including expenditures by fund source and revenues by fund and sector based on the November 1 request.

(b) The reporting required by this section is exempt from section 24-1-136, C.R.S.

(1.8) Repealed.

(2) (a) A complete and accurate application for all discharges shall be filed with the division not less than one hundred eighty days prior to the date proposed for commencing the discharge.

(b) The application shall contain such relevant plans, specifications, water quality data, and other information related to the proposed discharge as the division may reasonably require. Prior to submitting an application for a permit, the applicant may request and, if so requested, the division shall grant a planning meeting with the applicant. At such meeting, the division shall advise the applicant of the applicable permit requirements, including the information, plans, specifications, and data required to be furnished with the permit application.

(c) The division shall begin the review of an application within forty-five days after the receipt of the application and shall notify the applicant within ninety days after receipt of the application whether the application is complete. If the division determines that an application is incomplete, the division may request that the applicant submit additional information. If additional information is requested by the division and submitted by the applicant, the division shall have fifteen days after the date the additional information is submitted to determine whether the additional information satisfies the request and to advise the applicant if, and in what respects, the additional information does not satisfy the request. A final decision that an application is not complete shall be considered final agency action upon issuance of such decision to the applicant and shall be subject to judicial review. A petition for review of such decision shall be given priority scheduling by the court.

(3) (a) The division shall evaluate complete permit applications to determine whether the proposed discharge will comply with all applicable federal and state statutory and regulatory requirements.

(b) The division shall give public notice of a complete permit application and the division's preliminary analysis of the application as provided in subsection (4) of this section. The notice shall advise of the opportunity for interested persons to submit written comments on the permit application and the division's preliminary analysis or to request, for good cause shown, a public meeting on the application and analysis. A request for a public meeting shall be made within thirty days after the initial public notice of the permit application and the division's preliminary analysis. If a public meeting is requested and the division, in its discretion and for good cause shown, grants the request, the division shall hold the public meeting not more than seventy-five days after the initial public notice. The division shall provide notice as provided in subsection (4) of this section of the public meeting not less than thirty days prior to the date of the meeting.

(c) The period for public comment shall close thirty days from the date of notice of the permit application and the division's preliminary analysis thereof; except that, if a public meeting is held on the application and analysis, the period for public comment shall close sixty days from the date of notice of the application.

(d) On or before December 31, 2026, the commission shall adopt rules establishing procedures whereby the division, prior to giving public notice of a complete permit application for an individual permit and the division's preliminary analysis of the application pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section, may provide a period of public notice and review of a preliminary draft prepared by the division. If a period of public notice and review is required by rules of the commission, the period of public notice and review may not exceed fourteen days, and the purpose of the review is limited to identifying errors in the division's preliminary draft. The division shall make available on the division's public website any documents provided by the division during a period of public notice and review.

(4) Public notice of every complete permit application and the division's preliminary analysis thereof shall be circulated in a manner designed to inform interested and potentially interested persons of the application and analysis. Procedures for the circulation of such public notice or a notice regarding a public meeting concerning an application and analysis shall be established by the commission and shall include at least the following:

(a) Notice shall be given by at least one publication in a newspaper of general circulation which is distributed within the geographical areas of the proposed discharge.

(b) Notice shall be mailed to any person or group upon request.

(c) The division shall add the name of any person or group upon request to a mailing list to receive copies of notices for all discharge permit applications within the state or within a certain geographical area.

(d) The division shall also, during the period from the date of the initial public notice of the application and analysis to the close of the public comment period, maintain in the office of the county clerk and recorder of the county in which the proposed discharge, or a part thereof, is to occur a copy of its preliminary analysis and a copy of the permit application with all accompanying data for public inspection.

(5) (a) (I) Except as provided in this subsection (5), if the division has not finally issued or denied a permit within one hundred eighty days after receipt of the permit application, unless this time limit is waived or extended by the applicant or if the division determines at any time after receiving an application that it cannot issue a permit prior to the expiration of an existing permit, the division shall issue a temporary permit or the existing permit shall be extended pursuant to the operation of section 24-4-104, C.R.S.

(II) The deadlines established pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a) for a determination on a permit application shall be extended by:

(A) The number of days which an applicant takes to submit information requested by the division pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (2) of this section plus the fifteen days provided for the division to evaluate such additional information; and

(B) Forty-five days, if a public meeting is held pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(b) All temporary permits shall contain such conditions as are necessary to protect public health and shall not be less restrictive than required by state and federal effluent guidelines unless a schedule of compliance or a variance is set forth therein. A temporary permit shall be issued for a period not to exceed two years and shall expire as provided in the issuance or denial of the final permit. Issuance of a temporary permit shall be final agency action for the purposes of section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(6) Repealed.

(7) (a) On or before December 31, 2027, the division shall propose rules to the commission that establish a time frame during which the division will either grant or deny applications for each type of permitting action. On or before June 30, 2028, the commission shall adopt rules based on the division's proposal. The rules must establish the time frames for permitting actions, including:

(I) The issuance of new individual permits and new general permits;

(II) The renewal of general permits and individual permits;

(III) The granting or denying of requests for permit modifications; and

(IV) The determination of preliminary effluent limitations.

(b) Repealed.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1328, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1)(b) R&RE, (1)(c) amended, and (6) repealed, pp. 1076, 1079, 1080, §§ 1, 2, 8, effective July 1. L. 85: (5)(a)(I) amended, p. 909, § 11, effective June 4. L. 88: (1)(b)(I) and (1)(c) amended, p. 1025, § 1, effective May 6; (3)(c) amended, p. 1020, effective July 1. L. 90: (1)(b)(I) and (1)(c) amended and (1)(b.5) added, p. 1338, § 3, effective July 1. L. 92: (1)(b)(I) amended, p. 1301, § 5, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(b.5)(III) and (1)(c) amended, p. 2790, § 522, effective July 1. L. 98: (1)(d) added, p. 1335, § 51, effective June 1; IP(1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(I)(G), IP(1)(b.5)(I), and (1)(c) amended and (1)(b)(I)(R) and (1)(b)(I)(S) added, p. 1227, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: IP(1)(b)(I) and IP(1)(b.5)(I) amended, p. 191, § 1, effective March 23. L. 2002: (1)(b)(I), (1)(b.5)(I), and (1)(c) amended and (1)(b.6) added, p. 1657, § 2, effective June 7. L. 2003: (1)(c) amended and (1)(e) and (1)(f) added, p. 1501, § 1, effective May 1. L. 2007: (1)(b)(I), (1)(b.5)(I), (1)(b.6), and (1)(c) amended and (1)(b.7) added, p. 1441, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2)(c), (3)(b), IP(5)(a)(II), and (5)(a)(II)(B) amended, p. 431, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2009: IP(1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(I)(E), (1)(b)(I)(R), (1)(b)(I)(S), and (1)(c) amended and (1)(g), (1)(h), and (1)(i) added, (HB 09-1330), ch. 352, pp. 1835, 1837, §§ 1, 2, effective July 1. L. 2012: (1)(b)(I)(E), (1)(b)(I)(R), (1)(b)(I)(S), and (1)(g) amended, (HB 12-1083), ch. 117, p. 399, § 1, effective July 1; (1)(b.7)(I) and (1)(b.7)(II) amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 494, § 5, effective August 8. L. 2015: (1) R&RE and (1.1), (1.2), (1.3), (1.4), (1.5), (1.6), and (1.7) added, (HB 15-1249), ch. 273, p. 1089, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2016: IP(1.1)(e), IP(1.2)(a), (1.5)(a), (1.5)(b), and (1.7) amended, (1.1)(e)(XIII) and (1.1)(e)(XIV) repealed, and (1.1)(f) added, (HB 16-1413), ch. 138, p. 405, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: IP(1.1)(c)(IV) amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1408, § 89, effective May 25; IP(1.7)(a) and (1.7)(a)(I) amended, (HB 17-1285), ch. 356, p. 1878, § 3, effective July 1; (1.1)(b), (1.1)(c)(II), (1.1)(c)(III), IP(1.1)(c)(IV), (1.1)(d), (1.1)(e), (1.1)(f), IP(1.2)(a), IP(1.2)(a)(I), IP(1.2)(a)(II), (1.3)(b)(V), (1.3)(b)(VI), (1.3)(b)(VII), (1.3)(b)(VIII), (1.3)(c), and (1.5)(c) amended, (HB 17-1285), ch. 356, p. 1864, § 2, effective July 1, 2018. L. 2018: (1.1)(a) amended, (SB 18-033), ch. 289, p. 1785, § 1, effective May 29. L. 2020: (1.5)(e) added, (HB 20-1406), ch. 178, p. 812, § 13, effective June 29. L. 2022: (1.5)(e) repealed, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2980, § 62, effective August 10. L. 2023: IP(1.1)(c)(IV), IP(1.7)(a)(I), and (1.7)(a)(II) amended, (1.7)(a)(I)(B) repealed, and (1.8) added, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1115, § 5, effective May 17. 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1823, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2025: IP(1.1), (1.1)(a)(I), (1.1)(a)(II), (1.1)(a)(III), and (1.1)(a)(IV)(B) amended and (1.1)(a)(IV)(A) repealed, (SB 25-253), ch. 125, p. 491, § 1, effective April 25; (3)(d) and (7) added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2476, § 3, effective June 4.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (1)(e)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (1)(e) and (1)(f), effective July 1, 2005. (See L. 2003, p. 1501.)

(2) Subsections (1.1)(c)(I), (1.1)(c)(II)(A), (1.1)(c)(II)(B), (1.1)(c)(II)(C), and (1.1)(c)(II)(D) provided for the repeal of subsections (1.1)(c)(I), (1.1)(c)(II)(A), (1.1)(c)(II)(B), (1.1)(c)(II)(C), and (1.1)(c)(II)(D), respectively, effective July 1, 2016. (See L. 2015, p. 1089.)

(3) Amendments to the introductory portion to subsection (1.1)(c)(IV) by HB 17-1285 and SB 17-294 were harmonized.

(4) Subsection (1.5)(b)(II)(C) provided for the repeal of subsection (1.5)(b)(II), effective September 1, 2018. (See L. 2016, p. 405.)

(5) Subsection (1.8)(b) provided for the repeal of subsections (1.1)(b), (1.1)(c), (1.1)(d), (1.1)(e), (1.1)(f), (1.2), (1.3), (1.5), and (1.8), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 1115.)

(6) Subsection (7)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (7)(b), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 2476.)

Cross references: (1) For circumstances that will result in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1992 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 188, Session Laws of Colorado 1992. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (1)(b.5)(III) and (1)(c), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in HB 15-1249, see section 1 of chapter 273, Session Laws of Colorado 2015. For the legislative declaration in HB 17-1285, see section 1 of chapter 356, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-8-503. Permits - when required and when prohibited - variances - definition.

(1) (a) The division shall issue a permit in accordance with regulations promulgated under this article when the division has determined that the provisions of this article and the federal act and regulations thereunder have been met with respect to both the application and proposed permit.

(b) When necessary for compliance with the federal act for the achievement of technology-based effluent limitations, the division may exercise best professional judgment in establishing effluent limitations on a case-by-case basis for permits as granted pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (1). Technology-based effluent limitations based on best professional judgment shall be made only for good cause and in the absence of federally promulgated effluent guidelines or effluent limitation regulations promulgated by the commission and shall be subject to review as provided for in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1). Any effluent limitations established according to this paragraph (b) shall be made after considering the availability of appropriate technology, its economic reasonableness, the age of equipment and facilities involved, the process employed, and any increase in water or energy consumption.

(c) Review by a hearing officer or an administrative law judge of the department of personnel of technology-based effluent limitations based on best professional judgment shall be on request of the permit applicant or permittee or any aggrieved person and shall take place in an adjudicatory hearing to be held pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S. The necessity of effluent limitations based on best professional judgment, as well as the reasonableness of the effluent limitation, considering all factors enumerated in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1), must be supported by substantial evidence. If such hearing is requested, it shall be held as part of a hearing requested to challenge the conditions of the permit.

(d) Repealed.

(2) No permit shall be issued which is inconsistent with any duly promulgated and controlling state, regional, or local land use plan or any portion of an approved regional wastewater management plan which has been adopted as a regulation pursuant to this article, unless all other requirements and conditions of this act have been met or will be met pursuant to a schedule of compliance or a variance specifying treatment requirements as determined by the division.

(3) No permit shall be issued which allows a violation of a control regulation unless the waste discharge permit contains effluent limitations and a schedule of compliance or a variance specifying treatment requirements as determined by the division.

(4) No permit shall be issued which allows a discharge that by itself or in combination with other pollution will result in pollution of the receiving waters in excess of the pollution permitted by an applicable water quality standard unless the permit contains effluent limitations and a schedule of compliance specifying treatment requirements. Effluent limitations designed to meet water quality standards shall be based on application of appropriate physical, chemical, and biological factors reasonably necessary to achieve the levels of protection required by the standards.

(5) Activities such as diversion, carriage, and exchange of water from or into streams, lakes, reservoirs, or conveyance structures, or storage of water in or the release of water from lakes, reservoirs, or conveyance structures, in the exercise of water rights shall not be considered to be point source discharges of pollution under this article. Water quality standards may apply to discharges from such activities only if the commission has adopted appropriate control regulations pursuant to section 25-8-205. Nothing in this article shall supersede the provisions of articles 80 to 93 of title 37, C.R.S.

(6) Nothing in subsection (5) of this section shall exempt any point source discharger which generates wastewater effluent from the requirement of obtaining a permit pursuant to this article. All permits for such discharges shall apply at the point where wastewater effluent is released from the control of the discharger. All permits for discharges into ditches or other man-made conveyance structures shall contain such provisions as are necessary for the protection of agricultural, domestic, industrial, and municipal beneficial uses made of the waters of the ditch or other man-made conveyance structures, which use or uses were decreed and in existence prior to the inception of the discharge.

(7) Repealed.

(8) Where a permit requires treatment to levels necessary to protect water quality standards and beyond levels required by technology-based effluent limitation requirements, the division must determine whether or not any or all of the water-quality-standard-based effluent limitations are reasonably related to the economic, environmental, public health, and energy impact to the public and affected persons, and are in furtherance of the policies set forth in sections 25-8-102 and 25-8-104. The division's determination shall be based upon information available to it including information provided during the public comment period on the draft permit or in response to specific requests for information. Such determinations shall be included as a part of the written record of the issuance of the final permit, whether or not a variance is available under subsection (9) of this section to alter the water quality standard based effluent limitations.

(9) The division may grant a variance from otherwise applicable requirements only to the extent authorized in the federal act or implementing regulations. Variances may be granted for no longer than the duration of the permit. Variances shall be granted or renewed according to the procedure established in section 25-8-401 (5). Any variances granted prior to June 4, 1985, which were validly granted under the provisions then in effect shall be valid according to their original terms.

(10) (a) The division shall consider current debt service on existing local government water infrastructure when developing schedules of compliance for new effluent limits in local government permits.

(b) Any schedule of compliance that the division develops for new effluent limits in local government permits must, consistent with state and federal law, consider the local government's financial capability to repay existing debt on water infrastructure or to fund water infrastructure upgrades before requiring new water infrastructure upgrades. To the extent allowable under federal law, the division may establish compliance schedules in a local government permit for a new effluent limit in excess of twenty years.

(c) As used in this subsection (10), "water infrastructure" includes wastewater treatment infrastructure, drinking water treatment infrastructure, and raw water infrastructure.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1331, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended and (7) repealed, pp. 1081, 1080, §§1, 8, effective July 1. L. 85: (1)(b), (1)(c), and (4) amended, (1)(d) repealed, and (8) and (9) added, pp. 909, 911, §§ 12, 15, effective June 4. L. 87: (1)(c) amended, p. 972, § 86, effective March 13. L. 88: (9) amended, p. 1020, § 6, effective July 1. L. 95: (1)(c) amended, p. 663, § 98, effective July 1. 24-1379), ch. 274, p. 1823, § 4, effective May 29. L. 2025: (10) added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2477, § 4, effective June 4.

Cross references: (1) For circumstances that will result in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1995 act amending this section, see section 112 of chapter 167, Session Laws of Colorado 1995.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Oil Shale and Water Quality: The Colorado Prospectus Under Federal, State, and International Law", see 58 Den. L.J. 715 (1981). For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982).

25-8-503.5. General permits - process for changing permit requirements.

(1) With respect to a general permit listed in section 25-8-502 (1)(b)(I)(G), when proposing new or amended permit requirements for dischargers to meet, to obtain, or to maintain authorization for discharges under the permit, the division shall:

(a) Prepare a statement of basis and purpose explaining the need for the proposed requirements;

(b) Present evidence supporting the need for the proposed requirements, including information regarding pollutant potential and available controls, incidents of environmental damage, and permit violations;

(c) Before implementing the proposed requirements, provide public notice of, and consider comments received from affected parties about, the proposed requirements; and

(d) Upon request by an affected party, consider and give due weight to a cost-benefit analysis:

(I) Received by the division during the comment phase set forth in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1);

(II) Concerning one or more proposed requirements that are not already required by federal or state statute or rule;

(III) Prepared by a third party chosen from an approved list of analysts, as developed by the division in consultation with representatives of the industries that are subject to general permitting; and

(IV) Paid for by the affected party.

(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section confers rule-making authority on the division.

(3) A party may appeal a general permit issued under section 25-8-502 (1)(b)(I)(G) pursuant to the appeals process set forth in section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-073), ch. 385, p. 2251, § 1, effective June 5.

ANNOTATION

By referring to § 24-4-105 in subsection (3) of this section, the general assembly mandated an administrative hearing for parties challenging general permits issued by the division before seeking judicial review. The use of the word "may" in subsection (3) created an avenue by which a party could seek an administrative appeal by requesting a hearing under § 24-4-105, but the statute's permissive language did not eliminate the party's obligation to exhaust that administrative remedy before filing its complaint for judicial review in the district court. Stormwater Council v. Water Quality Control, 2023 COA 11, 529 P.3d 134.

25-8-503.7. Use of qualified and independent contractors - powers and duties of the division - fees - definitions.

(1) On and after May 1, 2026, an applicant and the division may mutually agree to use a qualified and independent nongovernmental contractor under the direction of the division to provide the division with technical assistance in completing the permit action if:

(a) An application for permit modification or permit renewal has been pending before the division for sixty days;

(b) An application for permit modification or permit renewal is pending before the division as of May 1, 2026; or

(c) The division informs an applicant that the division will not process an application for preliminary effluent limitations.

(2) A contractor that provides technical assistance pursuant to this section may assist the division with some or all of the following, at the division's discretion:

(a) Preparing the division's proposed permit action;

(b) Preparing the division's responses to public comments received on the proposed permit action, if any;

(c) Preparing the division's final permit action;

(d) Aiding in the division's defense of the final permit action in any administrative adjudicatory proceedings; and

(e) Aiding in the division's defense of the final permit action in any judicial proceedings.

(3) The applicant shall bear the contractor's costs for any technical assistance provided pursuant to this section and shall remit payment for the costs directly to the contractor. The division may charge the applicant an additional fee in an amount not exceeding ten percent of the contract amount for contract administration, technical review, and additional permit processing. Money collected as an additional fee shall be credited to the clean water cash fund created in section 25-8-210. The division may, before issuing its final permit action, require the applicant to fully pay the additional fee and any contractor costs.

(4) (a) The division, in its sole discretion, shall provide oversight to ensure that contractors provide technical assistance in accordance with the terms of their contracts. The division may require a contractor's technical assistance to conform to all commission rules, division policies, and division practices applicable to the permit action in question.

(b) The division may deem some or all of the contractor's technical assistance as unacceptable and may reject, require correction of, or deny approval for such assistance. The division's rejection, required correction, or denial of approval of a contractor's technical assistance is not subject to judicial or administrative review and does not relieve an applicant of the obligation to pay the contractor's costs for such technical assistance.

(c) The division's use of contractors pursuant to this section does not relieve the division of its obligations under this article 8.

(d) The division is not subject to the requirements of the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24, in selecting or contracting with the contractors.

(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Conflict of interest" means a direct and substantial personal or financial interest in the outcome of a permit or permit action such that a contractor is unable to fulfill its duty to remain fair, impartial, or objective.

(b) "Independent" means having no conflict of interest with a permittee.

(c) "Qualified" means having substantial professional education, training, or experience in water quality permitting.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2477, § 5, effective June 4.

25-8-503.8. Documents, information, and data utilized in developing permits.

Upon a permittee's request, the division shall make available to the permittee all documents, data, and information the division relied upon in developing the permittee's permit modification or permit, including any model, tool, or tabular worksheet and any formulas, macros, metadata, and calculations contained in such materials, except to the extent that the documents, data, and information are protected by an applicable privilege, such as the attorney-client privilege or the deliberative-process privilege, or are subject to an exception from disclosure set forth in section 24-72-204.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2479, § 7, effective June 4.

25-8-504. Agricultural wastes.

(1) Neither the commission nor the division shall require any permit for any flow or return flow of irrigation water into state waters except as may be required by the federal act or regulations. The provisions of any permit that are so required shall not be any more stringent than, and shall not contain any condition for monitoring or reporting in excess of, the minimum required by the federal act or regulations.

(2) (a) Neither the commission nor the division shall require any permit for animal or agricultural waste on farms, ranches, and horticultural or floricultural operations, except as may be required by the federal act or regulations. The provisions of any permit that are so required shall not be any more stringent than, and shall not contain any condition for monitoring or reporting in excess of, the minimum required by the federal act or regulations.

(b) Nothing in paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

(3) No permit or fee shall ever be required pursuant to this part 5 for the diversion of water from natural surface streams.

(4) Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the requirement of permits for housed commercial swine feeding operations pursuant to section 25-8-501.1.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1332, § 1, effective July 1. Initiated 98: (4) added, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998. L. 2005: (2) amended, p. 350, § 7, effective August 8.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (4) was enacted by an initiated measure that was adopted by the people at the general election held November 3, 1998. The measure enacting subsection (4) was effective upon the proclamation of the Governor, December 30, 1998.

(2) The vote count on the measure at the general election held November 3, 1998, was as follows:

FOR: 790,852

AGAINST: 438,873

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "The Emerging Relationship Between Environmental Regulations and Colorado Water Law", see 53 U. Colo. L. Rev. 597 (1982).

25-8-505. Permit conditions concerning publicly owned wastewater treatment works.

The division is authorized to impose, as conditions in permits for the discharge of pollutants from publicly owned wastewater treatment works, appropriate measures to establish and ensure compliance by industrial users with any system of user charges or industrial cost recovery.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1332, § 1, effective July 1.

Cross references: For circumstances that will result in the repeal of this section, see § 25-8-507.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

Applied in Nat'l Wildlife Fed'n v. Cotter Corp., 646 P.2d 393 (Colo. App. 1981).

25-8-506. Nuclear and radioactive wastes. (Repealed)

Source: L. 81: Entire section amended, p. 1340, § 1, effective July 1. L. 98: (2) amended, p. 1336, § 52, effective June 1. L. 2005: (4)(b) repealed, p. 284, § 27, effective August 8. L. 2023: Entire section repealed, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1116, § 7, effective May 17.

Editor's note: This section was originally enacted as § 25-8-505 in House Bill 81-1468 but has been renumbered on revision as § 25-8-506 for ease of location and harmonized with Senate Bill 81-10.

25-8-507. Program repeal.

If final federal agency action is taken revoking or withdrawing prior federal approval of all or any part of the state permit program, sections 25-8-203, 25-8-204, 25-8-501, 25-8-502, 25-8-503, and 25-8-505 and regulations adopted to implement such provisions are repealed as of the date of that final federal action.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 911, § 13, effective June 4.

25-8-508. Industrial pretreatment program - creation - fees.

(1) The division shall establish an industrial pretreatment program for the state which is designed to eliminate problems that occur when pollutants from industrial wastewaters are discharged into publicly owned treatment works, including health hazards caused to the public and to workers in sewers and treatment plants, pollution of state waters, interference with the operation of treatment plants or increased expense to dispose of sludges, damage to the pipes and equipment that may occur from pollutants, and the potential for explosion caused by highly volatile wastes. The program shall be adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-205 and shall be adequate to comply with requirements set forth in section 307 (a), (b), and (c) of the federal act.

(2) The division is authorized to require compliance with applicable pretreatment requirements and standards by any domestic wastewater treatment works or by any industrial user of such treatment works. The division may grant a variance from applicable requirements only to the extent authorized in the federal act or implementing regulations.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1337, § 2, effective July 1.

25-8-509. Permit conditions concerning use and disposal of biosolids.

The division is authorized to impose, as conditions to the issuance of permits, requirements, prohibitions, standards, and concentration limitations on the use and disposal of biosolids in accordance with the regulations promulgated by the commission pursuant to section 25-8-205 (1)(e). The requirements, prohibitions, standards, and concentration limitations imposed by the division shall not be more restrictive than the requirements adopted for the solid wastes disposal sites and facilities pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., except as necessary to be consistent with section 405 of the federal act.

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 1579, § 4, effective July 1.

PART 6

VIOLATIONS, REMEDIES, AND PENALTIES

25-8-601. Division to be notified of suspected violations and accidental discharges - penalty.

(1) Any person or any agency of the state or federal government may apply to the division to investigate and take action upon any suspected or alleged violation of any provision of this article or of any order, permit, or regulation issued or promulgated under authority of this article.

(2) Any person engaged in any operation or activity which results in a spill or discharge of oil or other substance which may cause pollution of the waters of the state contrary to the provisions of this article 8, as soon as the person has knowledge thereof, shall notify the division of such discharge. Any person who fails to notify the division as soon as practicable commits a class 2 misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars. Notification received pursuant to this subsection (2) or information obtained by the exploitation of such notification shall not be used against any such person in a criminal case except prosecution for perjury, for false swearing, or for failure to comply with a clean-up order issued pursuant to section 25-8-606.

(3) Any penalty collected under this section shall be credited to the general fund.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1332, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (3) amended, p. 1080, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2021: (2) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3237, § 465, effective March 1, 2022.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980). For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

Applied in National Wildlife Fed'n v. Cotter Corp., 646 P.2d 393 (Colo. App. 1981).

25-8-602. Notice of alleged violations.

(1) Whenever the division has reason to believe that a violation of an order, permit, or control regulation issued or promulgated under authority of this article has occurred, the division shall cause written notice to be served personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested, upon the alleged violator or his agent for service of process. The notice shall state the provision alleged to be violated and the facts alleged to constitute a violation, and it may include the nature of any corrective action proposed to be required.

(2) Each cease-and-desist and clean-up order issued pursuant to sections 25-8-605 and 25-8-606 shall be accompanied by or have incorporated in it the notice provided for in subsection (1) of this section unless such notice has been given prior to issuance of such cease-and-desist or clean-up order.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1333, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-603. Hearing procedures for alleged violations.

(1) In any notice given under section 25-8-602, the division shall require the alleged violator to answer each alleged violation and may require the alleged violator to appear before it for a public hearing to provide such answer. Such hearing shall be held no sooner than fifteen days after service of the notice; except that the division may set an earlier date for hearing if it is requested by the alleged violator.

(2) If the division does not require an alleged violator to appear for a public hearing, the alleged violator may request the division to conduct such a hearing. Such request shall be in writing and shall be filed with the division no later than thirty days after issuance of a notice under section 25-8-602. If such a request is filed, a hearing shall be held within a reasonable time.

(3) If a hearing is held pursuant to the provisions of this section, it shall be public and, if the division deems it practicable, shall be held in any county in which the violation is alleged to have occurred. The division shall permit all parties to respond to the notice served under section 25-8-602, to present evidence and argument on all issues, and to conduct cross-examination required for full disclosure of the facts.

(4) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1333, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-604. Suspension, modification, and revocation of permit.

Upon a finding and determination, after hearing, that a violation of a permit provision has occurred, the division may suspend, modify, or revoke the pertinent permit or take such other action with respect to the violation as may be authorized pursuant to regulations promulgated by the commission.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1333, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-605. Cease-and-desist orders.

If the division determines, with or without hearing, that a violation of any provision of this article or of any order, permit, or control regulation issued or promulgated under authority of this article exists, the division may issue a cease-and-desist order. Such order shall set forth the provision alleged to be violated, the facts alleged to constitute the violation, and the time by which the acts or practices complained of must be terminated.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1333, § 1, effective July 1.

25-8-606. Clean-up orders.

The division may issue orders to any person to clean up any material which he, his employee, or his agent has accidentally or purposely dumped, spilled, or otherwise deposited in or near state waters which may pollute them. The division may also request the district attorney to proceed and take appropriate action under section 16-13-305 and sections 16-13-307 to 16-13-315, C.R.S., or section 18-4-511, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1334, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

25-8-607. Restraining orders and injunctions.

(1) The division may request the district attorney for the judicial district with jurisdiction pursuant to subsection (2) of this section or the attorney general to bring, and if so requested it shall be the duty of such district attorney or the attorney general to bring, a suit for a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, or permanent injunction to prevent any threatened violation of this article or any order, permit, or control regulation issued or promulgated pursuant to this article which violation poses imminent and substantial endangerment to the beneficial uses of state waters and which cannot be timely prevented by a permit modification or permit enforcement action, or any continued violation of this article, or any order, permit, or control regulation issued or promulgated pursuant to this article. In any suit for a violation of an order, the final findings of the division, after opportunity for a hearing, based upon evidence in the record, shall be prima facie evidence of the facts found in such record.

(2) Suits under this section shall be brought in the district or county court for the district or county in which the violation or threatened violation occurs. Emergencies shall be given precedence over all other matters pending in such court. The institution of such injunction proceeding by the division shall confer upon such court exclusive jurisdiction to determine finally the subject matter of the proceeding; except that the exclusive jurisdiction of the court shall apply only to such injunctive proceeding and shall not preclude assessment of civil penalties or any other enforcement action or sanction authorized by this article.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1334, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 643, § 1, effective April 14; (1) amended, p. 1650, § 96, effective May 31.

25-8-608. Civil penalties - rules - water quality improvement fund created - definitions.

(1) A person who violates this article 8, a permit issued under this article 8, a control regulation promulgated pursuant to this article 8, or a final cease-and-desist order or clean-up order is subject to a civil penalty of not more than fifty-four thousand eight hundred thirty-three dollars per day per violation; except that, on or before December 31, 2021, the commission shall, by rule, annually adjust the amount of the maximum civil penalty based on the percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items and all urban consumers, or its successor index. In determining the amount of a penalty under this part 6, the following factors shall be considered:

(a) The potential damage from the violation;

(b) The violator's compliance history;

(c) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(d) The impact upon or threat to the public health or environment as a result of the violation;

(e) The duration of the violation; and

(f) The economic benefit realized by the violator as a result of the violation.

(1.5) All penalties collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the water quality improvement fund, which is hereby created. The moneys in such fund shall be subject to annual appropriation. Any interest earned on moneys in the fund shall remain in the fund to be used for purposes of this section.

(1.7) (a) The department shall expend moneys in the water quality improvement fund for the following purposes:

(I) Improving the water quality in the community or water body impacted by the violation;

(II) Providing grants for storm water projects or to assist with planning, design, construction, or repair of domestic wastewater treatment works;

(III) Providing the nonfederal match funding for nonpoint source projects under 33 U.S.C. sec. 1329; or

(IV) Providing grants for storm water management training and best practices training to prevent or reduce the pollution of state waters.

(b) The division may retain five percent of the moneys in the water quality improvement fund to cover the cost of administering the projects or grants under paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.7).

(c) The commission shall promulgate rules as may be necessary to administer this subsection (1.7), including, but not limited to, rules defining who is eligible for grants, and what criteria shall be used in awarding grants. Any rules shall be promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(d) Repealed.

(1.8) Repealed.

(1.9) The division shall include in a separate section of the annual report required pursuant to section 25-8-305 a full accounting of all projects funded pursuant to this section for the preceding year.

(2) The division may institute a civil action or administrative action to impose and collect penalties under this section. Upon application of the division, penalties shall be determined by the executive director or his or her designee. The final decision of the executive director or his or her designee may be appealed to the commission. The final decision of the commission is subject to judicial review in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. Any penalty may be collected by the division by action instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction for collection of such penalty. A stay of any order of the division pending judicial review shall not relieve any person from any liability under subsection (1) of this section, but the reason for the request for judicial review shall be considered in the determination of the amount of the penalty. In the event that such an action is instituted for the collection of such penalty, the court may consider the appropriateness of the amount of the penalty, if such issue is raised by the party against whom the penalty was assessed.

(3) to (5) Repealed.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1334, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1080, § 5, effective July 1. L. 90: (1) amended, p. 1345, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 1273, § 2, effective May 26. L. 2009: (1.8) added, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 624, § 23, effective April 20. L. 2011: (1.7)(a)(II) and (1.7)(a)(III) amended and (1.7)(a)(IV) added, (HB 11-1026), ch. 159, p. 550, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2012: IP(1) amended and (3) added, (HB 12-1119), ch. 264, p. 1378, § 1, effective June 6. L. 2016: (4) added, (HB 16-1413), ch. 138, p. 409, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2017: (1.7)(d) added, (HB 17-1306), ch. 399, p. 2080, § 3, effective June 8. L. 2020: (5) added, (HB 20-1406), ch. 178, p. 813, § 14, effective June 29; IP(1) and (1.7)(d)(II) amended, (HB 20-1143), ch. 219, p. 1082, § 2, effective July 2. L. 2022: (5) repealed, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2980, § 63, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1.8) amended, (SB 25-305), ch. 429, p. 2479, § 8, effective June 4.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (3)(d) provided for the repeal of subsection (3), effective July 1, 2013. (See L. 2012, p. 1378.)

(2) Subsection (4)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (4), effective September 1, 2017. (See L. 2016, p. 409.)

(3) Subsection (1.7)(d)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1.7)(d), effective September 1, 2025. (See L. 2020, p. 1082.)

(4) Subsection (1.8)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (1.8), effective August 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 2479.)

Cross references: For the short title ("Safe Water in Schools Act") in HB 17-1306, see section 1 of chapter 399, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Liabilities of Nonoperating Mineral Interest Owners", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 153 (1980).

Subsection (2) provides only for additional review of the amount of an existing penalty using an abuse of discretion standard, but does not authorize a de novo determination of the amount of the penalty. The familiar and generally accepted meaning of the words compels the conclusion that the amount of the penalty has already been determined and the role of the court is to consider only its appropriateness. Water Quality Control Div. v. Casias, 843 P.2d 665 (Colo. App. 1992).

25-8-608.5. Nutrients grant fund - rules - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (HB 13-1191), ch. 186, p. 754, § 1, effective May 10.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 1, 2016. (See L. 2013, p. 754.)

25-8-608.7. Natural disaster grant fund - creation - rules - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1002), ch. 223, p. 834, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2017: (2)(e) repealed, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1409, § 90, effective May 25. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-264), ch. 129, p. 506, § 35, effective April 25; (4) added, (SB 25-303), ch. 267, p. 1379, § 1, effective May 28.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (1) was amended in SB 25-264, effective April 25, 2025. For the amendments in SB 25-264 in effect from April 25, 2025, to July 1, 2025, see chapter 129, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

(2) Subsection (4) was added in SB 25-303, effective May 28, 2025. For the amendments in SB 25-303 in effect from May 28, 2025, to July 1, 2025, see chapter 267, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

(3) Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2025, p. 1379.)

25-8-609. Criminal pollution - penalties.

(1) Any person who recklessly, knowingly, intentionally, or with criminal negligence discharges any pollutant into any state waters or into any domestic wastewater treatment works commits criminal pollution if such discharge is made:

(a) In violation of any permit issued under this article; or

(b) In violation of any cease-and-desist order or clean-up order issued by the division which is final and not stayed by court order; or

(c) Without a permit, if a permit is required by the provisions of this article for such discharge; or

(d) Repealed.

(e) In violation of any pretreatment regulations promulgated by the commission.

(2) Prosecution under this section shall be commenced upon request by the division or a peace officer, who must present evidence based on reasonable suspicion to either the attorney general or a district attorney for the district in which an alleged violation occurs. No criminal violation will be charged without probable cause.

(3) Any person who commits criminal pollution of state waters shall be penalized as follows:

(a) For a violation committed with criminal negligence or recklessly, as both terms are defined in section 18-1-501, the violator commits a class 2 misdemeanor punishable by a maximum fine of twenty-five thousand dollars per day for each day the violation occurs.

(b) For a violation committed knowingly or intentionally, as both terms are defined in section 18-1-501, the violator is guilty of a class 5 felony and, notwithstanding section 18-1.3-401, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a maximum fine of fifty thousand dollars per day for each day the violation occurs, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.

(c) If two separate offenses under this article occur in two separate occurrences during a period of two years, the maximum fine for the second offense shall be double the amounts specified in paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection (3), whichever is applicable.

(d) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-119), ch. 223, p. 1009, § 1, effective August 5, 2009.)

(4) Any criminal penalty collected under this section shall be credited to the general fund.

(5) No provision of this article shall be interpreted to supersede, limit, abrogate, or impair the ability to enforce:

(a) Civil or criminal penalties pursuant to article 22 of title 29, C.R.S., if the pollutant discharged into state waters or domestic wastewater treatment works is a "hazardous substance" as defined in section 29-22-101, C.R.S.; or

(b) Civil penalties pursuant to section 25-15-309 or criminal penalties pursuant to section 25-15-310 if the pollutant discharged into state waters or domestic wastewater treatment works is a "hazardous waste" as defined in section 25-15-101.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1334, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (3)(d) amended, p. 1080, § 6, effective July 1. L. 85: (1)(c) amended and (1)(d) repealed, p. 911, §§ 14, 15, effective June 4. L. 88: (1)(e) added, p. 1021, § 7, effective July 1. L. 90: IP(1) amended, p. 1345, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2009: (2) and (3)(d) amended and (4) and (5) added, (SB 09-119), ch. 223, p. 1009, § 1, effective August 5; (2) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1971, § 88, effective August 5. L. 2020: (2), IP(3), (3)(a), and (3)(b) amended, (HB 20-1143), ch. 219, p. 1082, § 3, effective July 2. L. 2021: (3)(a) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3238, § 466, effective March 1, 2022.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (2) by Senate Bill 09-292 and Senate Bill 09-119 were harmonized.

25-8-610. Falsification and tampering - penalties.

(1) Any person who knowingly makes any material false statement, representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document filed or required to be maintained under this article 8 or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any monitoring device or method required to be maintained under this article 8 commits a class 2 misdemeanor.

(2) Prosecution under this section shall be commenced upon request by the division or a peace officer, who must present evidence based on reasonable suspicion to either the attorney general or a district attorney for the district in which an alleged violation occurs. No criminal violation will be charged without probable cause.

(3) If two separate offenses under this section occur in two separate occurrences during a period of two years, notwithstanding section 18-1.3-501, the maximum fine and period of imprisonment for the second offense are double the amounts specified in section 18-1.3-501.

(4) Any penalty collected under this section shall be credited to the general fund.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1335, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2) amended, p. 1080, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1143), ch. 219, p. 1083, § 4, effective July 2. L. 2021: (1) and (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3238, § 467, effective March 1, 2022.

25-8-611. Proceedings by other parties.

(1) The factual or legal basis for proceedings or other actions that result from a violation of any control regulation inure solely to, and shall be for the benefit of the people of, the state generally, and it is not intended by this article, in any way, to create new private rights or to enlarge existing private rights. A determination that water pollution exists or that any standard has been disregarded or violated, whether or not a proceeding or action may be brought by the state, shall not create any presumption of law or finding of fact which shall inure to or be for the benefit of any person other than the state.

(2) A permit issued pursuant to this article may be introduced in any court of law as evidence that the permittee's activity is not a public or private nuisance. Introduction into evidence of such permit and evidence of compliance with the permit conditions shall constitute a prima facie case that the activity to which the permit pertains is not a public or private nuisance.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1335, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Neither this section nor § 25-8-612 authorizes injunctions or creates a private cause of action or right to proceed in the public interest. Nor do they explicitly dispense with the requirements for a preliminary injunction as set forth in C.R.C.P. 65. Baseline Farms Two, LLP v. Hennings, 26 P.3d 1209 (Colo. App. 2000).

25-8-612. Remedies cumulative.

(1) It is the purpose of this article to provide additional and cumulative remedies to prevent, control, and abate water pollution and protect water quality.

(2) No action pursuant to section 25-8-609 shall bar enforcement of any provision of this article or of any rule or order issued pursuant to this article by any authorized means.

(3) Nothing in this article shall abridge or alter rights of action or remedies existing on or after July 1, 1981, nor shall any provision of this article or anything done by virtue of this article be construed as estopping individuals, cities, towns, counties, cities and counties, or duly constituted political subdivisions of the state from the exercise of their respective rights to suppress nuisances.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1336, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Neither this section nor § 25-8-611 authorizes injunctions or creates a private cause of action or right to proceed in the public interest. Nor do they explicitly dispense with the requirements for a preliminary injunction as set forth in C.R.C.P. 65. Baseline Farms Two, LLP v. Hennings, 26 P.3d 1209 (Colo. App. 2000).

25-8-613. Limitation on actions.

An action or other proceeding brought by the division pursuant to this part 6 alleging a violation of this article 8 or of any rule of the commission or order of the division must be commenced within five years after the date when the alleged violation is discovered or should have been discovered by the exercise of reasonable diligence.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1322), ch. 460, p. 3271, § 3, effective June 8.

PART 7

DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS

25-8-701. Definitions.

As used in this part 7, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Construction" means entering into a contract for the erection or physical placement of materials, equipment, piping, earthwork, or buildings which are to be part of a domestic wastewater treatment works.

(2) "Eligible project" means a project for the planning, design, or construction of domestic wastewater treatment works or of facilities for the discharge of wastewater or backwash water from public water treatment plants that is, in the judgment of the division, necessary for the accomplishment of the state water quality control program and that conforms with applicable rules of the commission.

(3) Repealed.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1336, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2014: (2) amended and (3) repealed, (SB 14-025), ch. 9, p. 93, § 2, effective August 6.

25-8-702. Approval for commencement of construction.

(1) No person shall commence the construction of any domestic wastewater treatment works or the enlargement of the capacity of an existing domestic wastewater treatment works, unless the site location and the design for the construction or expansion have been approved by the division.

(2) In evaluating the suitability of a proposed site location for a domestic wastewater treatment works, the division shall:

(a) Consider the local long-range comprehensive plan for the area as it affects water quality and any approved regional wastewater management plan for the area;

(b) Determine that the plant on the proposed site will be managed to minimize the potential adverse impacts on water quality; and

(c) Encourage the consolidation of wastewater treatment facilities whenever feasible.

(3) Ninety days prior to commencement of construction of an interceptor line, the entity responsible for that line shall notify the planning agency and the division of such construction. This notification shall be accompanied with a certification by the agency receiving the wastewater for treatment that it has or will have the capacity to treat the projected wastewater from that interceptor line in accordance with the treatment agency's site approval and discharge permit. Within thirty days of receipt of notification, the planning agency, or the division, if a planning agency does not exist, shall certify that the proposed interceptor line has the capacity to carry the projected flow. In the event the entity responsible for an interceptor line does not have the said certification from the treatment agency and the planning agency, the entity shall be required to apply for a site location approval prior to commencement of construction.

(4) The decision of the division concerning approval of the site location or design may be appealed to the commission. The commission shall hold a hearing on the site location or design in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-105, C.R.S., and the decision of the commission shall be final administrative action for the purposes of section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1336, § 1, effective July 1. L. 88: (1) R&RE and (2)(a) amended, p. 1021, §§ 8, 9, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Synthetic Fuels — Policy and Regulation", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 465 (1980).

Rule providing that a site approval will expire one year from its approval date and that reapplication or request for an extension must be made if construction has not been commenced is well within the powers conferred upon the commission and the division to regulate approval as to location, construction, and remodeling of domestic wastewater treatment facilities. Barr Lake Vill. Metro. District v. Colo. Water Quality Control Comm'n, 835 P.2d 613 (Colo. App. 1992).

Applied in Colo. Water Quality Control Comm'n v. Town of Frederick, 641 P.2d 958 (Colo. 1982).

25-8-703. State contracts for construction of domestic wastewater treatment works. (Repealed)

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1337, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1), (3), (4), and (6) amended, p. 100, § 1, effective March 20. L. 2006: (1)(b)(II) amended, p. 211, § 1, effective March 31. L. 2014: Entire section repealed, (SB 14-025), ch. 9, p. 93, § 3, effective August 6.

PART 8

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATORS

25-8-801. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Administrator" or "storm water management system administrator" means a nonprofit entity designated by the division to conduct the activities required under this part 8.

(2) "Advisory board" means an oversight group, established as a required element within each storm water management system administrator's program, that is made up of volunteers representing industry sector stakeholders active in the program, including nonprofit administrator representatives, participants, participating MS4s, and third-party auditors. While acting in the capacity of a board of directors, the advisory board has the authority to establish all program policies and procedures, collect and maintain program records, compile annual participant performance summary reports, and take all necessary actions to maintain the department's designation of the administrator.

(3) "CDPS" means the Colorado discharge permit system.

(4) "CDPS MS4 permit" means a CDPS permit for storm water discharges associated with an MS4.

(5) "CDPS storm water construction permit" means a CDPS permit for storm water discharges associated with construction activities.

(6) "MS4" means a municipal separate storm sewer system.

(7) "MS4 permittee" means a governmental entity with a CDPS permit for storm water discharges associated with an MS4.

(8) "Participant" means a person that is required to obtain a CDPS storm water construction permit from the division and that volunteers to participate in a storm water management system program administered by a storm water management system administrator.

(9) "SWMP" means a storm water management plan as defined in the CDPS permit for storm water discharges associated with construction activities.

(10) "Third-party auditor" means a person who meets the professional qualifications defined in the administrator's written program and who operates independently from, and is not an employee of, any participant or MS4 in the administrator's program.

Source: L. 2011: Entire part added, (HB 11-1026), ch. 159, p. 546, § 1, effective August 10.

25-8-802. Storm water management system administrator.

(1) A nonprofit entity may apply to be a storm water management system administrator by completing an application in such form as the division may require. The division may designate one or more storm water management system administrators. To be designated as an administrator, the applicant must demonstrate to the satisfaction of the division that:

(a) The applicant has in place a standardized compliance assistance and assurance program that contains processes, procedures, and associated training for participants that, when fully implemented by the program participants, would result in full compliance with the requirements of the applicable CDPS storm water construction permit. The compliance assistance and assurance program shall assure, at a minimum, that each participant:

(I) Maintains a qualified permit compliance manager in accordance with the CDPS storm water construction permit and the administrator's written policies;

(II) Maintains complete and updated permit documentation available for inspection at the permitted facility;

(III) Completes established minimum requirements for training to maintain permit compliance manager status; and

(IV) Complies with all applicable terms and conditions required by any MS4 permittee with jurisdiction over the participant's construction activities.

(b) The applicant ensures that a third-party audit of each participant facility operating under a CDPS storm water construction permit is completed on a monthly basis using standardized inspection reporting forms and procedures approved by the division. Third-party audit reports must include standardized compliance performance measurement and scoring clearly demonstrating the following:

(I) The adequacy of implementation of each aspect of the administrator's storm water management systems;

(II) The adequacy of the SWMP in meeting all applicable permit requirements defined in this part 8; and

(III) The adequacy of each storm water management practice used to implement the SWMP.

(c) The applicant maintains records of its compliance assistance and assurance program, including a list of participants and each participant facility, and monthly required third-party audits, in a form approved by the division;

(d) The applicant has fully implemented the compliance assistance and assurance program with a sufficient number of participants to demonstrate the adequacy of the program for one year prior to submittal of an application for designation as an administrator;

(e) The applicant maintains an advisory board that meets regularly, but not less than quarterly, and such meetings are open to the public; and

(f) The applicant has a written storm water management program that includes:

(I) An organizational chart defining relationships among stakeholders, including the roles and responsibilities of each;

(II) Advisory board make-up and associated policies and procedures;

(III) Participant policies and procedures, including performance standards and measurement methodology;

(IV) Third-party auditor policies and procedures; and

(V) Other policies and procedures the division may require to demonstrate a complete and functional program.

(2) Upon the division's approval of the application, the division shall designate the applicant as a storm water management system administrator. The applicant shall maintain a compliance assistance and assurance program, including requiring third-party audits and record keeping, consistent with the requirements of this part 8.

(3) A storm water management system administrator shall provide to the division on at least a yearly basis a summary report that describes in detail significant program accomplishments and changes and that adequately demonstrates the overall performance of the administrator's program in improving participant compliance with the participants' storm water permits. The division shall make the yearly administrator summary report available to the public.

(4) To the extent permitted by federal law, the division may reduce compliance oversight activities for facilities authorized to discharge under a CDPS storm water construction permit participating in a storm water management system administrator program based on a determination by the division that the participants or the participant facilities have a demonstrated record of reduced potential for occurrences of noncompliance and reduced risk of negative impacts on receiving waters. This part 8 does not prohibit or restrict any compliance oversight, including inspections, by the division.

(5) The division may revoke the designation of an administrator for evidence of repeated failure to meet the requirements of this part 8.

(6) The disclosure of any information related to a participant's third-party audit to an administrator is not a disclosure under section 25-1-114.5.

(7) Participation in a storm water management system administrator program by a holder of a CDPS storm water construction permit is strictly voluntary, and a participant may end its participation at any time upon written notice to the administrator.

(8) The administrator may work with the division to establish reporting requirements acceptable to the division that would allow participants in the administrator's program to participate in environmental performance recognition programs, including the department's environmental leadership program.

Source: L. 2011: Entire part added, (HB 11-1026), ch. 159, p. 547, § 1, effective August 10.

25-8-803. Storm water management system administrator audits to support MS4 permittees' programs.

(1) MS4 permittees may choose to work with any administrator to assist the MS4 permittee in complying with the terms and conditions of the MS4 permittee's CDPS MS4 permit. An MS4 permittee may utilize all, or portions of, the storm water management system administrator's program as part of the MS4 permittee's program for oversight of construction sites to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the MS4 permittee's CDPS permit for storm water discharges associated with an MS4.

(2) The division may consider third-party audits conducted pursuant to a storm water management system administrator's program to be part of the MS4 permittee's compliance oversight program required by its CDPS MS4 permit if the MS4 permittee formally utilizes the storm water management system administrator's program that conducted the audit, and the MS4 permittee implements procedures to demonstrate and report to the division, upon division request, that the administrator's program is meeting the requirements for third-party audits in section 25-8-802 (1) and (3) for participant construction activities located within the jurisdiction of the MS4 permittee.

(3) An MS4 permittee may reduce compliance oversight activities for facilities authorized to discharge under a CDPS storm water construction permit that are operated by participants in a storm water management system administrator's program based on a determination by the MS4 permittee that the participants or participant facilities have a demonstrated record of reduced potential for occurrences of noncompliance and reduced risk of negative impacts on receiving waters. This part 8 does not prohibit or restrict any compliance oversight, including inspections, by an MS4 permittee.

(4) Modification of the MS4 permittee's program is subject to division approval in accordance with the requirements of the applicable CDPS MS4 permit.

(5) An MS4 permittee's use of a storm water management system administrator's program is strictly voluntary, and an MS4 permittee may end its use of the program at any time upon written notice to the administrator.

(6) Nothing in this part 8 grants regulatory authority to a storm water management system administrator or the authority to impose any fine.

(7) Nothing in this part 8 preempts or supersedes any authority of an MS4 permittee or any other local agency.

(8) Nothing in this part 8 removes, reduces, or transfers the responsibility for compliance with an MS4 permit from the MS4 permittee.

Source: L. 2011: Entire part added, (HB 11-1026), ch. 159, p. 549, § 1, effective August 10.

PART 9

TESTING OF DRINKING WATER IN SCHOOLS, CHILD CARE CENTERS, AND FAMILY CHILD CARE HOMES

25-8-901. Definitions.

As used in this part 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Child care center" has the meaning set forth in section 26-6-903 (5); except that "child care center" does not include:

(a) A summer camp; or

(b) A children's resident camp, as defined in section 26.5-5-303 (5).

(2) "Department" means the state department of public health and environment.

(3) "Drinking water source" means any potable water outlet or fixture that is used or that may be used by an individual to acquire water for drinking or cooking.

(4) "Eligible school" means a school that serves any of grades preschool through twelfth grade.

(5) "Family child care home" has the meaning set forth in section 26.5-5-303 (7).

(6) "Filtered bottle-filling station" means an apparatus that:

(a) Is connected to building plumbing;

(b) Filters water;

(c) Is certified to meet NSF/ANSI standard 53 for lead reduction and NSF/ANSI standard 42 for particulate removal;

(d) Has a light or other device to indicate filter status;

(e) Is designed to fill drinking bottles or other containers used for personal water consumption; and

(f) Includes a feature that allows a user to drink directly from a stream of flowing water without the use of an accessory.

(7) "Filtered faucet" means a faucet that, at the point of use, includes a filter that is certified to meet NSF/ANSI standard 53 for lead reduction and NSF/ANSI standard 42 for particulate removal.

(8) "Filtration system" means a filtered bottle-filling station or filtered faucet.

(9) "Fund" means the school and child care clean drinking water fund created in section 25-8-902.

(10) (a) "Lead service line" means:

(I) A water service line made of lead; or

(II) A lead pigtail, lead gooseneck, or other lead fitting that is connected to a water service line.

(b) "Lead service line" includes any galvanized service line that is or ever was downstream of any lead service line or any service line of unknown material.

(c) A lead service line may be owned by a water system, a property owner, or both.

(11) "NSF/ANSI standard 42" means the NSF International/American National Standards Institute standard 42-2020 for "drinking water treatment units, aesthetic effects", as amended.

(12) "NSF/ANSI standard 53" means the NSF International/American National Standards Institute standard 53-2020 for "drinking water treatment units, health effects", as amended.

(13) "Relevant languages" has the meaning set forth in section 25-7-141 (2)(o).

(14) "School" means:

(a) A school of a school district;

(b) A district charter school, as defined in section 22-11-103 (12);

(c) An institute charter school, as defined in section 22-30.5-502 (6);

(d) An approved facility school, as defined in section 22-2-402 (1); or

(e) A board of cooperative services, as defined in section 22-5-103 (2).

(15) "State-certified laboratory" means a laboratory that is certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-203 (1)(d) for the purpose of ensuring competent testing of drinking water.

(16) "Water quality control commission" or "commission" means the water quality control commission created in section 25-8-201.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1358), ch. 382, p. 2728, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2023: IP(1), (1)(b), and (5) amended, (HB 23-1301), ch. 303, p. 1829, § 43, effective August 7. L. 2026: (4) amended, (HB 26-1391), ch. 196, p. 1133, § 1, effective May 28.

25-8-902. School and child care clean drinking water fund - creation - repeal.

(1) The school and child care clean drinking water fund is created in the department.

(2) The fund includes any money that is transferred to the fund and any money that the general assembly may appropriate to the fund.

(3) Money in the fund at the end of each state fiscal year remains in the fund and does not revert to the general fund; except that any money remaining in the fund on June 29, 2029, reverts to the general fund.

(4) The department is the administrator of the fund for auditing purposes.

(5) The department shall expend money from the fund only:

(a) To help schools, child care centers, and family child care homes comply with this part 9; and

(b) To reimburse eligible schools, child care centers, and family child care homes as needed for costs associated with complying with this part 9, in the following order of priority:

(I) Child care centers and family child care homes;

(II) Eligible schools for which testing results show relatively high levels of lead;

(III) Eligible schools that are receiving money pursuant to Title I of the federal "Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965", 20 U.S.C. sec. 6301 et seq., as amended; and

(IV) On and after June 1, 2023, subject to available appropriations, eligible schools that serve students in grades six through twelve.

(6) Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, the department shall not expend money from the fund:

(a) To replace or repair any lead service line; or

(b) To reimburse a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school for costs associated with complying with this part 9 if the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school has already received money from the fund to reimburse the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school for a test of each drinking water source, as described in section 25-8-903 (1), and:

(I) None of the results of such testing showed the presence of lead in an amount of at least five parts per billion; or

(II) If the results of such testing showed the presence of lead in an amount of at least five parts per billion, the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school has also received reimbursement for:

(A) Any remediation efforts performed in response to such testing; and

(B) A confirmation test of each drinking water source at the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school, as described in section 25-8-903 (2)(c).

(7) (a) Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, on June 28, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer five million three hundred thousand dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(b) This subsection (7) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1358), ch. 382, p. 2730, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2023: (5)(b)(IV) amended, (HB 23-1298), ch. 300, p. 1805, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2026: (3) and (5)(b)(IV) amended, (HB 26-1391), ch. 196, p. 1133, § 2, effective May 28; (7) added, (HB 26-1405), ch. 396, p. 2486, § 29, effective June 4.

25-8-903. Testing for the presence of lead in drinking water in child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools - remediation - maintenance of records - training - inspections - enforcement - reimbursement - technical assistance - exemptions - opt out by family child care home - reports.

(1) Testing.

(a) (I) Except as described in subsections (1)(a)(II) and (1)(a)(III) of this section, on or before May 31, 2023, each child care center, family child care home, and eligible school shall test its drinking water sources by having a state-certified laboratory measure the lead content of water drawn from each drinking water source. The testing must be done in accordance with the latest federal guidance on proper sampling for testing for the presence of lead in drinking water, including the "Lead and Copper Rule" of the federal environmental protection agency, 40 CFR 141 et seq., as amended.

(II) Subject to available appropriations, an eligible school that serves students in sixth, seventh, or eighth grade shall satisfy the requirement described in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section on or before November 30, 2024.

(III) Subject to available appropriations, an eligible school that serves students in ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade shall satisfy the requirement described in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section on or before May 31, 2027.

(b) Except as described in subsection (2)(a)(V) of this section, within thirty days after receiving the results of a test of a drinking water source, a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school shall:

(I) Make the results, as well as any associated lead remediation plans, publicly available on the child care center's, family child care home's, or eligible school's website, if applicable; and

(II) Report the results to the water quality control commission using a standard form that the commission establishes. The commission shall post the results on its public website within thirty days after receiving them.

(c) Each child care center, family child care home, and eligible school shall establish a testing schedule for its drinking water sources, provide the schedule to its employees and to parents and guardians of children that attend the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school, and make the schedule publicly available. All communications to employees, parents, and guardians must be provided in relevant languages.

(d) The department shall develop and make available a template for child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools to use to provide notifications and post information online as described in this section.

(2) Remediation.

(a) If the results of a test of a drinking water source show that water from the drinking water source contains lead in an amount of five parts per billion or more, a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school shall:

(I) Shut off the drinking water source as soon as practicably possible;

(II) Affix a visible label on the drinking water source, which label indicates that the drinking water source is undergoing remediation for the presence of lead and that water from the drinking water source should not be consumed;

(III) Determine remediation steps within thirty days after receiving the test results, which remediation steps must be demonstrated to reduce lead to below five parts per billion and may include installation or replacement of a filtration system;

(IV) Complete all necessary remediation steps as soon as possible but no later than ninety days after receiving the test results; and

(V) Provide notice of the test results to all employees, parents, and guardians within two business days after receiving the results, which notice must be provided in relevant languages and include a summary of the test results and information concerning the availability of the complete test results, a description of any remediation steps that will be taken, general information concerning the health effects and risks posed by lead in drinking water and other sources, and information regarding the availability of additional resources concerning lead in drinking water, including how and where individuals may seek blood-level testing if they are concerned.

(b) While a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school is in the process of remediating a drinking water source, the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school shall ensure that:

(I) No one uses the drinking water source to acquire water for drinking or cooking; and

(II) Adequate drinking water remains available to children, employees, and other individuals who are present in the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school.

(c) Within ninety days after a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school successfully remediates a drinking water source, the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school shall perform a confirmation test of the drinking water source for the presence of lead.

(d) The department may conduct further remediation as necessary to address a drinking water source at a child care center, family child care home, or eligible school.

(3) Maintenance of records. Each child care center, family child care home, and eligible school shall create and maintain, for at least five years, records of its filter replacement activities, including when a filter is removed and when a new filter is installed, and any remediation efforts, including faucet replacements. Each child care center, family child care home, and eligible school shall provide copies of such records to the department and any member of the public upon request.

(4) Training.

(a) Except as described in subsection (4)(b) of this section, not later than one hundred eighty days after August 10, 2022, the department shall provide training to each child care center, family child care home, and eligible school regarding water filter maintenance, flushing protocols, testing for lead, reporting processes for sampling reports, and other activities relevant to compliance with this part 9. Training may take place in person or virtually and must include the individuals who will take water samples at the child care center, family child care home, or eligible school for the purposes of this part 9. The department shall provide the training in relevant languages.

(b) Not later than one hundred eighty days after May 28, 2026, the department shall provide the training described in subsection (4)(a) of this section to each eligible school that serves students in ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade.

(5) Inspections. The department is not required to perform inspections pursuant to this part 9.

(6) Enforcement. The water quality control commission may enforce this part 9 by issuing administrative orders and assessing penalties but is not required to do so.

(7) Reimbursement.

(a) The department shall develop and implement procedures:

(I) Whereby child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools can satisfactorily demonstrate costs incurred for the purpose of complying with this section and apply to the department for reimbursement of such costs; and

(II) Whereby the department, except as described in section 25-8-902 (6), reimburses child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools for costs incurred for the purpose of complying with this section.

(b) Repealed.

(8) Technical assistance. The department shall provide technical assistance as needed to child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools in rural areas to help such facilities comply with the requirements of this section.

(9) Exemptions. Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary:

(a) A family child care home established before March 31, 2023, may opt out of the duty to comply with this section so long as the authorized representative of the family child care home provides written notice of such decision to the department on or before March 31, 2023. A family child care home established on or after March 31, 2023, may opt out of the duty to comply with this section so long as the authorized representative of the family child care home provides written notice of such decision to the department within six months after the date upon which the family child care home is established.

(b) A child care center or eligible school is not required to satisfy the requirements of this section if the child care center or eligible school is classified as a public water system under the "Lead and Copper Rule" of the federal environmental protection agency, 40 CFR 141 et seq., as amended, and the child care center or eligible school is in compliance with the requirements of the federal rule. However, a child care center or eligible school that utilizes the exemption described in this subsection (9)(b) shall, in lieu of satisfying the reporting requirement described in subsection (1)(b)(II) of this section, report annually to the water quality control commission the results of the child care center's or eligible school's testing of its drinking water sources pursuant to the federal rule.

(10) Reports.

(a) On or before December 1, 2023, and on or before each December 1 thereafter, the water quality control commission shall submit a report to the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives and the health and human services committee of the senate, or to any successor committees, which report:

(I) Summarizes the results of the tests performed by child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools pursuant to this section; and

(II) Identifies any noncompliant child care centers, family child care homes, and eligible schools.

(b) The water quality control commission shall present testimony concerning the report described in subsection (10)(a) of this section to the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committee, at the committee's request.

(c) Notwithstanding the requirement in section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the requirement to submit the report described in subsection (10)(a) of this section continues indefinitely.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1358), ch. 382, p. 2731, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2023: (7)(b) amended, (HB 23-1298), ch. 300, p. 1805, § 2, effective June 1. L. 2026: (1)(a) and (4) amended and (7)(b) repealed, (HB 26-1391), ch. 196, p. 1134, § 3, effective May 28.

25-8-904. Report and recommendation regarding expansion required - legislative declaration. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1358), ch. 382, p. 2735, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2026: Entire section repealed, (HB 26-1391), ch. 196, p. 1135, § 4, effective May 28.

25-8-905. Repeal of part.

This part 9 is repealed, effective June 30, 2029.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1358), ch. 382, p. 2736, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (HB 26-1391), ch. 196, p. 1135, § 5, effective May 28.

PART 10

MOBILE HOME WATER QUALITY

25-8-1001. Definitions.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Action plan" means the statewide action plan created by the division in accordance with section 25-8-1004.

(2) "Colorado EnviroScreen" means the environmental justice mapping tool developed and administered by the department and Colorado state university, or any successor tool.

(3) "Department" means the state department of public health and environment.

(4) "Division" means the water quality control division in the department.

(5) "Division of housing" means the division of housing in the department of local affairs.

(6) (a) "Finished water" means water that is supplied to a distribution system of a mobile home park and intended for distribution and human consumption.

(b) "Finished water" includes drinking water present anywhere in the distribution system.

(7) "Fund" means the mobile home park water quality fund created in section 25-8-1006.

(8) "Grant program" means the mobile home water quality grant program created in section 25-8-1005.

(9) "Local government" means:

(a) A statutory or home rule county, municipality, or city and county; or

(b) Any special district that owns or operates facilities that supply water to or take wastewater from a mobile home park.

(10) "Mobile home park" or "park" has the meaning set forth in section 38-12-201.5 (6).

(11) "Park owner" means each person that owns a mobile home park, acting individually or jointly, and the agent of the park owner with respect to matters concerning the park.

(12) "Ombudsperson" means the environmental justice ombudsperson appointed under section 25-1-134 or the ombudsperson's designee.

(13) "Remediation" means the resolution of all water quality issues of a finished water source. "Remediate" has a corresponding meaning.

(13.5) (a) "Risk to welfare" means a reasonable likelihood of negatively affecting the ability of individuals to meet basic material needs.

(b) "Risk to welfare" includes:

(I) Negatively affecting the finances of a household; or

(II) A reasonable likelihood that the finished water or water supply is not of sufficient quality to be suitable for household uses, such as drinking, cooking, bathing, washing clothes, and using with home appliances.

(14) "Testing program" means the program to test mobile home park water quality created in accordance with section 25-8-1002 (1)(a).

(15) "Water quality issue" means, with regard to finished water or water supply, that:

(a) The finished water fails to comply with the primary drinking water quality standards established by rule under sections 25-8-202 and 25-8-204 or with any maximum contaminant level established by the United States environmental protection agency; or

(b) The division has made a written determination that the finished water or water supply is of sufficiently low quality to present a risk to the welfare, health, or safety of individuals who consume the water.

(16) "Water supply" means the supply of a source of finished water to a park's residents. "Water supply" includes primary source water, wells, rivers, water systems, and water purchased from another water system.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2246, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2026: (13) amended and (13.5) added, (HB 26-1145), ch. 95, p. 380, § 1, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 95 (HB 26-1145), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to acts or omissions committed on or after August 12, 2026.

25-8-1002. Division duties - testing water quality at mobile home parks - parameters of testing - notice of results.

(1) Testing program.

(a) By July 1, 2024, the division shall develop and begin conducting a program to test the quality of finished water at mobile home parks. The testing program is in addition to any other testing performed pursuant to this article 8. The division may contract with third-party entities to perform the testing.

(b) The division shall ensure that materials, information, and communications shared with members of the public related to the testing program are available in English, Spanish, and any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary to provide reasonable notice.

(c) The division shall test, in accordance with this section, finished water at:

(I) Twenty-five percent of the total number of parks by July 1, 2025;

(II) Fifty percent of the total number of parks by July 1, 2026;

(III) Seventy-five percent of the total number of parks by July 1, 2027; and

(IV) One hundred percent of the total number of parks by July 1, 2028.

(d) (I) The division shall begin testing by sampling the finished water and the water supply at parks that represent geographically diverse locations across Colorado, both in urban and rural locations, based on the following prioritization criteria, not listed in order of importance:

(A) Parks located in a census block group where at least forty percent of residents identify as a racial or ethnic minority;

(B) Parks in a geographic area that is known to produce contaminants in finished water because of the geology of the geographic area;

(C) Parks at a higher risk of experiencing cumulative effects on water quality because they are located in the most recent version of its census block group with a Colorado EnviroScreen score above the eightieth percentile;

(D) Parks where residents have requested testing;

(E) Parks where residents have submitted complaints, including consideration of the largest number of complaints, about the quality of the finished water to the department, to the division of housing, or to the ombudsperson;

(F) Parks that are supplied with finished water from an unregulated water supply; and

(G) Parks the division determines should be prioritized.

(II) The division shall create a waiting list if requests for finished water testing at parks exceed the division's capacity for conducting the testing within thirty days after the request.

(2) Testing parameters.

(a) In developing the testing program, the division shall interview residents of parks to understand resident experiences, including damage to appliances, health effects, and economic effects, and shall assess possible causes of concern about the quality of finished water, including concerns about finished water that has an abnormal color, odor, or taste. The division shall conduct the interviews in English, Spanish, or any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary to conduct the interview.

(b) In developing the testing program, the division shall determine and approve a specific sampling and testing plan for each park requiring any water quality testing that the division determines is necessary to assess the finished water's safety and quality and to assess park resident concerns identified in the interviews described in subsection (2)(a) of this section. The testing may include:

(I) Testing to determine if the water complies with the primary and secondary drinking water standards established by rule under sections 25-8-202 and 25-8-204 and with the maximum contaminant levels or secondary maximum contaminant levels established by the United States environmental protection agency;

(II) Testing to evaluate hardness, iron, calcium, and total dissolved solids; and

(III) Testing for chemicals with health advisory levels if the division believes the chemicals may be present in the finished water.

(c) Each approved sampling and testing plan is subject to review and revision by the division.

(d) The division is authorized to not test finished water at a park for a specific contaminant if information exists showing the contaminant is not near or in excess of the standard in the finished water or if testing of the contaminant is already required by a park's registration as a public water system.

(e) The division shall require that any sampling and analysis performed in the field for the testing program be conducted by a qualified professional, as determined by the division.

(f) In implementing the testing program, the division shall:

(I) Use the sample hold times for valid sampling in accordance with the rules promulgated under sections 25-8-202 and 25-8-204; and

(II) Avoid testing within a mobile home without the owner's or renter's consent and evaluate possible alternate testing locations, including pedestals and service lines.

(3) Notice of test results.

(a) Test results obtained in accordance with this section are public records. The division shall make the test results accessible as soon as possible on a public website on which the test results may be viewed in English, Spanish, and any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary to provide reasonable notice.

(b) (I) Within ten days after receiving the test results, the division shall notify the following persons of the test results obtained in accordance with this section for each park:

(A) The park owner;

(B) The county department of health where the park is located;

(C) The municipality, if any, where the park is located;

(D) The division of housing in the department of local affairs;

(E) The water supplier; and

(F) The ombudsperson.

(II) If test results show that a park's finished water has a water quality issue, the division's notification described in subsection (3)(b)(I) of this section must include:

(A) A summary of the test results and information concerning the availability of the complete test results;

(B) Information about any violation of water quality standards for finished water;

(C) Guidance about any actions residents should take in light of any violations of water quality standards for finished water;

(D) Guidance about the remediation process, as described in section 25-8-1003; and

(E) Information about the grant program.

(c) (I) Upon receiving notice of test results in accordance with subsection (3)(b)(I)(A) of this section, the park owner shall notify the park residents of the test results within five days in English, Spanish, and any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary to provide reasonable notice and include in the notice the information and guidance received from the division in accordance with subsection (3)(b)(II) of this section. The park owner shall use a professional translator to provide the notice in any language other than English. After giving the notice, the park owner shall certify to the division that the park owner has notified the residents.

(II) In addition to directly notifying residents, a park owner shall also post the notice of test results in English, Spanish, and any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary to provide reasonable notice in a clearly visible location in park common areas, including any community hall or recreation hall. The notice must:

(A) Remain clearly visible in the common area for at least one hundred twenty days after the date it is posted; and

(B) Use a translation provided by a professional translator.

(III) If a park owner fails to provide and post the notice required by subsections (3)(c)(I) and (3)(c)(II) of this section to residents within five business days after receipt of the notice from the division, the park owner is subject to section 38-12-1104 and part 2 of article 12 of title 38.

(IV) If the park owner fails to certify to the division that the park owner has notified park residents as required by subsection (3)(c)(I) of this section, the division may issue an order requiring the park owner to comply with the resident notice certification requirement.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2248, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2026: (2)(c) amended and (3)(c)(IV) added, (HB 26-1145), ch. 95, p. 381, § 2, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 95 (HB 26-1145), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to acts or omissions committed on or after August 12, 2026.

25-8-1003. Remediation.

(1) If testing conducted in accordance with the testing program identifies a water quality issue in finished water, the division shall:

(a) Perform or require additional testing, if necessary, of the finished water or water supply at the park, and this testing may include continued testing, testing of multiple points in the water supply outside the mobile home, and testing of flow rates and of water pressure;

(b) Notify the division of housing and the persons listed in section 25-8-1002 (3)(b)(I);

(c) Timely review the remediation plan described in subsection (2)(c) of this section and either:

(I) Approve the plan; or

(II) Deny the plan with a written explanation of the reason the plan was denied and make recommendations for addressing the reason the plan was denied; and

(d) When the water quality issue has been remediated, notify the division of housing.

(2) Upon receiving the notice made under subsection (1)(b) of this section, the park owner shall:

(a) Comply with any orders of the division related to the water quality issue;

(b) Not impose the cost of compliance with this subsection (2) on park residents; except that a park resident that is also a park owner may bear the cost of complying with this subsection (2);

(c) Within one hundred twenty days after receiving the notice, prepare and submit to the division a remediation plan, which must be designed to address the water quality issue described in the notice and must include deadlines, with status update requirements, to address the water quality issue;

(d) Complete the remediation plan based on a schedule approved by the division; and

(e) Consult with the division and provide a reasonable and sufficient amount of accessible drinking water or department-approved filters, if either one or both are necessary, to address acute health risks.

(3) To address a water quality issue, the division may issue an order requiring the park owner to:

(a) Perform additional water testing;

(b) Perform temporary measures necessary to address acute health risks;

(c) Make additional reports to the division concerning the water quality issue; or

(d) Create a remediation plan, implement a remediation plan, or respond to the division in connection with a remediation plan.

(4) An order issued under subsection (3)(d) of this section becomes effective upon issuance to the park owner. Only with respect to orders issued under subsection (3)(d) of this section, a park owner may file a request for a hearing, pursuant to section 24-4-105, on any issue raised by the order if the request for a hearing is filed within twenty days after the order is mailed.

(5) This section does not require a park owner to remediate a water quality issue within a mobile home.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2251, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2026: (2)(b), IP(3), and (4) amended, (HB 26-1145), ch. 95, p. 381, § 3, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 95 (HB 26-1145), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to acts or omissions committed on or after August 12, 2026.

25-8-1004. Action plan.

(1) By March 1, 2026, the division shall develop an action plan to address and improve water quality in mobile home parks. The action plan must comply with subsection (3) of this section.

(2) In developing the action plan, the division shall:

(a) Conduct outreach to park residents to:

(I) Gather information to develop the action plan; and

(II) Receive input about water quality concerns, including concerns related to water safety, color, odor, and taste;

(b) Coordinate with residents of parks to identify opportunities to improve the quality of finished water in and the water supply for parks;

(c) Ensure that communications with members of the public concerning the action plan are available in English, Spanish, and any other language requested by a resident or that the division determines is necessary for public outreach;

(d) Consult with or coordinate with some or all of the following entities: The park owner, park residents, nonprofit organizations, public institutions of higher education, the water provider, county health departments, and the ombudsperson;

(e) Consider the results of the testing program and any other water quality testing conducted to date;

(f) Assess water supply infrastructure for a sampling of parks based on prioritization criteria in section 25-8-1002 (1)(d), and this assessment must assess for the presence of lead pipes or decaying or aging pipes, the sizing of pipes, and water pressure levels to determine if infrastructure is impairing water quality; and

(g) Collect relevant data about finished water at parks.

(3) The action plan must:

(a) Include a status report of the testing program conducted to date, and the status report must specify the number of parks tested, the testing locations, and a summary of findings to date;

(b) Develop a strategy to test water quality at any parks not yet tested;

(c) Identify opportunities to improve the quality of finished water in and the water supply for parks, including opportunities to address color, taste, and odor concerns;

(d) In cooperating and consulting with the division of housing, identify opportunities for potential funding to improve the quality of finished water and the water supply and to enforce this part 10;

(e) Include timelines for implementation of the action plan; and

(f) Include a written description of how park resident feedback was and was not incorporated.

(4) The division shall coordinate with the division of housing to identify potential money, including grant money from the grant program, to support remediation of a water quality issue at a park.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2252, § 1, effective June 5.

25-8-1005. Mobile home water quality grant program - created - grant application and award process - reporting - funding.

(1) (a) The mobile home water quality grant program is created to provide grants to park owners, nonprofit entities, and local governments to address water quality issues and wastewater problems in mobile home parks.

(b) Grant recipients may use the money received through the grant program to remediate water quality issues in a park or, subject to division approval, improve water quality in a park.

(2) (a) The division shall administer the grant program and, subject to available appropriations, shall award grants as provided in this section.

(b) The division shall, in collaboration with the division of housing, develop policies to implement the grant program in accordance with this section. At a minimum, the policies must specify:

(I) The deadlines for applying for, awarding, and disbursing grants;

(II) The procedures for applying for a grant;

(III) The criteria used to evaluate a grant application; and

(IV) The criteria for determining the amount of a grant.

(3) To receive a grant, a park owner, nonprofit entity, or local government must submit an application to the division in accordance with the policies developed pursuant to subsection (2) of this section. At a minimum, the application must include the following information:

(a) The name of the park owner, nonprofit entity, local government, or agency of a local government applying for the grant;

(b) The park that would benefit from the grant;

(c) A reference to the notice received in accordance with section 25-8-1003 (1)(b) on the mobile home park's water quality issue; and

(d) The planned remediation or improvement to be accomplished with the grant.

(4) (a) The division shall review the applications received under this section and shall prioritize funding for applications based on:

(I) The severity of the water quality issue;

(II) The number of people affected by the water quality issue; and

(III) The costs to remediate the water quality issue or improve water quality.

(b) Subject to available appropriations, on or before July 1, 2025, and on or before July 1 of each year thereafter, the division shall award grants as provided in this section and the policies adopted in accordance with this section.

(5) The general assembly shall annually appropriate money from the fund to the department for allocation to the division to implement the grant program. The division may use up to ten percent of the money annually appropriated for the grant program to pay the direct and indirect costs that the division incurs to administer the grant program.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2254, § 1, effective June 5.

25-8-1006. Mobile home park water quality fund - repeal.

(1) The mobile home park water quality fund is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money credited to the fund in accordance with section 25-8-1007 (3), money credited to the fund pursuant to section 6-1-112 (3), and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(3) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the division shall, as necessary to address a park's water quality issues or improve a park's water quality, expend money from the fund to implement this part 10, including the grant program.

(4) (a) On June 30, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer three million dollars from the fund to the general fund.

(b) This subsection (4) is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2255, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2026: (4) added, (HB 26-1405), ch. 396, p. 2486, § 30, effective June 4; (1) amended, (HB 26-1426), ch. 334, p. 2027, § 101, effective August 12.

25-8-1007. Enforcement.

(1) The division has authority to test and require remediation of park finished water, regardless of the type of water source, and enforce this part 10.

(2) The division shall, as necessary, issue a cease-and-desist order for a violation of this part 10 in accordance with section 25-8-605.

(3) (a) If a park owner fails to comply with a cease-and-desist order, create a remediation plan, implement a remediation plan, or respond to the division in connection with a remediation plan, the division may impose a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars. In addition to the civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars for each violation, the division may impose an additional civil penalty of up to five thousand dollars for each thirty-day period for which the violation continues. A civil penalty issued under this subsection (3) is a final agency action. The park owner is not entitled to an administrative hearing to contest an imposed civil penalty.

(b) The division shall transfer a civil penalty collected pursuant to this subsection (3) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the civil penalty to the fund.

(c) If a park owner threatens to evict a park resident for filing a water quality complaint or for requesting remediation to address a water quality issue, the park owner has violated section 38-12-203 (3) and is subject to the penalties set forth in section 38-12-203 (3).

(4) This section does not provide an exclusive remedy and does not limit the right of park residents to take legal action against the park owner. Exhaustion of the administrative remedy provided in this section is not required before a resident may bring a legal action.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2255, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2026: (1), (2), and (3)(a) amended, (HB 26-1145), ch. 95, p. 381, § 4, effective August 12.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 95 (HB 26-1145), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act changing this section applies to acts or omissions committed on or after August 12, 2026.

25-8-1008. This part 10 does not affect other statutory protections.

This part 10 does not affect or supersede the protections granted to park residents pursuant to other statutes, including article 12 of title 38. If a court determines that a provision of this part 10 conflicts with a provision of article 12 of title 38, the court shall apply the statute that grants the stronger protection to the park resident.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1257), ch. 376, p. 2256, § 1, effective June 5.

PART 11

PLASTIC PELLET-FREE WATERS ACT

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 30 (SB 26-016), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act adding this part 11 applies to conduct occurring on or after August 12, 2027.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 26-016, see section 1 of chapter 30, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-8-1101. Short title.

[Editor's note: This section is effective August 12, 2027.] The short title of this part 11 is the "Plastic Pellet-free Waters Act".

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-016), ch. 30, p. 135, § 2, effective August 12, 2027.

25-8-1102. Definitions.

[Editor's note: This section is effective August 12, 2027.] As used in this part 11, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Discharge" means the introduction or addition of preproduction plastic materials into state waters, wastewater, storm water runoff, or other runoff.

(2) (a) "Facility" means a facility that makes, uses, packages, or transports plastic pellets or other preproduction plastic materials in the state.

(b) "Facility" does not include a domestic wastewater treatment works, as defined in section 25-8-103 (5).

(3) (a) "Preproduction plastic materials" means preproduction plastic pellets, flakes, fibers, powders, or powdered coloring for plastics, in their raw or primary state.

(b) "Preproduction plastic materials" includes preproduction plastic materials produced from virgin resin or from recycled or post-consumer plastic sources, prior to incorporation or reincorporation into a finished plastic product.

(c) "Preproduction plastic materials" does not include materials resulting from the breakdown of manufactured or otherwise useful plastic products.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-016), ch. 30, p. 135, § 2, effective August 12, 2027.

25-8-1103. Discharge of preproduction plastic materials prohibited.

[Editor's note: This section is effective August 12, 2027.] A person shall not discharge plastic pellets or other preproduction plastic materials from a facility in the state.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-016), ch. 30, p. 136, § 2, effective August 12, 2027.

25-8.5 ARTICLE 8.5

Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority

25-8.5-101. Legislative declaration.

25-8.5-102. Definitions.

25-8.5-103. Creation and organization.

25-8.5-104. Boundaries of authority.

25-8.5-105. Authority members.

25-8.5-106. Board of directors.

25-8.5-107. Voting.

25-8.5-108. Ex officio members.

25-8.5-109. Meetings.

25-8.5-110. Powers of board - organization - administration.

25-8.5-111. Powers of authority - general and financial.

25-8.5-112. Power to issue bonds.

25-8.5-113. Revenue refunding bonds.

25-8.5-114. Use of proceeds of revenue refunding bonds.

25-8.5-115. Facilities - comprehensive program.

25-8.5-116. Coordination with drainage and flood control measures.

25-8.5-117. Transfer of powers.

25-8.5-118. Power to levy special assessments.

25-8.5-119. Inclusion of property.

25-8.5-120. Exclusion of property.

25-8.5-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the organization of a Cherry Creek basin water quality authority will:

(a) Be for the public benefit and advantage of the people of the state of Colorado;

(b) Benefit the inhabitants and landowners within the authority by preserving water quality in Cherry Creek and Cherry Creek reservoir;

(c) Benefit the people of the state of Colorado by preserving waters for recreation, fisheries, water supplies, and other beneficial uses;

(d) Promote the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the state of Colorado.

(2) It is further declared that the authority will provide for effective efforts by the various counties, municipalities, special districts, and landowners within the boundaries of the authority in the protection of water quality.

(3) It is further declared that the authority should provide that new developments and construction activities pay their equitable proportion of costs for water quality preservation and facilities.

(4) This article, being necessary to secure the public health, safety, convenience, and welfare, shall be liberally construed to effect its purposes.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1029, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Agricultural lands" means all lands except land rezoned by a county or municipality for business, commercial, residential, or similar uses or subdivided lands. Those include property consisting of a lot one acre or more in size which contains a dwelling unit.

(2) "Authority" means the Cherry Creek basin water quality authority created pursuant to section 25-8.5-103.

(3) "Board" means the governing body of the authority provided for in section 25-8.5-106.

(3.5) "Conservation district" means any conservation district created pursuant to article 70 of title 35, C.R.S.

(4) "County" means any county enumerated in article 5 of title 30, C.R.S.

(5) "Municipality" means a municipality as defined in section 31-1-101 (6), C.R.S.

(6) "Publication" means three consecutive weekly advertisements in a newspaper or newspapers of general circulation within the boundaries of the authority. It shall not be necessary that an advertisement be made on the same day of the week in each of the three weeks, but not less than twelve days, excluding the day of first publication, shall intervene between the first publication and the last publication. Publication shall be complete on the date of the last publication.

(7) "Resolution" means an ordinance as passed by a member municipality or a resolution as passed by a member county or special district.

(8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2002, p. 517, § 12, effective July 1, 2002.)

(9) "Special district" means any district created pursuant to article 1 of title 32, C.R.S., which has the power to provide sanitation services or water and sanitation services and has wastewater treatment facilities within the boundaries of the authority.

(10) "Wastewater treatment facility" means a facility providing wastewater treatment services which has a designed capacity to receive sewage for treating, neutralizing, stabilizing, and reducing pollutants contained therein prior to the disposal or discharge of the treated sewage. "Wastewater treatment facility" does not include any pretreatment facilities, lift stations, interceptor lines, or other transmission facilities to transmit sewage effluent outside the boundaries of the authority.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1030, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2002: (3.5) added and (8) amended, p. 517, § 12, effective July 1.

25-8.5-103. Creation and organization.

The Cherry Creek basin water quality authority is hereby created. The authority shall be a quasi-municipal corporation and political subdivision of the state, with the powers provided in this article.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1030, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-104. Boundaries of authority.

(1) The boundaries of the authority shall be determined by the authority, subject to the following:

(a) The boundaries shall be limited to the drainage basin of Cherry Creek from its headwaters to the dam at Cherry Creek reservoir, which the general assembly hereby finds to be:

(I) Arapahoe county: Portions of sections thirty-five and thirty-six, township four south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; a portion of section thirty-one, township four south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections one, two, three, ten, fifteen, twenty-two, twenty-three, twenty-seven, and thirty-four, and all of sections eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, thirty-five and thirty-six, township five south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; all of sections seven, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six and portions of sections five, six, eight, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, twenty-three and twenty-four, township five south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; all of section thirty-one and portions of sections nineteen, twenty-nine, thirty, and thirty-two, township five south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian;

(II) Douglas county: Portions of sections four, nine, sixteen, twenty-one, twenty-eight and thirty-three, and all of sections five, six, seven, eight, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, and thirty-two, township six south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian; township six south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections three, ten, fifteen, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-eight, thirty-one, thirty-two and thirty-three, and all of sections one, two, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, thirty-four, thirty-five and thirty-six, township six south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections four, nine, sixteen, and twenty-one, and all of sections five, six, seven, eight, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, and thirty-three, township seven south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian; township seven south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections four, five, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, twenty-three, twenty-five, twenty-six, and thirty-six, and all of sections one, two, three, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, and twenty-four, township seven south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections twenty-eight and thirty-three and all of sections four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, and thirty-two, township eight south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections six, seven, eighteen, nineteen, twenty-nine, thirty, and thirty-one, and all of sections one, two, three, four, five, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five and thirty-six, township eight south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; a portion of section one, township eight south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; all of sections four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two and thirty-three, township nine south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian; all of township nine south, range sixty-six west excepting portions of sections six and seven; portions of sections thirteen, twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, and thirty-six, township nine south, range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections twenty-eight and thirty-three, and all of sections four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, and thirty-two, township ten south, range sixty-five west of the sixth principal meridian; portions of sections five, six, seven, eight, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, and all of sections one, two, three, four, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five and thirty-six, township ten south, range sixty-six west of the sixth principal meridian; a portion of section one, township ten south range sixty-seven west of the sixth principal meridian.

(b) Lands may be included within the boundaries of the authority pursuant to section 25-8.5-119.

(c) Lands within the boundaries identified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) may be excluded from the authority pursuant to section 25-8.5-120.

(2) The authority shall maintain a current map, showing all lands that are included in the authority's boundaries.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1031, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-105. Authority members.

(1) The following entities shall be members of the authority:

(a) Each county that has property within the authority's boundaries shall have one member;

(b) Each municipality that has property within the authority's boundaries shall have one member;

(c) The special districts that include in their service areas property within the Cherry Creek basin and that own and operate wastewater treatment services facilities in the Cherry Creek basin shall collectively be represented by a single member of the authority. For the purposes of this paragraph (c), wastewater treatment services shall mean a wastewater treatment facility with a designed capacity to receive more than two thousand gallons of sewage per day.

(d) A total of seven members shall be appointed by the governor to represent sports persons, recreational users, and concerned citizens. A minimum of two of these appointees shall be residents of Colorado and shall be from bona fide sports persons' or recreational organizations that have members who use the reservoir. A minimum of two of these appointees shall be from bona fide citizen or environmental organizations interested in preserving water quality with members who use the reservoir or live within Cherry Creek basin. At least three of the appointed members shall have backgrounds in or professional training regarding water quality issues. The term of appointment is four years; except that the terms shall be staggered so that no more than four members' terms expire in the same year.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1032, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2001: (1) amended, p. 896, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2022: (1)(d) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 60, § 80, effective February 25.

25-8.5-106. Board of directors.

(1) The governing body of the authority shall be a board of directors which shall exercise and perform all powers, rights, privileges, and duties invested or imposed by this article.

(2) Each authority member shall appoint one representative and two alternates to serve on the board. The representative and alternates for the special district authority member shall be chosen by unanimous consent of the special districts referenced in section 25-8.5-105 (1)(c), or included under section 25-8.5-119. Any county, municipality, or special district that provides wastewater treatment services by contract with another entity that is a member of the authority shall not be entitled to a separate member on the board, and such a special district shall not be entitled to representation by the special district member.

(3) Directors shall be appointed for terms of two years. Notice of each appointment shall be given to the recording secretary for the authority.

(4) No director shall receive compensation as an employee of the authority. Reimbursement of actual expenses for directors shall not be considered compensation.

(5) An appointment to fill a vacancy on the board shall be made by the authority member for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(6) If a board member or designated alternate fails to attend two consecutive regular meetings of the board, the authority may submit a written request to the appointing authority member to have its representative attend the next regular meeting. If, following such request, said representative fails to attend the next regular board meeting, the board may appoint an interim representative from the authority member's jurisdiction to serve until the authority member appoints a new representative.

(7) An authority member, at its discretion, may remove from office any board member or designated alternate representing the authority member and appoint a successor.

(8) The board shall elect one of its members as chairman of the authority and one of its members as secretary-treasurer and shall appoint a recording secretary who may be a member of the board.

(9) The recording secretary shall keep in a visual text format that may be transmitted electronically a record of all of the authority's meetings, resolutions, certificates, contracts, bonds given by employees or contractors, and all corporate acts which shall be open to inspection of all interested parties.

(10) The secretary-treasurer shall keep strict and accurate accounts of all money received by and disbursed for and on behalf of the authority.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1032, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2001: (2) amended, p. 897, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2009: (9) amended, (HB 09-1118), ch. 130, p. 561, § 3, effective August 5.

25-8.5-107. Voting.

(1) Each authority member, through its designated director or designated alternate acting in the director's place, shall be entitled to one vote.

(2) Board action upon proposed waste load allocations, site location or site plans selected pursuant to section 25-8-702, discharge permits secured pursuant to section 25-8-501, amendments to the authority's wastewater management plan, and all budget and funding decisions shall require an affirmative vote of a majority of all authority members. Any vote by the special district member on such board action shall reflect the majority of the represented special districts.

(3) All decisions of the board not enumerated in subsection (2) of this section shall be made and decided by a majority of the quorum. A quorum requires that at least fifty percent of all authority members be present.

(4) A director shall disqualify himself from voting on any issue in which he has a conflict of interest unless such director has disclosed such conflict of interest in compliance with section 18-8-308, C.R.S., in which case such disclosure shall cure the conflict. A director shall abstain from voting if the director would obtain a personal financial gain from the contract or services being voted upon by the authority.

(5) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, any vote regarding a change in the levy and collection of ad valorem taxes pursuant to section 25-8.5-111 (1)(p)(I) shall be limited to authority members representing municipalities or counties within the authority's boundaries.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1033, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2001: (2) and (3) amended and (5) added, p. 897, § 3, effective August 8.

25-8.5-108. Ex officio members.

(1) Ex officio members shall be provided with notice of the authority meetings. Ex officio members shall not serve on the board. Ex officio members are not voting members. The following shall be considered ex officio members:

(a) Every conservation district of which more than two-thirds of its territory is included within the authority's boundaries;

(b) Any other governmental or quasi-governmental agency designated as an ex officio member by the authority.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1034, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2002: (1)(a) amended, p. 517, § 13, effective July 1.

25-8.5-109. Meetings.

(1) The board shall fix the time and place at which its regular meetings shall be held and provide for the calling and holding of special meetings.

(2) Notice of the time and place designated for all regular meetings shall be posted at the office of the county clerk and recorder of each of the counties included within the authority. Such notices shall remain posted and shall be changed in the event that the time or place of such regular meetings is changed.

(3) Special meetings of the board shall be held at the call of the chairman or upon request of two board members. The authority shall inform all board members five calendar days before the special meeting and shall post notice in accordance with subsection (2) of this section at least three days before the special meeting of the date, time, and place of such special meeting and the purpose for which it is called.

(4) All business of the board shall be conducted only during said regular or special meetings, and all said meetings shall be open to the public, but the board may hold executive sessions as provided in part 4 of article 6 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1034, § 1, effective April 28. L. 91: (4) amended, p. 821, § 5, effective June 1.

25-8.5-110. Powers of board - organization - administration.

(1) The board has the following powers relating to carrying on the affairs of the authority:

(a) To organize, adopt bylaws and rules of procedure, and select a chairman and chairman pro tempore;

(b) To make and pass resolutions and orders which are necessary for the governance and management of the affairs of the authority, for the execution of the powers vested in the authority, and for carrying out the provisions of this article;

(c) To fix the location of the principal place of business of the authority and the location of all offices maintained under this article;

(d) To prescribe by resolution a system of business administration, to create any and all necessary offices, to establish the powers and duties and compensation of all employees, and to require and fix the amount of all official bonds necessary for the protection of the funds and property of the authority;

(e) To appoint and retain employees, agents, and consultants to make recommendations, coordinate authority activities, conduct routine business of the authority, and act on behalf of the authority under such conditions and restrictions as shall be fixed by the board;

(f) To prescribe a method of auditing and allowing or rejecting claims and demands and a method for the letting of contracts on a fair and competitive basis for the construction of works, structures, or equipment or for the performance or furnishing of such labor, materials, or supplies as may be required for the carrying out of any of the purposes of this article.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1034, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-111. Powers of authority - general and financial.

(1) In order to accomplish its purposes, the authority has the power to:

(a) Develop and implement, with such revisions as become necessary in light of changing conditions, plans for water quality controls for the reservoir, applicable drainage basin, waters, and watershed, to achieve and maintain the water quality standards. In particular, the authority shall submit, within two years after August 8, 2001, a plan to the water quality control commission that is intended to meet state water quality standards, including measures to mitigate the impacts of nonpoint source pollutants.

(b) Conduct pilot studies and other studies that may be appropriate for the development of potential water quality control solutions;

(c) Develop and implement programs to provide credits, incentives, and rewards within the Cherry Creek basin plan for water quality control projects;

(d) Recommend the maximum loads of pollutants allowable to maintain the water quality standards;

(e) Recommend erosion controls and urban runoff control standards and conduct educational programs regarding such controls in the basin;

(f) Recommend septic system maintenance programs;

(g) Incur debts, liabilities, and obligations;

(h) Have perpetual existence;

(i) Have and use a corporate seal;

(j) Sue and be a party to suits, actions, and proceedings;

(k) Enter into contracts and agreements affecting the affairs of the authority including, but not limited to, contracts with the United States and the state of Colorado and any of their agencies or instrumentalities, political subdivisions of the state of Colorado, corporations, and individuals;

(l) Acquire, hold, lease (as lessor or lessee), and otherwise dispose of and encumber real and personal property;

(m) Acquire, lease, rent, manage, operate, construct, and maintain water quality control facilities or improvements for drainage, nonpoint sources, or runoff within or without the authority;

(n) Establish rates, tolls, fees, charges, and penalties except on agricultural land for the functions, services, facilities, and programs of the authority; except that the total annual revenue collected from said rates, tolls, fees, and charges, less the cost of said functions, services, facilities, and programs, shall not exceed thirty percent of the annual authority budget;

(o) Establish in cooperation with the department of natural resources fees for Cherry Creek reservoir users, which amounts shall be subject to the review and approval of the board of parks and outdoor recreation, which shall not unreasonably withhold approval. Said reservoir fees, including all users regardless of activity, however established, shall not in total exceed the amount that would be collected if the reservoir user fee was one dollar per reservoir user per year.

(p) (I) Levy and collect ad valorem taxes on and against all taxable property within the authority subject to the limitation that no mill levy for any fiscal year shall exceed one-half mill; however, ad valorem taxes greater than one-half mill can be levied by the authority if it is approved by the electors at an election held according to the procedures of part 8 of article 1 of title 32, C.R.S.

(II) No property tax shall be levied until the fees from the recreation users and the development fees are established.

(q) Issue and refund revenue and assessment bonds and pledge the revenues of the authority or assessments therefor to the payment thereof in the manner provided in part 4 of article 35 of title 31, C.R.S., and as provided in this article;

(r) Invest any moneys of the authority in securities meeting the investment requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S.;

(s) Review and approve water quality control projects of any entity other than the authority within the boundaries of the authority;

(t) Except that the authority shall not have the power to regulate agricultural nonpoint source activities; such agricultural nonpoint source activities shall be subject only to the provisions of section 25-8-205 (5);

(u) Have and exercise all rights and powers necessary or incidental to or implied from the specific powers granted to the authority by this article. Such specific powers shall not be considered as a limitation upon any power necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes and intent of this article.

(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section shall be construed as authorizing the authority to take any action or spend any moneys in a manner that is inconsistent with its statutory purpose to protect and preserve the water quality of Cherry Creek reservoir. Consistent therewith, the authority shall expend funds only pertaining to the water quality standards, control regulations, or similar regulations regarding the water quality of Cherry Creek and Cherry Creek reservoir if such expenditures are clearly consistent with improving, protecting, and preserving such water quality. The authority shall focus its efforts on improving, protecting, and preserving the water quality of Cherry Creek and Cherry Creek reservoir, and on achieving and maintaining the existing water quality standards.

(3) Of the revenues collected by the authority under paragraphs (n), (o), and (p) of subsection (1) of this section, a minimum of sixty percent on an annual basis shall be spent on construction and maintenance of pollution abatement projects in the Cherry Creek basin or on payments due under loans or other debt incurred and spent by the authority entirely upon such projects.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1035, § 1, effective April 28. L. 89: (1)(r) amended, p. 1111, § 17, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1)(a), (1)(d), (1)(e), and (1)(n) amended and (2) and (3) added, p. 898, § 4, effective August 8.

25-8.5-112. Power to issue bonds.

To carry out the purposes of this article, the board is authorized to issue revenue or assessment bonds of the authority. Bonds shall bear interest at a rate such that the net effective interest rate of the issue of bonds does not exceed the maximum interest rate set forth in the resolution adopted by the board authorizing the issuance of the bonds, payable semiannually, and shall be due and payable serially, either annually or semiannually, commencing not later than three years after date of issuance. The form and terms of said bonds, including provisions for their payment and redemption, shall be determined by the board. If the board so determines, such bonds may be redeemable prior to maturity upon payment of a premium not exceeding three percent of the principal thereof. Said bonds shall be executed in the name and on behalf of the authority, signed by the chairman of the board with the seal of the authority affixed thereto, and attested by the secretary of the board. Said bonds shall be in such denominations as the board shall determine, and the bonds and coupons shall bear the original or facsimile signature of the chairman of the board.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1036, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-113. Revenue refunding bonds.

Any revenue bonds issued by the authority may be refunded by the authority, or by any successor thereof, in the name of the authority, subject to the provisions concerning their payment and to any other contractual limitations in the proceedings authorizing their issuance or otherwise appertaining thereto, by the issuance of bonds to refund, pay, and discharge all or any part of such outstanding bonds, including any interest on the bonds in arrears or about to become due, for the purpose of avoiding or terminating any default in the payment of the interest on and principal of the bonds, of reducing interest costs or effecting other economies, or of modifying or eliminating restrictive contractual limitations appertaining to the issuance of additional bonds or to any system appertaining thereto or for any combination of such purposes. Refunding bonds may be delivered in exchange for the outstanding bonds refunded or may be sold as provided in this article for an original issue of bonds.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1036, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-114. Use of proceeds of revenue refunding bonds.

The proceeds of revenue refunding bonds shall either be immediately applied to the retirement of the bonds being refunded or be placed in escrow in any state or national bank within the state which is a member of the federal deposit insurance corporation to be applied to the payment of the bonds being refunded upon their presentation therefor; but, to the extent any incidental expenses have been capitalized, such refunding bond proceeds may be used to defray such expenses, and any accrued interest and any premium appertaining to a sale of refunding bonds may be applied to the payment of the interest thereon or the principal thereof, or both interest and principal, or may be deposited in a reserve therefor, as the board may determine. Any such escrow shall not necessarily be limited to proceeds of refunding bonds but may include other moneys available for its purpose. Any proceeds in escrow, pending such use, may be invested or reinvested in securities meeting the investment requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S. Such proceeds and investments in escrow, together with any interest to be derived from any such investment, shall be in an amount at all times sufficient as to principal, interest, any prior redemption premium due, and any charges of the escrow agent payable therefrom to pay the bonds being refunded as they become due at their respective maturities or due at any designated prior redemption dates in connection with which the board shall exercise a prior redemption option. Any purchase of any refunding bond issued under this article shall in no manner be responsible for the application of the proceeds thereof by the authority or any of its officers, agents, or employees.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1037, § 1, effective April 28. L. 89: Entire section amended, p. 1111, § 18, effective July 1.

25-8.5-115. Facilities - comprehensive program.

(1) The authority, acting by and through the board, may acquire, construct, lease, rent, improve, equip, relocate, maintain, and operate water quality control facilities, any project, or any part thereof for the benefit of the authority and the inhabitants thereof, after the board has made such preliminary studies and otherwise taken such action as it determines to be necessary or desirable.

(2) (a) The authority shall develop a comprehensive program for the water quality control facilities specified in subsection (1) of this section. A comprehensive program may consist of one project or more than one project.

(b) A hearing on the proposed comprehensive program shall be scheduled, and notice of the hearing shall be given by publication and posted in the office of the county clerk and recorder of each member county. Upon closure of the hearing, the board may either require changes to be made in the comprehensive program or the board may approve or reject the comprehensive program as prepared.

(c) If any substantial changes to the comprehensive program are ordered at any time, a further hearing shall be held pursuant to notice which shall be given by publication.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1037, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-116. Coordination with drainage and flood control measures.

(1) Any exercise by the authority of the powers granted by section 25-8.5-111 or 25-8.5-115 which affects drainage and flood control shall be consistent with and conform to the drainage and flood control program of the urban drainage and flood control district adopted pursuant to section 32-11-214, C.R.S., the resolutions, rules, regulations, and orders of the district issued pursuant to section 32-11-218 (1)(e), C.R.S., and any flood plain zoning resolutions, rules, regulations, and orders of any public body having jurisdiction to adopt the same.

(2) Construction by the authority of drainage or water quality control facilities which might or will affect drainage or flood control within the boundaries of the urban drainage and flood control district shall not be undertaken until a proposal therefor has been presented to and approved by the board of directors of said district. Such proposal shall demonstrate compliance with the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, and the board shall apply the same standards of flood control and drainage criteria for approval thereof as it applies for review of proposals presented for approval pursuant to section 32-11-221, C.R.S. The provisions of section 32-11-221, C.R.S., shall apply to the presentation, consideration, and determination by said board of directors of any such proposal or modification thereof.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1038, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-117. Transfer of powers.

(1) Upon the adoption of the board of directors of the urban drainage and flood control district and the board of directors of the authority created herein of a joint resolution delegating the agreed-upon responsibility to the urban drainage and flood control district for carrying out and meeting, within the district's boundaries, the compliance requirements and the permitting requirements imposed with respect to storm water runoff quality by the federal "Water Quality Act of 1987" and any regulations and standards adopted pursuant thereto or pursuant to state law, all powers contained in this act to deal with water quality control and compliance relating to the agreed-upon aspects of storm water runoff and nonpoint sources of pollution, including financial powers and special assessment powers but not including ad valorem taxation powers, shall be transferred to the urban drainage and flood control district.

(2) Upon the transfer of powers as provided in subsection (1) of this section, any allocation of waste loads affecting storm water runoff or nonpoint sources of pollution proposed or adopted by the authority shall be effective only upon adoption thereof or concurrence therewith by the board of directors of the urban drainage and flood control district.

(3) If the urban drainage and flood control district accepts the responsibility and the transfer of powers as provided in subsection (1) of this section, after completion of a plan for water quality controls by the authority which involves storm drainage runoff or nonpoint sources and after commencement of implementation of such plan, the district shall be bound to carry out the plan as it relates to the storm water and nonpoint source powers transferred to it within the time requirements, if any, of the plan.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1038, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-118. Power to levy special assessments.

(1) The board, in the name of the authority, for the purpose of defraying all the cost of acquiring or constructing, or both, any project or facility authorized by this article, or any portion of the cost thereof not to be defrayed with moneys available therefor from its own funds, any special funds, or otherwise, also has the power under this article:

(a) To levy assessments against all or portions of the property within the authority and to provide for collection of the assessments pursuant to part 6 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S.;

(b) To pledge the proceeds of any assessments levied under this article to the payment of assessment bonds and to create liens on such proceeds to secure such payments;

(c) To issue assessment bonds payable from the assessments, which assessment bonds shall constitute special obligations of the authority and shall not be a debt of the authority; and

(d) To make all contracts, to execute all instruments, and to do all things necessary or convenient in the exercise of the powers granted in this article or in the performance of the authority's duties or in order to secure the payment of its assessment bonds.

(2) The authority shall give notice, by publication once in a newspaper of general circulation in the authority, to the owners of the property to be assessed, which shall include:

(a) The kind of improvements proposed;

(b) The number of installments and the time in which the cost of the project will be payable;

(c) A description of the properties which will be assessed;

(d) The probable cost per acre or other unit basis which, in the judgment of the authority, reflects the benefits which accrue to the properties to be assessed; except that no benefit shall accrue to agricultural lands;

(e) The time, not less than thirty days after the publication, when a resolution authorizing the improvements will be considered;

(f) A map of the properties to be assessed, together with an estimate and schedule showing the approximate amounts to be assessed, and a statement that all resolutions and proceedings are on file and may be seen and examined by any interested person at the office of the authority or other designated place at any time within said period of thirty days; and

(g) A statement that all complaints and objections by the owners of property to be assessed in writing concerning the proposed improvements will be heard and determined by the authority before final action thereon.

(3) The finding, by resolution, of the board that said improvements were ordered after notice given and after hearing held and that such proposal was properly initiated by the said authority shall be conclusive of the facts so stated in every court or other tribunal.

(4) Any resolution or order regarding the assessments or improvements may be modified, confirmed, or rescinded at any time prior to the passage of the resolution authorizing the improvements.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1039, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-119. Inclusion of property.

(1) Any municipality, county, or special district, or any portion thereof, shall be eligible for inclusion upon resolution of its governing body requesting inclusion in the authority and describing the property to be included. The authority, by resolution, may include such property on such terms and conditions as may be determined appropriate by the board.

(2) Upon receipt of a resolution requesting inclusion, the board shall cause an investigation to be made within a reasonable time to determine whether or not the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, may feasibly be included within the authority, whether the municipality, county, or special district has any property which is tributary to the basin, waters, or watersheds governed by the authority, and the terms and conditions upon which the municipality, county, or special district may be included within the authority. If it is determined that it is feasible to include the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, in the authority, and the municipality, county, or special district has property tributary to the basin, waters, or watersheds governed by the authority, the board by resolution shall set the terms and conditions upon which the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, may be included within the authority and shall give notice thereof to the municipality, county, or special district. If the board determines that the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, cannot feasibly be included within the authority or otherwise determines that the municipality, county, or special district should not be included within the authority, the board shall pass a resolution so stating and notifying the municipality, county, or special district of the action of the board. The board's determination that the county, municipality, or special district, or portion thereof, should not be included in the authority shall be conclusive.

(3) (a) If the governing body of the municipality, county, or special district desires to include the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, within the authority upon the terms and conditions set forth by the board, the governing body shall adopt a resolution declaring that the public health, safety, and general welfare requires the inclusion of said municipality, county, or special district within the authority and that the governing body desires to have said municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, included therein upon the terms and conditions prescribed by the board. The governing body of such municipality, county, or special district, before final adoption of said resolution, shall hold a public hearing thereon, notice of which shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation within such municipality, county, or special district, which shall be complete at least ten days before the hearing. Upon the final adoption of said resolution, the clerk of the governing body of such municipality, county, or special district shall forthwith transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the board and to the division of local government in the department of local affairs.

(b) After receipt of a copy of such resolution, the board shall pass and adopt a resolution including said municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, in the authority and shall cause a certified copy thereof to be transmitted to the division of local government and a certified copy to the governing body of the municipality, county, or special district.

(4) The director of said division, upon receipt of a certified copy of the resolution of the board, shall forthwith issue a certificate reciting that the municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, described in such resolution has been duly included within the authority according to the laws of the state of Colorado. The inclusion of such territory shall be deemed effective upon the date of the issuance of such certificate, and the validity of such inclusion shall not be contestable in any suit or proceeding which has not been commenced within thirty days from such date. The said division shall forthwith transmit to the governing body of such municipality, county, or special district and to the board five copies of such certificate, and the clerk of such governing body shall forthwith record a copy of the certificate in the office of the clerk and recorder of each county in which such municipality, county, or special district, or portion thereof, is located and file a copy thereof with the county assessor of each such county. Additional copies of said certificate shall be issued by the division of local government upon request.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1040, § 1, effective April 28.

25-8.5-120. Exclusion of property.

(1) Any owner of property within the boundaries of the authority may petition to be excluded from the authority.

(2) In order for such property to be excluded, the board must determine that the property does not receive wastewater treatment services or have an on-site wastewater treatment system located within the authority and either:

(a) Was improperly included within the authority; or

(b) Is not tributary to the basin, waters, or watersheds governed by the authority or will not benefit from projects or improvements provided by the authority.

(3) Any petition for exclusion shall specify the property to be excluded and evidence that the property complies with the criteria of subsection (2) of this section.

(4) The authority shall provide notice of the date, time, and place of the authority's meeting to consider the petition for exclusion.

(5) The authority may approve, modify, or deny a petition for exclusion.

(6) If the authority approves a petition for exclusion of property, the authority shall file a copy of said resolution with the division of local government and with the county, municipality, or special district authority members which includes within its boundaries the excluded property, record a copy of the resolution in the office of the county clerk and recorder in the county in which said excluded property is located, and file a copy with the county assessor in such county.

Source: L. 88: Entire article added, p. 1041, § 1, effective April 28. L. 2012: IP(2) amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 499, § 6, effective August 8.

ARTICLE 9

Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility Operators

25-9-101. Legislative declaration.

25-9-102. Definitions.

25-9-103. Water and wastewater facility operators certification board - composition - repeal of article.

25-9-104. Duties of board - rules.

25-9-104.2. Contracting - rules.

25-9-104.3. Duties of the division - investigations.

25-9-104.4. Exemptions.

25-9-105. Water treatment facility operator.

25-9-106. Domestic wastewater treatment facility operator.

25-9-106.2. Industrial wastewater treatment facility operator.

25-9-106.3. Multiple facility operator.

25-9-106.5. Education and experience - substitution allowed.

25-9-107. Certification procedure.

25-9-108. Fees - rules - fund created.

25-9-109. Use of title.

25-9-110. Violations - penalty.

25-9-101. Legislative declaration.

To assure adequate operation of water and wastewater facilities, and to preserve the public peace, health, and safety, this article 9 and any rules authorized pursuant thereto are enacted to provide for the examination, classification, and certification of water and wastewater facility operators and to establish minimum standards therefor based upon their knowledge and experience, to provide procedures for certification, to encourage career and technical education for such operators, to provide a penalty for the wrongful use of the title "certified operator", to require each water and wastewater facility to be under the supervision of a certified operator, to provide for the classification of all water and wastewater facilities in the state, and to provide a penalty for the operation of a water or wastewater facility without supervision of a certified operator.

Source: L. 73: p. 747, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 767, § 1, effective May 23. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-294), ch. 264, p. 1409, § 91, effective May 25.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974).

25-9-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the water and wastewater facility operators certification board.

(2) "Certificate" means the certificate of competency issued by the board stating that the operator named thereon has met the requirements for the specified operator classification of the certification program.

(3) "Certified operator" means the person who has responsibility for the operation of any water and wastewater facility covered under this article and is certified in accordance with the provisions of this article.

(4) "Department" means the Colorado department of public health and environment.

(4.3) "Division" means the water quality control division within the department of public health and environment.

(4.5) "Domestic wastewater treatment facility" means any facility or group of units used for the treatment of domestic wastewater or for the reduction and handling of solids and gases removed from such wastes, whether or not the facility or group of units is discharging into state waters. "Domestic wastewater treatment facility" specifically excludes on-site wastewater treatment systems with a design capacity of two thousand gallons or less per day, unless the system discharges directly to surface water.

(4.7) "Industrial wastewater treatment facility" means any facility or group of units used for the pretreatment, treatment, or handling of industrial waters, wastewater, reuse water, and wastes that are discharged into state waters. "Industrial wastewater treatment facility" includes facilities that clean up contaminated groundwater or spills and excludes construction dewatering activities that utilize only passive treatment and occur for less than one year.

(4.8) "Small system" means a water or wastewater facility that serves a population of three thousand three hundred or less.

(4.9) "Wastewater collection system" means a system of pipes, conduits, and associated appurtenances that transports domestic wastewater from the point of entry to a domestic wastewater treatment facility. The term does not include collection systems that are within the property of the owner of the facility.

(5) "Wastewater treatment facility" means either a domestic wastewater treatment facility or an industrial wastewater treatment facility.

(5.3) "Water and wastewater facility" means a water treatment facility, wastewater treatment facility, water distribution system, or wastewater collection system.

(6) "Water distribution system" means any combination of pipes, tanks, pumps, or other facilities that delivers water from a source or treatment facility to the consumer.

(7) "Water treatment facility" means the facility or facilities within the water distribution system that can alter the physical, chemical, or bacteriological quality of the water.

Source: L. 73: p. 747, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-2. L. 85: (5) and (6) amended, p. 913, § 1, effective April 24. L. 94: (4) amended, p. 2790, § 523, effective July 1. L. 96: (4.5) and (4.7) added and (5) amended, p. 356, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1), (3), (4.5), (4.7), (5), (6), and (7) amended and (4.3), (4.8), (4.9), and (5.3) added, p. 767, § 2, effective May 23. L. 2012: (4.5) amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 499, § 7, effective August 8. L. 2020: IP, (4.5), and (4.7) amended, (HB 20-1215), ch. 273, p. 1336, § 3, effective July 11.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (4), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974).

25-9-103. Water and wastewater facility operators certification board - composition - repeal of article.

(1) There is created the water and wastewater facility operators certification board, which constitutes a section of the division of administration of the department and consists of the following ten members appointed by the governor:

(a) A certified water treatment or domestic wastewater treatment facility operator with the highest level of certification available in Colorado;

(b) A certified industrial wastewater treatment facility operator or other representative of a private entity that operates an industrial wastewater treatment facility;

(c) A city manager, manager of a special district, or utility manager in a city, county, or city and county that operates a domestic water or wastewater treatment facility;

(d) A representative of the department of public health and environment, who shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member;

(e) A certified water distribution or wastewater collection system operator with the highest level of certification available in Colorado;

(f) A representative of water or wastewater facilities serving rural areas; and

(g) Four members appointed to achieve geographical representation and to reflect the various interests in the water and wastewater facility certification program. At least one of such members shall reside west of the continental divide, and at least one shall reside in the rural portion of the eastern plains of Colorado.

(2) At least four of the voting members of the board shall be certified water or wastewater facility operators, including representatives of both the water and wastewater industries.

(3) (a) Appointments of members to the board are for terms of four years.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2020.)

(4) This article 9 is repealed, effective September 1, 2031. Before the repeal, the water and wastewater facility operators certification board is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 73: p. 748, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-3. L. 88: (4) added, p. 931, § 17, effective April 28. L. 91: (4) amended, p. 688, § 58, effective April 20. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 357, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) and (4) amended, p. 768, § 3, effective May 23. L. 2004: Entire section amended, p. 280, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2011: (3) amended, (SB 11-021), ch. 66, p. 174, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: IP(1), (1)(f), and (4) amended, (SB 13-150), ch. 391, pp. 2270, 2269, §§ 3, 2, effective July 1. L. 2020: (3) and (4) amended, (HB 20-1215), ch. 273, p. 1335, § 2, effective July 11. L. 2022: IP(1) and (2) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 61, § 81, effective February 25.

25-9-104. Duties of board - rules.

(1) (a) The board shall elect a chair and secretary each year and shall establish rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., setting forth the requirements governing certification for water and wastewater facility operators, including:

(I) Application for certification;

(II) Admission to the examinations;

(III) Setting and coordination of examination schedules;

(IV) Recording and issuing of certificates for the class of operator for which the applicant is found to be qualified;

(V) Renewal of certificates;

(VI) Issuance of certificates based on reciprocity;

(VII) Minimum standards of operator performance; and

(VIII) Standards for the accreditation of training programs.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(2) (a) The board may promote and assist in regular training schools and programs designed to aid applicants and other interested persons to acquire the necessary knowledge to meet the certification requirements of this article.

(b) The board shall ensure that an office is maintained for contact with operators and employers.

(c) The board shall ensure, through the use of subject matter experts, that all certification examinations test for information that is relevant to the knowledge that is necessary to operate the level of facility for which certification is sought.

(3) (a) The board shall establish classes of:

(I) Water treatment facility operators;

(II) Domestic wastewater treatment facility operators;

(III) Industrial wastewater treatment facility operators;

(IV) Water distribution system operators;

(V) Wastewater collection system operators;

(VI) Operators for small systems; and

(VII) Other persons who require and qualify for multiple certifications.

(b) In establishing each classification, the board shall differentiate the various levels of complexity to be encountered in water and wastewater facility operation and the qualifications for certification for each class. The board shall set minimum education, experience, examination, and ongoing training requirements for each class.

(4) Except as provided in section 25-9-104.4, the board shall establish for each water and wastewater facility a minimum class of certified operators required for its supervision.

(5) (a) The board shall establish a procedure whereby any decision of the board, the division, or nonprofit corporation contracting with the board can be appealed to the board.

(b) The board may adopt rules as necessary to ensure the proper administration of the program.

(c) The board may promulgate rules to allow the division to immediately suspend or revoke a certification if immediate action is necessary to protect the public health or environment.

(6) The board may exercise other powers and duties as necessary within the scope of this article. The board shall promulgate rules to establish criteria for the discipline or reprimand of any water or wastewater facility operator and for the suspension or revocation of the certification of an operator. The criteria must include:

(a) Willfully or negligently violating, causing, or allowing the violation of rules promulgated under this article or failing to comply with this article;

(b) Submitting false or misleading information on any document provided to the department, the board, or any organization acting on behalf of the board;

(c) Using fraud or deception in the course of employment as an operator;

(d) Failing to conform with minimum standards in the performance of an operator's duties; and

(e) Engaging in dishonest conduct during an examination.

(6.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(7) Members of the board serve without compensation but are entitled to reimbursement for their necessary expenses.

(8) The board is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department.

Source: L. 73: p. 748, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-4. L. 96: IP(6) amended, p. 1477, § 43, effective June 1; (3), (4), and (6) amended, p. 358, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) to (5), IP(6), and (6)(b) amended and (6.5) added, p. 769, § 4, effective May 23. L. 2004: (1)(a) amended, p. 282, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2008: (4) amended, p. 351, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-150), ch. 391, p. 2270, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2022: (8) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3369, § 53, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-9-104.2. Contracting - rules.

(1) The board may select and appoint one or more independent nonprofit corporations to carry out the administration of the program and examinations. The board may promulgate a rule establishing the scope and standards of the independent nonprofit corporation's duties. The contract must specifically address each duty or function required by law.

(2) To qualify for consideration to administer the duties of this section, a nonprofit corporation must have expertise in training and testing procedures as well as demonstrated knowledge of water and wastewater treatment, collection, and distribution systems.

(3) With the prior approval of the board for each agreement, a nonprofit corporation contracted by the board may enter into subsidiary agreements with other nonprofit corporations, educational institutions, and for-profit corporations to carry out the duties assigned by the board.

(4) The board is responsible for and retains the final authority for all actions and decisions carried out on behalf of the board by a nonprofit corporation, educational institution, or for-profit corporation. The board may modify, suspend, or reverse any action or decision of any nonprofit corporation, educational institution, or for-profit corporation.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-150), ch. 391, p. 2273, § 5, effective July 1.

25-9-104.3. Duties of the division - investigations.

The division shall investigate instances of possible misconduct by water and wastewater facility operators, report the results of any investigation to the board, and make recommendations regarding appropriate disciplinary action to the board.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-150), ch. 391, p. 2274, § 5, effective July 1.

25-9-104.4. Exemptions.

(1) The board may exempt wastewater facilities or classes of facilities from the requirement to operate under the supervision of a certified operator if the exemption does not endanger the public health or the environment. In determining whether to provide such an exemption, the board may consider the following criteria:

(a) Discharges of limited duration;

(b) The sensitivity of the receiving waters;

(c) The level of toxic pollutants in the discharge; and

(d) Situations where chemical, mechanical, or biological treatment techniques are not required to meet permit limits, including sedimentation ponds at mining operations for construction materials, as defined by section 34-32.5-103 (3), C.R.S.

(2) The board may exempt water facilities or classes of facilities from the requirement to operate under the supervision of a certified operator if the exemption does not endanger public health or the environment. In determining whether to provide such an exemption, the board may consider:

(a) The classification of the facility as public or nonpublic under the Colorado primary drinking water regulation;

(b) The applicability of the Colorado primary drinking water regulation to the facility or class of facilities; and

(c) A distribution system having a minimal number of connections.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-150), ch. 391, p. 2274, § 5, effective July 1.

25-9-105. Water treatment facility operator.

(1) Persons who by specifically relevant examination, education, and experience are found to be qualified for certification as water treatment facility operators or water distribution system operators shall be certified as having the minimum qualifications required for each of the respective classes as established by the board by rules promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(a) to (d) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 771, § 5, effective May 23, 2000.)

Source: L. 73: p. 749, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-5. L. 96: IP(1) and (1)(d) amended, p. 358, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 771, § 5, effective May 23.

25-9-106. Domestic wastewater treatment facility operator.

(1) Persons who by specifically relevant examination, education, and experience are found to be qualified for certification as domestic wastewater treatment facility operators or wastewater collection system operators shall be certified as having the minimum qualifications required for each of the respective classes as established by the board by rules promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(a) to (d) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 772, § 6, effective May 23, 2000.)

Source: L. 73: p. 749, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-6. L. 96: IP(1) and (1)(d) amended, p. 359, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 772, § 6, effective May 23.

25-9-106.2. Industrial wastewater treatment facility operator.

(1) Persons who by specifically relevant examination, education, and experience are found to be qualified for certification as industrial wastewater treatment facility operators shall be certified as having the minimum qualifications required for each of the respective classes as established by the board by rules promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(a) to (c) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 773, § 7, effective May 23, 2000.)

Source: L. 96: Entire section added, p. 359, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 773, § 7, effective May 23.

25-9-106.3. Multiple facility operator.

Persons who by specifically related examination, education, and experience are found to be qualified for certification in more than one category of facility operators shall be certified as having the minimum qualifications required for such applicable multiple facility operator classes as the board may establish by rules promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. Such classes of multiple facility operators shall be designed to minimize the number of separate examinations and separate operator certifications that must be held by persons working for small systems, persons in the private sector performing work for a municipality or industry, and other categories and classes where a multiple facility operator certification would be efficient and meet the goals of this article. Such multiple facility certifications may contain conditions established by the board restricting the certification to specific facilities, types of facilities, or activities.

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 773, § 8, effective May 23.

25-9-106.5. Education and experience - substitution allowed.

Water and wastewater facility operator applicants must have a high school diploma or have successfully completed the high school equivalency examination, as defined in section 22-33-102 (8.5), C.R.S.; except that experience or relevant training may be substituted for the high school diploma or successful completion of the high school equivalency examination. Education, training as established under section 25-9-104 (2), and cross-experience may be substituted for experience requirements for certification as a water facility operator, as a water distribution system operator, as a domestic wastewater facility operator, as a wastewater collection system operator, as an industrial wastewater treatment facility operator, or as a multiple facility operator; except that at least fifty percent of any experience requirement must be met by actual on-site operating experience in a water facility or a wastewater facility, as the case may be. For the lowest classification of operator in each category, the board may establish rules allowing complete substitution of education for experience for any applicant who passes the applicable examination. For purposes of this section, "cross-experience" means that experience as a wastewater treatment facility operator may be substituted for experience requirements for certification as a water treatment facility operator and vice versa.

Source: L. 77: Entire section added, p. 1296, § 1, effective May 26. L. 88: Entire section amended, p. 1043, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 360, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 774, § 9, effective May 23. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1345), ch. 188, p. 749, § 40, effective May 19. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (SB 14-058), ch. 102, p. 383, § 17, effective April 7.

25-9-107. Certification procedure.

(1) Any individual possessing the required education and experience may apply for certification in the manner designated by the board on such forms as required and approved by the board. The application shall be accompanied by such fee as required by section 25-9-108. Those applicants who meet the minimum qualifications as established by rules of the board promulgated in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., for certification shall be admitted for examination.

(2) When an individual desires certification in a field other than the field in which the individual has experience, the individual's experience shall be evaluated by the board or as directed by the board. The certificate issued is to be based upon the knowledge demonstrated by the applicant through examination and the individual's verified record of work experience in water and wastewater facility operation.

(3) Certificates shall be awarded by the board or at the direction of the board for a period of three years only to those applicants successfully meeting all of the requirements.

(4) (a) Certificates shall be renewed upon payment of the required renewal fee and a showing that the applicant for renewal has met the requirements established by the board for ongoing training.

(b) If any operator fails to renew the operator's certification before the expiration date of such certification, such certification is expired. If a certification expires because of failure to renew before the expiration date of such certification, the operator may renew the certification up to two years after the expiration date upon paying the required renewal fee and meeting the applicable ongoing training requirements for the certification being renewed. If an operator does not renew a certification within two years after the expiration date of such certification, the certification is automatically revoked and an applicant for recertification must meet all the requirements for certification as a new applicant.

(4.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 96, p. 360, § 8, effective July 1, 1996.)

(5) The board, upon application therefor, may issue a certificate, without examination, in a comparable classification to any person who holds a certificate in any state, territory, or possession of the United States or any country, providing the requirements for certification of operators under which the person's certificate was issued do not conflict with the provisions of this article and are of a standard not lower than that specified by regulations adopted under this article. Where there is a question as to the level of certification that should be granted, the board may authorize special examination or other procedures to confirm the appropriate certification level.

(6) to (8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 96, p. 360, § 8, effective July 1, 1996.)

Source: L. 73: p. 750, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-7. L. 77: (5) amended, p. 1296, § 2, effective May 26. L. 85: (6) amended and (8) added, p. 913, § 2, effective April 24. L. 88: (4) and (8) amended and (4.5) added, p. 1043, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (4.5) amended, p. 696, § 4, effective April 19. L. 96: (4), (4.5), and (6) to (8) amended, p. 360, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 774, § 10, effective May 23.

25-9-108. Fees - rules - fund created.

(1) (a) Each application for certification shall be accompanied by a fee in the amount of fifteen dollars that is not refundable. The board shall adopt rules that set program fees in addition to the nonrefundable application fee in accordance with article 4 of title 24, and the fees must reflect the actual costs of administering the program as set forth in section 25-9-104 (1).

(b) The water and wastewater facility operators fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is hereby created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to this section and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the board may expend money from the fund for the administration of this article 9.

(c) The fees may be collected and retained by a nonprofit corporation selected and appointed by the board pursuant to section 25-9-104.2 to pay for its actual costs to administer the program as approved by the board through duly adopted rules. However, any such nonprofit corporation shall remit to the state treasurer a portion of the fee in the amount of five dollars for each new and renewal certificate. The state treasurer shall credit the money to the fund pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(d) With the approval of the board, all money may be paid to the nonprofit corporation and, except for the five dollars for new and renewal certifications, may be retained by the nonprofit corporation to defray program expenses. Alternatively, if certification and renewal fees are received directly by the board, all money shall be deposited with the state treasurer pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(2) Notwithstanding the amount specified for any fee in subsection (1) of this section, the board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of one or more of the fees if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of one or more of the fees is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of one or more of the fees as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

Source: L. 73: p. 751, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-8. L. 98: Entire section amended, p. 1336, § 53, effective June 1. L. 2000: (1) amended, p. 775, § 11, effective May 23. L. 2020: (1) amended, (HB 20-1215), ch. 273, p. 1336, § 4, effective July 11.

25-9-109. Use of title.

Only a person who has been qualified by the board as a certified operator and who possesses a valid certificate attesting to this certification in this state shall have the right and privilege of using the title "certified water treatment facility operator, class ....", "certified domestic wastewater treatment facility operator, class ....", "certified industrial wastewater treatment facility operator, class ....", "certified wastewater collection system operator, class ....", "certified water distribution system operator, class ....", or "multiple facilities operator, class ....".

Source: L. 73: p. 751, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-9. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 361, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 776, § 12, effective May 23. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2104, § 120, effective August 11.

25-9-110. Violations - penalty.

(1) It is unlawful for any person to represent himself or herself as a certified operator of any category and of any class without first being so certified by the board and without being the holder of a current valid certificate issued by the board. Any person violating the provisions of this subsection (1) is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars.

(2) (a) It is unlawful for any owner of a water treatment facility, a domestic or industrial wastewater treatment facility, a wastewater collection system, or a water distribution system in the state of Colorado to allow the facility to be operated without the supervision of a certified operator of the classification required by the board for the specific facility.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), a sedimentary pond maintained in accordance with a permit issued by the division of reclamation, mining, and safety that does not require a permit issued by the water quality control division of the department of public health and environment shall not require the supervision of a certified operator.

(3) Whenever the division has reason to believe that a violation of subsection (2) of this section has occurred, the division shall cause written notice to be served personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested, upon the alleged violator or their agent for service of process. The notice shall state the provision of subsection (2) alleged to be violated and the facts alleged to constitute a violation and it may include specific action proposed to be required to cease the alleged violation. The division shall require the alleged violator to answer each alleged violation.

(4) Upon being served with any notice given under subsection (3) of this section, the alleged violator may request a public hearing. Such request shall be filed in writing with the division no later than thirty days after service of the notice. If such a request is made, a hearing shall be held within a reasonable time. Hearings held pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be conducted before the board in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S. The determination of the board following a hearing shall be considered final agency action as to whether a violation has occurred.

(5) Any owner of a water treatment facility, a domestic or industrial wastewater treatment facility, a wastewater collection system, or a water distribution system in the state of Colorado who violates subsection (2) of this section shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than three hundred dollars per day for each day during which such violation occurs. Any civil penalty collected under this section shall be credited to the general fund.

(6) Upon application of the division, any penalty for a violation of subsection (2) of this section shall be determined by the executive director of the department or his or her designee and may be collected by the division through a collection action instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction. The final decision of the executive director or his or her designee may be appealed to the board. A stay of any order of the division pending judicial review shall not relieve any person from any liability under this section, but the reason for the request for judicial review shall be considered in the determination of the amount of the penalty. In the event that such an action is instituted for the collection of such penalty, the court may consider the appropriateness of the amount of the penalty if the party against whom the penalty was assessed raises the issue.

Source: L. 73: p. 751, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-38-10. L. 96: (1) amended, p. 361, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 776, § 13, effective May 23. L. 2006: (2)(b) amended, p. 214, § 5, effective August 7.

ARTICLE 10

On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems Act

25-10-101. Short title.

25-10-102. Legislative declaration.

25-10-103. Definitions.

25-10-104. Regulation of on-site wastewater treatment systems - state and local rules.

25-10-105. Minimum standards - variances.

25-10-106. Basic rules for local administration.

25-10-107. Fees.

25-10-108. Performance evaluation and approval of systems employing new technology.

25-10-109. Licensing of systems contractors and systems cleaners.

25-10-110. Enforcement by local public health agencies and local boards of health.

25-10-111. Authority of local boards of health to deny permits for on-site wastewater treatment systems in unsuitable areas.

25-10-112. General prohibitions - rules.

25-10-113. Penalties.

25-10-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems Act".

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 122, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 481, § 1, effective August 8.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974). For article, "Synthetic Fuels — Policy and Regulation", see 51 U. Colo. L. Rev. 465 (1980).

25-10-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly declares it to be in the public interest to establish minimum standards and rules for on-site wastewater treatment systems in the state and to provide the authority for the administration and enforcement of those minimum standards and rules:

(a) To preserve the environment and protect the public health and water quality;

(b) To eliminate and control causes of disease, infection, and aerosol contamination; and

(c) To reduce and control the pollution of the air, land, and water.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 122, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 481, § 1, effective August 8.

25-10-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Absorption system" means a leaching field and adjacent soils or other system for the treatment of sewage in an on-site wastewater treatment system by means of absorption into the ground.

(2) "Applicant" means a person who submits an application for a permit for an on-site wastewater treatment system.

(3) "Cesspool" means an unlined or partially lined underground pit or underground perforated receptacle into which raw household wastewater is discharged and from which the liquid seeps into the surrounding soil. "Cesspool" does not include a septic tank.

(4) "Commission" means the water quality control commission created by section 25-8-201.

(5) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created by section 25-1-102.

(6) "Division" means the division of administration of the department.

(7) "Effluent" means the liquid flowing out of a component or device of an on-site wastewater treatment system.

(8) "Environmental health specialist" means a person trained in physical, biological, or sanitary science to carry out educational and inspectional duties in the field of environmental health.

(9) "Health officer" means the chief administrative and executive officer of a local public health agency, or the appointed health officer of the local board of health. "Health officer" includes a director of a local public health agency.

(10) "Local board of health" means any local, county, or district board of health.

(11) "Local public health agency" means any county, district, or municipal public health agency and may include a county, district, or municipal board of health or local agency delegated by a county, district, or municipal board of health to oversee OWTS permitting and inspection or an OWTS program.

(12) "On-site wastewater treatment system" or "OWTS" and, where the context so indicates, the term "system", means an absorption system of any size or flow or a system or facility for treating, neutralizing, stabilizing, or dispersing sewage generated in the vicinity, which system is not a part of or connected to a sewage treatment works.

(13) "Percolation test" means a subsurface soil test at the depth of a proposed absorption system or similar component of an on-site wastewater treatment system to determine the water absorption capability of the soil, the results of which are normally expressed as the rate at which one inch of water is absorbed.

(14) "Permit" means a permit for the construction or alteration, installation, and use or for the repair of an on-site wastewater treatment system.

(15) "Person" means an individual, partnership, firm, corporation, association, or other legal entity and also the state, any political subdivision thereof, or other governmental entity.

(16) "Professional engineer" means an engineer licensed in accordance with part 2 of article 120 of title 12.

(17) "Septage" means a liquid or semisolid that includes normal household wastes, human excreta, and animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution generated from a residential septic tank system. "Septage" may include such material issued from a commercial establishment if the commercial establishment can demonstrate to the department that the material meets the definition for septage set forth in this subsection (17). "Septage" does not include chemical toilet residuals.

(18) "Septic tank" means a watertight, accessible, covered receptacle designed and constructed to receive sewage from a building sewer, settle solids from the liquid, digest organic matter, store digested solids through a period of retention, and allow the clarified liquids to discharge to other treatment units for final disposal.

(19) "Sewage" means a combination of liquid wastes that may include chemicals, house wastes, human excreta, animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution, and other solids in suspension or solution, and that is discharged from a dwelling, building, or other establishment.

(20) "Sewage treatment works" has the same meaning as "domestic wastewater treatment works" under section 25-8-103.

(21) "Soil evaluation" means a percolation test, soil profile, or other subsurface soil analysis at the depth of a proposed soil treatment area or similar component or system to determine the water absorption capability of the soil, the results of which are normally expressed as the rate at which one inch of water is absorbed or as an application rate of gallons per square foot per day.

(22) "Soil treatment area" means the physical location where final treatment and dispersal of effluent occurs. "Soil treatment area" includes drainfields and drip fields.

(23) "State waters" has the meaning set forth under section 25-8-103.

(24) "Systems cleaner" means a person engaged in and who holds himself or herself out as a specialist in the cleaning and pumping of on-site wastewater treatment systems and removal of the residues deposited in the operation thereof.

(25) "Systems contractor" means a person engaged in and who holds himself or herself out as a specialist in the installation, renovation, and repair of on-site wastewater treatment systems.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 122, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2004: (16) amended, p. 1312, § 60, effective May 28. L. 2006: (2.5) added and (8) and (21) amended, p. 1129, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2010: (11) and (12) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2105, § 121, effective August 11. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 482, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2019: IP and (16) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1704, § 165, effective October 1.

25-10-104. Regulation of on-site wastewater treatment systems - state and local rules.

(1) The division shall develop, and recommend to the commission for adoption, rules setting forth minimum standards for the location, design, construction, performance, installation, alteration, and use of on-site wastewater treatment systems within Colorado. The commission may establish criteria for issuing variances in the rules.

(2) Every local board of health in the state shall develop and adopt detailed rules for on-site wastewater treatment systems within its area of jurisdiction. The rules must comply with the rules adopted by the commission pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and with sections 25-10-105 and 25-10-106. Before finally adopting such rules or any amendment to the rules, the local board of health shall hold a public hearing on the proposed rules or amendments. The local board of health shall give notice of the time and place of the hearing at least once, at least twenty days before the hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation within its area of jurisdiction. After the public hearing and before final adoption, the local board of health may make changes or revisions to the proposed rules or amendments, and no further public hearing is required regarding the changes or revisions. All rules and amendments must be transmitted to the department no later than five days after final adoption and become effective forty-five days after final adoption unless the department notifies the local board of health before the forty-fifth day that the rules or amendments are not in compliance with this section or section 25-10-105 or 25-10-106.

(3) If a local board of health has not adopted rules in compliance with this section and submitted them to the commission, the commission shall promulgate rules for the areas of the state for which no complying rules have been adopted, except for areas serviced exclusively by a sewage treatment works. Rules for such areas of the state promulgated by the commission must comply with the rules adopted under subsection (1) of this section and sections 25-10-105 and 25-10-106. The rules must be the same for all the areas of the state for which the commission promulgates such rules, except as may be appropriate to provide for differing geologic conditions.

(4) A local board of health may adopt rules after action by the commission under subsection (3) of this section, if the rules comply with the procedural requirements of subsection (2) of this section and are no less stringent than those promulgated by the commission. Rules of the local board so adopted become effective only after they are transmitted to the division and the division determines that they comply with this section and sections 25-10-105 and 25-10-106.

(5) In promulgating rules under this article, the commission and local boards of health shall give consideration to the protection of public health and water quality.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 124, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1) to (4) amended, p. 1129, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 484, § 1, effective August 8.

25-10-105. Minimum standards - variances.

(1) Rules adopted by local boards of health under section 25-10-104 (2) or (4) or promulgated by the commission under section 25-10-104 (1) govern all aspects of the location, design, construction, performance, alteration, installation, and use of on-site wastewater treatment systems and must include minimum standards established by the commission.

(2) (a) A local board of health may grant variances to OWTS rules in accordance with the criteria adopted by the commission under this article.

(b) Applicants for a variance from OWTS rules have the burden of supplying the local board of health with information demonstrating that conditions exist that warrant the granting of the variance.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 126, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2004: (1)(f) to (1)(h) and (1)(l) amended, p. 1312, § 61, effective May 28. L. 2006: (1)(g) and (2)(a) amended, p. 1130, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 485, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2013: (1) amended, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1689, § 78, effective August 7.

25-10-106. Basic rules for local administration.

(1) Local boards of health or the commission, as appropriate, shall adopt rules under section 25-10-104 that govern all aspects of the application for and issuance of permits, the inspection and supervision of installed systems, the issuance of cease-and-desist orders, the maintenance and cleaning of systems, and the disposal of waste material. The rules must, at a minimum, include provisions regarding:

(a) Procedures by which a person may apply for a permit for an on-site wastewater treatment system. The permit application must be in writing and must include any information, data, plans, specifications, statements, and commitments as required by the local board of health to carry out the purposes of this article.

(b) Review of the application and inspection of the proposed site by the local public health agency;

(c) Specification of studies to be performed and reports to be made by the applicant and the circumstances under which the studies or reports may be required by the local public health agency;

(d) Determination on behalf of the local public health agency by an environmental health specialist or a professional engineer after review of the application, site inspection, test results, and other required information, whether the proposed system complies with the requirements of this article and the rules adopted under this article;

(e) Issuance of a permit by the health officer or the health officer's designated representative if the proposed system is determined to be in compliance with this article and the rules adopted under this article;

(f) Review by the local board of health, upon request of an applicant, of applications denied by the local public health agency;

(g) The circumstances under which all applications are subject to mandatory review by the local public health agency to determine whether a permit shall issue;

(h) Final inspection of a system to be made by the local public health agency or its designated professional engineer after construction, installation, alteration, or repair work under a permit has been completed, but before the system is placed in use, to determine that the work has been performed in accordance with the permit and that the system is in compliance with this article and the rules adopted under this article;

(i) Inspection of operating systems at reasonable times, and upon reasonable notice to the occupant of the property, to determine if the system is functioning in compliance with this article and the rules adopted under this article. Officials of the local public health agency are permitted to enter upon private property for purposes of conducting such inspections.

(j) Issuance of a repair permit to the owner or occupant of property on which a system is not in compliance. An owner or occupant shall apply to the local public health agency for a repair permit within two business days after receiving notice from the local public health agency that the system is not functioning in compliance with this article or the rules adopted under this article or otherwise constitutes a nuisance or hazard to public health or water quality. The permit shall provide for a reasonable period of time within which the owner or occupant must make repairs, at the end of which period the local public health agency shall inspect the system to ensure that it is functioning properly. Concurrently with the issuance of a repair permit, the local public health agency may authorize the continued use of a malfunctioning system on an emergency basis for a period not to exceed the period stated in the repair permit. The period of emergency use may be extended, for good cause shown, if, through no fault of the owner or occupant, repairs may not be completed in the period stated in the repair permit and only if the owner or occupant will continue to make repairs to the system.

(k) (I) Issuance of an order to cease and desist from the use of any on-site wastewater treatment system or sewage treatment works that is found by the health officer not to be in compliance with this article or the rules adopted under this article or that otherwise constitutes a nuisance or a hazard to public health or water quality. Such an order may be issued only after a hearing is conducted by the health officer not less than forty-eight hours after written notice of the hearing is given to the owner or occupant of the property on which the system is located and at which the owner or occupant may be present, with counsel, and be heard. The order must require that the owner or occupant bring the system into compliance or eliminate the nuisance or hazard within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed thirty days, or thereafter cease and desist from the use of the system. A cease-and-desist order issued by the health officer is reviewable in the district court for the county in which the system is located and upon a petition filed no later than ten days after the order is issued.

(II) For the purposes of this paragraph (k), any system or sewage treatment works that does not comply with any statute or rule of this title constitutes a nuisance.

(III) For the purposes of this paragraph (k), a sewage treatment works does not include any sewage treatment facility with a discharge permit issued pursuant to section 25-8-501.

(l) Reasonable periodic collection and testing by the local public health agency of effluent samples from on-site wastewater treatment systems for which monitoring of effluent is necessary in order to ensure compliance with this article or the rules adopted under this article. The sampling may be required not more than two times a year, except when required by the health officer in conjunction with action taken pursuant to paragraph (k) of this subsection (1). The local public health agency may charge a fee not to exceed actual costs, plus locally established mileage reimbursement rates for each mile traveled from the principal office of the local public health agency to the site of the system and return, for each sample collected and tested, and payment of such charges may be stated in the permit for the system as a condition for its continued use. Any owner or occupant of property on which an on-site wastewater treatment system is located may request the local public health agency to collect and test an effluent sample from the system. The local public health agency may, at its option, perform such collection and testing services, and is entitled to charge a fee not to exceed actual costs, plus locally established mileage reimbursement rates for each mile traveled from the principal office of the local public health agency to the site of the system and return, for each sample collected and tested.

(m) At the option of the local board of health, maintenance and cleaning schedules and practices adequate to ensure proper functioning of various types of on-site wastewater treatment systems. The local board of health may additionally require proof of proper maintenance and cleaning, in compliance with the schedule and practices adopted under this subsection (1), to be submitted periodically to the local public health agency by the owner of the system.

(n) Disposal of septage at a site and in a manner that does not create a hazard to the public health, a nuisance, or an undue risk of pollution.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 128, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1)(k) amended, p. 304, § 1, effective April 9. L. 2004: (1)(c), (1)(e), and (1)(h) amended, p. 1313, § 62, effective May 28. L. 2010: (1)(f) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2105, § 122, effective August 11. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 487, § 1, effective August 8.

25-10-107. Fees.

(1) A local board of health may set fees for permits. The permit fees may be no greater than required to offset the actual indirect and direct costs of the local public health agency's services. With respect to any permit, the local board of health shall set the fee for the permit so as to recover, as nearly as can be practically established, the costs associated with that permit. Upon request, the local board of health shall provide the permittee with a statement that specifies how the permit fee was calculated. A local board of health may also set fees for soil evaluation and other services as requested by the applicant. The fees may be no greater than required to offset the actual indirect and direct costs of the services.

(2) Local boards of health may set fees for percolation tests and other soil evaluation services that are performed by the local public health agency. The fees may be no greater than required to offset the actual indirect and direct costs of such services.

(3) and (4) Repealed.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 130, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: (3) added, p. 1457, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 490, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2017: (3) amended, (HB 17-1285), ch. 356, p. 1878, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2020: (1) amended, (HB 20-1094), ch. 20, p. 76, § 1, effective September 14. L. 2023: (4) added, (SB 23-274), ch. 216, p. 1117, § 8, effective May 17.

Editor's note: (1) The former § 25-10-107 was relocated to § 25-10-108 in 1997.

(2) Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of subsections (3) and (4), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2023, p. 1117.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 17-1285, see section 1 of chapter 356, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-10-108. Performance evaluation and approval of systems employing new technology.

(1) A systems contractor, a professional engineer, or a manufacturer of on-site wastewater treatment systems that employ new technology may apply to the division for a determination of reliability of the system. The division may hold a public hearing to determine whether the particular design or type of system, based upon improvements or developments in the technology of sewage treatment, has established a record of performance reliability that would justify approval of applications for such systems by the health officer without mandatory review by the local board of health. If the division determines, based upon reasonable performance standards and criteria, that reliability has been established, the division shall so notify each local board of health, and applications for permits for the systems may thereafter be acted upon by the health officer, the health officer's designated representative, or the local board of health's designated representative, in the same manner as applications for systems described in section 25-10-106. The division shall not arbitrarily deny any person the right to a hearing on an application for a determination of reliability under this section.

(2) Except for designs or types of systems that have been approved by the division pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the local public health agency may approve an application for a type of system not otherwise provided for in section 25-10-106, only if the system has been designed by a professional engineer and only if the application provides for the installation of a backup system, of a type previously approved by the division under subsection (1) of this section, in the event of failure of the primary system. A local public health agency shall not arbitrarily deny any person the right to consideration of an application for such a system and shall apply reasonable performance standards in determining whether to approve an application.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 131, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2004: Entire section amended, p. 1313, § 63, effective May 28. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 490, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-107 as it existed prior to 1997, and the former § 25-10-108 was relocated to § 25-10-109.

25-10-109. Licensing of systems contractors and systems cleaners.

(1) The local board of health may adopt rules that provide for the licensing of systems contractors. The local public health agency may charge a fee, not to exceed actual costs, for the initial license of a systems contractor and for a renewal of the license. Initial licensing and renewals thereof shall be for a period of not less than one year. The local board of health may revoke the license of a systems contractor for violation of this article or the rules adopted under this article or for other good cause shown, after a hearing conducted upon reasonable notice to the systems contractor and at which the systems contractor may be present, with counsel, and be heard.

(2) The local board of health may adopt rules that provide for the licensing of systems cleaners, pursuant to section 25-10-104 (2). The local public health agency may charge a fee, not to exceed actual costs, for the initial license of a systems cleaner and for the renewal of the license. Initial licensing and renewals thereof shall be for a period of not less than one year. The local board of health may suspend or revoke the license of a systems cleaner for violation of this article or the rules adopted under this article or for other good cause shown after a hearing conducted upon reasonable notice to the systems cleaner and at which the systems cleaner may be present, with counsel, and be heard.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 131, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 491, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-108 as it existed prior to 1997, and the former § 25-10-109 was relocated to § 25-10-110.

25-10-110. Enforcement by local public health agencies and local boards of health.

The primary responsibility for the enforcement of this article and the rules adopted under this article lies with local public health agencies and local boards of health. If a local public health agency or local board of health substantially fails to administer and enforce this article and the rules adopted under this article, the department may assume any functions of the local public health agency or board of health as may be necessary to protect the public health and water quality.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 132, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 491, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-109 as it existed prior to 1997, and the former § 25-10-110 was relocated to § 25-10-111.

25-10-111. Authority of local boards of health to deny permits for on-site wastewater treatment systems in unsuitable areas.

Nothing in this article preempts or affects the ability of a local board of health to prohibit issuance of OWTS permits, in accordance with applicable land use laws and procedures, for defined areas in which the local board of health determines that construction and use of additional on-site wastewater treatment systems may constitute a hazard to public health or water quality.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 132, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 491, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-110 as it existed prior to 1997, and the former § 25-10-111 was relocated to § 25-10-112.

25-10-112. General prohibitions - rules.

(1) No city, county, or city and county shall issue to any person:

(a) A permit to construct or remodel a building or structure that is not serviced by a sewage treatment works until the local public health agency has issued a permit for an on-site wastewater treatment system; or

(b) A city, county, or city and county occupancy permit for the use of a building that is not serviced by a sewage treatment works until the local public health agency makes a final inspection of the on-site wastewater treatment system, as provided for in section 25-10-106 (1)(h), and the local public health agency approves the installation.

(2) Construction of new cesspools is prohibited.

(3) A person shall not connect more than one dwelling, commercial, business, institutional, or industrial unit to the same on-site wastewater treatment system unless such multiple connection was specified in the application submitted and in the permit issued for the system.

(4) No person shall construct or maintain any dwelling or other occupied structure that is not equipped with adequate facilities for the sanitary disposal of sewage.

(5) All persons shall dispose of septage removed from systems in the process of maintenance or cleaning at an approved site and in an approved manner under this article.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 132, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 492, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-111 as it existed prior to 1997, and the former § 25-10-112 was relocated to § 25-10-113.

25-10-113. Penalties.

(1) Any person who commits any of the following acts or violates this article 10 commits a civil infraction and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503:

(a) Constructs, alters, installs, or permits the use of any on-site wastewater treatment system without first applying for and receiving a permit as required under this article;

(b) Constructs, alters, or installs an on-site wastewater treatment system in a manner that involves a knowing and material variation from the terms or specifications contained in the application, permit, or variance;

(c) Violates the terms of a cease-and-desist order that has become final under section 25-10-106 (1)(k);

(d) Conducts a business as a systems contractor without having obtained the license provided for in section 25-10-109 (1) in areas in which the local board of health has adopted licensing regulations pursuant to that section;

(e) Conducts a business as a systems cleaner without having obtained the license provided for in section 25-10-109 (2) in areas in which the local board of health has adopted licensing regulations pursuant to that section;

(f) Falsifies or maintains improper record keeping concerning system cleaning activities not performed or performed improperly; or

(g) Willfully fails to submit proof of proper maintenance and cleaning of a system as required by rules adopted pursuant to section 25-10-106.

(2) Upon a finding by the local board of health that a person is in violation of this article or of rules adopted and promulgated pursuant to this article, the local board of health may assess a penalty of up to fifty dollars for each day of violation. In determining the amount of the penalty to be assessed, the local board of health shall consider the seriousness of the danger to the health of the public caused by the violation, the duration of the violation, and whether the person has previously been determined to have committed a similar violation.

(3) A person subject to a penalty assessed pursuant to subsection (2) of this section may appeal the penalty to the local board of health by requesting a hearing before the appropriate body. The request must be filed within thirty days after the penalty assessment is issued. The local board of health shall conduct a hearing upon the request in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 97: Entire article amended with relocations, p. 133, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: IP(1) amended, p. 1537, § 269, effective October 1. L. 2012: Entire article amended, (HB 12-1126), ch. 137, p. 493, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2021: IP(1) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3238, § 468, effective March 1, 2022.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-10-112 as it existed prior to 1997.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

ARTICLE 11

Radiation Control

PART 1
GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-11-101. Definitions.

25-11-101.5. Coordination of regulatory interpretations regarding in situ leach uranium mining.

25-11-102. Agreements for transfer of functions from federal government to state government.

25-11-103. Radiation control agency - powers and duties.

25-11-104. Rules to be adopted - fees - fund created - definitions.

25-11-105. Radiation advisory committee. (Repealed)

25-11-105.5. Mammography quality assurance advisory committee - repeal. (Repealed)

25-11-106. Injunction proceedings.

25-11-107. Prohibited acts - violations - penalties - rules - cease-and-desist orders.

25-11-108. Exemptions.

25-11-109. Provisional license. (Repealed)

25-11-110. Financial assurance warranties - definitions.

25-11-111. Forfeiture of decommissioning warranties - use of funds.

25-11-112. Forfeiture of long-term care warranty - use of funds.

25-11-113. Forfeitures - deposit - radiation control - decommissioning fund - long-term care fund.

25-11-114. Legislative declaration - public education regarding radon gas - assistance to low-income individuals for radon mitigation in their homes.

PART 2
URANIUM OR THORIUM FACILITIES

25-11-201. Definitions - scope.

25-11-202. Disposal of foreign radioactive waste prohibited.

25-11-203. Approval of facilities, sites, and shipments for disposal of radioactive waste.

PART 3
DISPOSAL OF URANIUM MILL TAILINGS

25-11-301. Legislative declaration.

25-11-302. Terms defined.

25-11-303. Authorization to participate - implementation.

25-11-304. Financial participation.

25-11-305. Restriction - termination.

PART 1

GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-11-101. Definitions.

As used in this part 1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Byproduct material" means:

(a) Any radioactive material, except special nuclear material, yielded in, or made radioactive by, exposure to the radiation incident to the process of producing or using special nuclear material;

(b) The tailings or wastes produced by the extraction or concentration of uranium or thorium from ore processed primarily for its source material content, including discrete surface wastes resulting from uranium solution extraction processes. Underground ore bodies depleted by these solution extraction operations are not "byproduct material".

(c) (I) Any discrete source of radium-226 that is produced, extracted, or converted after extraction, before, on, or after August 8, 2005, for use for a commercial, medical, or research activity; or

(II) Any material that:

(A) Has been made radioactive by use of a particle accelerator; and

(B) Is produced, extracted, or converted after extraction, before, on, or after August 8, 2005, for use for a commercial, medical, or research activity; and

(d) Any discrete source of naturally occurring radioactive material, other than source material, that:

(I) The United States nuclear regulatory commission, in consultation with the administrator of the environmental protection agency, the secretary of energy, the secretary of homeland security, and the head of any other appropriate federal agency, determines would pose a threat similar to the threat posed by a discrete source of radium-226 to the public health and safety or the common defense and security; and

(II) Before, on, or after August 8, 2005, is extracted or converted after extraction for use in a commercial, medical, or research activity.

(1.5) "Civil penalty" means a monetary penalty levied against a licensee or registrant because of a violation of a statute, rule, license, or registration certificate. "Civil penalty" does not include any criminal penalty levied under section 25-1-114 or 25-11-107 (3).

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2.5) "Mammographer" means a person who operates a machine source of radiation, commonly known as an "X-ray machine", in the conduct of a mammography exam.

(2.7) "Naturally occurring radioactive material" means any nuclide that is radioactive in its natural physical state and is not manufactured. "Naturally occurring radioactive material" does not include source material, special nuclear material, byproduct material, or by-products of fossil fuel combustion, including bottom ash, fly ash, and flue-gas emission by-products.

(3) "Radiation" means ionizing radiation, which includes gamma rays, X rays, alpha particles, beta particles, high-speed electrons, high-speed neutrons, high-speed protons, and other high-speed nuclear particles.

(4) "Radiation machine" means a device capable of producing radiation; except that "radiation machine" does not include a device with radioactive material as its only source of radiation.

(5) "Radioactive" means emitting radiation.

(6) "Radioactive material" means any material, whether solid, liquid, or gas, that emits radiation spontaneously.

(6.4) (a) "Source material" means uranium, thorium, or any combination of uranium and thorium in any physical or chemical form, including ores that contain, by weight, one-twentieth of one percent or more of uranium, thorium, or any combination of uranium and thorium.

(b) "Source material" does not include special nuclear material.

(6.7) (a) "Special nuclear material" means:

(I) Plutonium, uranium-233, uranium enriched in the isotope 233 or in the isotope 235, and any other material that the United States nuclear regulatory commission, pursuant to section 51 of the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", as amended, 42 U.S.C. sec. 2071, determines to be special nuclear material; or

(II) Any material artificially enriched by any of the material specified in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a).

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection (6.7), "special nuclear material" does not include source material.

(7) "Specific license" means a license issued to a person to use, manufacture, produce, transfer, receive, acquire, own, or possess quantities of, or devices or equipment utilizing, radioactive materials occurring naturally or produced artificially.

(8) "State board" means the state board of health created in section 25-1-103.

Source: L. 65: p. 716, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-1. L. 79: IP amended and (4) added, p. 1063, § 1, effective July 1; IP amended, p. 1070, § 3, effective January 1, 1980. L. 83: (1) R&RE and (1.5) added, p. 1084, §§ 1, 2, effective July 1. L. 93: (2.7) added, p. 487, § 1, effective April 26; (2.5) added, p. 701, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (1.5) amended, p. 2791, § 525, effective July 1. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1309, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2015: (1) and (2.7) amended and (1.5), (6.4), and (6.7) added, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 218, § 1, effective August 5.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2.7) was enacted as subsection (2.5) by Senate Bill 93-126, Session Laws of Colorado 1993, but was renumbered on revision for ease of location.

(2) Subsections (4), (5), and (6) were numbered as subsections (6), (4), and (5), respectively, in House Bill 10-1149 but were renumbered on revision to place defined terms in alphabetical order.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act enacting subsection (2.7), see section 1 of chapter 184, Session Laws of Colorado 1993. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act enacting subsection (1.5), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "1974 Land Use Legislation in Colorado", see 51 Den. L.J. 467 (1974).

25-11-101.5. Coordination of regulatory interpretations regarding in situ leach uranium mining.

The general assembly recognizes that the proper and orderly regulation of in situ leach mining, as defined in section 34-32-103, C.R.S., for uranium ore has aspects that may involve more than one regulatory agency of state government and that the statutes that each agency is responsible for administering may, due to the use of terms of art and other technical words, phrases, and definitions, hold the potential of being interpreted inconsistently or to be held in conflict with each other. It is the intent of the general assembly that, with regard to in situ leach mining for uranium ore, the relevant agencies coordinate to the maximum extent practicable to resolve any such conflicts or inconsistencies.

Source: L. 2010: Entire section added, (HB 10-1348), ch. 388, p. 1818, § 1, effective June 8.

25-11-102. Agreements for transfer of functions from federal government to state government.

(1) The governor, on behalf of this state, is authorized, from time to time, to enter into agreements with the federal government providing for the assumption by this state through the department, and the discontinuance by the federal government, of any responsibilities within the state of Colorado relating to the protection of persons and property from the hazards of radioactive materials and other sources of radiation.

(2) The governor, on behalf of this state, is authorized, from time to time, to enter into agreements with the federal government, other states, or interstate agencies whereby the department shall perform, on a cooperative basis with the federal government, other states, or interstate agencies, inspections or other functions relating to control of sources of radiation.

(3) No such agreement entered into pursuant to the provisions of subsections (1) or (2) of this section shall transfer to, delegate to, or impose upon the department any power, authority, or responsibility that is not fully consistent with the provisions of this article.

Source: L. 65: p. 716, § 2. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-2. L. 2010: (1) and (2) amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1310, § 2, effective May 26.

25-11-103. Radiation control agency - powers and duties.

(1) The department is designated as the radiation control agency of this state.

(2) Pursuant to rules adopted as provided in section 25-11-104, the department shall issue licenses pertaining to radioactive materials, prescribe and collect fees for such licenses, and require registration of other sources of radiation. No other agency or branch of this state has such power or authority.

(3) The department shall develop and conduct programs for evaluation and control of hazards associated with the use of radioactive materials and other sources of radiation, including criteria for disposal of radioactive wastes and materials to be considered in approving facilities and sites pursuant to part 2 of this article.

(4) The department may institute training programs for the purpose of qualifying personnel to carry out the provisions of this part 1 and may make said personnel available for participation in any program of the federal government, other states, or interstate agencies in furtherance of the purposes of this part 1.

(5) In the event of an emergency relating to any source of radiation that endangers the public peace, health, or safety, the department has the authority to issue such orders for the protection of the public health and safety as may be appropriate, including orders to lay an embargo upon or impound radioactive materials and other sources of radiation in the possession of any person who is not equipped to observe or who fails to comply with this part 1 or any rules promulgated under this part 1.

(6) The department or its duly authorized representatives has the power to enter at all reasonable times, in accordance with applicable state or federal regulations, into the areas in which sources of radiation are reasonably believed to be located for the purpose of determining whether or not the owner, occupant, or licensee is in compliance with or in violation of this part 1 and the rules promulgated under this part 1, and the owner, occupant, or person in charge of such property shall permit such entry and inspection.

(7) (a) In order to provide for the concentration, storage, or permanent disposal of radioactive materials consistent with adequate protection of the public health and safety, the state, through the department, may acquire by gift, transfer from another state department or agency, or other transfer any and all lands, buildings, and grounds suitable for such purposes. Any such acquisition shall be subject to the provisions of paragraph (h) of this subsection (7).

(b) The state, through the department, may, by lease or license with private persons or corporations, provide for the operation of sites or facilities, for the purposes stated in paragraph (a) of this subsection (7), in, under, and upon lands and grounds acquired under said paragraph (a) in accordance with rules and regulations established by the department; but no lease or license shall be authorized except with the prior approval of the state engineer. The department may permit the conduct thereon of other related activities involving radioactive materials not contrary to the public interest, health, and safety. Each such lease or license shall cover only one site or facility and shall provide for a term up to ninety-nine years, which shall be renewable. Each such lease or license shall provide for the payment to the state of a fee based upon the quantity of radioactive material stored in the lands covered thereby. Such fee shall be established at such rate that interest on the sum of all fees reasonably anticipated as payable under any lease or license shall provide an annual amount equal to the anticipated reasonable costs to the state of such maintenance, monitoring, and other supervision of the lands and facilities covered by such lease or license, following the term thereof, as are required in the interest of the public health and safety. In arriving at the rate of the fee, the department shall consider the nature of the material to be stored, the storage space available, estimated future receipts, and estimated future expenses of maintenance, monitoring, and supervision.

(c) Said lease shall include a payment in lieu of taxes which shall be paid over to local governmental units in compensation for loss of valuation for assessment. Said payment shall be adjusted annually to conform with current mill levies, assessment practices, and value of land and improvements.

(d) All fees provided in this section shall be paid quarterly, as accrued, to the department, which shall receipt for the same and shall transmit such payment to the state treasurer and take his receipt therefor.

(e) The department may require, as a condition to the issuance of any lease or license under paragraph (b) of this subsection (7), that the lessee or licensee give reasonable security for the payment of the amount of all fees reasonably anticipated during the full term of such lease or license, and the department may also require, as a condition to the issuance of any lease or license, that the lessee or licensee post a bond or other security under such regulation as the department may prescribe to cover any tortious act committed during the term of the lease or license.

(f) Prior to the issuance of any lease or license under paragraph (b) of this subsection (7), the department, at the expense of the applicant, shall hold a public hearing on the application, in the area of the proposed site or facility, after reasonable public notice.

(g) The operation of any and all sites and appurtenant facilities established for the purposes of paragraph (a) of this subsection (7) shall be under the direct supervision of the department and shall be in accordance with rules and regulations adopted under section 25-11-104.

(h) It is recognized by the general assembly that any site used for the concentration, disposal, or storage of radioactive material and the contents thereof will represent a continuing and perpetual responsibility involving the public health, safety, and general welfare and that ownership of said site and its contents must ultimately be reposed in a solvent government, without regard for the existence of any particular agency, instrumentality, department, division, or officer thereof. To this end and subject only to the terms of any lease or license issued under paragraph (b) of this subsection (7), all lands, buildings, and grounds acquired by the state under paragraph (a) of this subsection (7) which are used as sites for the concentration, storage, or disposal of radioactive materials shall be owned in fee simple absolute by the state and dedicated in perpetuity to such purposes, and all radioactive material received at such facility, upon permanent storage therein, shall become the property of the state and shall be in all respects administered, controlled, and disposed of, including transfer by sale, lease, loan, or otherwise, by the state, through the department, unless the general assembly shall designate another agency, instrumentality, department, or division of the state so to act.

(8) The state board of health shall prescribe, revise periodically as appropriate, and provide for the collection of fees from any person for radiation control services provided by the department.

Source: L. 65: p. 717, § 3. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-3. L. 67: p. 763, § 1. L. 75: (6) amended, p. 884, § 1, effective July 14. L. 79: (2) to (6) amended and (8) added, p. 1063, § 2, effective July 1; (4) to (6) amended, p. 1070, § 4, effective January 1, 1980. L. 2010: (2), (3), (5), and (6) amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1310, § 3, effective May 26.

ANNOTATION

County exercises a separate power from that of the department of public health and environment in the issuance of licenses under this section, and therefore has standing to challenge the department's licensing decisions. Adams Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 218 P.3d 336 (Colo. 2009).

25-11-104. Rules to be adopted - fees - fund created - definitions.

(1) (a) The state board shall formulate, adopt, and promulgate rules as provided in subsection (2) of this section that cover subject matter relative to radiation machines and radioactive materials, including naturally occurring radioactive materials and other sources of radiation. The subject matter of the rules must include: Licenses and registration; records; permissible levels of exposure; notification and reports of accidents; technical qualifications of personnel; technical qualifications of mammographers; handling, transportation, and storage; waste disposal; posting and labeling of hazardous sources and areas; surveys; monitoring; security of materials; and financial assurance warranties.

(b) (I) Subject to the department providing its report and summary to the senate committee on health and human services and the house of representatives committee on health, insurance, and environment or their successor committees pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(V) of this section, the state board shall, by December 31, 2020, adopt rules concerning the disposal of naturally occurring radioactive materials.

(II) to (VII) Repealed.

(c) Notwithstanding any provision of section 25-11-103 (7)(h), it is not necessary that a governmental entity own any site that is used for the concentration, storage, or disposal of radioactive material if the owner of the site complies with rules promulgated by the board in accordance with this section. The rules must ensure the long-term protection of the public health and safety and may include financial assurance warranties pursuant to this part 1, deed annotations and restrictions, easement provisions, restrictive covenants, and adequate markers to warn of the presence of radioactive materials.

(2) Rules promulgated under this section must be consistent with United States nuclear regulatory commission requirements necessary to maintain agreement state status and final regulations proposed by the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors, Inc., or its successor, under the title, "Suggested State Regulations for Control of Radiation"; except that, if the state board concludes on the basis of detailed findings that a substantial deviation from any of the suggested state regulations is warranted and that a substitute rule or no rule would effectively permit maximum utilization of sources of radiation consistent with the health and safety of all persons who might otherwise become exposed to the radiation, the state board need not maintain the suggested state regulation or may promulgate a substitute rule as the case may be.

(2.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1311, § 4, effective May 26, 2010.)

(3) The rules adopted pursuant to this part 1 shall never be construed to limit the kind or amount of radiation that may be intentionally applied to a person for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes by or under the direction of a duly licensed practitioner of the healing arts.

(4) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1311, § 4, effective May 26, 2010.)

(5) In adopting, amending, or repealing rules under this section, the board shall comply with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(6) (a) The state board shall promulgate a fee schedule, in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S., for radiation control services provided by the department. Radiation control services for which fees may be established include application processing for qualified inspectors, qualified experts, and service companies as defined by the state board, which fees shall be paid by the applicants or service companies; issuance of categories of specific licenses to accord with categories established by the nuclear regulatory commission and which shall include licenses for special nuclear material, source material, byproduct material, well logging and surveys and tracer studies, and for human use; and inspections of licensees as authorized by section 25-11-103 (6). Licenses and fees shall, where appropriate, be in accordance with policies and priorities of the nuclear regulatory commission.

(b) The state board shall set fees that provide sufficient revenues to reimburse the state for the actual direct and indirect costs of the radiation control services specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (6). In so doing, the state board shall take into account any special arrangements between the state and the licensee, another state, or a federal agency whereby the cost of the service is otherwise recovered.

(c) All fees collected pursuant to this subsection (6) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the radiation control fund, which fund is hereby created. Moneys credited to the radiation control fund, in amounts determined annually by the general assembly by appropriation, shall be expended for radiation control services as provided in this subsection (6).

(7) The state board shall promulgate rules as necessary to implement section 25-11-107 (5).

(8) (a) The state board shall adopt rules requiring that all machine sources of radiation be inspected and certified by qualified inspectors as safe for the intended uses consistent with 42 U.S.C. sec. 263b and in compliance with the specifications of the state board and the equipment manufacturer. Rules shall include minimum specifications for radiation machines, minimum standards for the qualifications of individuals authorized to inspect and certify radiation machines, and procedures for inspection of radiation machines. If a qualified inspector determines that a radiation machine fails to meet the required specifications, the inspector shall notify the owner or operator immediately and shall notify the department within three days after the determination. A radiation machine that fails to meet the required specifications and is determined by a qualified inspector to be unsafe for human use shall not thereafter be used for human use until subsequent certification, and the qualified inspector shall affix an official noncertification sticker issued by the department indicating that the machine is not authorized for human use. A certification or noncertification sticker shall be affixed on each radiation machine in a location conspicuous to machine operators and to persons on whom the machine is used.

(a.5) and (b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1311, § 4, effective May 26, 2010.)

(c) In establishing or revising specifications for each type of machine that is a source of radiation, the standards for approval of qualified inspectors, and the procedures for making inspections, the department shall consult with manufacturers of radiation equipment, health-care providers and operators who use the equipment in diagnostic and therapeutic treatment of humans, and qualified inspectors and individuals.

(d) The general assembly hereby finds that the setting of minimum specifications for radiation machines and the establishment of minimum standards for qualified inspectors of those machines are matters of statewide concern. Therefore, no other state agency, political subdivision, or local government shall establish any other specifications for radiation machines or standards for radiation machine inspectors, or impose any fees therefor.

Source: L. 65: p. 718, § 4. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-4. L. 79: (2) and (3) amended and (6) added, p. 1064, § 3, effective July 1; (3) amended, p. 1071, § 5, effective January 1, 1980. L. 83: (6)(c) R&RE, p. 1087, § 1, effective July 1; (7) added, p. 1084, § 3, effective July 1. L. 88: (6)(c) amended and (8) added, p. 1045, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 487, § 2, effective April 26; (1) amended and (2.5) and (8)(a.5) added, p. 701, §§ 3, 4, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(b) amended, p. 731, § 1, effective April 19. L. 97: (1)(a) amended and (1)(c) added, p. 1632, § 1, effective August 15. L. 98: IP(8)(a) and (8)(a)(III) amended, p. 1337, § 54, effective June 1. L. 2002: (8)(a)(II) and (8)(a)(III) amended, p. 533, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2003: IP(8)(a) amended, p. 711, § 43, effective July 1. L. 2007: IP(8)(a) amended, p. 552, § 1, effective April 16. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1311, § 4, effective May 26. L. 2011: (1)(a) amended, (HB 11-1303), ch. 264, p. 1167, § 63, effective August 10. L. 2015: (1)(a), (1)(c), and (2) amended, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 220, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2018: (1)(b) amended, (SB 18-245), ch. 402, p. 2373, § 1, effective August 8.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to subsection (1) by Senate Bill 93-126 and House Bill 93-1185 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (1)(b)(VII) provided for the repeal of subsections (1)(b)(II) to (1)(b)(VII) of this section, effective January 14, 2021. On December 22, 2020, the revisor of statutes received the notice referred to in subsection (1)(b)(VII) related to the repeal. For more information about the repeal and notice, see SB 18-245. (L. 2018, p. 2373.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending subsection (1) and enacting subsections (2.5) and (8)(a.5) see section 1 of chapter 184, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

25-11-105. Radiation advisory committee. (Repealed)

Source: L. 65: p. 719, § 5. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-5. L. 86: Entire section amended, p. 420, § 43, effective March 26. L. 89: (2) repealed, p. 1147, § 3, effective April 6. L. 2019: (1) amended, (SB 19-045), ch. 5, p. 26, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2025: Entire section repealed, (SB 25-252), ch. 105, p. 456, § 1, effective August 6.

25-11-105.5. Mammography quality assurance advisory committee - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 93: Entire section added, p. 702, § 5, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1998. (See L. 93, p. 702.)

25-11-106. Injunction proceedings.

If, in the judgment of the department, any person has engaged in or is about to engage in an act or practice that constitutes a violation of this part 1 or of any license, registration, rule, or order issued under this part 1, the attorney general shall, at the request of the department, apply to the district court for an order enjoining the act or practice or for an order directing compliance with this part 1 and all rules and orders and the terms and conditions of a license or registration issued under this part 1.

Source: L. 65: p. 719, § 6. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-6. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 1065, § 4, effective July 1; entire section amended, p. 1071, § 6, effective January 1, 1980. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1315, § 5, effective May 26.

ANNOTATION

Private parties who are adversely affected or aggrieved have standing to seek judicial review of the department's action. Nat'l Wildlife Fed'n v. Cotter Corp., 665 P.2d 598 (Colo. App. 1983).

25-11-107. Prohibited acts - violations - penalties - rules - cease-and-desist orders.

(1) Except as allowed by rule of the state board:

(a) No person shall acquire, own, possess, or use any radioactive material occurring naturally or produced artificially without having been granted a license therefor from the department; or

(b) Transfer to another or dispose of such material without first having been granted approval of the department therefor.

(2) Except as allowed by rule of the state board, no person shall knowingly use, manufacture, produce, transport, transfer, receive, send, acquire, own, or possess any source of radiation unless such person is licensed by or registered with the department. The exceptions promulgated by the state board shall include use of domestic television receivers, computer monitors, household microwave ovens, radiant heat devices, cellular telephones, incandescent gas mantles, and vacuum tubes.

(2.5) No person shall knowingly use any radiation machine to treat or diagnose any disease or conditions of the human body if the radiation machine is not certified for such treatment or diagnosis as provided in section 25-11-104 (8).

(3) Any person who violates the provisions of subsection (1), (2), or (2.5) of this section commits a class 2 misdemeanor.

(4) If a person does not pay the fee for radiation control services, the department may request the attorney general to commence a civil action against the person. If the court finds in such action that such person has not paid the fee for radiation control services, the court shall require such person to pay the fee together with a penalty not greater than twice the amount of the fee or one thousand dollars, whichever is greater. All civil penalties collected pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the general fund.

(5) (a) Any person who violates subsection (1), (2), or (2.5) of this section, any licensing or registration provision, any rule or order issued under this part 1, or any term, condition, or limitation of any license or registration certificate issued pursuant to this part 1 is subject to an administrative penalty not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars per day for each violation.

(b) If the department has reason to believe, based upon facts available to it, that a person has committed any of the violations designated in paragraph (a) of this subsection (5), it shall send the person, within a reasonable time, a written notice of the violation specifying:

(I) The factual basis of each act or omission with which the person is charged; and

(II) The particular provision of the statute, rule, order, license, or registration certificate violated.

(c) (I) The department shall send the notice required by paragraph (b) of this subsection (5) by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the last-known address of the alleged violator, or the department shall personally serve the notice of the violation upon the alleged violator or the alleged violator's agent.

(II) The alleged violator shall have thirty days following the receipt of the notice to submit a written response containing data, views, and arguments concerning the alleged violation and potential corrective measures.

(III) In addition, the alleged violator may request an informal conference with department personnel to discuss the notice of violation required by paragraph (b) of this subsection (5). The alleged violator shall request the informal conference within fifteen days after receiving the notice, and the conference shall be held within the thirty days allowed for a written response.

(IV) After consideration of any written response and informal conference, the department shall issue a letter, within thirty days after the date of the informal conference or the receipt of a written response, whichever is later, affirming or dismissing the violation. Any remaining corrective measures that are necessary, and any administrative penalty determined to be appropriate, will be incorporated into an administrative order.

(c.3) In determining the amount of any administrative penalty, the department shall consider the factors in subparagraphs (I) to (X) of this paragraph (c.3). The factors contained in subparagraphs (VII), (VIII), and (IX) of this paragraph (c.3) are mitigating factors and may be applied, with other factors, to reduce any administrative penalty. Such factors are:

(I) The seriousness of the violation;

(II) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(III) The impact on, or threat to, the public health or the environment as a result of the violation;

(IV) The degree of recalcitrance, if any, on the part of the violator;

(V) Whether the violator is a recidivist;

(VI) The economic benefit realized by the violator as a result of the violation;

(VII) The violator's voluntary, timely, and complete disclosure of the violation, if prior to the department's knowledge of the violation, and if all reports required pursuant to state environmental control laws have been submitted as required;

(VIII) The violator's full and prompt cooperation with the department following disclosure or discovery of a violation, including, when appropriate, entering into and implementing, in good faith, a legally enforceable agreement with the department to undertake compliance and remediation efforts;

(IX) The existence of a comprehensive regulatory compliance program or an audit program that the violator adopted in good faith and in a timely manner, which program includes measures determined by the department to be sufficient to identify and prevent future noncompliance; and

(X) Any other aggravating or mitigating circumstance.

(c.5) In accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and based upon the factors enumerated in paragraph (c.3) of this subsection (5), the state board shall adopt rules for determining administrative penalties imposed under this subsection (5).

(c.7) The department may compromise, mitigate, or remit an administrative penalty imposed pursuant to this subsection (5). The department may enter into a settlement agreement regarding any penalty or claim resolved under this part 1. The settlement agreement may include the payment or contribution of moneys to state or local agencies for other environmentally beneficial purposes.

(d) If the circumstances warrant, the department shall issue an order containing the elements of both the notice of violation specified in paragraph (b) of this subsection (5) and the letter described in subparagraph (IV) of paragraph (c) of this subsection (5).

(e) (I) The letter issued pursuant to subparagraph (IV) of paragraph (c) of this subsection (5) and the order issued pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection (5) shall notify the alleged violator of the right to request a hearing within thirty days, which hearing shall be held in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., to determine any of the following:

(A) Whether the alleged violation exists or did exist;

(B) The reasonableness of the time set for abatement; and

(C) Whether the administrative penalty is reasonable in light of the statutory criteria on which it is based.

(II) The alleged violator shall address each alleged violation in the request for the hearing and shall specify which of the alleged violations the alleged violator is appealing. An allegation not addressed in the request for the hearing shall be deemed admitted.

(III) No person engaged in conducting the hearing or participating in a decision or an initial decision shall be responsible for or subject to the supervision or direction of any department employee engaged in the performance of an investigatory or prosecuting function for the department.

(IV) The final action of the department is subject to judicial review pursuant to section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(f) and (g) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1315, § 6, effective May 26, 2010.)

(h) At the request of the department, the attorney general may institute a civil action to collect an administrative penalty imposed pursuant to this subsection (5).

(i) Except as specified in paragraph (c.3) of this subsection (5), all administrative penalties collected pursuant to this subsection (5) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the general fund.

(j) For any site or facility licensed under part 2 of this article determined by the department to have caused a release to the groundwater that exceeds the basic standards for groundwater as established by the water quality control commission, until remediation has been completed, the licensee shall provide annual written notice of the status of the release and any remediation activities associated with the release, by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the current address for each registered groundwater well within one mile of the release as identified in the corrective action monitoring program. Under no circumstances shall remediation be deemed complete until all groundwater wells affected by any release associated with the site or facility are restored to at least the numeric groundwater standards as established by the water quality control commission that apply to the historic uses of the wells. Prior to the application of any numeric groundwater standard different from the baseline standard contained in 10 CFR 40, the standard must have been approved by the United States nuclear regulatory commission in accordance with section 274o of the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", 42 U.S.C. sec. 2021 (o). The licensee shall remediate any release affecting groundwater wells in the most expedited manner reasonably possible using best available active restoration and groundwater monitoring technologies.

(k) For any site or facility licensed under part 2 of this article, in addition to any reporting requirements provided in the license or rules, the licensee shall provide notice to the department as soon as practicable upon discovery of any spill or release involving toxic or radioactive materials and shall provide an initial written report within seven days after any such discovery. The department shall post all such written reports on the department's website as soon as practicable, and in no case later than seven days after receipt by the department.

(6) Any qualified inspector who incorrectly certifies a machine that is a source of radiation as meeting the applicable specifications as required in section 25-11-104 (8) is subject to disciplinary action in accordance with section 24-4-104, C.R.S.

(7) If the department has reasonable cause to believe that a violation of this part 1 or of a license, registration, rule, or order issued under this part 1 has occurred or is occurring, the department may issue a cease-and-desist order setting forth the provision alleged to be violated, the facts alleged to constitute the violation, and the time by which the violation must cease. Except for emergency orders issued to protect the public health or the environment, for which a person to whom the emergency order has been issued may request an immediate hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105 (12), C.R.S., a person to whom a cease-and-desist order has been issued may petition the district court for the district in which the violation is alleged to have occurred or be occurring for a stay of the order. The court shall grant the request to stay if the person demonstrates that immediate and irreparable injury will result if the stay is not granted and that granting the stay will not result in serious harm to the public health, safety, or welfare or the environment.

Source: L. 65: p. 719, § 7. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-7. L. 67: p. 764, § 2. L. 79: (4) added, p. 1065, § 5, effective July 1. L. 83: (5) added, p. 1084, § 4, effective July 1. L. 88: (2.5) and (6) added and (3) amended, p. 1047, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2010: (1), (2), (2.5), (4), (5), and (6) amended and (7) added, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1315, § 6, effective May 26; (5)(j) added, (HB 10-1348), ch. 388, p. 1818, § 2, effective June 8. L. 2014: (5)(j) amended and (5)(k) added, (SB 14-192), ch. 327, p. 1444, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2015: (5)(j) amended, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 220, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2021: (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3238, § 469, effective March 1, 2022.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (5) by House Bill 10-1149 and House Bill 10-1348 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the penalty for a class 2 misdemeanor, see § 18-1.3-501.

25-11-108. Exemptions.

(1) Sections 25-11-103 and 25-11-104 do not apply to the following sources or conditions:

(a) Electrical or other equipment or material that is not intended primarily to produce radiation and that, by nature of design, does not produce radiation at the point of nearest approach at a weekly rate higher than one-tenth the appropriate limit generally accepted by the medical profession for any critical organ exposed. The production testing or production servicing of such equipment shall not be exempt.

(b) Radiation machines during process of manufacture or in storage or transit. The production testing or production servicing of such machines shall not be exempt.

(c) Repealed.

(d) Sound and radio waves and visible infrared and ultraviolet light.

(2) No exemptions under this section are granted for those quantities or types of activities which do not comply with the established rules and regulations promulgated by the atomic energy commission or any successor thereto.

(3) Section 25-11-107 shall not apply to unmined minerals containing radioactive materials including such as are involved in mining operations.

(4) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1320, § 7, effective May 26, 2010.)

(5) Any person may file application for exemption under this section for activities including, but not limited to, licensed sources of radiation for educational or noncommercial public displays or scientific collections.

Source: L. 65: p. 719, § 8. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-26-8. L. 79: (3) amended and (4) and (5) added, p. 1066, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1)(c) amended, p. 1275, § 38, effective June 5. L. 2010: (3) and (4) amended, (HB 10-1149), ch. 282, p. 1320, § 7, effective May 26. L. 2015: IP(1) amended and (1)(c) repealed, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 221, § 4, effective August 5.

25-11-109. Provisional license. (Repealed)

Source: L. 79: Entire section added, p. 1066, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2003: Entire section amended, p. 711, § 44, effective July 1. L. 2015: Entire section repealed, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 221, § 5, effective August 5.

25-11-110. Financial assurance warranties - definitions.

(1) As a part of any license, certificate, or authorization issued under this article and pursuant to regulations promulgated by the state board of health, the department may require financial assurance warranties.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Decommissioning warranty" means a financial assurance arrangement provided by a person licensed, certified, or authorized pursuant to this article that is required to ensure decommissioning and decontamination of a facility and proper disposal of radioactive materials to meet the requirements of this part 1, the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, or the license.

(b) "Financial assurance warranty" means a decommissioning warranty or a long-term care warranty.

(c) "Indirect costs" means those costs established annually in accordance with federal circular A-87, or any applicable successor document.

(d) "Long-term care warranty" means a financial assurance arrangement provided by a person licensed, certified, or authorized pursuant to this article that is required to cover the costs incurred by the department in conducting surveillance of a disposal site in perpetuity subsequent to the termination of the radioactive materials license for that site.

(3) (a) Financial assurance warranties may be provided by the licensee or by a third party or combination of persons.

(b) Any financial assurance warranty required pursuant to this section shall be in a form prescribed by the state board of health by regulation.

(c) The department may refuse to accept any financial assurance warranty if:

(I) The form, content, or terms of the warranty are other than as prescribed by the state board of health by regulation;

(II) The financial institution providing the financial assurance instrument is an off-shore, nondomestic institution or does not have a registered agent in the state of Colorado;

(III) The value of the financial assurance warranty offered is dependent upon the success, profitability, or continued operation of the licensed business or operation; or

(IV) The department determines that the financial assurance warranty cannot be converted to cash within thirty days after forfeiture.

(4) (a) The department shall determine the amount of financial assurance warranties required, taking into account the nature, extent, and duration of the licensed activities and the magnitude, type, and estimated cost for proper disposal of radioactive materials, decontamination, and decommissioning or long-term care.

(b) The amount of a decommissioning warranty shall be sufficient to enable the department to dispose of radioactive materials and complete decontamination and decommissioning of affected buildings, fixtures, equipment, personal property, and lands if necessary.

(c) The amount of the decommissioning warranty shall be based upon cost estimates of the total costs that would be incurred if an independent contractor were hired to perform the decommissioning, decontamination, and disposal work, and may include reasonable administrative costs, including indirect costs, incurred by the department in conducting or overseeing disposal, decontamination, and decommissioning and to cover the department's reasonable attorney costs that may be incurred in successfully revoking, foreclosing, or realizing the decommissioning warranty as authorized in section 25-11-111 (4).

(d) The amount of a long-term care warranty must be enough that, with an assumed one percent annual real interest rate, the annual interest earnings will be sufficient to cover the annual costs of site surveillance by the department, including reasonable administrative costs incurred by the department, in perpetuity, subsequent to the termination of the radioactive materials license for that site.

(e) If the state of Colorado is the long-term caretaker for the disposal facility pursuant to section 25-11-103 (7)(h), long-term care moneys shall be transferred, pursuant to section 25-11-113 (3), to the long-term care fund, created in section 25-11-113, prior to license termination and shall be used by the department to perform site surveillance and to cover the department's administrative and reasonable attorney costs.

(f) The department is authorized to transfer a long-term care warranty to the United States department of energy or another federal agency if that agency will be the long-term caretaker for the disposal facility.

(5) (a) The department shall take reasonable measures to assure the continued adequacy of any financial assurance warranty and may annually or for good cause increase or decrease the amount of required financial assurance warranties or require proof of the value of existing warranties.

(b) The licensee shall submit an annual report to the department demonstrating proof of the value of existing warranties. The annual report shall describe any changes in operations, estimated costs, or any other circumstances that may affect the amount of the required financial assurance warranties, including any increased or decreased costs attributable to inflation.

(c) Public notice of the submittal of the licensee's annual report shall be posted on the department's website and published by the operator in the local paper of general circulation. Any person may submit written comments to the department concerning the adequacy of any financial assurance warranties. The act of submitting such comments does not provide a right to administrative appeal concerning the financial assurance warranties.

(d) The licensee shall have sixty days after the date of written notification by the department of a required adjustment to establish a warranty fulfilling all new requirements unless granted an extension by the department. If the licensee disputes the amount of the required financial assurance warranties, the licensee may request a hearing to be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(e) If the licensee requests a hearing, no new ore or other radioactive material may be brought on site for processing or disposal and no new radioactive material may be processed until the licensee's dispute over the financial assurance warranty is resolved, unless the licensee posts a bond in a form approved by the department equal to the amount in dispute.

(6) (a) Financial assurance warranties shall be maintained in good standing until the department has authorized in writing the discontinuance of such warranties.

(b) (I) If a financial warranty is provided by a corporate surety, the department shall require the surety to be A.M. Best rated "A-V" or better and listed on the United States treasury's federal register of companies holding certificates of authority as acceptable sureties on federal bonds; except that, the corporate surety shall notify the department and the licensee, in writing, as soon as practicable in the event its A.M. Best, or equivalent, rating deteriorates below an "A-V" rating or such corporate surety is removed from the department of the treasury's list of companies holding certificates of authority as acceptable sureties on federal bonds.

(II) The board may promulgate rules and regulations concerning other circumstances that may constitute an impairment of the warranties referenced in this article that would require reasonable notice to the department by the warrantor.

(III) A financial warrantor shall notify the department not less than ninety days prior to any cancellation, termination, or revocation of the warranty, unless the department has authorized in writing the discontinuance of such warranties.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1633, § 2, effective August 15. L. 2010: (5) amended, (HB 10-1348), ch. 388, p. 1819, § 3, effective June 8. L. 2015: (4)(d) and (5)(e) amended, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 221, § 6, effective August 5.

25-11-111. Forfeiture of decommissioning warranties - use of funds.

(1) A decommissioning warranty shall be subject to immediate forfeiture whenever the department determines that any one of the following circumstances exist:

(a) The licensee has violated an emergency, abatement, or cease-and-desist order or court-ordered injunction or temporary restraining order related to decommissioning, decontamination, or disposal and, if decommissioning, decontamination, or disposal was required in such order, has failed to complete such decommissioning, decontamination, or disposal although reasonable time to have done so has elapsed; or

(b) The licensee is in violation of decommissioning, decontamination, or disposal requirements as specified in the license and the regulations and has failed to cure such violation although the licensee has been given written notice thereof pursuant to section 25-11-107 (5) and has had reasonable time to cure such violation; or

(c) The licensee has failed to provide an acceptable replacement warranty when:

(I) The licensee's financial warrantor no longer has the financial ability to carry out obligations under this article; or

(II) The department has received notice or information that the financial warrantor intends to cancel, terminate, or revoke the warranty; or

(d) The licensee has failed to maintain its financial assurance warranty in good standing as required by section 25-11-110 (6)(a); or

(e) An emergency endangering public health or safety has been caused by or resulted from the licensee's use or possession of radioactive materials.

(2) (a) Upon determining that a decommissioning warranty should be forfeited under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall issue to the licensee an order forfeiting the decommissioning warranty. The order shall contain written findings of fact and conclusions of law to support its decision and shall direct affected financial warrantors to deliver to the department the full amounts warranted by applicable decommissioning warranties within not more than thirty days after the date of the order.

(b) The licensee may request a hearing on the order of forfeiture that shall be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., and that, if the department alleges in the forfeiture order a violation of a license, regulation, or order, the hearing may be conducted in conjunction with a hearing requested under section 25-11-107 (5). Any request for a hearing pursuant to this part 1 shall be made within twenty days after the date of the order of forfeiture and shall not affect the obligation to submit to the department funds from decommissioning warranties forfeited by such order unless a stay of forfeiture is granted by the department or by administrative or judicial order.

(3) The department may request the attorney general, and the attorney general is authorized, to commence legal proceedings necessary to secure or recover amounts warranted by decommissioning warranties. The attorney general shall have the power to collect, foreclose upon, present for payment, take possession of, or dispose of pledged property, and otherwise reduce to cash any financial assurance arrangement required by this article.

(4) (a) Decommissioning funds recovered by the department pursuant to this section shall be immediately deposited into the decommissioning fund created in section 25-11-113 and shall be used solely for the disposal of radioactive materials for the facility covered by the forfeited financial assurance warranties; the decommissioning and decontamination of buildings, equipment, personal property, and lands covered by the forfeited financial assurance warranties; and to cover the department's reasonable attorney and administrative costs associated with disposal, decommissioning, and decontamination for such facility.

(b) The department or its agent shall have a right to enter property of the licensee to dispose of radioactive materials, decommission, and decontaminate buildings, equipment, personal property, and lands. Upon completion of disposal, decommissioning, and decontamination activities, the department shall present to the licensee a full accounting and shall refund all unspent decommissioning warranty moneys, including interest.

(5) Licensees shall remain liable for the total actual cost of disposal of, decommissioning, and decontaminating affected buildings, equipment, personal property, and lands, less any amounts expended by the department pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, notwithstanding any discharge of applicable financial assurance warranties.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1635, § 2, effective August 15.

25-11-112. Forfeiture of long-term care warranty - use of funds.

(1) A long-term care warranty shall be subject to immediate forfeiture whenever the department determines that any one of the following circumstances exist:

(a) The licensee is in violation of long-term care requirements as specified in the license and the regulations and has failed to cure such violation although the licensee has been given written notice thereof pursuant to section 25-11-107 (5) and has had reasonable time to cure such violation; or

(b) The licensee has failed to provide an acceptable replacement warranty when:

(I) The licensee's financial warrantor no longer has the financial ability to carry out obligations under this article; or

(II) The department has received notice or information that the financial warrantor intends to cancel, terminate, or revoke the warranty; or

(c) The licensee has failed to maintain its financial assurance warranty in good standing as required by section 25-11-110 (6)(a).

(2) (a) A long-term care warranty shall be subject to immediate use and expenditure by the department whenever the department determines that disposal, decommissioning, and decontamination requirements specified in the license conditions and regulations have been satisfied. The department shall give the licensee written notice of the department's intent to use the long-term care warranty for long-term care purposes. The notice shall contain findings of fact and conclusions of law to support its decision and shall direct affected financial warrantors to deliver to the department the full amounts warranted by applicable long-term care warranties within not more than thirty days after the date of the notice.

(b) The licensee may request a hearing on a notice under paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) that shall be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S. Any request for a hearing under this subsection (2) shall be made within thirty days after the date of the notice and shall not affect the obligation to submit to the department funds from long-term care warranties unless a stay is granted by the department or by administrative or judicial order.

(3) The department may request the attorney general, and the attorney general is authorized, to commence legal proceedings necessary to secure or recover amounts warranted by long-term care warranties. The attorney general shall have the power to collect, foreclose upon, present for payment, take possession of, or dispose of pledged property, and otherwise reduce to cash any financial assurance arrangement required by this article.

(4) (a) Long-term care funds recovered by the department pursuant to this section shall be immediately deposited into the long-term care fund created in section 25-11-113 and shall be used solely for the long-term care for the facility covered by the financial assurance warranty and to cover the department's reasonable attorney and administrative costs associated with long-term care for such facility.

(b) The department or its agent shall have a right to enter property of the licensee to perform long-term care and monitoring. Upon completion of long-term care activities, the department shall present to the licensee a full accounting and shall refund all unspent warranty moneys, including interest.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1637, § 2, effective August 15.

25-11-113. Forfeitures - deposit - radiation control - decommissioning fund - long-term care fund.

(1) The department is hereby authorized to collect funds from forfeited decommissioning warranties and from long-term care warranties.

(2) (a) The decommissioning fund is created in the state treasury. The fund is interest-bearing and invested to return the maximum income feasible as determined by the state treasurer and consistent with otherwise applicable state law. All money collected from decommissioning warranties pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the decommissioning fund. All money deposited in the fund shall remain in the fund for the purposes set forth in this article 11, and no part of the fund shall be expended or appropriated for any other purpose.

(b) The moneys in the fund shall be continuously appropriated for the purposes set forth in this part 1 and shall not be transferred to or revert to the general fund.

(c) (I) For state fiscal years commencing on or before July 1, 2024, and on or after July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the decommissioning fund to the decommissioning fund.

(II) Notwithstanding subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section, for the state fiscal year commencing on July 1, 2025, in accordance with section 24-36-114 (1), the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the decommissioning fund to the general fund.

(III) Repealed.

(3) Moneys in the decommissioning fund shall be available for use by the department for the sole purpose of disposing of radioactive materials and completing decontamination and decommissioning of affected buildings, fixtures, equipment, personal property, and lands, and to cover the department's reasonable attorney costs that may be incurred in successfully revoking, foreclosing, or realizing any decommissioning warranty, and reasonable administrative costs, including indirect costs, incurred by the department in conducting disposal, decontamination, and decommissioning.

(4) (a) A fund to be known as the long-term care fund is hereby created and established in the state treasury. Such fund shall be interest-bearing and invested to return the maximum income feasible as determined by the state treasurer and consistent with otherwise applicable state law. All moneys collected from long-term care warranties pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer who shall credit the same to the long-term care fund. All moneys deposited in the fund and all interest earned on moneys in the fund shall remain in the fund for the purposes set forth in this part 1 and no part thereof shall be expended or appropriated for any other purpose.

(b) Moneys in the long-term care fund shall be annually appropriated by the general assembly to the department in an amount sufficient to implement the provisions of this part 1.

(c) Moneys in the long-term care fund shall be available for use by the department for the sole purposes of:

(I) Performing annual site inspections to confirm the integrity of the stabilized waste system, environmental monitoring, and maintenance of the waste disposal site, including fixtures, cover, and equipment;

(II) Covering the department's reasonable attorney costs that may be incurred in successfully collecting or realizing any long-term care warranty, and reasonable administrative costs, including indirect costs, incurred by the department in conducting long-term care of the disposal facility.

Source: L. 97: Entire section added, p. 1638, § 2, effective August 15. L. 99: (2)(a) and (4)(a) amended, p. 625, § 27, effective August 4. L. 2010: (2)(a) amended, (HB 10-1348), ch. 388, p. 1819, § 4, effective June 8. L. 2025: (2)(a) amended and (2)(c) added, (SB 25-317), ch. 385, p. 2159, § 40, effective June 3.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(c)(III)(B) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(c)(III), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 2159.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 25-317, see section 1 of chapter 385, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-11-114. Legislative declaration - public education regarding radon gas - assistance to low-income individuals for radon mitigation in their homes.

(1) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that:

(a) Radon, an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas, is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in the nation and is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths overall;

(b) Radon originates from the decay of naturally occurring uranium in Colorado granite, soil, and bedrock and can accumulate in structures at dangerous risk levels to humans;

(c) Indoor radon ranks among the most serious environmental health problems;

(d) Colorado ranks seventh in the nation for highest potential radon risk;

(e) All of Colorado's counties are at high risk for radon, and fifty percent of Colorado homes have radon levels that should be mitigated;

(f) An estimated five hundred Coloradans die from radon-induced lung cancer annually, causing more deaths than drunk driving, house fires, carbon monoxide, and drowning combined; and

(g) Increased education and awareness of the harmful effects of radon exposure will help save the lives of Coloradans and reduce the burden of health-care costs from radon-induced lung cancer.

(2) The department shall establish a radon education and awareness program. As a part of the program, the department shall:

(a) Provide radon information and education statewide to citizens, businesses, and others in need of information;

(b) Work collaboratively with radon contractors and citizens to resolve questions and concerns regarding the installation of safe, healthy, and efficient radon mitigation systems; and

(c) Collaborate with local governments to provide information on best practices for radon mitigation strategies.

(3) Effective January 1, 2017, the department shall establish a radon mitigation assistance program to provide financial assistance to low-income individuals for radon mitigation in their homes. The state board of health shall set the program requirements, including eligibility requirements for financial assistance.

(4) The department shall use money in the hazardous substance response fund, established in section 25-16-104.6, to finance the radon education and awareness program and the radon mitigation assistance program.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (HB 16-1141), ch. 128, p. 364, § 1, effective August 10.

PART 2

URANIUM OR THORIUM FACILITIES

25-11-201. Definitions - scope.

(1) As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Disposal" means burial in soil, release through a sanitary sewerage system, incineration, or long-term storage with no intention of or provision for subsequent removal.

(b) "Facility" means a uranium or thorium mill, processing, or disposal facility required to be licensed pursuant to this article and a site for the facility.

(c) "Ore" means naturally occurring uranium-bearing, thorium-bearing, or radium-bearing material in its natural form prior to chemical processing, such as roasting, beneficiating, or refining, and specifically includes material that has been physically processed, such as by crushing, grinding, screening, or sorting.

(d) "Radioactive" means emitting alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, high-energy neutrons or protons, or other radioactive particles.

(e) "Radioactive waste" means low-level radioactive wastes containing source, special nuclear, or byproduct material that are acceptable for disposal in a land disposal facility. For the purposes of this paragraph (e), "low-level radioactive waste" means radioactive waste not classified as high-level radioactive waste, transuranic waste, spent nuclear fuel, or byproduct material, as that term is defined in section 25-11-101 (1)(b), (1)(c), and (1)(d).

(f) "Technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material" or "TENORM" means naturally occurring radioactive material whose radionuclide concentrations are increased by or as a result of past or present human practices. "TENORM" does not include:

(I) Background radiation or the natural radioactivity of rocks or soils;

(II) "Byproduct material" or "source material", as defined by Colorado statute or rule; or

(III) Enriched or depleted uranium as defined by Colorado or federal statute or rule.

(g) "Type 2 byproduct material" means the subcategory of byproduct material specified in section 25-11-101 (1)(b).

(2) Nothing in this part 2 applies to, includes, or affects:

(a) The following naturally occurring radioactive materials or TENORM:

(I) Residuals or sludges from the treatment of drinking water by aluminum, ferric chloride, or similar processes; except that the material may not contain hazardous substances that otherwise would preclude receipt;

(II) Sludges, soils, or pipe scale in or on equipment from oil and gas exploration, production, or development operations or drinking water or wastewater treatment operations; except that the material may not contain hazardous substances that otherwise would preclude receipt;

(III) Materials from or activities related to construction material mining regulated under article 32.5 of title 34, C.R.S.; or

(b) The treatment, storage, management, processing, or disposal of solid waste, which may include naturally occurring radioactive material and TENORM, either pursuant to a certificate of designation issued under article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., or at a solid waste disposal site and facility considered approved or otherwise deemed to satisfy the requirement for a certificate of designation pursuant to article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., or section 25-15-204 (6).

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1066, § 8, effective July 1. L. 94: (3)(c) amended, p. 2791, § 526, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) amended and (1.5) added, p. 230, § 1, effective April 5. L. 2003: (1) and (1.5) amended and (1.6), (1.7), (1.8), and (4) added, p. 2188, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2014: (1.6) amended, (SB 14-192), ch. 327, p. 1445, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2015: Entire section amended, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 222, § 7, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3)(c), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-11-202. Disposal of foreign radioactive waste prohibited.

The disposal of any radioactive waste which originates or has been used outside this state and has not been used in this state is prohibited except as provided in section 25-11-203.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1067, § 8, effective July 1.

25-11-203. Approval of facilities, sites, and shipments for disposal of radioactive waste.

(1) (a) No facility shall be constructed or site approved for the disposal of radioactive waste originating or used outside Colorado unless such facility or site has been approved as provided in subsection (3) of this section.

(b) (I) A facility shall not dispose of or receive for storage incident to disposal or processing at the facility radioactive material, except for nonprocessing operational purposes such as radioactive standards, samples for analysis, or materials contained in fixed or portable gauges, unless the facility has received a license, a five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of radioactive material, in accordance with sections 24-4-104 to 24-4-105, C.R.S., for such receipt, storage, processing, or disposal of radioactive material and the license, license renewal, or license amendment approves that type of activity.

(II) Nothing in this paragraph (b) applies to a contract for the storage, processing, or disposal of less than the sum of one hundred ten tons of radioactive material per source or to a contract for a bench-scale or a pilot-scale testing project or a contract for less than a de minimis amount of radioactive material as determined by the department for storage, processing, or disposal.

(III) License amendments for the receipt of radioactive material at a facility are subject to subsections (2) and (3) of this section except when the material is from an approved source and the amendment would not result in a change in ownership, design, or operation of the facility. License amendments not subject to subsections (2) and (3) of this section are subject to subsection (4) of this section.

(2) (a) Any person desiring to have a facility or site referred to in subsection (1) of this section approved shall apply to the department of public health and environment for approval of such facility or site. The application shall contain such information as the department requires and shall be accompanied by an application fee determined by the board pursuant to the provisions of part 1 of this article.

(b) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), each proposed license, five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of any radioactive material must include a written application to the department and information relevant to the pending application, including:

(I) Transcripts of two public meetings hosted and presided over by a person selected upon agreement by the department, the board of county commissioners of the county where the facility is located, and the applicant. The applicant shall pay the reasonable, necessary, and documented expense of the meetings. The meetings shall not be held until the department determines that the application is substantially complete. The applicant shall provide the public with:

(A) Pursuant to part 1 of article 70 of title 24, C.R.S., at least two weeks' written notice before the first meeting and an additional two weeks' written notice before the second meeting;

(B) At both meetings, summaries of the facility's license to receive, store, process, or dispose of the radioactive material and the nature of the radioactive material, and an opportunity to be heard; and

(C) Access to make copies of a transcript of the meetings, and shall provide an electronic copy to the department in a manner that allows posting on the department's website within ten days after receipt from the transcription service.

(II) An environmental assessment as defined in paragraph (c) of this subsection (2);

(III) A response, if any, to the environmental assessment written by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the radioactive material is proposed to be received for storage, processing, or disposal at a facility and provided to the facility within ninety days after the first public meeting. Upon request of and documentation of the expenditure by the board, the applicant shall provide the board with up to fifty thousand dollars, as adjusted for inflation since 2003, which is available to the board for the reasonable and necessary expenses during the pendency of the application to assist the board in responding to the application, including to pay for an independent environmental analysis by a disinterested party with appropriate environmental expertise to assist the board in preparing its response. The board's response may consider whether the approval of the license, five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt or disposal of the radioactive material will present any substantial adverse impact upon the safety or maintenance of transportation infrastructure or transportation facilities within the county.

(c) As used in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2), "environmental assessment" means a report and assessment submitted to the department by a facility upon and in connection with application for a license, a five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of radioactive material, proposing to receive any radioactive material for storage, processing, or disposal at a facility that addresses the impacts of the receipt for storage, processing, or disposal of the radioactive material. The environmental assessment shall contain all information deemed necessary by the department, and shall include, at a minimum:

(I) The identification of the types of radioactive material to be received, stored, processed, or disposed of;

(II) A representative presentation of the physical, chemical, and radiological properties of the type of radioactive material to be received, stored, processed, or disposed of;

(III) An evaluation of the short-term and long-range environmental impacts of such receipt, storage, processing, or disposal;

(IV) An assessment of the radiological and nonradiological impacts to the public health from the application;

(V) Any facility-related impact on any waterway and groundwater from the application;

(VI) An analysis of the environmental, economic, social, technical, and other benefits of the proposed application against environmental costs and social effects while considering available alternatives;

(VII) A list of all material violations of local, state, or federal law at the facility since the submittal date of the previous license application or license renewal application;

(VIII) For an application for a license or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of the radioactive material for storage, processing, or disposal at the facility, a demonstration that:

(A) There are no outstanding material violations of any state or federal statutes, compliance orders, or court orders applicable to the facility, and any releases giving rise to any such violation have been remediated;

(B) The operator, after a good-faith review of the facility and its operations, is not aware of any current license violation at the facility;

(C) There are no current releases to the air, ground, surface water, or groundwater that exceed permitted limits; and

(D) No conditions exist at the facility that would prevent the department of energy's receipt of title to the facility pursuant to the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", 42 U.S.C. sec. 2113;

(IX) A list of all necessary permits and any changes to local land use ordinances that are needed to construct or operate the facility; and

(X) For sites or facilities placed on the national priority list pursuant to the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", 42 U.S.C. sec. 9605, a copy of the most recent five-year review and any associated updates that have been issued by the United States environmental protection agency.

(3) (a) Upon receipt of an application or notice as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the department of public health and environment shall notify the public and forward a copy of the application or notice to the governor and the general assembly, as appropriate.

(b) (I) No facility or site referred to in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section shall be constructed or approved by the department of public health and environment unless the governor and the general assembly have approved such facility or site.

(II) The governor and the general assembly, in making their determination, shall consider criteria developed by the department of public health and environment for disposal of radioactive wastes pursuant to section 25-11-103 (3) in approving or disapproving the proposed facility or site.

(c) (I) In deciding whether to approve a license, five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of radioactive material, the department shall consider the transcripts of the public meetings held pursuant to subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section, the facility's license, any environmental assessment or analysis performed pursuant to this section, the facility's compliance with the financial assurance requirements of section 25-11-110, and the board of county commissioners' response to the environmental assessment prepared pursuant to subparagraph (III) of paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section. The department shall deny or approve the application as a whole.

(II) The department may order reasonable mitigation measures to address any substantial adverse impacts to public health or the environment or transportation infrastructure or transportation facilities within the county attributable solely to approval of the license, five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of the radioactive material.

(III) The applicant shall demonstrate that if the license, five-year license renewal, or license amendment pertaining to the facility's receipt of the radioactive material is approved, then the receipt, storage, processing, and disposal of radioactive material will:

(A) Be conducted such that the exposures to workers and the public are within the dose limits of part 4 of the department's rules pertaining to radiation control for workers and the public;

(B) Not cause releases to the air, ground, or surface or groundwater that exceed permitted limits; and

(C) Not prevent transfer of the facility to the United States in accordance with 42 U.S.C. sec. 2113 upon completion of decontamination, decommissioning, and reclamation of the facility.

(IV) No facility may be permitted as a hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facility under part 3 of article 15 of this title.

(V) (A) The department shall publish a determination as to whether an application submitted pursuant to paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section is substantially complete within forty-five days after receipt of the application.

(B) The department shall convene the first public meeting required by subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section within forty-five days after publication of its determination that the application is substantially complete. The department shall convene the second such public meeting within thirty days after giving public notice of a draft decision as described in sub-subparagraph (C) of this subparagraph (V).

(C) The department shall initiate a final public comment process by posting on the department's website an initial draft decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application submitted under paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section, along with all required final technical and environmental impact analyses conducted by the department, all requests from the department seeking information from the applicant, all of the applicant's responses, all public comments, a draft license for any proposed approval, and any additional information that may assist the public review of the department's draft decision.

(D) After review of all final public comments, the department shall issue a final draft decision and provide affected parties, including the applicant in the case of approval with conditions or denial, an opportunity to request an adjudicatory hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S. If no party seeks a hearing, the final draft decision becomes final agency action. If any party seeks a hearing, resolution of all material issues of fact, law, or discretion presented by the record and the appropriate order, sanction, relief, or denial of the material issues must be through an initial decision of a hearing officer or administrative law judge. The applicant shall pay all reasonable, necessary, and documented expenses of the hearing. Upon issuance of the initial decision of the hearing officer or administrative law judge, and after any allowable appeal to the executive director, the department shall issue within a reasonable time a final decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application. The final decision is subject to judicial review pursuant to section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(4) (a) (I) At least ninety days before a facility proposes to receive, store, process, or dispose of radioactive material in a license application or amendment that is not subject to subsections (2) and (3) of this section and for which a material acceptance report has not already been filed with the department, the facility shall notify the department, and the department shall notify the public and the board of county commissioners of the county in which the facility is located, of the specific radioactive material to be received, stored, processed, or disposed of. The notice must include:

(A) A representative analysis of the physical, chemical, and radiological properties of the radioactive material;

(B) The material acceptance report that demonstrates that the radioactive material does not contain hazardous waste characteristics not found in uranium ore;

(C) A detailed plan for transport, acceptance, storage, handling, processing, and disposal of the material;

(D) A demonstration that the material contains technically and economically recoverable uranium, without taking into account its value as disposal material;

(E) The existing location of the radioactive material;

(F) The history of the radioactive material;

(G) A written statement by the applicant describing any preexisting regulatory classification of the radioactive material in the state of origin that describes all steps taken by the applicant to identify the classification;

(H) A written statement from the United States department of energy or successor agency that the receipt, storage, processing, or disposal of the radioactive material at the facility will not adversely affect the department of energy's receipt of title to the facility pursuant to the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954 ", 42 U.S.C. sec. 2113;

(I) Documentation showing any necessary approvals of the United States environmental protection agency; and

(J) An environmental assessment as defined in paragraph (c) of subsection (2) of this section, which may incorporate by reference relevant information contained in an environmental assessment previously submitted for the facility.

(II) For radioactive material that would otherwise be subject to the "Low-level Radioactive Waste Act", part 22 of article 60 of title 24, C.R.S., the facility's notice must also include written documentation that the Rocky Mountain low-level radioactive waste board has been notified that the radioactive material is being considered for disposal in the subject facility.

(b) Within thirty days after the department's receipt of notice pursuant to subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the department shall determine whether the notice is complete.

(c) Once the department determines that the notice is complete, the department shall publish the notice on its website and provide a sixty-day public comment period for the receipt of written comments concerning the notice. A public hearing may be held, at the department's discretion, at the operator's expense.

(d) Within thirty days after the close of the written public comment period provided by paragraph (c) of this subsection (4), the department shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the receipt, storage, processing, or disposal as described in the notice based on whether the material proposed for receipt, storage, processing, or disposal at the facility complies with the facility's license and meets the standards established pursuant to subparagraph (III) of paragraph (c) of subsection (3) of this section.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1067, § 8, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) and (3) amended, p. 2791, § 527, effective July 1. L. 97: (3)(b) amended, p. 1023, § 44, effective August 6. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 231, § 2, effective April 5. L. 2003: (1)(b), (2)(b), (2)(c), and (3)(c) amended and (4) added, p. 2190, § 2, effective June 3. L. 2010: (1)(b)(III), (2)(b)(I)(C), (3)(a), (3)(c)(V), and (4) amended and (2)(c)(VII), (2)(c)(VIII), (2)(c)(IX), and (2)(c)(X) added, (HB 10-1348), ch. 388, pp. 1820, 1823, §§ 5, 6, effective June 8. L. 2014: IP(2)(b), IP(2)(b)(I), (2)(b)(III), (3)(c)(V)(B), and (3)(c)(V)(C) amended and (3)(c)(V)(D) added, (SB 14-192), ch. 327, p. 1445, § 3, effective August 6. L. 2015: (1)(b), IP(2)(b), (2)(b)(I)(B), (2)(b)(III), IP(2)(c), (2)(c)(I), (2)(c)(II), IP(2)(c)(VIII), (3)(c)(I), (3)(c)(II), IP(3)(c)(III), (3)(c)(V)(D), and (4)(a) amended, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 224, § 8, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (2) and (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

PART 3

DISPOSAL OF URANIUM MILL TAILINGS

Law reviews: For article, "Administrative Law", which discusses Tenth Circuit decisions dealing with administrative actions based upon agency findings of scientific fact, see 64 Den. U. L. Rev. 111 (1987).

25-11-301. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the existence of uranium mill tailings at active and inactive mill operations poses a potential and significant radiation health hazard. This part 3 is therefore enacted to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by cooperating with the federal government in providing for the stabilization, disposal, and control of such tailings in a safe and environmentally sound manner to prevent or minimize other environmental impacts from such tailings.

(2) The general assembly recognizes the need for the state to expend such funds as are necessary to provide land annotation and site information for purposes of protecting prospective purchasers or users of mill sites designated for cleanup pursuant to public law 95-604. The general assembly therefore declares its intent to assist local governments with the identification, removal, storage, and disposal of tailing deposits associated with such designated mill sites for which remedial action is not taken pursuant to the federal "Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978".

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1069, § 1, effective January 1, 1980. L. 97: Entire section amended, p. 337, § 2, effective April 16.

25-11-302. Terms defined.

For the purposes of this part 3, the terms "processing site" and "residual radioactive material" shall have the meanings specified in section 101 (6) and (7), respectively, of Public Law 95-604, as from time to time amended.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1069, § 1, effective January 1, 1980.

25-11-303. Authorization to participate - implementation.

(1) The general assembly hereby authorizes the department of public health and environment to participate in federal implementation of the "Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978", and for such purpose the department has the authority to:

(a) Enter into cooperative agreements with the secretary of energy to perform remedial actions at processing sites designated by the secretary;

(b) Obtain written consent from the record owner of a designated processing site to perform remedial actions at such site;

(c) Provide for reimbursement for the actual cost of any remedial action in accordance with the terms of Public Law 95-604;

(d) Repealed.

(e) Participate in the selection and performance of remedial actions in which the state pays a portion of the cost;

(f) Participate in the following activities for which the state may pay any portion or all of the costs:

(I) Land annotation and information gathering, identification, removal, and disposal of tailing deposits associated with mill sites designated for cleanup pursuant to public law 95-604 that remain outside of the disposal cells constructed for remedial purposes pursuant to the federal "Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978"; and

(II) The groundwater restoration phase of the federal "Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978".

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1069, § 1, effective January 1, 1980. L. 86: (1)(d) R&RE, p. 980, § 1, effective May 16. L. 94: IP(1) amended, p. 2791, § 528, effective July 1. L. 97: (1)(f) added, p. 337, § 3, effective April 16. L. 2013: (1)(d)(IV) repealed, (HB 13-1300), ch. 316, p. 1689, § 79, effective August 7. L. 2015: (1)(d) repealed, (HB 15-1145), ch. 79, p. 228, § 9, effective August 5.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

Although the policies specified in § 24-56-117 apply to condemnation of property under this section, such policies are modified by the policies for state land acquisition included in the federal Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act. The Mill v. State, Dept. of Health, 868 P.2d 1099 (Colo. App. 1993).

Notwithstanding the rule against consideration of enhanced value in determining fair value in condemnation proceedings, determination of the fair value of property that is condemned under the federal Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act may include evidence of the value of the property if it were uncontaminated. The Mill v. State, Dept. of Health, 868 P.2d 1099 (Colo. App. 1993).

25-11-304. Financial participation.

(1) The general assembly accepts the provisions of section 107 (a) of Public Law 95-604 requiring the state to pay ten percent of the actual cost of any remedial action and administrative costs from nonfederal moneys.

(2) The state of Colorado may receive a share of the net profits derived from the recovery of minerals from residual radioactive materials at any designated processing site within the state in accordance with the provisions of section 108 (b) of Public Law 95-604.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1070, § 1, effective January 1, 1980.

25-11-305. Restriction - termination.

(1) Nothing in this part 3 shall supersede the provisions of part 1 of this article.

(2) The authority to participate in federal implementation of remedial actions at designated processing sites shall terminate at such time as the authority of the federal government to perform remedial action terminates under the provisions of section 112 (a) of Public Law 95-604.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1070, § 1, effective January 1, 1980.

ARTICLE 12

Noise Abatement

25-12-101. Legislative declaration.

25-12-102. Definitions.

25-12-103. Maximum permissible noise levels.

25-12-104. Action to abate.

25-12-105. Violation of injunction - penalty.

25-12-106. Noise restrictions - sale of new vehicles.

25-12-107. Powers of local authorities.

25-12-108. Preemption.

25-12-109. Exception - sport shooting ranges - legislative declaration - definitions.

25-12-110. Off-highway vehicles.

25-12-101. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly finds and declares that noise is a major source of environmental pollution which represents a threat to the serenity and quality of life in the state of Colorado. Excess noise often has an adverse physiological and psychological effect on human beings, thus contributing to an economic loss to the community. Accordingly, it is the policy of the general assembly to establish statewide standards for noise level limits for various time periods and areas. Noise in excess of the limits provided in this article constitutes a public nuisance.

Source: L. 71: p. 647, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-1.

ANNOTATION

Applied in City of Lakewood v. DeRoos, 631 P.2d 1140 (Colo. App. 1981).

25-12-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commercial zone" means:

(a) An area where offices, clinics, and the facilities needed to serve them are located;

(b) An area with local shopping and service establishments located within walking distances of the residents served;

(c) A tourist-oriented area where hotels, motels, and gasoline stations are located;

(d) A large integrated regional shopping center;

(e) A business strip along a main street containing offices, retail businesses, and commercial enterprises;

(f) A central business district; or

(g) A commercially dominated area with multiple-unit dwellings.

(2) "db(A)" means sound levels in decibels measured on the "A" scale of a standard sound level meter having characteristics defined by the American national standards institute, publication S1. 4 - 1971.

(3) "Decibel" is a unit used to express the magnitude of a change in sound level. The difference in decibels between two sound pressure levels is twenty times the common logarithm of their ratio. In sound pressure measurements sound levels are defined as twenty times the common logarithm of the ratio of that sound pressure level to a reference level of 2 x 10-5 N/m2 (Newton's/meter squared). As an example of the effect of the formula, a three-decibel change is a one hundred percent increase or decrease in the sound level, and a ten-decibel change is a one thousand percent increase or decrease in the sound level.

(4) (a) "Industrial zone" means an area in which noise restrictions on industry are necessary to protect the value of adjacent properties for other economic activity but shall not include agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural operations.

(b) Nothing in paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

(5) "Light industrial and commercial zone" means:

(a) An area containing clean and quiet research laboratories;

(b) An area containing light industrial activities which are clean and quiet;

(c) An area containing warehousing; or

(d) An area in which other activities are conducted where the general environment is free from concentrated industrial activity.

(5.2) "Motorcycle" means a self-propelled vehicle with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground that is designed primarily for use on the public highways.

(5.4) "Motor vehicle" means a self-propelled vehicle with at least four wheels in contact with the ground that is designed primarily for use on the public highways.

(5.6) "Off-highway vehicle" means a self-propelled vehicle with wheels or tracks in contact with the ground that is designed primarily for use off the public highways. "Off-highway vehicle" shall not include the following:

(a) Military vehicles;

(b) Golf carts;

(c) Snowmobiles;

(d) Vehicles designed and used to carry persons with disabilities; and

(e) Vehicles designed and used specifically for agricultural, logging, firefighting, or mining purposes.

(6) "Residential zone" means an area of single-family or multifamily dwellings where businesses may or may not be conducted in such dwellings. The zone includes areas where multiple-unit dwellings, high-rise apartment districts, and redevelopment districts are located. A residential zone may include areas containing accommodations for transients such as motels and hotels and residential areas with limited office development, but it may not include retail shopping facilities. "Residential zone" includes hospitals, nursing homes, and similar institutional facilities.

(7) "SAE J1287" means the J1287 stationary sound test or any successor test published by SAE international or any successor organization.

(8) "SAE J2567" means the J2567 stationary sound test or any successor test published by SAE international or any successor organization.

(9) "Snowmobile" means a self-propelled vehicle primarily designed or altered for travel on snow or ice when supported in part by skis, belts, or cleats and designed primarily for use off the public highways. "Snowmobile" shall not include machinery used strictly for the grooming of snowmobile trails or ski slopes.

Source: L. 71: p. 647, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-2. L. 73: p. 1406, § 47. L. 86: (2) amended, p. 501, § 121, effective July 1. L. 2005: (4) amended, p. 350, § 8, effective August 8. L. 2008: (5.2), (5.4), (5.6), (7), (8), and (9) added, p. 2101, § 1, effective July 1, 2010.

25-12-103. Maximum permissible noise levels.

(1) Every activity to which this article is applicable shall be conducted in a manner so that any noise produced is not objectionable due to intermittence, beat frequency, or shrillness. Sound levels of noise radiating from a property line at a distance of twenty-five feet or more therefrom in excess of the db(A) established for the following time periods and zones shall constitute prima facie evidence that such noise is a public nuisance:

| 7:00 a.m. to ​ | 7:00 p.m. to ​
Zone ​ | next 7:00 p.m. ​ | next 7:00 a.m. ​
Residential | 55 db(A) | 50 db(A)
Commercial | 60 db(A) | 55 db(A)
Light industrial | 70 db(A) | 65 db(A)
Industrial | 80 db(A) | 75 db(A)

​

(2) In the hours between 7:00 a.m. and the next 7:00 p.m., the noise levels permitted in subsection (1) of this section may be increased by ten db(A) for a period of not to exceed fifteen minutes in any one-hour period.

(3) Periodic, impulsive, or shrill noises shall be considered a public nuisance when such noises are at a sound level of five db(A) less than those listed in subsection (1) of this section.

(4) This article is not intended to apply to the operation of aircraft or to other activities which are subject to federal law with respect to noise control.

(5) Construction projects shall be subject to the maximum permissible noise levels specified for industrial zones for the period within which construction is to be completed pursuant to any applicable construction permit issued by proper authority or, if no time limitation is imposed, for a reasonable period of time for completion of project.

(6) All railroad rights-of-way shall be considered as industrial zones for the purposes of this article, and the operation of trains shall be subject to the maximum permissible noise levels specified for such zone.

(7) This article is not applicable to the use of property for purposes of conducting speed or endurance events involving motor or other vehicles, but such exception is effective only during the specific period of time within which such use of the property is authorized by the political subdivision or governmental agency having lawful jurisdiction to authorize such use.

(8) For the purposes of this article, measurements with sound level meters shall be made when the wind velocity at the time and place of such measurement is not more than five miles per hour.

(9) In all sound level measurements, consideration shall be given to the effect of the ambient noise level created by the encompassing noise of the environment from all sources at the time and place of such sound level measurement.

(10) This article is not applicable to the use of property for the purpose of manufacturing, maintaining, or grooming machine-made snow. This subsection (10) shall not be construed to preempt or limit the authority of any political subdivision having jurisdiction to regulate noise abatement.

(11) This article is not applicable to the use of property by this state, any political subdivision of this state, or any other entity not organized for profit, including, but not limited to, nonprofit corporations, or any of their lessees, licensees, or permittees, for the purpose of promoting, producing, or holding cultural, entertainment, athletic, or patriotic events, including, but not limited to, concerts, music festivals, and fireworks displays. This subsection (11) shall not be construed to preempt or limit the authority of any political subdivision having jurisdiction to regulate noise abatement.

(12) (a) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the public utilities commission may determine, while reviewing utility applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity for electric transmission facilities, whether projected noise levels for electric transmission facilities are reasonable. Such determination shall take into account concerns raised by participants in the commission proceeding and the alternatives available to a utility to meet the need for electric transmission facilities. When applying, the utility shall provide notice of its application to all municipalities and counties where the proposed electric transmission facilities will be located. The public utilities commission shall afford the public an opportunity to participate in all proceedings in which permissible noise levels are established according to the "Public Utilities Law", articles 1 to 7 of title 40, C.R.S.

(b) Because of the statewide need for reliable electric service and the public benefit provided by electric transmission facilities, notwithstanding any other provision of law, no municipality or county may adopt an ordinance or resolution setting noise standards for electric transmission facilities that are more restrictive than this subsection (12). The owner or operator of an electric transmission facility shall not be liable in a civil action based upon noise emitted by electric transmission facilities that comply with this subsection (12).

(c) For the purposes of this section:

(I) "Electric transmission facility" means a power line or other facility that transmits electrical current and operates at a voltage level greater than or equal to 44 kilovolts.

(II) "Rights-of-way for electric transmission facilities" means all property rights and interests obtained by the owner or operator of an electric transmission facility for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, or operating the electric transmission facility.

Source: L. 71: p. 648, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-3. L. 82: (10) added, p. 424, § 1, effective March 11. L. 87: (11) added, p. 1154, § 1, effective May 20. L. 2004: (12) added, p. 736, § 2, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2004 act enacting subsection (12), see section 1 of chapter 219, Session Laws of Colorado 2004.

ANNOTATION

The general assembly intended that the exemption in subsection (11) apply to property that the state, localities, and nonprofit entities use, and to lessees, licensees, or permittees of those entities for a qualifying event. Lessees, licensees, and permittees are exempted from this article only to the extent that they are involved in a state's, political subdivision's, or other nonprofit entity's use of property. Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817; Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164.

The reference to "any of their lessees, licensees, or permittees" does not modify only the immediately preceding entity -- "any other entity not organized for profit, including, but not limited to, nonprofit corporations". Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2024 COA 25, 550 P.3d 193, rev'd on other grounds, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164; Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

The phrase "any of their lessees, licensees, or permittees" modifies each of the preceding entities: the state, political subdivisions of the state, and nonprofit entities. Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2024 COA 25, 550 P.3d 193, rev'd on other grounds, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164; Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

The general assembly did not intend for the exemption in subsection (11) to apply to a private entity's music festival simply because the private entity secured a local amplified noise permit; the property subject to the permit must be used by the statutorily authorized permitting entity. Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

Subsection (11) does not require any of the stated entities to own the property they use to qualify for the exemption. Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2024 COA 25, 550 P.3d 193, rev'd on other grounds, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164; Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

The exemption in subsection (11) is not limited to concerts performed on land owned by a political subdivision. The exemption refers broadly to the "use of property" without any restriction with respect to who owns the property. Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2024 COA 25, 550 P.3d 193, rev'd on other grounds, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164.

And permitted property owners include the political subdivision's permittees. Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2024 COA 25, 550 P.3d 193, rev'd on other grounds, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164.

Subsection (11) does not require permittees to be a nonprofit entity or nonprofit corporation to fall within the exemption. Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

Subsection (11) does not preclude issuing permits to for-profit entities. The statute applies broadly to the state, its political subdivisions, and nonprofit entities. But the statute also applies to "any of their lessees, licensees, or permittees" and does not limit or define what type of entities fall within the permittee's status. Freed v. Bonfire Entm't LLC, 2024 COA 65, 556 P.3d 817.

Political subdivision did not have authority under subsection (11) to issue a permit that allows the permittee to exceed the noise-level limits in this section because the permittee's concerts were not held on property used by the political subdivision for a qualifying purpose. The legislative intent of subsection (11) was to exempt the subordinate entitles from the noise limits only when the subordinate entity is associated with a primary entity's use of the property to hold a qualifying event. Hobbs v. City of Salida, 2025 CO 50, 576 P.3d 164.

Residential development of property is not precluded when noise emanating onto property exceeds limits set forth in this section. Einarsen v. City of Wheat Ridge, 43 Colo. App. 232, 604 P.2d 691 (1979).

Trier of fact to determine mode to use in measuring noise. Davis v. Izaak Walton League of Am., 717 P.2d 984 (Colo. App. 1985).

Applied in City of Lakewood v. DeRoos, 631 P.2d 1140 (Colo. App. 1981).

25-12-104. Action to abate.

Whenever there is reason to believe that a nuisance exists, as defined in section 25-12-103, any county or resident of the state may maintain an action in equity in the district court of the judicial district in which the alleged nuisance exists to abate and prevent such nuisance and to perpetually enjoin the person conducting or maintaining the same and the owner, lessee, or agent of the building or place in or upon which such nuisance exists from directly or indirectly maintaining or permitting such nuisance. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a county shall not maintain an action pursuant to this section if the alleged nuisance involves a mining operation or the development, extraction, or transportation of construction materials, as those terms are defined in section 34-32.5-103, C.R.S., a commercial activity, the commercial use of property, avalanche control activities, a farming or ranching activity, an activity of a utility, or a mining or oil and gas operation. When proceedings by injunction are instituted, such proceedings shall be conducted under the Colorado rules of civil procedure. The court may stay the effect of any order issued under this section for such time as is reasonably necessary for the defendant to come into compliance with the provisions of this article.

Source: L. 71: p. 649, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-4. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 57, § 1, effective August 5.

Cross references: For injunctions, see C.R.C.P. 65.

ANNOTATION

Construction and operation of a public highway are not activities which can be abated as a public nuisance. City of Lakewood v. DeRoos, 631 P.2d 1140 (Colo. App. 1981).

Applied in Einarsen v. City of Wheat Ridge, 43 Colo. App. 232, 604 P.2d 691 (1979).

25-12-105. Violation of injunction - penalty.

Any violation or disobedience of any injunction or order expressly provided for by section 25-12-104 shall be punished as a contempt of court by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than two thousand dollars. Each day in which an individual is in violation of the injunction established by the court shall constitute a separate offense. The court shall give consideration in any such case to the practical difficulties involved with respect to effecting compliance with the requirements of any order issued by the court.

Source: L. 71: p. 650, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-5.

25-12-106. Noise restrictions - sale of new vehicles.

(1) Except for such vehicles as are designed exclusively for racing purposes, no person shall sell or offer for sale a new motor vehicle that produces a maximum noise exceeding the following noise limits, at a distance of fifty feet from the center of the lane of travel, under test procedures established by the department of revenue:

(a) Any motorcycle manufactured on or after July 1, 1971, and before January 1,

1973........................................................................................................ 88 db(A);

(b) Any motorcycle manufactured on or after January 1, 1973............................ 86 db(A);

(c) Any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of six thousand pounds or more manufactured on or after July 1, 1971, and before January 1, 1973................................................. 88 db(A);

(d) Any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of six thousand pounds or more manufactured on or after January 1, 1973................................................................................. 86 db(A);

(e) Any other motor vehicle manufactured on or after January 1, 1968, and before January 1, 1973 86 db(A);

(f) Any other motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1973......................... 84 db(A).

(g) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 2102, § 2, effective July 1, 2010.)

(2) Test procedures for compliance with this section shall be established by the department, taking into consideration the test procedures of the society of automotive engineers.

(3) Any person selling or offering for sale a motor vehicle or other vehicle in violation of this section commits a civil infraction.

Source: L. 71: p. 650, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-6. L. 2008: IP(1) and (1)(g) amended, p. 2102, § 2, effective July 1, 2010. L. 2009: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, (HB 09-1026), ch. 281, p. 1259, § 20, effective October 1. L. 2021: (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3238, § 470, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a civil infraction, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-12-107. Powers of local authorities.

(1) Counties or municipalities may adopt resolutions or ordinances prohibiting the operation of motor vehicles within their respective jurisdictions that produce noise in excess of the sound levels in decibels, measured on the "A" scale on a standard sound level meter having characteristics established by the American national standards institute, publication S1.4 - 1971, and measured at a distance of fifty feet from the center of the lane of travel and within the speed limits specified in this section:

| ​ Speed limit of 35 mph or less | ​ Speed limit of more than 35 mph but less than 55 mph
(a) Any motor vehicle with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of six thousand pounds or more, any combination of vehicles towed by such motor vehicle, and any motorcycle other than a low-power scooter: |  |
(I) Before January 1, 1973 | 88 db(A) | 90 db(A)
(II) On and after January 1, 1973 | 86 db(A) | 90 db(A)

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 2102, § 3, effective July 1, 2010.)

(2) The governing board shall adopt resolutions establishing any test procedures deemed necessary.

(3) This section applies to the total noise from a vehicle or combination of vehicles.

(4) For the purpose of this section, a truck, truck tractor, or bus that is not equipped with an identification plate or marking bearing the manufacturer's name and manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating shall be considered as having a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of six thousand pounds or more if the unladen weight is more than five thousand pounds.

Source: L. 71: p. 651, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-7. L. 73: p. 1406, § 48. L. 2008: IP(1) and (1)(b) amended, p. 2102, § 3, effective July 1, 2010. L. 2009: IP(1)(a) amended, (HB 09-1026), ch. 281, p. 1259, § 21, effective October 1.

25-12-108. Preemption.

Except as provided in sections 25-12-103 (12) and 25-12-110, this article shall not be construed to preempt or limit the authority of any municipality or county to adopt standards that are no less restrictive than the provisions of this article.

Source: L. 71: p. 651, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-35-8. L. 88: Entire section amended, p. 1116, § 2, effective May 19. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 2103, § 4, effective July 1, 2010.

25-12-109. Exception - sport shooting ranges - legislative declaration - definitions.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that the imposition of inconsistent, outdated, and unnecessary noise restrictions on qualifying sport shooting ranges that meet specific, designated qualifications work to the detriment of the public health, welfare, and morale as well as to the detriment of the economic well-being of the state. The general assembly further finds, determines, and declares that a need exists for statewide uniformity with respect to exempting qualifying shooting ranges from the enforcement of laws, ordinances, rules, and orders regulating noise. As the gain associated with having a uniform statewide exemption for qualifying sport shooting ranges outweighs any gains associated with enforcing noise regulations against such ranges, the general assembly further declares that the provisions of this section, as enacted, are a matter of statewide concern and preempt any provisions of any law, ordinance, rule, or order to the contrary.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Local government" means any county, city, city and county, town, or any governmental entity, board, council, or committee operating under the authority of any county, city, city and county, or town.

(b) "Local government official" means any elected, appointed, or employed individual or group of individuals acting on behalf of or exercising the authority of any local government.

(c) "Person" means an individual, proprietorship, partnership, corporation, club, or other legal entity.

(d) "Qualifying sport shooting range" or "qualifying range" means any public or private establishment, whether operating for profit or not for profit, that operates an area for the discharge or other use of firearms or other equipment for silhouette, skeet, trap, black powder, target, self-defense, recreational or competitive shooting, or professional training.

(3) Notwithstanding any other law or municipal or county ordinance, rule, or order regulating noise to the contrary:

(a) A local governmental official may not commence a civil action nor seek a criminal penalty against a qualifying sport shooting range or its owners or operators on the grounds of noise emanating from such range that results from the normal operation or use of the qualifying shooting range except upon a written complaint from a resident of the jurisdiction in which the range is located. The complaint shall state the name and address of the complainant, how long the complainant has resided at the address indicated, the times and dates on which the alleged excessive noise occurred, and such other information as the local government may require. The local government shall not proceed to seek a criminal penalty or pursue a civil action against a qualifying sport shooting range on the basis of such a noise complaint if the complainant established residence within the jurisdiction after January 1, 1985.

(b) No person may bring any suit in law or equity or any other claim for relief against a qualifying sport shooting range located in the vicinity of the person's property or against the owners or operators of such range on the grounds of noise emanating from the range if:

(I) The qualifying range was established before the person acquired the property;

(II) The qualifying range complies with all laws, ordinances, rules, or orders regulating noise that applied to the range and its operation at the time of its construction or initial operation;

(III) No law, ordinance, rule, or order regulating noise applied to the qualifying range at the time of its construction or initial operation.

Source: L. 98: Entire section added, p. 240, § 1, effective April 13.

25-12-110. Off-highway vehicles.

(1) An off-highway vehicle operated within the state shall not emit more than the following level of sound when measured using SAE J1287:

(a) If manufactured before January 1, 1998................................................... 99 db(A);

(b) If manufactured on or after January 1, 1998.............................................. 96 db(A).

(2) A snowmobile shall not emit more than the following level of sound when measured using SAE J2567:

(a) If manufactured on or after July 1, 1972, and before July 2, 1975................... 90 db(A);

(b) If manufactured on or after July 2, 1975................................................... 88 db(A).

(3) (a) A person shall not sell or offer to sell a new off-highway vehicle that emits a level of sound in excess of that prohibited by subsection (1) of this section unless the off-highway vehicle complies with federal noise emission standards. A person shall not sell or offer to sell a new snowmobile that emits a level of sound in excess of that prohibited by subsection (2) of this section unless the snowmobile complies with federal noise emission standards.

(b) For the purposes of this section, a "new" snowmobile or off-highway vehicle means a snowmobile or off-highway vehicle that has not been transferred on a manufacturer's statement of origin and for which an ownership registration card has not been submitted by the original owner to the manufacturer.

(4) This section shall not apply to the following:

(a) A vehicle designed or modified for and used in closed-circuit, off-highway vehicle competition facilities;

(b) An off-highway vehicle used in an emergency to search for or rescue a person; and

(c) An off-highway vehicle while in use for agricultural purposes.

(5) A person who violates this section commits a civil infraction.

(6) No municipality or county may adopt an ordinance or resolution setting noise standards for off-highway vehicles or snowmobiles that are more restrictive than this section.

(7) (a) Nothing in this section shall be construed to modify the authority granted in section 25-12-103.

(b) Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the test to produce a less restrictive standard than the J1287 stationary sound test or the J2567 stationary sound test published by SAE international or any successor organization.

(8) The following shall be an affirmative defense to a violation under this section if the off-highway vehicle or snowmobile:

(a) Was manufactured before January 1, 2005;

(b) Complied with federal and state law when purchased;

(c) Has not been modified from the manufacturer's original equipment specifications or to exceed the sound limits imposed by subsection (1) or (2) of this section; and

(d) Does not have a malfunctioning exhaust system.

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 2103, § 5, effective July 1, 2010. L. 2021: (5) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 471, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a civil infraction, see § 18-1.3-503.

ARTICLE 13

Recreation Land Preservation

25-13-101. Short title.

25-13-102. Legislative declaration.

25-13-103. Definitions.

25-13-104. Administration.

25-13-105. Unlawful acts.

25-13-106. Sewage disposal.

25-13-107. Refuse disposal.

25-13-108. Water supplies.

25-13-109. Group gatherings.

25-13-110. Camping duration.

25-13-111. Enforcement.

25-13-112. Citizen's complaint.

25-13-113. Construction.

25-13-114. Penalty for violation.

25-13-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Recreation Land Preservation Act of 1971".

Source: L. 71: p. 643, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-1.

25-13-102. Legislative declaration.

The purpose of this article is to establish minimum controls to prohibit the pollution of the air, water, and land, to prevent the degradation of the natural environment of recreational and mountain areas in this state in order to preserve and maintain the ecology and environment in its natural condition, to facilitate the enjoyment of the state and its ecology, nature, and scenery by the inhabitants and visitors of the state, and to protect their health, safety, and welfare.

Source: L. 71: p. 643, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-2.

25-13-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the state board of health.

(2) "Campsite" means any specific area within organized campgrounds or other recreation areas which is used for overnight stays by an individual, a single camping family, a group, or any other similar entity.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(4) "Operator" means the person responsible for managing the organized campground or recreation area.

(5) "Organized campgrounds" means all federal, state, municipal, and county owned and designated roadside parks and campgrounds and privately owned campgrounds which are made available, either with or without a fee, to the public.

(6) "Person" means any private or public institution, corporation, individual, partnership, firm, association, or other entity.

(7) "Public accommodation facilities" means all motels, hotels, dude ranches, youth camps, and other similar facilities rented out to the public in areas used predominantly for recreation.

(8) "Recreation areas" means all public lands and surface waters of the state, other than organized campgrounds, used for picnicking, camping, and other recreational activities.

(9) "Refuse" means all combustible or noncombustible solid waste, garbage, rubbish, debris, and litter.

(10) "Sewage" means any liquid or solid waste material which contains human excreta.

(11) "Surface of ground" means any portion of the ground from the surface to a depth of six inches.

(12) "Waters of the state" means all streams, lakes, rivers, ponds, wells, impounding reservoirs, watercourses, springs, drainage systems, and irrigation systems; all sources of water such as snow, ice, and glaciers; and all other bodies or accumulations of water, surface and underground, natural or artificial, public or private, located wholly or partly within or bordering upon this state and within the jurisdiction of this state.

Source: L. 71: p. 643, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-3. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2792, § 529, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-13-104. Administration.

(1) Except as provided in section 25-13-111, the department shall administer the provisions of this article.

(2) The board shall promulgate reasonable rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this article.

(3) The department shall furnish consulting services to county commissioners, municipalities, other governmental agencies, and private landowners regarding toilet facilities and procedures for refuse collection and disposal.

Source: L. 71: p. 644, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-4.

25-13-105. Unlawful acts.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this article, it is unlawful for any person:

(a) Within the recreation areas of the state to discharge untreated sewage upon the surface of the ground or in any waters of the state;

(b) To deposit or bury refuse on the public lands or waters within this state, except within areas or receptacles designated by the operator for this purpose;

(c) To deposit refuse on private or public land in such a way that said refuse may be blown, carried, or otherwise transported from its point of deposit;

(d) To willfully mar, mutilate, deface, disfigure, or injure beyond normal use any rocks, trees, shrubbery, wild flowers, or other features of the natural environment in recreation areas of the state;

(e) To willfully cut down, uproot, break, or otherwise destroy any living trees, shrubbery, wild flowers, or natural flora in recreation areas of the state;

(f) To build fires unless in compliance with rules and regulations of the board, to abandon or to leave fires unattended, or to store flammable liquids in a container which is not of a type approved by the department in an organized campground or other recreation area subject to this article;

(g) In organized campgrounds or recreation areas to use any cleansing agents, whether organic or inorganic in nature, in waters of the state for any purpose, including but not limited to bathing, clothes washing, and similar activities, or to dispose of any water containing such agents on the surface of the ground within fifty feet of any waters of the state. Such water shall be disposed of in facilities provided by the operator or in the manner specified by the operator.

Source: L. 71: p. 644, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-5.

Cross references: For leaving campfires unextinguished and causing a fire in woods or prairie, see § 18-13-109; for civil damages from fire set in woods or prairie, see § 13-21-105.

25-13-106. Sewage disposal.

(1) In organized campgrounds, all sewage shall be disposed of in facilities provided by the campground operator. The operator shall maintain such facilities in the manner prescribed by rules and regulations of the board.

(2) Sewage in recreation areas may be disposed of by burial at a depth greater than six inches at a distance of more than one hundred feet from any surface waters. Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent the intrusion of such sewage and wastewater upon the environment in a manner which is unhealthful, injurious to the environment, or otherwise degrading to the environment.

(3) Public accommodation sewage and wastewater disposal facilities shall conform to such reasonable rules and regulations as may be promulgated by the board.

Source: L. 71: p. 645, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-6.

25-13-107. Refuse disposal.

(1) All persons shall dispose of refuse in containers which shall be provided for that purpose by operators of organized campgrounds. Organized campground operators shall keep the grounds free of uncontained refuse and shall provide a sufficient number of secure waterproof containers, preferably metal, with flyproof tops for the disposal of refuse. The containers shall be emptied as often as necessary to maintain the organized campground free of uncontained refuse. The presence of uncontained refuse in excess of the capacity of the containers provided shall be prima facie proof that the numbers of containers or frequency of container emptying is inadequate and that the operator is in violation of this subsection (1).

(2) Whenever containers for refuse are filled or are not available in campgrounds or recreation areas, all persons shall dispose of refuse in compliance with rules and regulations adopted by the board or operator or remove the refuse from the area for disposal in a manner not in violation of this article.

(3) Refuse in public accommodation facilities shall be disposed in the manner specified in such reasonable rules and regulations as may be promulgated by the board.

(4) Food wastes normally edible to human beings may be deposited on the surface of the ground if the quantity of such wastes does not result in an unhealthful or unpleasant aesthetic appearance by virtue of an unreasonable time required for decay of the waste or consumption of the waste by fauna of the area.

Source: L. 71: p. 645, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-7.

25-13-108. Water supplies.

All water supplied to the public in an organized campground shall conform to the requirements of standards adopted by the board, rules and regulations adopted by the board, or any higher local standards.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-8.

25-13-109. Group gatherings.

Any group of twenty-five or more persons assembled for a meeting, festival, social gathering, or other similar purpose in an organized campground or recreation area for a period which reasonably could have been anticipated to exceed ten hours shall make provision for sewage, wastewater, and refuse disposal in accordance with rules and regulations of the board. The organizers of and performers at any gathering in violation of this section shall be punished as provided in section 25-13-114.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-9.

25-13-110. Camping duration.

No person may camp in a campsite within recreation areas for a period exceeding two weeks. Any campsite may be closed by the department or other lawful authority for an indefinite period to permit recovery of the campsite to its natural state following excessive use and resulting environmental deterioration.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-10.

25-13-111. Enforcement.

This article shall be enforced by the department, the division of parks and wildlife, all county, district, and municipal public health agencies and boards of health, and any peace officer in this state.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-11. L. 2010: Entire section amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2105, § 123, effective August 11.

25-13-112. Citizen's complaint.

Any person may initiate an action under the provisions of this article by signing a complaint, in accordance with the applicable rules of judicial procedure, that he has observed a violation of this article.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-14.

25-13-113. Construction.

No provisions of this article shall be construed to repeal or in any way invalidate more stringent actions, orders, rules, regulations, ordinances, resolutions, or quality standards established by any governmental entity or agency.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-13.

25-13-114. Penalty for violation.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this article 13 commits a civil infraction.

Source: L. 71: p. 646, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-34-14. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 472, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a civil infraction, see § 18-1.3-503.

ARTICLE 14

Control of Smoking

PART 1
PROHIBITION AGAINST THE USE OF TOBACCO ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

25-14-101. Legislative declaration. (Repealed)

25-14-102. Definitions. (Repealed)

25-14-103. Smoking prohibited in certain public places. (Repealed)

25-14-103.5. Prohibition against the use of tobacco products and retail marijuana on school property - legislative declaration - education program - special account - definitions.

25-14-103.7. Control of smoking in state legislative buildings. (Repealed)

25-14-104. Optional prohibition. (Repealed)

25-14-105. Local regulations. (Repealed)

PART 2
COLORADO CLEAN INDOOR AIR ACT

25-14-201. Short title.

25-14-202. Legislative declaration.

25-14-203. Definitions.

25-14-204. General smoking restrictions.

25-14-205. Exceptions to smoking restrictions.

25-14-206. Optional prohibitions.

25-14-207. Other applicable regulations of smoking - local counterpart regulations authorized.

25-14-208. Unlawful acts - penalty - disposition of fines and surcharges.

25-14-208.5. Violations relating to signage and admission of persons under twenty-one years of age - limitation on fines.

25-14-209. Severability.

PART 3
TOBACCO USE BY MINORS

25-14-301. Sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, or nicotine products to persons under twenty-one years of age prohibited - definitions.

PART 1

PROHIBITION AGAINST THE USE OF TOBACCO ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

25-14-101. Legislative declaration. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1298, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 60, § 2, effective July 1.

25-14-102. Definitions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1298, § 1, effective July 1. L. 91: (1) amended, p. 821, § 6, effective June 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 60, § 3, effective July 1.

25-14-103. Smoking prohibited in certain public places. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1299, § 1, effective July 1. L. 94: (1)(f) repealed, p. 676, § 2, effective April 19; (1)(c) amended, p. 1957, § 2, effective August 1. L. 2003: (1)(b)(IV) amended, p. 711, § 45, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 60, § 4, effective July 1.

25-14-103.5. Prohibition against the use of tobacco products and retail marijuana on school property - legislative declaration - education program - special account - definitions.

(1) The general assembly finds that many of the schools in this state permit the use of tobacco products in and around school property. The general assembly further finds that secondhand smoke generated by such activity and the negative example set and frequently imitated by our school children are detrimental to the health and well-being of such children as well as to school teachers, staff, and visitors. Accordingly, the general assembly finds and declares that it is appropriate to create a safe and healthy school environment by prohibiting the use of tobacco products on all school property.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "School" means a public nursery school, day care center, child care facility, head start program, kindergarten, or elementary or secondary school through grade twelve.

(b) "School property" means all property, whether owned, leased, rented, or otherwise used by a school, including, but not limited to, the following:

(I) All interior portions of any building used for instruction, administration, support services, maintenance, and storage and any other structure used by a school; except that such term shall not apply to a building primarily used as a residence;

(II) All school grounds surrounding any building specified in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b) over which the school is authorized to exercise dominion and control. Such grounds shall include any playground, athletic field, recreation area, and parking area; and

(III) All vehicles used by the school for the purpose of transporting students, workers, visitors, or any other persons.

(c) "Tobacco product" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 18-13-121 (5), C.R.S.

(d) "Use" means the lighting, chewing, smoking, ingestion, or application of any tobacco product.

(3) (a) (I) The board of education of each school district shall adopt appropriate policies and rules that mandate a prohibition against the use of all tobacco products and all retail marijuana or retail marijuana products authorized pursuant to article 10 of title 44 on all school property by students, teachers, staff, and visitors and that provide for the enforcement of such policies and rules.

(II) Repealed.

(b) Signs regarding such prohibition and the consequences of violation shall be displayed prominently on all school property to ensure compliance no later than September 1, 1994.

(4) This section shall not be applicable to the use of a tobacco product in a limited classroom demonstration to show the health hazards of tobacco.

(5) The board of education of each school district is authorized to seek and accept gifts, donations, or grants of any kind from any private or charitable source or from any governmental agency to meet expenses required by this section. Such gifts, donations, and grants shall be accounted for separately, and, to the extent that such moneys are available, the board of education of each school district may maintain and operate an educational program designed to assist students, faculty, and staff to avoid and discontinue the use of tobacco products. Such program shall be offered at each school under the board's direction and control.

(6) This section shall not prohibit any school from enacting more stringent policies or rules than required by this section.

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 674, § 1, effective April 19. L. 98: (3)(a)(II) amended, p. 55, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2008: (2)(c), (2)(d), and (5) amended, p. 888, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2011: (1) amended, (HB 11-1016), ch. 60, p. 158, § 4, effective March 25. L. 2013: (3)(a)(I) amended, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1894, § 11, effective May 28. L. 2018: (3)(a)(I) amended, (HB 18-1023), ch. 55, p. 590, § 20, effective October 1. L. 2019: (3)(a)(I) amended, (SB 19-224), ch. 315, p. 2941, § 26, effective January 1, 2020.

Editor's note: Subsection (3)(a)(II)(C) provided for the repeal of subsection (3)(a)(II), effective January 1, 2000. (See L. 98, p. 55.)

25-14-103.7. Control of smoking in state legislative buildings. (Repealed)

Source: L. 94: Entire section added, p. 1958, § 3, effective August 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 62, § 5, effective July 1.

25-14-104. Optional prohibition. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1300, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 62, § 6, effective July 1.

25-14-105. Local regulations. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1300, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 62, § 7, effective July 1.

PART 2

COLORADO CLEAN INDOOR AIR ACT

Law reviews: For article, "Implementing No-Smoking Policies in Multi-Unit Housing: How to Do It and Why", see 44 Colo. Law. 93 (July 2015).

25-14-201. Short title.

This part 2 shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act".

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 53, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

The Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act's (CCIAA) airport smoking concession exemption does not violate the equal protection clause of the fourteenth amendment to the U.S. constitution. The Colorado legislature, by exempting airport smoking concessions from the CCIAA's operation, rationally distinguished those concessions from the majority of other indoor facilities in the state that are open to the public. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The CCIAA does not violate due process by infringing on the use of property of bar and restaurant owners. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The CCIAA does not consist of more than one subject. On its face, the CCIAA's addresses the health risks of indoor secondhand smoke. Even assuming the CCIAA's exemptions are based in part on economic concerns, it does not violate art. V, § 21, of the constitution. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

25-14-202. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that:

(a) It is in the best interest of the people of this state to protect the public from involuntary exposure to emissions from secondhand smoke and electronic smoking devices (ESD) in most indoor areas open to the public, in public meetings, in food service establishments, and in places of employment; and

(b) ESD emissions consist of ultrafine particles that are significantly more highly concentrated than particles within conventional tobacco smoke. There is conclusive evidence that most ESDs contain and emit not only nicotine but also many other potentially toxic substances and that ESDs increase airborne concentrations of particulate matter and nicotine in indoor environments. In addition, studies show that people exposed to ESD emissions absorb nicotine at levels comparable to the levels experienced by passive smokers. Many of the elements identified in ESD emissions are known to cause respiratory distress and disease, and ESD exposure damages lung tissues. For example, human lung cells that are exposed to ESD aerosol and flavorings show increased oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly hereby declares that the purpose of this part 2 is to preserve and improve the health, comfort, and environment of the people of this state by protecting the right of people to breathe clean, smoke-free air. Nothing in this part 2 is intended to inhibit a person's ability to take medicine using an inhaler or similar device, nor to prevent an employer or business owner from making reasonable accommodation for the medical needs of an employee, customer, or other person in accordance with the federal "Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990", as amended, 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 53, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1894, § 12, effective May 28. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3092, § 1, effective July 1.

25-14-203. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) Repealed.

(2) "Auditorium" means the part of a public building where an audience gathers to attend a performance, and includes any corridors, hallways, or lobbies adjacent thereto.

(3) "Bar" means any indoor area that is operated and licensed under article 3 of title 44, primarily for the sale and service of alcohol beverages for on-premises consumption and where the service of food is secondary to the consumption of such alcohol beverages.

(4) "Cigar-tobacco bar" means a bar that, in the calendar year ending December 31, 2005, generated at least five percent or more of its total annual gross income or fifty thousand dollars in annual sales from the on-site sale of tobacco products and the rental of on-site humidors, not including any sales from vending machines. In any calendar year after December 31, 2005, a bar that fails to generate at least five percent of its total annual gross income or fifty thousand dollars in annual sales from the on-site sale of tobacco products and the rental of on-site humidors shall not be defined as a "cigar-tobacco bar" and shall not thereafter be included in the definition regardless of sales figures.

(4.5) "Electronic smoking device" or "ESD":

(a) Means any product, other than a product described in subsection (4.5)(c) of this section, that contains or delivers nicotine or any other substance intended for human consumption and that can be used by a person to enable the inhalation of vapor or aerosol from the product;

(b) Includes any product described in subsection (4.5)(a) of this section and any similar product or device, whether manufactured, distributed, marketed, or sold as an e-cigarette, e-cigar, e-pipe, e-hookah, or vape pen or under any other product name or descriptor; and

(c) Does not include:

(I) A humidifier or similar device that emits only water vapor; or

(II) An inhaler, nebulizer, or vaporizer that is approved by the federal food and drug administration for the delivery of medication.

(5) (a) "Employee" means any person who:

(I) Performs any type of work for benefit of another in consideration of direct or indirect wages or profit; or

(II) Provides uncompensated work or services to a business or nonprofit entity.

(b) "Employee" includes every person described in paragraph (a) of this subsection (5), regardless of whether such person is referred to as an employee, contractor, independent contractor, or volunteer or by any other designation or title.

(6) "Employer" means any person, partnership, association, corporation, or nonprofit entity that employs one or more persons. "Employer" includes, without limitation, the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state government; any county, city and county, city, or town, or instrumentality thereof, or any other political subdivision of the state, special district, authority, commission, or agency; or any other separate corporate instrumentality or unit of state or local government.

(7) "Entryway" means the outside of the front or main doorway leading into a building or facility that is not exempted from this part 2 under section 25-14-205. "Entryway" also includes the area of public or private property within a specified radius outside of the doorway. The specified radius may be determined by the local authority pursuant to section 25-14-207 (2)(a), but must be at least twenty-five feet unless section 25-14-207 (2)(a)(II)(B) or (2)(a)(II)(C) applies. If the local authority has not acted, the specified radius is twenty-five feet.

(8) "Environmental tobacco smoke", "ETS", or "secondhand smoke" means the complex mixture formed from the escaping smoke of a burning tobacco product, also known as "sidestream smoke", and smoke exhaled by the smoker.

(9) "Food service establishment" means any indoor area or portion thereof in which the principal business is the sale of food for on-premises consumption. The term includes, without limitation, restaurants, cafeterias, coffee shops, diners, sandwich shops, and short-order cafes.

(10) "Indoor area" means any enclosed area or portion thereof. The opening of windows or doors, or the temporary removal of wall panels, does not convert an indoor area into an outdoor area.

(11) "Local authority" means a county, city and county, city, or town.

(11.5) "Marijuana" shall have the same meaning as in section 16 (2)(f) of article XVIII of the state constitution.

(12) "Place of employment" means any indoor area or portion thereof under the control of an employer in which employees of the employer perform services for, or on behalf of, the employer.

(13) "Public building" means any building owned or operated by:

(a) The state, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state government;

(b) Any county, city and county, city, or town, or instrumentality thereof, or any other political subdivision of the state, a special district, an authority, a commission, or an agency; or

(c) Any other separate corporate instrumentality or unit of state or local government.

(14) "Public meeting" means any meeting open to the public pursuant to part 4 of article 6 of title 24, C.R.S., or any other law of this state.

(15) "Smoke-free work area" means an indoor area in a place of employment where smoking is prohibited under this part 2.

(16) "Smoking" means inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, or pipe or any other lighted or heated tobacco or plant product intended for inhalation, including marijuana, whether natural or synthetic, in any manner or in any form. "Smoking" also includes the use of an ESD.

(17) "Tobacco" means cigarettes, cigars, cheroots, stogies, and periques; granulated, plug cut, crimp cut, ready rubbed, and other smoking tobacco; snuff and snuff flour; cavendish; plug and twist tobacco; fine-cut and other chewing tobacco; shorts, refuse scraps, clippings, cuttings, and sweepings of tobacco; and other kinds and forms of tobacco, prepared in such manner as to be suitable for chewing or for smoking in a cigarette, pipe, or otherwise, or both for chewing and smoking. "Tobacco" also includes cloves and any other plant matter or product that is packaged for smoking.

(18) "Tobacco business" means a sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, or other enterprise engaged primarily in the sale, manufacture, or promotion of tobacco, tobacco products, or smoking devices or accessories, including ESDs, either at wholesale or retail, and in which the sale, manufacture, or promotion of other products is merely incidental.

(19) "Work area" means an area in a place of employment where one or more employees are routinely assigned and perform services for or on behalf of their employer.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 54, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2010: (16) amended, (HB 10-1284), ch. 355, p. 1687, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2013: (11.5) added and (16) amended, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1895, § 13, effective May 28. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1025), ch. 152, p. 1079, § 13, effective October 1. L. 2019: (1) repealed, (4.5) added, and (7), (16), and (18) amended, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3093, § 2, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

The small business exemption in § 25-14-205 (1)(h) is not unconstitutionally vague nor are the definitions in subsection (5)(a) and (5)(b) of this section. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

25-14-204. General smoking restrictions.

(1) Except as provided in section 25-14-205, smoking is not permitted and a person shall not smoke in any indoor area, including:

(a) Public meeting places;

(b) Elevators;

(c) Government-owned or -operated means of mass transportation, including, but not limited to, buses, vans, and trains;

(d) Taxicabs and limousines;

(e) Grocery stores;

(f) Gymnasiums;

(g) Jury waiting and deliberation rooms;

(h) Courtrooms;

(i) Child day care facilities;

(j) Health-care facilities including hospitals, health-care clinics, doctor's offices, and other health-care-related facilities;

(k) (I) Any place of employment that is not exempted, whether or not open to the public and regardless of the number of employees.

(II) In the case of employers who own facilities otherwise exempted from this part 2, each such employer shall provide a smoke-free work area for each employee requesting not to have to breathe secondhand smoke and emissions from electronic smoking devices.

(l) Food service establishments;

(m) Bars;

(n) Limited gaming facilities and any other facilities in which any gaming or gambling activity is conducted;

(o) Indoor sports arenas;

(p) Restrooms, lobbies, hallways, and other common areas in public and private buildings, condominiums, and other multiple-unit residential facilities;

(q) Repealed.

(r) Bowling alleys;

(s) Billiard or pool halls;

(t) Facilities in which games of chance are conducted;

(u) (I) The common areas of retirement facilities, publicly owned housing facilities, and nursing homes, but not including any resident's private residential quarters.

(II) Nothing in this part 2 affects the validity or enforceability of a contract, whether entered into before, on, or after July 1, 2006, that specifies that a part or all of a facility or home specified in this paragraph (u) is a smoke-free area.

(v) Public buildings;

(w) Auditoria;

(x) Theaters;

(y) Museums;

(z) Libraries;

(aa) To the extent not otherwise provided in section 25-14-103.5, public and nonpublic schools;

(bb) Other educational and vocational institutions;

(cc) Airports;

(dd) Hotel and motel rooms;

(ee) Assisted living facilities, including nursing facilities as defined in section 25.5-4-103 and assisted living residences as defined in section 25-27-102; and

(ff) The entryways of all buildings and facilities listed in subsections (1)(a) to (1)(ee) of this section.

(2) A cigar-tobacco bar:

(a) Shall not expand its size or change its location from the size and location in which it existed as of December 31, 2005; and

(b) Shall prohibit entry by any person under twenty-one years of age and shall display signage in at least one conspicuous place and at least four inches by six inches in size stating: "Smoking allowed. Persons under twenty-one years of age may not enter."

(3) A retail tobacco business:

(a) Shall prohibit entry by any person under twenty-one years of age; and

(b) Shall display signage in at least one conspicuous place and at least four inches by six inches in size stating either:

(I) "Smoking allowed. Persons under twenty-one years of age may not enter."; or

(II) In the case of a retail tobacco business that desires to allow the use of ESDs but not other forms of smoking on the premises, "Vaping allowed. Persons under twenty-one years of age may not enter."

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 56, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1)(u) amended, p. 398, § 1, effective August 3. L. 2013: IP(1) amended, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1895, § 14, effective May 28. L. 2019: IP(1), (1)(k), (1)(u)(I), (1)(bb), and (1)(cc) amended, (1)(q) repealed, and (1)(dd), (1)(ee), and (1)(ff) added, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3094, § 3, effective July 1; (2) amended and (3) added, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3094, § 3, effective October 1. L. 2020: (2)(b) and (3) amended, (HB 20-1001), ch. 302, p. 1503, § 2, effective July 14.

ANNOTATION

The Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act's (CCIAA) airport smoking concession exemption does not violate the equal protection clause of the fourteenth amendment to the U.S. constitution. The Colorado legislature, by exempting airport smoking concessions from the CCIAA's operation, rationally distinguished those concessions from the majority of other indoor facilities in the state that are open to the public. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The CCIAA does not violate substantive due process by imposing criminal liability on bar and restaurant owners for the acts of others. The plain language of subsection (1) prohibits both smoking by patrons and the allowing of smoking by bar and restaurant owners. The CCIAA does not criminalize owners for the acts of others. It criminalizes their own actions allowing their patrons to smoke. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The CCIAA does not violate due process by infringing on bar and restaurant owners' use of their property. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The plain language of subsection (2) states that a plaintiff who legally expands his cigar-tobacco bar prior to July 1, 2006 would become subject to penalties as of July 1, 2006 for his pre-enactment expansion. This is impermissible ex post facto legislation; however, the challenge to the retroactive law has become moot by the simple passage of time. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The CCIAA does not violate theaters' rights under the first amendment to the U.S. constitution or section 10 of article II of the Colorado constitution. Curious Theatre Co. v. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 216 P.3d 71 (Colo. App. 2008), aff'd, 220 P.3d 544 (Colo. 2009).

Smoking on stage during the course of a play is expressive conduct for purposes of the first amendment, and the CCIAA does place an incidental burden on this conduct by prohibiting it in indoor theaters. Curious Theatre Co. v. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 216 P.3d 71 (Colo. App. 2008), aff'd on other grounds, 220 P.3d 544 (Colo. 2009).

The CCIAA is content neutral, however, because it focuses on the adverse health effects of tobacco smoke, not on expression. Curious Theatre Co. v. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 216 P.3d 71 (Colo. App. 2008), aff'd, 220 P.3d 544 (Colo. 2009).

Because the CCIAA is content neutral, it is subject to an intermediate level of scrutiny as set forth in United States v. O'Brien. The four factors of O'Brien are satisfied in this case. First, the statute is within the constitutional power of the government because the legislature has the authority to enact statutes designed to promote the public health. Second, the statute furthers an important or substantial governmental interest by protecting the health of its citizens. Third, the government's interest in establishing the statute is unrelated to the suppression of free expression because it is content neutral and justified by health concerns unrelated to expression. Finally, the incidental restriction is no greater than necessary to further the interest because it is narrowly tailored by focusing on the one form of conduct, smoking, upon which the state's announced interest in protecting the public's health depends. The statute allows alternative channels of expression, such as outdoor theaters and fake and prop cigarettes. The theaters did not demonstrate that the use of the alternatives is so inadequate as to outweigh the state's overriding interest in protecting the health of its citizens. Curious Theatre Co. v. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 216 P.3d 71 (Colo. App. 2008), aff'd, 220 P.3d 544 (Colo. 2009).

25-14-205. Exceptions to smoking restrictions.

(1) This part 2 does not apply to:

(a) Private homes, private residences, and private automobiles; except that this part 2 shall apply if any such home, residence, or vehicle is being used for child care or day care or if a private vehicle is being used for the public transportation of children or as part of health-care or day care transportation;

(b) Limousines under private hire;

(c) Repealed.

(d) Any retail tobacco business; except that the requirements in section 25-14-204 (3) and any related penalties apply to a retail tobacco business;

(e) A cigar-tobacco bar;

(f) Repealed.

(g) The outdoor area of any business;

(h) Repealed.

(i) A private, nonresidential building on a farm or ranch, as defined in section 39-1-102, that has annual gross income of less than five hundred thousand dollars; or

(j) and (k) Repealed.

(l) If authorized by local ordinance, license, or regulation, the licensed premises of a marijuana hospitality business licensed pursuant to section 44-10-609 or a retail marijuana hospitality and sales business licensed pursuant to section 44-10-610; except that this exception only applies to the smoking of marijuana and does not allow the smoking of tobacco within such premises.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 58, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: (1)(k) added, p. 398, § 2, effective August 3; (1)(j) repealed, p. 1751, § 1, effective January 1, 2008. L. 2019: IP(1), (1)(d), (1)(g), and (1)(i) amended and (1)(c), (1)(f), (1)(h), and (1)(k) repealed, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3095, § 4, effective July 1; IP(1), (1)(i), and (1)(k)(I)(C) amended and (1)(l) added, (HB 19-1230), ch. 340, p. 3116, § 10, effective August 2; (1)(l) amended, (HB 19-1230), ch. 340, p. 3127, § 24, effective January 1, 2020.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(k)(I)(C) was amended in HB 19-1230, effective August 2, 2019. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of subsection (1)(k) in HB 19-1076, effective July 1, 2019.

ANNOTATION

The Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act's (CCIAA) airport smoking concession exemption does not violate the equal protection clause of the fourteenth amendment to the U.S. constitution. The Colorado legislature, by exempting airport smoking concessions from the CCIAA's operation, rationally distinguished those concessions from the majority of other indoor facilities in the state that are open to the public. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The small business exemption in subsection (1)(h) is not unconstitutionally vague nor are the definitions in § 25-14-203 (5)(a) and (5)(b). Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006), aff'd sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

The exemptions for licensed casinos, bars and restaurants within licensed casinos, and cigar-tobacco bars are not special legislation. Coal. for Equal Rights v. Owens, 458 F. Supp. 2d 1251 (D. Colo. 2006) (decided prior to 2007 repeal of subsection (1)(j)), aff'd on other grounds sub nom. Coal. for Equal Rights, Inc. v. Ritter, 517 F.3d 1195 (10th Cir. 2008).

25-14-206. Optional prohibitions.

(1) The owner or manager of any place otherwise exempted under section 25-14-205 may post signs prohibiting smoking. Such posting shall have the effect of including such place in the places where smoking is prohibited or restricted pursuant to this part 2.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 58, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1) amended and (2) repealed, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3096, § 5, effective July 1.

25-14-207. Other applicable regulations of smoking - local counterpart regulations authorized.

(1) This part 2 shall not be interpreted or construed to permit smoking where it is otherwise restricted by any other applicable law.

(2) (a) (I) A local authority may, pursuant to article 16 of title 31, a municipal home rule charter, or article 15 of title 30, enact, adopt, and enforce smoking regulations that cover the same subject matter as the various provisions of this part 2; except that, unless otherwise authorized under subsection (2)(a)(II)(B) or (2)(a)(II)(C) of this section, a local authority may not adopt a local regulation of smoking that is less stringent than the provisions of this part 2.

(II) (A) A local authority is specifically authorized to specify a radius of more than twenty-five feet for the area included within an entryway.

(B) A local regulation that was adopted by a local authority before January 1, 2019, and that specifies a radius of less than twenty-five feet for the area included within an entryway remains valid and must be given effect after July 1, 2019.

(C) If a person owns or leases business premises that were under construction or renovation on July 1, 2019, and that complied with a local regulation of smoking that specified a radius of less than twenty-five feet for the area included within an entryway, and, as of July 1, 2019, has applied for or received from the municipality, city and county, or county in which the premises are located, a certificate of occupancy for the structure to be used for the business premises, the person is deemed in compliance with all local regulations specifying the radius of the area included within an entryway.

(b) The municipal courts or their equivalent in any city, city and county, or town have jurisdiction over violations of smoking regulations enacted by any city, city and county, or town under this section.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 59, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2)(a) amended, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3096, § 6, effective July 1.

25-14-208. Unlawful acts - penalty - disposition of fines and surcharges.

(1) It is unlawful for a person who owns, manages, operates, or otherwise controls the use of a premises subject to this part 2 to violate any provision of this part 2.

(2) It is unlawful for a person to smoke in an area where smoking is prohibited pursuant to this part 2.

(3) Except as otherwise provided in section 25-14-208.5, a person who violates this part 2 is guilty of a petty offense. Each day of a continuing violation shall be deemed a separate violation.

(4) All judges, clerks of a court of record, or other officers imposing or receiving fines collected pursuant to or as a result of a conviction of any persons for a violation of any provision of this part 2 shall transmit all such moneys so collected in the following manner:

(a) Seventy-five percent of any such fine for a violation occurring within the corporate limits of a city, town, or city and county shall be transmitted to the treasurer or chief financial officer of said city, town, or city and county, and the remaining twenty-five percent shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the general fund.

(b) Seventy-five percent of any fine for a violation occurring outside the corporate limits of a city or town shall be transmitted to the treasurer of the county in which the city or town is located, and the remaining twenty-five percent shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the general fund.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 59, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2019: (3) amended, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3097, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2021: (3) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 473, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-14-208.5. Violations relating to signage and admission of persons under twenty-one years of age - limitation on fines.

(1) For a violation of section 25-14-204 (2) or (3), the penalty shall be as follows:

(a) A written warning for a first violation committed within a twenty-four-month period; and

(b) Fines as specified in section 25-14-208 (3) for a second or subsequent violation within a twenty-four-month period.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a fine for a violation of section 25-14-204 (2) or (3) shall not be imposed upon a retailer that can establish as an affirmative defense that, prior to the date of the violation, the retailer:

(a) Had adopted and enforced a written policy against allowing persons under twenty-one years of age to enter the premises;

(b) Had informed the retailer's employees of the applicable laws regarding the prohibition against persons under twenty-one years of age entering or remaining in areas where smoking is permitted;

(c) Required employees to verify the age of persons on the premises by way of photographic identification; and

(d) Had established and imposed disciplinary sanctions for noncompliance.

(3) The affirmative defense established in subsection (2) of this section may be used only twice at each location within any twenty-four-month period.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1076), ch. 337, p. 3097, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2020: IP(2), (2)(a), and (2)(b) amended, (HB 20-1001), ch. 302, p. 1504, § 3, effective July 14.

25-14-209. Severability.

If any provision of this part 2 or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this part 2 that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this part 2 are declared to be severable.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 60, § 1, effective July 1.

PART 3

TOBACCO USE BY MINORS

25-14-301. Sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, or nicotine products to persons under twenty-one years of age prohibited - definitions.

(1) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Teen Tobacco Use Prevention Act".

(2) (a) The sale of a cigarette or tobacco product to a person who is under twenty-one years of age is prohibited.

(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2020.)

(3) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Cigarette" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 39-28-202 (4), C.R.S.

(b) Repealed.

(c) "Tobacco product" has the same meaning as "cigarette, tobacco product, or nicotine product", as defined in section 18-13-121 (5).

(4) (a) Nothing in this section prohibits a statutory or home rule municipality, county, or city and county from enacting an ordinance or resolution that prohibits the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, or nicotine products to a person under twenty-one years of age or imposes requirements more stringent than provided in this section.

(b) A statutory or home rule municipality, county, or city and county shall not enact an ordinance or resolution that establishes a minimum age to purchase cigarettes, tobacco products, or nicotine products that is under twenty-one years of age.

(5) A violation of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section is a noncriminal offense.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part added, p. 887, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2019: (3)(c) and (4) amended, (HB 19-1033), ch. 53, p. 184, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2020: (2) and (4) amended and (3)(b) repealed, (HB 20-1001), ch. 302, p. 1504, § 4, effective July 14.

ARTICLE 15

Hazardous Waste

PART 1
GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-15-101. Definitions.

25-15-102. Effective dates.

25-15-103. Technical assistance.

25-15-104. Disposal service.

PART 2
HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL SITES

25-15-200.1. Short title.

25-15-200.2. Legislative declaration.

25-15-200.3. Definitions.

25-15-201. Certificate required - disposal prohibited - exceptions.

25-15-202. Application for certificate - review by department and Colorado geological survey - hearing.

25-15-203. Grounds for approval.

25-15-204. Certificate.

25-15-205. Permit required for operation - burial of liquids prohibited.

25-15-206. Substantial change in ownership, design, or operation.

25-15-206.5. Revocation or suspension of certificate.

25-15-207. Judicial review.

25-15-208. Commission to promulgate rules and regulations - limitations.

25-15-209. Inventory required.

25-15-209.5. Inspection required.

25-15-209.6. Performance audits.

25-15-210. Sites deemed public nuisance - when.

25-15-211. Violation - criminal penalty.

25-15-212. Violation - civil penalty - reimbursement of costs.

25-15-213. County or municipal hazardous waste disposal site fund - tax - fees.

25-15-214. Hazardous waste disposal site fund - fees.

25-15-215. Contracts with governmental units authorized.

25-15-216. Colorado geological survey to designate optimally suitable areas.

25-15-217. Circumstances allowing state designation of a hazardous waste disposal site - conditions and limitations. (Repealed)

25-15-218. State hazardous waste siting council - composition. (Repealed)

25-15-219. Department to study need for disposal sites and feasibility of alternative technologies.

25-15-220. Effect of 1983 amendments. (Repealed)

PART 3
STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

25-15-300.3. Definitions.

25-15-301. Powers and duties of department.

25-15-301.5. Additional powers of department - legislative declaration - report.

25-15-302. Solid and hazardous waste commission - creation - membership - rules - fees - administration - definitions.

25-15-303. Requirements for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal sites and facilities - permits.

25-15-304. Hazardous waste service fund created.

25-15-305. Judicial review.

25-15-306. Local control of facilities - authorization by department - allocation of fees.

25-15-307. Coordination with other programs.

25-15-308. Prohibited acts - enforcement - definition.

25-15-309. Administrative and civil penalties.

25-15-310. Criminal offenses - penalties.

25-15-311. Disposition of fines and penalties - repeal.

25-15-312. Repeal. (Repealed)

25-15-313. Right to claim reimbursement.

25-15-314. Solid and hazardous waste commission funding.

25-15-315. Solid and hazardous waste commission fund - creation.

25-15-316. Prior acts validated and rules continued.

25-15-317. Legislative declaration.

25-15-318. Nature of environmental covenants.

25-15-318.5. Nature of a notice of environmental use restrictions.

25-15-319. Contents of environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions.

25-15-320. Environmental covenants - when required - waiver.

25-15-321. Creation, modification, and termination of an environmental covenant.

25-15-321.5. Notice of environmental use restrictions - creation, modification, and termination.

25-15-322. Enforcement - remedies.

25-15-323. Registry of environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions.

25-15-324. Coordination with affected local governments.

25-15-325. Other interests not impaired.

25-15-326. Validation.

25-15-327. Applicability.

25-15-328. Household medication take-back program - creation - collection and disposal of medication injection devices - liability - definitions - cash fund - rules.

25-15-329. Discharge of preproduction plastic materials prohibited - definitions - repeal.

PART 4
INFECTIOUS WASTE

25-15-401. Legislative declaration.

25-15-402. Infectious waste - definitions.

25-15-402.5. Disposition of fetal tissue.

25-15-403. Generator management plan.

25-15-404. On-site disinfection.

25-15-405. Appropriate treatment and disposal - nonliability.

25-15-406. Penalty.

25-15-407. Presumption of noninfectiousness.

PART 5
HAZARDOUS WASTE INCINERATOR OR PROCESSOR SITES

25-15-501. Short title.

25-15-502. Definitions.

25-15-503. Certificate required - incineration or processing of hazardous waste prohibited - exceptions.

25-15-504. Application for certificate - review by governing body.

25-15-505. Grounds for approval.

25-15-506. Certificate.

25-15-507. Substantial change in ownership, design, or operation.

25-15-508. Revocation or suspension of certificate.

25-15-509. Judicial review.

25-15-510. Rules - limitations.

25-15-511. List of hazardous wastes - final inventory.

25-15-512. Inspections of hazardous waste incinerator or processor sites.

25-15-513. Violation - criminal penalty.

25-15-514. Violation - civil penalty - reimbursement of costs.

25-15-515. Annual fees - commercial hazardous waste incinerator or processor funds.

PART 6
PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL CHEMICALS

25-15-601. Short title.

25-15-602. Legislative declaration.

25-15-603. Definitions - repeal.

25-15-604. Prohibition on the sale or distribution of certain consumer products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals - product disclosure requirements - repeal.

25-15-605. Prohibition on the installation of artificial turf that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals.

PART 1

GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-15-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 15, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created in part 3 of this article.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created by section 25-1-102.

(3) "Disposal" means the discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking, or placing of any hazardous waste into or on any land or water so that such hazardous waste or any constituent thereof may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged into any waters, including groundwaters.

(4) "Domestic sewage" means untreated sanitary wastes that pass through a sewer system.

(4.3) "Environmental covenant" means an instrument containing environmental use restrictions created pursuant to section 25-15-321.

(4.5) "Environmental remediation project" means closure of a hazardous waste management unit or solid waste disposal site or any remediation of environmental contamination, including determinations to rely solely or partially on environmental use restrictions to protect human health and the environment but excluding interim measures that are not intended as the final remedial action, that is conducted under any of the following:

(a) Subchapter III or IX of the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", 42 U.S.C. secs. 6921 to 6939e and 6991 to 6991i, as amended;

(b) Section 7002 or 7003 of the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", 42 U.S.C. secs. 6972 and 6973, as amended;

(c) The federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", 42 U.S.C. sec. 9601 et seq., as amended;

(d) The federal "Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978", 42 U.S.C. sec. 7901 et seq., as amended;

(e) Part 1 of article 11 of this title, including any decommissioning of sites licensed under that part;

(f) Part 3 of article 11 of this title;

(g) Part 3 of article 15 of this title; and

(h) Article 20 of title 30, C.R.S.

(4.7) "Environmental use restriction" means a prohibition of one or more uses of or activities on specified real property, including drilling for or pumping groundwater; a requirement to perform certain acts, including requirements for maintenance, operation, or monitoring necessary to preserve such prohibition of uses or activities; or both, where such prohibitions or requirements are relied upon in the remedial decision for an environmental remediation project for the purpose of protecting human health or the environment.

(5) "Federal act" means the federal "Solid Waste Disposal Act", as amended by the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", as amended, 42 U.S.C. sec. 6901 et seq.

(5.5) "Hazardous substance" means any substance that is defined as a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant under the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", 42 U.S.C. sec. 9601 et seq., as amended, or its implementing regulations.

(6) (a) "Hazardous waste" means any material, alone or mixed with other materials, which has no commercial use or value, or which is discarded or is to be discarded by the possessor thereof, either of which because its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical characteristics may:

(I) Cause, or significantly contribute to, an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible, or incapacitating reversible, illness; or

(II) Pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, or disposed of, or otherwise managed.

(b) "Hazardous waste" does not include:

(I) Solid or dissolved material in discharges which are point sources subject to permits under section 402 of the "Federal Water Pollution Control Act", as amended;

(II) Source, special nuclear, or byproduct material as defined by the federal "Atomic Energy Act of 1954", as amended;

(III) (A) Agricultural, horticultural, or floricultural waste from the raising of crops or animals, including animal manures, that are returned to the soil as fertilizers or soil conditioners.

(B) Nothing in sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (III), as amended by House Bill 05-1180, as enacted at the first regular session of the sixty-fifth general assembly, shall be construed as changing the property tax classification of property owned by a horticultural or floricultural operation.

(IV) Solid or dissolved material in domestic sewage;

(V) Irrigation return flows;

(VI) Inert materials deposited for construction fill or topsoil placement in connection with actual or contemplated construction at such location or for changes in land contour for agricultural and mining purposes, if such depositing does not fall within the definition of treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste;

(VII) Any waste or other materials exempted or otherwise not regulated as a hazardous waste under the federal act, except as provided in section 25-15-302 (4);

(VIII) Indigenous waste from prospecting and mining operations which is disposed of in accordance with the requirements of an approved reclamation plan contained in a permit issued pursuant to article 32 of title 34, C.R.S., or article 33 of title 34, C.R.S.;

(IX) Waste from oil and gas operations, as defined in section 34-60-103, or from deep geothermal operations, as defined in section 37-90.5-103 (3), including, but not limited to, drilling fluids, produced water, and other wastes associated with the exploration, development, or production of crude oil, natural gas, or geothermal resources, that is disposed of in accordance with the requirements of the energy and carbon management commission pursuant to article 90.5 of title 37 and article 60 of title 34, as applicable; and

(X) Exploration and production waste, as defined in section 34-60-103.

(c) Any material which would be hazardous waste subject to the provisions of this article except for the fact that it has commercial use or value may be subject to regulations promulgated by the commission when it is transported or stored prior to reuse.

(7) "Hazardous waste generation" means the act or process of producing hazardous waste.

(8) "Hazardous waste management" means the systematic control of the collection, source separation, storage, transportation, treatment, recovery, and disposal of hazardous waste.

(9) "Inert material" means non-water-soluble and nondecomposable inert solids together with such minor amounts and types of other materials as will not significantly affect the inert nature of such solids according to rules and regulations of the commission. The term includes but is not limited to earth, sand, gravel, rock, concrete which has been in a hardened state for at least sixty days, masonry, asphalt paving fragments, and other non-water-soluble and nondecomposable inert solids including those the commission may identify by regulation.

(10) "Manifest" means the document used for identifying the quantity, composition, origin, routing, and destination of hazardous waste during its transportation from the point of generation to the point of storage, treatment, or disposal.

(10.5) "Notice of environmental use restrictions" or "restrictive notice" means an instrument containing environmental use restrictions created pursuant to section 25-15-321.5.

(11) "Operation", when used in connection with hazardous waste management, means the use of procedures, equipment, personnel, and other resources to provide hazardous waste management.

(12) "Operator" means the person operating a hazardous waste management facility or site either by contract or permit.

(12.5) "Owner", as used in sections 25-15-317 to 25-15-326, means the record owner of real property and, if any, any other person or entity otherwise legally authorized to make decisions regarding the transfer of the subject property or placement of encumbrances on the subject property, other than by the exercise of eminent domain.

(13) "Person" means any individual, public or private corporation, partnership, association, firm, trust or estate; the state or any executive department, institution, or agency thereof; any municipal corporation, county, city and county, or other political subdivision of the state; or any other legal entity whatsoever which is recognized by law as the subject of rights and duties.

(13.5) "Remedial decision" means the administrative determination by the department, the United States environmental protection agency, or other appropriate government entity under the laws cited in subsection (4.5) of this section, that establishes the remedial requirements for the environmental remediation project.

(14) "Resource recovery", when used in connection with hazardous waste, means the operation of preparing and treating any such material or portion thereof for recycling or reuse or the recovery of material or energy.

(15) "Storage", when used in connection with hazardous waste, means the containment of hazardous waste, either on a temporary basis or for a period of years, in such a manner as not to constitute disposal of hazardous waste. The term "storage" does not apply to any hazardous waste generation if such waste is retained on the site by the generator in quantities or for time periods exempted by rules and regulations promulgated by the commission.

(16) "Transportation", when used in connection with hazardous waste, means the off-site movement of hazardous waste to any intermediate point or any point of storage, treatment, or disposal.

(17) "Treatment", when used in connection with an operation involved in hazardous waste management, means any method, technique, or process, including neutralization or incineration, designed to change the physical, chemical, or biological character or composition of a hazardous waste, so as to neutralize such waste or to render such waste less hazardous, safer for transport, amenable for recovery or reuse, amenable for storage, or reduced in volume.

(18) "Treatment, storage, or disposal site or facility" means a location at which hazardous waste is subjected to treatment, storage, or disposal and may include a facility where hazardous waste is generated.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1343, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (3.5) added, (4), (6), and (8), (10), (11), and (19) repealed, (9)(b)(I), (9)(b)(IV), and (9)(b)(VI) amended, and (9)(c) added, pp. 1088, 1105, §§ 1, 28(1), 2, effective June 3. L. 89: IP(9)(a) amended, p. 1178, § 2, effective April 23. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1255, § 14, effective August 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2792, § 530, effective July 1. L. 2001: (4.3), (4.5), (4.7), (5.5), (12.5), and (13.5) added, p. 451, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2005: (6)(b)(III) amended, p. 350, § 9, effective August 8. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1131, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2008: (10.5) added, p. 169, § 1, effective March 24. L. 2010: (4.5)(c) and (5.5) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2105, § 124, effective August 11. L. 2023: IP and (6)(b)(IX) amended and (6)(b)(X) added, (SB 23-285), ch. 235, p. 1247, § 15, effective July 1. L. 2024: (6)(b)(IX) and (6)(b)(X) amended, (HB 24-1346), ch. 216, p. 1343, § 15, effective May 21.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

ANNOTATION

The general assembly did not manifestly indicate its intent to include passive migration of waste within the meaning of "disposal"; hence, relying on the rule of lenity, a company's failure to remediate contaminated soil and prevent the passive migration of previously spilled hazardous waste does not constitute a continuing crime that subjects the company to the possibility of criminal charges 12 years after the last affirmative act of disposal. People v. Thoro Prods. Co., Inc., 70 P.3d 1188 (Colo. 2003).

Legal, technical meaning of "hazardous waste". Uranium and vanadium tailings from a proposed mill are not hazardous waste, the disposal of which is prohibited under a county zoning resolution. By its own terms, the zoning resolution restricts hazardous waste disposal in the specialized context of state solid waste laws. Sheep Mt. v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 271 P.3d 597 (Colo. App. 2012).

Under the state hazardous waste management program, an electronic device or component becomes waste unless it is resold, donated, repaired, refurbished, or reused for its original intended purpose. United States v. Richter, 796 F.3d 1173 (10th Cir. 2015).

25-15-102. Effective dates.

(1) Parts 1 and 2 of this article shall take effect July 1, 1981.

(2) Section 25-15-302 shall take effect January 1, 1982.

(3) Part 3 of this article, except section 25-15-302, shall take effect November 2, 1984.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1346, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (3) amended, p. 1258, § 16, effective August 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (3), as enacted by Senate Bill 81-519, provided that the effective date of part 3 was July 1, 1983, or the date upon which the department of health received final federal authorization to conduct the state hazardous waste program in lieu of the entire federal program under section 3006 of the federal act, whichever was later. The authorization was received on November 2, 1984. Subsection (3) was changed on revision to reflect this date.

25-15-103. Technical assistance.

The department may upon request provide technical advice to hazardous waste generators, to owners or operators of treatment plants, storage facilities, or disposal sites, and to counties and municipalities in which such facilities may be located in order to assure that appropriate measures are taken to protect the public health, safety, and welfare and the environment. The department may charge its actual costs of providing compliance assistance; except that, for company-specific compliance assistance, the department shall not charge fees for the first two hours in any given fiscal year.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1346, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 1066, § 1, effective July 1.

25-15-104. Disposal service.

In order to encourage proper disposal of small quantities of hazardous wastes by individuals and local governmental agencies when such wastes cannot be reasonably handled by commercial services, the department may receive such hazardous wastes from such individuals or local governmental agencies and arrange for their proper detoxification, storage, reuse, or disposal. The department may impose a reasonable fee for such services to recover the actual costs thereof.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1346, § 1, effective July 1.

PART 2

HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL SITES

Law reviews: For article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part 1 CERCLA", see 17 Colo. Law. 1997 (1988); for article, "Local Governments and the Environment: Part II, RCRA", see 17 Colo. Law. 2159 (1988); for article, "Hazardous Waste Incinerator Siting in Colorado", see 22 Colo. Law. 1267 (1993).

25-15-200.1. Short title.

This part 2 shall be known and may be cited as the "State Hazardous Waste Siting Act".

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1089, § 3, effective June 3.

25-15-200.2. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that adverse public health and environmental impacts can result from the improper land disposal of hazardous waste and that the need for establishing safe sites with adequate capacity for the disposal of hazardous waste is a matter of statewide concern, and the provisions of this part 2 are therefore enacted to provide an effective method of establishing such sites.

(2) It is the intent of the general assembly that generators of hazardous waste be encouraged to use on-site and off-site alternative treatment methods to reduce the amount of hazardous waste that must be discharged into the environment and the associated hazards to the health and welfare of the citizens of this state. Alternative management technologies which detoxify, stabilize, and reduce the amount of hazardous waste that must be buried are available. For such purpose, the provisions of this part 2 are enacted to allow the development of safe alternative methods for the treatment of hazardous waste and to provide a means for the designation of hazardous waste disposal sites when such methods are unable to obviate the need for hazardous waste disposal on land. Whereas the state of Colorado may be responsible for the perpetual care of hazardous waste land disposal facilities, alternative technologies such as incineration, resource recovery, or physical, chemical, or biological degradation should be implemented to the maximum extent possible.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1089, § 3, effective June 3.

ANNOTATION

Preemption. This act preempts all county or other local regulations concerning the construction of a hazardous waste disposal site, and any proceedings conducted or permits issued outside the ambit of this act are void. U.S. Pollution Control, Inc. v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 714 P.2d 511 (Colo. App. 1985).

25-15-200.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) Repealed.

(2) "Existing hazardous waste disposal site" means a hazardous waste disposal site which is in active operation prior to July 1, 1981.

(3) "Governmental unit" means the state of Colorado, every county, city and county, municipality, school district, special district, and authority located in this state, every public body corporate created or established under the constitution or any law of this state, and every board, commission, department, institution, or agency of any of the foregoing or of the United States.

(4) (a) "Hazardous waste disposal" means any final action to abandon, deposit, inter, or otherwise discard hazardous waste after its use has been achieved or a use is no longer intended or any discharging of hazardous waste into the environment.

(b) The term includes the off-site surface impoundment of hazardous waste such as a holding, storage, settling, or aeration pit, pond, or lagoon, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection (4) or section 25-15-201 (4).

(c) The term does not include:

(I) (A) Recycling, reclaiming, incineration, processing, or other treatment of hazardous waste.

(B) For the purposes of this subparagraph (I), the surface impoundment which is part of a sewage treatment works or feedlot operation shall be considered as treatment and not disposal.

(C) Any recycling, reclaiming, incineration, processing, or treatment facility shall be subject to all local land use regulations.

(II) The beneficial use, including use for fertilizer, soil conditioner, fuel, or livestock feed, of sludge from wastewater treatment plants if such sludge meets all applicable standards of the department.

(5) "Hazardous waste disposal site" means all contiguous land, including publicly-owned land, under common ownership which is used for hazardous waste disposal; except that such term shall not include any site which is in compliance with an approved reclamation plan contained in a permit issued pursuant to article 32 of title 34, C.R.S., or article 33 of title 34, C.R.S.

(6) "Publicly owned land" means any land owned by the federal government or any agency thereof or land owned by the state or any agency or political subdivision thereof.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1089, § 3, effective June 3. L. 91: (1) repealed, p. 855, § 8, effective June 5. L. 92: (5) amended, p. 1258, § 17, effective August 1.

25-15-201. Certificate required - disposal prohibited - exceptions.

(1) Any person who operates a hazardous waste disposal site shall first obtain a certificate of designation from the board of county commissioners if the site is in the unincorporated portion of any county, or from the governing body of a municipality if the site is in an incorporated area.

(2) Hazardous waste disposal by any person is prohibited except on or at a hazardous waste disposal site for which a certificate of designation has been obtained as provided in this part 2.

(3) Any existing hazardous waste disposal site which has obtained and possesses a certificate of designation pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., and which meets all applicable requirements and regulations under the federal act shall be deemed to have a certificate of designation issued pursuant to this part 2 and shall be fully subject to the provisions of this part 2 which apply to certificates of designation issued pursuant to this part 2.

(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section, any person other than a governmental unit may dispose of his own hazardous waste on his own property, as long as such hazardous waste disposal site is part of that originally zoned or otherwise approved for the activity that generates the hazardous waste, the owner has notified the local government or the department of the types and methods of hazardous waste disposal, and such disposal complies with the rules and regulations of the commission issued pursuant to this part 2 and does not constitute a public nuisance. For the purposes of this part 2, the site of such hazardous waste disposal shall be an approved site for which obtaining a certificate of designation under the provisions of this part 2 shall be unnecessary. This subsection (4) shall not preclude any person from applying for a certificate of designation for the disposal of his own hazardous waste on his own property.

(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section, any person who is engaged in mining operations pursuant to a permit issued by the mined land reclamation board or office of mined land reclamation which contains an approved plan of reclamation may dispose of hazardous waste generated by such operations within the permitted area for such operations. For the purposes of this part 2, the site of such hazardous waste disposal shall be an approved site for which obtaining a certificate of designation under the provisions of this part 2 shall be unnecessary.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1346, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (4) amended, p. 1258, § 18, effective August 1; (5) amended, p. 1971, § 76, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

Applied in City & County of Denver v. Eggert, 647 P.2d 216 (Colo. 1982).

25-15-202. Application for certificate - review by department and Colorado geological survey - hearing.

(1) Any person desiring to operate a hazardous waste disposal site shall make application for a certificate of designation to the board of county commissioners of the county or to the governing body of the municipality in which such site is proposed to be located.

(2) The application shall be accompanied by a fee established by the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality by resolution or ordinance, which fee shall not exceed fifty thousand dollars and which fee may be refunded in whole or in part. Fifty percent of such fee shall be transmitted to the department to offset the costs of the department's review pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, including possible costs of reimbursement to other state agencies which assist in such review. The application shall set forth the following: The location of the site; the types of waste to be accepted or rejected; the types of waste disposal; the method of supervision; and the anticipated access routes in the county in which the site is located. The application shall also contain such data as may reasonably be required by rules of the commission developed pursuant to section 25-15-208 to enable the department and the Colorado geological survey to perform their duties under subsection (4) of this section.

(3) The clerk of the county or municipality shall promptly notify the county commissioners and the governing body of any other county or municipality within twenty miles of a proposed hazardous waste disposal site of the filing of an application for a certificate of designation therefor.

(4) (a) Within ten working days of an application for a certificate of designation and prior to further consideration, the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality, as the case may be, shall forward a copy of the application to the department and to the Colorado geological survey.

(b) The Colorado geological survey shall review each application received by it and make a recommendation to the department on the geological suitability of the proposed hazardous waste disposal site for land disposal of hazardous waste, based upon the geological, hydrological, climatological, geochemical, and geomorphological characteristics of the site. Such recommendation shall be submitted to the department within sixty days of the Colorado geological survey's receipt of the application.

(c) Within ninety days of its receipt of the application, the department shall make findings of fact on the technical merits of the application and provide such findings of fact to the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality. The findings of fact shall at a minimum include:

(I) A determination as to whether the site could be designed and operated in compliance with applicable rules and regulations adopted by the commission pursuant to section 25-15-208;

(II) A determination as to whether the site is located within an area designated to be optimally suitable for hazardous waste disposal by the most recent study of the Colorado geological survey made pursuant to section 25-15-216 and, if not, as to whether the site is suitable for the land disposal of hazardous waste as demonstrated by reliable geologic, hydrologic, and other scientific data;

(III) A recommendation to the board of county commissioners or the governing body of a municipality, as the case may be, as to whether the application for a certificate of designation should be approved. A recommendation for approval may only be made upon affirmative findings of facts under subparagraphs (I) and (II) of this paragraph (c).

(5) The application shall be considered by the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality, as the case may be, at a public hearing to be held after notice. Such notice shall contain the time and place of the hearing and shall state that the matter to be considered is the applicant's proposal for a hazardous waste disposal site. The notice shall be published in a newspaper having general circulation in the region in which the proposed hazardous waste disposal site is located at least ten but no more than thirty days prior to the date of the hearing.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1347, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2) amended and (4) R&RE, p. 1090, §§ 4, 5, effective June 3. L. 91: (2) amended, p. 891, § 20, effective June 5. L. 92: (2) and (4)(c)(I) amended, p. 1259, § 19, effective August 1.

ANNOTATION

Preemption. This act preempts all county or other local regulations concerning the construction of a hazardous waste disposal site, and any proceedings conducted or permits issued outside the ambit of this act are void. U.S. Pollution Control, Inc. v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 714 P.2d 511 (Colo. App. 1985).

County's authority under this section is not limited to site or location approval and may include limitations on the types of materials that may be disposed of at the site. Adams Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 218 P.3d 336 (Colo. 2009).

No bar from res judicata where substantial changes in fact or circumstances occur subsequent to prior application or when the Board's decision is based on consideration of public need, which is required of the board in § 25-15-203. Whelden v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 782 P.2d 853 (Colo. App. 1989).

25-15-203. Grounds for approval.

(1) The board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality, as the case may be, may approve an application for a certificate of designation only upon a finding of all of the following factors:

(a) The department has made a recommendation of approval pursuant to section 25-15-202 (4)(c)(III).

(b) The site would not pose a significant threat to the safety of the public, taking into consideration:

(I) The density of population areas neighboring the site;

(II) The density of population areas adjacent to the portion of the delivery roads within a fifty-mile radius of the site;

(III) The risk of accidents or crashes during the transportation of waste to or at the site.

(c) The applicant has demonstrated a need for the facility by Colorado hazardous waste generators.

(d) The applicant has documented its financial ability to operate the proposed site.

(e) The applicant, taking into account its prior performance record, if any, in the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste, has documented sufficient reliability, expertise, and competency to operate and manage the proposed facility.

(f) The site conforms to officially adopted land use plans, policies, regulations, and resolutions.

(2) The board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality, as the case may be, shall notify the department of any approval of an application for a certificate of designation within five days after such approval.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1348, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section R&RE, p. 1091, § 6, effective June 3. L. 2026: (1)(b)(III) amended, (HB 26-1237), ch. 117, p. 469, § 20, effective August 12.

25-15-204. Certificate.

(1) The certificate of designation shall identify the general types of waste which may be accepted or which shall be rejected.

(2) The certificate of designation shall be displayed in a prominent place at the hazardous waste disposal site.

(3) Repealed.

(4) The certificate of designation may provide such conditions as may reasonably be necessary for the safe operation of such site including but not limited to the provision by the site owner or operator of additional fire protection, security, or trained personnel for monitoring, inspections, and incident responses.

(5) Repealed.

(6) A certificate of designation issued pursuant to this part 2 shall be deemed to satisfy any requirement imposed by part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., for a certificate of designation as a solid wastes disposal site and facility.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1348, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended and (3) and (5) repealed, pp. 1092, 1105, §§ 7, 28(1), effective June 3.

ANNOTATION

Conditions may be provided in the certificate of designation without another public hearing where such conditions are related to the safe operation of the site. Whelden v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 782 P.2d 853 (Colo. App. 1989).

25-15-205. Permit required for operation - burial of liquids prohibited.

(1) Operation of a hazardous waste disposal site for which a certificate of designation has been issued shall not begin until the applicant obtains for such operation a federal permit issued under the federal act or a state permit issued under part 3 of this article.

(2) A certificate of designation for a hazardous waste disposal site shall not become effective until such time as the certificated facility has received a permit under section 3005 (c) of the federal act or the equivalent state permit.

(3) The burial of liquid hazardous waste both on-site and off-site is prohibited in this state. The commission may develop rules and regulations which phase out the land disposal of highly mobile, toxic, and persistent waste.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1092, § 8, effective June 3. L. 92: (3) amended, p. 1259, § 20, effective August 1.

25-15-206. Substantial change in ownership, design, or operation.

(1) A substantial change in the ownership of a hazardous waste disposal site, including an assignment or a transfer of the certificate of designation therefor, or in the design or operation of a hazardous waste disposal site, as "substantial change" is defined in rules and regulations of the commission, shall be submitted to the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality for its approval before such change shall become effective; except that, in the case of a hazardous waste disposal site which was designated by the council pursuant to section 25-15-217, as said section existed upon its repeal, such change shall be subject to approval by the department.

(2) Any approval of a substantial change under this section shall be made only upon the finding of all of the factors required in section 25-15-203.

(3) The application for approval of a substantial change under this section shall be accompanied by a fee established by the jurisdiction whose approval is required for such substantial change, which fee shall not exceed ten thousand dollars and which fee may be refunded in whole or in part. If the department is not the approving jurisdiction, up to fifty percent of such fee shall be transmitted to the department to offset the costs of the department's review pursuant to section 25-15-202 (4), including possible costs of reimbursement to other state agencies which assist in such review.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1092, § 9, effective June 3. L. 92: (1) amended, p. 1259, § 21, effective August 1. L. 2005: (1) amended, p. 285, § 28, effective August 8.

ANNOTATION

Applied in City & County of Denver v. Eggert, 647 P.2d 216 (Colo. 1982).

25-15-206.5. Revocation or suspension of certificate.

(1) The jurisdiction which granted the certificate of designation may revoke or suspend the certificate of designation of any hazardous waste disposal site if it finds that:

(a) There was a material misrepresentation or misstatement of fact in the application for the certificate of designation;

(b) The hazardous waste disposal site is not being operated in substantial compliance with any term, condition, or limitation of its certificate of designation or any applicable rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this part 2; or

(c) The owner or operator of the site has failed to pay the annual fee to the county or municipality as required by section 25-15-214 (1).

(2) The revocation or suspension of a certificate of designation shall not relieve the owner or operator of the hazardous waste disposal site from any legal liability.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1093, § 10, effective June 3.

25-15-207. Judicial review.

(1) The award, denial, revocation, or suspension of a certificate of designation by the board of county commissioners or by the governing body of the municipality shall be subject to judicial review in the district court for the judicial district in which the hazardous waste disposal site is located or is proposed to be located. Any request for such judicial review must be made within thirty days of such award, denial, revocation, or suspension. If the court finds no error, it shall affirm the action. If the court finds that the action is arbitrary and capricious, not in accord with the procedures or procedural limitations of this part 2, unsupported by substantial evidence when the record is considered as a whole, or otherwise contrary to law, then the court shall hold unlawful and set aside the action and remand the case to the board of county commissioners or to the governing body of the municipality for further proceedings as may be appropriate.

(2) In the case of any action or decision of the council or department pursuant to section 25-15-206, judicial review shall be in the district court for the judicial district within which the hazardous waste disposal site is or may be located and shall be in accordance with section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1093, § 11, effective June 3. L. 2005: (2) amended, p. 285, § 29, effective August 8.

ANNOTATION

Substantial evidence standard. Judicial review pursuant to the Hazardous Waste Siting Act, when pursuant to the "substantial evidence" standard, requires more than merely some evidence in some particulars to affirm the board's decision. Whelden v. Bd. of County Comm'rs, 782 P.2d 853 (Colo. App. 1989).

25-15-208. Commission to promulgate rules and regulations - limitations.

(1) The commission may promulgate rules and regulations establishing criteria for the engineering design of hazardous waste disposal sites and for the location of such sites to the extent that site characteristics are integrally related to the safe engineering design of such sites. Such rules and regulations shall take into account at least the following: Protection of surface and subsurface waters, suitable physical characteristics, distance from waste generation centers, access routes, distance from water wells, and final closure.

(2) The commission may also promulgate rules and regulations establishing what constitutes a substantial change in ownership, design, or operation of a hazardous waste disposal site under section 25-15-206.

(3) The rules and regulations promulgated by the commission pursuant to this section shall be based upon generally accepted scientific data.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section R&RE, p. 1094, § 12, effective June 3. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1260, § 22, effective August 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

25-15-209. Inventory required.

The operator of every hazardous waste disposal site shall maintain an inventory of the types of hazardous wastes accepted for disposal at such site, and a copy of such inventory shall be provided to any person upon request and upon payment of a reasonable charge for the costs of the reproduction. Upon a closure of the site, a final inventory shall be prepared and filed with the department where it shall remain available for public inspection and copying at a reasonable cost.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1350, § 1, effective July 1.

25-15-209.5. Inspection required.

A department employee shall inspect each off-site hazardous waste disposal site during times when hazardous wastes are ordinarily received. Such inspection shall be conducted at intervals determined by rule and regulation of the commission based on the volume and toxicity of the wastes being received. Such department employee shall be permitted reasonable access to disposal operations for the purpose of monitoring and inspecting such operations. Such department employee, whose salary and benefits shall be paid out of the department's share of the annual fee collected by the county or municipality pursuant to section 25-15-214 (1), shall have training and experience in relevant aspects of hazardous waste management.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1094, § 13, effective June 3. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1260, § 23, effective August 1.

25-15-209.6. Performance audits.

Each designated and permitted hazardous waste disposal site shall be subject to a performance audit at least once every five years, for the purpose of reviewing the systems that provide assurance the site is protecting human health and the environment. Such performance audit shall be conducted by the department.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1094, § 13, effective June 3. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 633, § 1, effective April 14.

25-15-210. Sites deemed public nuisance - when.

Any hazardous waste disposal site that is found to be abandoned or that is operated or maintained in a manner so as to violate any of the provisions of this part 2 or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant thereto shall be deemed a public nuisance, and such violation may be enjoined by the district court for the judicial district wherein the violation occurred in an action brought by the department, the board of county commissioners of the county wherein the violation occurred, or the governing body of the municipality wherein the violation occurred.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1350, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado Municipal Liability after Annexing a Potential Superfund Site", see 16 Colo. Law. 258 (1987).

25-15-211. Violation - criminal penalty.

Any person who violates any provision of this part 2 commits a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503. Each day of violation shall be deemed a separate offense under this section. Except in regard to matters of statewide concern as expressed in section 25-15-200.2 (1), nothing in this part 2 shall preclude or preempt a county, a city, a city and county, or an incorporated town from the enforcement of its local resolutions or ordinances or of its land use plans, policies, or regulations.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1350, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1095, § 14, effective June 3. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1537, § 270, effective October 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 474, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

25-15-212. Violation - civil penalty - reimbursement of costs.

(1) Any person who violates any provision of this part 2 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars per day of violation. Such penalty shall be determined and collected by the district court for the judicial district in which such violation occurs upon action instituted by the department, the board of county commissioners of the county in which the violation occurs, or the governing body of the municipality in which the violation occurs. In determining the amount of any such penalty, the court shall take into account the seriousness of the violation, whether the violation was willful or due to mistake, the economic impact of the penalty on the violator, and any other relevant factors. All penalties collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer and credited to the general fund. Except in regard to matters of statewide concern as expressed in section 25-15-200.2 (1), nothing in this part 2 shall preclude or preempt a county, city, city and county, or an incorporated town from enforcement of its local resolutions or ordinances or of its land use plans, policies, or regulations.

(2) If the violation for which a penalty has been assessed and paid into the general fund pursuant to this section results in a county, city, municipality, or town incurring costs to remove, contain, or otherwise mitigate the effects of the hazardous waste which was involved in the court action, such entity shall be entitled to reimbursement for its costs, which reimbursement shall not exceed the amount of the penalty collected. A claim for reimbursement shall be filed with the state treasurer. Reimbursement shall be paid by the state treasurer out of those funds attributable to such penalty.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1350, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1095, § 15, effective June 3.

25-15-213. County or municipal hazardous waste disposal site fund - tax - fees.

Any county or municipality that operates a county or municipal hazardous waste disposal site or sites is authorized to establish a county or municipal hazardous waste disposal site fund. The board of county commissioners of such county or the governing body of the municipality may levy a hazardous waste disposal site tax in addition to any other tax authorized by law, on the taxable property within said county or municipality, the proceeds of which shall be deposited to the credit of said fund and appropriated to pay the cost of land, labor, equipment, and services needed in the operation of county or municipal hazardous waste disposal sites. Any such county or municipality is also authorized, after a public hearing, to fix, modify, and collect service charges from users of county or municipal hazardous waste disposal sites for the purpose of financing the operations at those sites.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1351, § 1, effective July 1.

25-15-214. Hazardous waste disposal site fund - fees.

(1) Any hazardous waste disposal site which is issued a certificate of designation on or after July 1, 1981, or which receives approval for a substantial change in ownership as required in section 25-15-206 (1) on or after said date shall be required, contingent upon the issuance of a federal or state permit by the county or municipality in which it is located, to pay to the county or municipality in which it is located an annual fee for the purpose of offsetting the estimated direct costs of increased state, county, and municipal services created by the hazardous waste disposal site, including, but not limited to, the improvement and maintenance of roads and bridges, fire protection, law enforcement, monitoring by county or municipal health officials, and emergency preparation and response. The amount of the fee shall be two percent of the annual estimated gross revenue received by the hazardous waste disposal site. Out of the annual fee, the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality shall provide for the reimbursement of governmental units for their estimated direct costs of increased services created by the hazardous waste disposal site. In the event that the site owner or operator fails to pay the annual fee, the board of county commissioners or the governing body of the municipality may suspend the site's certificate of designation until the annual fee has been paid.

(2) Any county or municipality is authorized to establish a hazardous waste disposal site fund. All fees collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be deposited to the credit of said fund and appropriated for the purposes for which collected.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1351, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1095, § 16, effective June 3.

25-15-215. Contracts with governmental units authorized.

(1) Any governmental unit may contract for the operation of a hazardous waste disposal site.

(2) Any city, city and county, county, or incorporated town acting by itself or in association with any other such governmental unit may establish and operate a hazardous waste disposal site under such terms and conditions as may be approved by the governing bodies of the governmental units involved. In the event such site is not operated by the governmental unit involved, any contract to operate such a site shall be awarded on a competitive bid basis if there is more than one applicant for a contract to operate such site.

(3) Any hazardous waste disposal site established in accordance with this section shall be required to obtain a certificate of designation pursuant to this part 2.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1351, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (3) added, p. 1096, § 17, effective June 3.

25-15-216. Colorado geological survey to designate optimally suitable areas.

Subject to available appropriations, the Colorado geological survey shall conduct a study of the geological suitability of areas of the state for hazardous waste disposal sites. Such study shall designate those areas of the state which the Colorado geological survey finds to be optimally suitable for hazardous waste disposal based upon detailed criteria relating to hydrology, geology, geochemistry, structural geology, geomorphology, climatology, and mineral resources. The designation of optimally suitable areas and the criteria utilized shall be produced in a publication available to the public at a reasonable cost.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1096, § 18, effective June 3. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1355), ch. 247, p. 1197, § 5, effective June 4.

25-15-217. Circumstances allowing state designation of a hazardous waste disposal site - conditions and limitations. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1096, § 18, effective June 3. L. 91: (2) and (6) amended and (8) to (11) repealed, pp. 892, 883, §§ 21, 1, effective June 5. L. 2005: Entire section repealed, p. 285, § 30, effective August 8.

25-15-218. State hazardous waste siting council - composition. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1099, § 18, effective June 3. L. 91: Entire section repealed, p. 883, § 1, effective June 5.

25-15-219. Department to study need for disposal sites and feasibility of alternative technologies.

(1) The department shall conduct a study assessing the need for hazardous waste disposal sites in this state. Such study shall identify the volumes and types of hazardous wastes generated in this state and the appropriateness and feasibility of treatment and disposal technologies as alternatives to land disposal. To offset the cost of such study, the department is authorized to expend a maximum of sixty thousand dollars out of the annual appropriation to the department from the hazardous waste service fund pursuant to section 25-15-304.

(2) The department may also develop and submit to the general assembly proposed legislation to encourage the development and utilization of alternative technologies for hazardous waste management, which may include, by way of example, tax incentives for the purchase of equipment to implement alternative technologies.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1100, § 18, effective June 3.

25-15-220. Effect of 1983 amendments. (Repealed)

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1100, § 18, effective June 3. L. 2005: Entire section repealed, p. 286, § 31, effective August 8.

PART 3

STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Cross references: For the effective date of this part 3, see § 25-15-102 (2) and (3) in accordance with Senate Bill 81-519. For the effective date of this part 3 as amended by Senate Bill 83-282, see section 29(1) of chapter 322, Session Laws of Colorado 1983.

Law reviews: For comment, "Clean Up Your Federal Mess in My State: Colorado Has A State RCRA-Voice At The Rocky Mountain Arsenal", see 71 Den. U. L. Rev. 257 (1993).

25-15-300.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Affected local government" means every county, city and county, or municipality in which land subject to an environmental covenant or restrictive notice is located.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2079, § 216, effective August 6.

25-15-301. Powers and duties of department.

(1) The department shall be the entity in the state responsible for the regulation of hazardous waste management; however, the department may, in accordance with section 25-15-306, enter into agreements with local governments to conduct specified activities involving monitoring, inspections, and technical services but not permit issuance or enforcement.

(2) Pursuant to rules and regulations as provided for in section 25-15-302, the department shall:

(a) Issue permits for treatment, storage, and disposal facilities, provide for the inspection of such operations, and enforce the limitations and conditions of such permits, including any conditions and schedules established to correct noncompliance; and

(b) Assure that all generators, transporters, storers, treaters, and disposers of hazardous waste have received appropriate identification by the department, use a manifest system, and provide periodic reports on wastes manifested.

(3) The department, by its duly authorized representatives, shall have the power to enter and inspect any property, premises, or place in which hazardous waste is reasonably believed to be located or in which relevant records may be located for the purpose of determining the compliance or noncompliance with any provision of this part 3, any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this part 3, or any order or permit, or term or condition thereof, issued pursuant to this part 3. Unless an emergency exists or the department has reason to believe that any unlawful activity is being conducted or will be conducted, the department shall provide prior notification of such inspection, which inspection shall be during normal business hours. If such entry or inspection is denied or not consented to and no emergency exists, the department is empowered to and shall obtain from the district court for the judicial district in which such property, premises, or place is located a warrant to enter and inspect any such property, premises, or place prior to entry and inspection. The district courts of this state are empowered to issue such warrants upon a showing that such entry and inspection is required to verify that the purposes of this part 3 are being carried out. Any information relating to proprietary processes or methods of manufacture or production obtained in the course of the inspection shall be kept confidential in accordance with section 24-72-204 (3)(a)(IV), C.R.S., of the open records law. If samples are taken, the owner and operator of the premises from which such samples are taken shall be entitled to a receipt for such samples and, upon request, a sufficient portion to perform an analysis equivalent to that which the department may perform.

(4) (a) In the event of an emergency involving hazardous waste which presents an immediate and substantial threat to the public health and safety or the environment, the department shall have the authority to issue such orders as may be appropriate to protect the public health and safety or the environment, including emergency authorization to transport, treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste.

(b) Any person against whom an emergency order is issued pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be entitled to an immediate hearing as provided in section 24-4-105 (12), C.R.S.

(5) In order to provide for the essential long-term care of hazardous waste consistent with adequate protection of the public health and safety and the environment, the department may acquire by gift, purchase, transfer from another state department or agency, or other transfer any and all lands, buildings, and grounds that have been designated as a hazardous waste site and may lease such properties to others for hazardous waste management. Any such acquisition shall be subject to the provisions of section 25-15-303 (4).

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1352, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (3) amended, p. 1101, § 19, effective November 2, 1984. L. 92: (3) amended, p. 1236, § 4, effective August 1.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

County exercises a separate power from that of the department of public health and environment in the issuance of permits under this section, and therefore has standing to challenge the department's permitting decisions. Adams Bd. of County Comm'rs v. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env't, 218 P.3d 336 (Colo. 2009).

Exclusive authority for enforcement of § 25-15-301 et seq. is the department of health, and attorney general has no authority to bring suit for violations except upon request of the department. Harris v. Jefferson County Court, 808 P.2d 364 (Colo. App. 1991).

25-15-301.5. Additional powers of department - legislative declaration - report.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that the hazardous waste control program shall be implemented to protect human health and the environment in a manner that:

(a) Maintains program authorization by the federal government;

(b) Promotes a community ethic to reduce or eliminate waste problems;

(c) Is credible and accountable to industry and the public;

(d) Is innovative and cost-effective; and

(e) Protects the environmental quality of life for impacted residents as required by other provisions of this part 3 and rules promulgated in connection therewith.

(2) The department shall develop, implement, and continuously improve policies and procedures for carrying out its statutory responsibilities at the lowest possible cost without jeopardizing the intent stated in subsection (1) of this section. At a minimum, these policies and procedures shall, to the extent practicable, include the following:

(a) Establish cost-effective level-of-effort guidelines for reviewing submittals including, but not limited to, permit applications and corrective action plans, to assure conformity with regulatory requirements, taking into consideration the degree of risk addressed and the complexity of the issues raised;

(b) Establish cost-effective level-of-effort guidelines for performing inspections that focus on major violations of regulatory requirements that pose an immediate and significant threat to human health and the environment;

(c) Streamline the corrective action process with features that include, without limitation, the following:

(I) Cost-effective level-of-effort guidelines for site investigations and remediation that focus on result-based outcomes and performance-based oversight by the department;

(II) Cost-effective level-of-effort guidelines for reviewing site investigation reports and corrective action plans;

(III) The use of enforceable institutional controls to avoid unnecessary cleanup costs; and

(IV) Realistic cleanup standards that address actual risk to human health and the environment on a site-specific basis and that take into account any applicable institutional controls.

(d) Establish cost-effective level-of-effort guidelines for enforcement activities;

(e) Establish schedules for timely completion of department activities including, but not limited to, submittal reviews, inspections and inspection reports, and corrective action activities;

(f) Establish a prioritization methodology for completing activities that focuses on actual risk to human health and the environment;

(g) Establish a preference for compliance assistance with at least ten percent of the annual budget amount being allocated to compliance assistance efforts;

(h) Establish a preference for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to timely resolve disputed issues; and

(i) Establish a mechanism that continually values and provides incentives for further improvements in the policies and procedures of the department.

(3) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the department is directed to submit a report to the general assembly on or before February 1, 2002, and annually on or before each February 1 thereafter that describes the status of the hazardous waste control program, the department's efforts to carry out its statutory responsibilities at the lowest possible cost without jeopardizing the intent stated in subsection (1) of this section, and the department's implementation of the authority to accept environmental covenants created pursuant to section 25-15-321.

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 1066, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2001: (3) amended, p. 459, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2017: (3) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 94, § 7, effective March 16.

25-15-302. Solid and hazardous waste commission - creation - membership - rules - fees - administration - definitions.

(1) (a) There is created in the department of public health and environment a solid and hazardous waste commission, referred to in this part 3 as the "commission", which is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department of public health and environment. The commission consists of nine citizens of the state appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate, for terms of three years; except that the terms shall be staggered so that no more than three members' terms expire in the same year. Members of the commission must be appointed so as to achieve geographical representation and to reflect the various interests in waste management in the state.

(b) Appointments to the commission shall be made so that all persons shall have appropriate scientific, technical, industrial, legal, public health, or environmental training or experience. Three members shall be from the regulated community. Three members shall be from the public at large. Three members shall be from government or the academic community; except that no member shall be an employee of the department. No more than five members of the commission shall be members of the same political party.

(c) The members of the commission shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the governor and the committee of reference of the general assembly prior to confirmation and shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest which arise during their terms of membership to the other commission members in a public meeting of the commission.

(d) Whenever a vacancy exists on the commission, the governor shall appoint a member for the remaining portion of the unexpired term created by the vacancy, subject to confirmation by the senate.

(e) The governor may remove any appointed member of the commission for malfeasance in office, for failure to attend meetings regularly, or for any cause that renders such member incapable or unfit to discharge the duties of such member's office.

(f) If any member of the commission is absent from two consecutive meetings or fails to attend at least seventy-five percent of the regularly scheduled meetings of the commission held in any one year and such absences were without sufficient cause as determined by the commission, the chairman of the commission shall notify the governor, who may remove such member and appoint a qualified person for the remaining portion of such member's term, subject to confirmation by the senate.

(g) Each member of the commission shall receive traveling and other necessary expenses actually incurred in the performance of such member's official duties as a member of the commission.

(h) The commission shall select from its own membership a chairman, a vice-chairman, and a secretary. The commission shall keep a record of its proceedings.

(i) The commission shall hold regular public meetings and may hold special meetings on the call of the chairman or vice-chairman at such other times as deemed necessary. Written notice of the time and place of each meeting shall be mailed to each member at least twenty days in advance of such meeting.

(j) (I) The commission shall hold an annual public meeting to hear public comment on hazardous waste issues within the state. At such meeting, the commission shall answer reasonable questions from the public concerning rules, regulations, appeals of penalties, and any other commission activities under the authority of this part 3 occurring during the previous year.

(II) Prior to the meeting required under subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (j), the commission shall prepare and make available to the public a report which shall contain the following specific information:

(A) All rules and regulations promulgated by the commission during the previous year;

(B) All interpretive rules issued by the commission during the previous year;

(C) All appeals of penalties heard before the commission and the commission's determinations in such appeals; and

(D) Any other commission activities as appropriate.

(k) Each member of the commission shall have a vote. Two-thirds of the members of the commission shall constitute a quorum, and, except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, the concurrence of a majority of the members present at any meeting at which a quorum is present on any matter within its powers and duties shall be required for any determination made by the commission.

(2) The commission shall promulgate rules pertaining to hazardous waste in accordance with this part 3 and in accordance with the procedures and other provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. Such rules shall provide protection of public health and the environment and shall include:

(a) Criteria for establishing characteristics and listings of hazardous wastes, including mechanisms for determining whether any waste is hazardous for the purpose of this part 3;

(b) Regulations governing those wastes or combinations of wastes which are not compatible and which may not be stored, treated, or disposed of together;

(c) Regulations for the storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous wastes, including regulations for the issuance of permits based on best engineering judgment, including but not limited to interim status, regulations concerning information required to be submitted to obtain such permits, and regulations concerning the requirement of a permit prior to the construction of a treatment, storage, or disposal facility;

(d) Regulations for the operation and maintenance of hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities, including such qualifications and requirements as to ownership, continuity of operation, training of personnel, and closure and postclosure care, as may be necessary or desirable;

(e) Regulations for the design and construction of treatment, storage, and disposal facilities;

(f) Regulations, promulgated in accordance with article 20 of title 42, C.R.S., providing procedures and requirements for:

(I) The use of a manifest during transportation of hazardous waste, applying equally to those persons transporting hazardous waste they have generated themselves and to persons who have contracted to transport hazardous waste for other parties, consistent with federal and state regulations on the transportation of hazardous wastes;

(II) Record keeping concerning the transportation of hazardous waste, including its source and destination;

(III) Notification and cleanup of spills or discharges during the transportation of hazardous waste;

(IV) Transportation of hazardous wastes only if such hazardous wastes are properly labeled and for restricting the transportation of all hazardous wastes only to permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities which the shipper designates on the manifest form;

(g) Regulations requiring reports and record-keeping requirements for hazardous waste management, including notification of accidents;

(h) Regulations establishing procedures for maintaining confidentiality relating to methods of manufacture or secret processes and establishing fees and financial assurance and ownership requirements, including bonds, required by this part 3;

(i) Regulations for issuing compliance orders and administrative penalties, for establishing compliance conditions and schedules, and for issuing, modifying, revoking and reissuing, or terminating permits; except that nothing in this paragraph (i) shall be interpreted to impair the department's authority to take such actions pending promulgation of such regulations;

(j) Regulations for the classification of sites in terms of wastes that can be received and managed thereon and hydrological, soil, and other siting characteristics for assuring long-term isolation of designated wastes from the environment;

(k) Regulations establishing standards applicable to generators of hazardous waste, including requirements for:

(I) Record-keeping practices that accurately identify the quantities of hazardous waste generated, the constituents of such hazardous waste which are significant in quantity or of potential harm to human health or the environment, and the disposition of such hazardous waste;

(II) Labeling practices for any container that is used for the storage, transportation, or disposal of hazardous waste so as to identify accurately such waste;

(III) The use of appropriate containers for hazardous waste;

(IV) The furnishing of information on the general chemical composition of hazardous waste to persons transporting, treating, storing, or disposing of such waste;

(V) The use of a manifest system and any other reasonable means necessary to assure that all hazardous waste generated is designated for treatment, storage, or disposal at a permitted facility;

(VI) The submission of reports; and

(l) Regulations requiring contingency plans for effective action to minimize unanticipated damage from any treatment, storage, or disposal of any hazardous waste.

(3) The commission shall promulgate rules establishing categories of hazardous wastes and hazardous waste management practices based on degree of hazard considerations. Such rules may vary from category to category to reflect the degree of hazard involved in each such category. The commission's rules may also provide for general permits to be issued based on degree of hazard considerations.

(3.2) (a) The commission shall promulgate rules establishing a certificate of registration for any facility, fire department, or lessee subject to federal rules and regulations that uses or stores perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in its operations, establishing standards for the capture and disposal of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and setting penalties for not obtaining such a certificate of registration or following such standards for the capture and disposal of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The commission shall take into account costs, technological feasibility, and the possibility of emergency situations for any rules it promulgates.

(b) Any facility, fire department, or lessee subject to federal rules and regulations that uses or stores perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in its operations must obtain the certificate of registration created under subsection (3.2)(a) of this section either before June 1, 2021, or six months after it first obtains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, whichever is later.

(c) In order to obtain the certificate of registration created under subsection (3.2)(a) of this section, a facility, fire department, or lessee subject to federal rules and regulations must prove that it follows the standards for the capture and disposal of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances created under subsection (3.2)(a) of this section.

(d) No facility, fire department, or lessee subject to federal rules and regulations that uses or stores perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in its operations shall be subject to any penalties under this section for not obtaining a certificate of registration unless there has been a sufficient opportunity to apply for and receive a certificate of registration.

(e) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(I) "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances" means class B firefighting foam, as defined in section 25-5-1302 (2), that contain a class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.

(II) "Uses or stores" means actual and intentional ownership or control of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. "Uses or stores" does not mean the interception or accumulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in water treatment facilities and domestic wastewater facilities.

(3.5) The commission shall promulgate rules pertaining to the assessment of fees to offset program costs from facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste pursuant to a permit or interim status and from generators of hazardous waste in accordance with the following:

(a) On or after July 1, 2000, to July 1, 2002, the fees shall be as follows:

(I) The annual fees for facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste pursuant to a permit or interim status shall be as set forth in 6 CCR 1007-3, section 100.31;

(II) The annual fee shall be one thousand nine hundred dollars for generators of hazardous waste who are subject to regulation under this part 3 during any calendar month of the year for which the annual fee is being assessed and who generate in each of any four calendar months in that year an amount greater than one thousand kilograms of hazardous wastes, one kilogram of acute hazardous wastes, or one hundred kilograms of any residue, contaminated soil, waste, or debris resulting from the clean-up of a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous wastes;

(III) The annual fee shall be three hundred dollars for all other generators of hazardous waste that are subject to this part 3 during any calendar month of the year for which the annual fee is being assessed; except that no annual fee shall be assessed against those generators of hazardous waste who generate in every month of that year no more than one hundred kilograms of hazardous wastes, one kilogram of acute hazardous wastes, or one hundred kilograms of any residue, contaminated soil, waste, or debris resulting from the clean-up of a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous wastes;

(IV) The document review and activity fee charged by the department shall be in accordance with 6 CCR 1007-3, section 100.32; except that the hourly charge shall be increased from eighty-five dollars to one hundred dollars;

(V) The document review and activity fee ceiling shall be in accordance with 6 CCR 1007-3, section 100.32; except that the department may, on a case-by-case basis and upon demonstration of need consistent with section 25-15-301.5, request a waiver of the ceiling from a facility subject to the document review and activity fee.

(b) On or after July 1, 2002, the commission may adjust the fees then in effect if the department has demonstrated that it has developed, implemented, and is continuing to improve policies and procedures for carrying out its statutory responsibilities at the lowest possible cost without jeopardizing the intent set out in section 25-15-301.5 (1), and that, despite these efforts or as a result of these efforts, the fee adjustments are necessary; except that the adjusted fees shall be subject to the following limitations:

(I) Annual fees for facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste pursuant to a permit or interim status shall be established at a level that will, when combined with an appropriate share of available federal grant moneys, generate revenues approximating the actual, reasonable program costs attributable to such facilities. Such annual fees shall take into account equitable factors including, without limitation, the quantity and degree of hazard of the hazardous waste involved and whether the hazardous waste is to be disposed of, stored, or treated.

(II) Annual fees for generators of hazardous waste who are subject to regulation under this part 3 during any calendar month of the year for which the annual fee is being assessed shall be established at a level that will, when combined with an appropriate share of available federal grant moneys, generate revenues approximating the actual, reasonable program costs attributable to generators with an appropriate differentiation between generators described in subparagraphs (II) and (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3.5);

(III) The hourly charge for the document review and activity fees shall be established at a rate comparable to industry rates for performing similar tasks with maximum levels on document review and activity fees that reflect timely and cost-effective reviews; and

(IV) The overall fee structure shall be consistent with the trend in hazardous waste generation, treatment, storage, disposal, and corrective action in the state and with the authorized funding for the program.

(c) In addition to any other review provided in law, any rule adopted, or fee modified, by the commission pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3.5) may be reviewed by the joint budget committee of the general assembly upon its own motion or upon written request submitted within thirty days after the adoption of the rule by the commission. The joint budget committee shall review such rule for accuracy and compliance with the statutory provision set forth in this subsection (3.5). Request may be made by any person regulated under this part 3. Any review by the joint budget committee shall be completed within ninety days after the date requested. Such rule shall not become effective until approved by the joint budget committee or upon the failure of the joint budget committee to take action within ninety days after the day of the request for review. Such rule may not result in a level of funding for the program that exceeds amounts appropriated or that will be appropriated by the general assembly.

(d) The department shall provide a receipt for the fees paid pursuant to this subsection (3.5) and shall transmit such payments to the state treasurer and take the treasurer's receipt therefor. The state treasurer shall credit all fees received to the hazardous waste service fund as provided in section 25-15-304.

(3.7) If the department determines that a facility is, and has been, treating, storing, or disposing of hazardous wastes without a permit or interim status, and that facility legally should have been operating pursuant to a permit or interim status, then, in addition to any other remedies the department may have, the department may assess a fee to offset program costs from that facility that is equivalent to the estimated annual fees, without interest, that such facility should have paid the department if the facility had been operating pursuant to a permit or interim status; except that such fee shall not be assessed under any one the following circumstances:

(a) The only hazardous waste being treated, stored, or disposed of is in-place contaminated media or debris or contaminated structures;

(b) The treatment, storage, and disposal is part of a corrective action plan approved by the department; or

(c) The facility modified the facility's operations within one month after being notified in writing that the facility should be operating pursuant to a permit or interim status so that any treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous wastes at the facility is no longer subject to a permit or interim status.

(4) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (4), the rules promulgated by the commission pursuant to the provisions of this part 3 may be more stringent than the corresponding rules of the federal environmental protection agency promulgated pursuant to the federal act; however, more stringent rules including, without limitation, rules that list or define as a hazardous waste any waste or other material exempted or otherwise not regulated as a hazardous waste under the federal act may only be adopted if the commission makes a written finding, after a public hearing and based upon substantial evidence in the record that such rules are necessary to protect the public health and the environment of the state, and such findings and rules are approved by an affirmative vote of at least six members of the commission. Such findings and rules shall be accompanied by a commission opinion referring to and evaluating the public health and environmental information and studies contained in the record that form the basis for such findings and rules.

(b) The rules promulgated by the commission pursuant to the provisions of this part 3 concerning the regulation of mining and mineral processing wastes, including exploration, mining, milling, and smelting and the refining of waste, shall be identical to and no more inclusive than the regulations of the federal environmental protection agency promulgated pursuant to the federal act.

(c) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2000, p. 1068, § 3, effective July 1, 2000.)

(4.5) The commission shall adopt rules concerning solid waste disposal sites and facilities in accordance with part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S.

(4.6) The commission may adopt rules that specify types of composting facilities by size, volume, or other suitable criteria that provide equivalent protection of public health and the environment that would not be required to obtain a certificate of designation in accordance with section 30-20-102, C.R.S.

(4.7) Repealed.

(5) The rules promulgated by the commission are subject to expiration in accordance with section 24-4-103.

(6) The commission may advise and consult and cooperate with other agencies of the state, the federal government, and other states and with groups, political subdivisions, and industries affected by the provisions of this article or by the policies or rules of the commission.

(7) (a) The commission may hold hearings. Such hearings shall be held pursuant to and in conformity with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and with this article.

(b) The commission shall adopt such rules governing procedures and hearings before the commission as may be necessary to assure that such procedures and hearings will be fair and impartial. Such rules shall be consistent with the pertinent provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. Such rules shall include a voting rule that excludes a member from voting on any matter arising under section 25-15-305, 25-15-308, or 25-15-309 if such member has a conflict of interest with respect to such matter.

(c) The disclosure of any information relating to secret processes or methods of manufacture or production which may be required, ascertained, or discovered by the commission shall be governed by the provisions of part 2 of article 72 of title 24, C.R.S.

(8) (a) Prior to promulgating any rule authorized by this article, the commission shall conduct a public hearing thereon as provided in section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Notice of any such hearing shall conform to the requirements of section 24-4-103, C.R.S.; except that such notice shall include a summary or the text of each proposed rule or rule revision. The commission may, if requested or when otherwise appropriate, lengthen the notice period to provide sufficient time for public review of a proposed rule or revision.

(b) Rules promulgated pursuant to this article shall take effect as provided in section 24-4-103 (5) or (6), C.R.S.

(9) (a) The commission shall employ an administrator and shall delegate to such administrator such duties and responsibilities as it may deem necessary; except that no authority shall be delegated to such administrator to promulgate rules or to make determinations as provided in this part 3. Such administrator shall have appropriate practical, educational, technical, and administrative training or experience related to solid and hazardous waste management and shall be employed pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the Colorado constitution.

(b) Notice of meetings of the commission shall be published in the Colorado register at least twenty days prior to the date of such meeting and shall state the time, place, and nature of the subject matter to be considered at such meeting. The administrator shall maintain a mailing list of persons requesting to be included thereon and shall mail notice of any meeting of the commission to such persons at least twenty days prior to such meeting. Opportunity shall be afforded to interested persons to submit views orally or in writing on the proposals under consideration or to otherwise participate informally in a commission proceeding. For commission proceedings under this part 3 other than the review of administrative penalties pursuant to section 25-15-309, the department shall furnish such personnel to the commission as the commission may reasonably require.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1353, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2)(c) to (2)(f), (2)(i), and (3) amended, (2)(k) and (2)(l) added, and (4) R&RE, pp. 1101, 1103, §§ 20, 21, effective June 3. L. 92: (2.5) added, p. 1237, § 5, effective June 1; entire section R&RE, p. 1237, § 6, effective August 1. L. 94: IP(2)(f) amended, p. 2563, § 71, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2000: (3.5) and (3.7) added and (4)(a) and (4)(c) amended, p. 1068, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1)(a) and (9)(a) amended and (4.5) and (4.6) added, p. 1131, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2008: (3.5)(b)(I) and (3.5)(b)(II) amended, p. 176, § 13, effective March 24; (4.7) added, p. 432, § 4, effective August 5. L. 2014: (4.7) repealed, (HB 14-1352), ch. 351, p. 1594, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2020: (3.2) added, (HB 20-1119), ch. 139, p. 605, § 2, effective June 29. L. 2022: (1)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 61, § 82, effective February 25; (1)(a) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3369, § 54, effective August 10; (5) amended, (SB 22-091), ch. 28, p. 169, § 9, effective August 10.

Editor's note: (1) Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until January 1, 1982. (See § 25-15-102 (2).)

(2) Amendments to subsection (1)(a) by SB 22-013 and SB 22-162 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983).

25-15-303. Requirements for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal sites and facilities - permits.

(1) Any site or facility for the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste shall be unlawful unless a permit is granted by the department for such site or facility. Each permit shall provide for a specified term and conditions for renewal and shall provide for modification upon the permittee's request or upon a finding that a substantial threat to the public health or safety or the environment exists at the site or facility. In issuing permits for disposal facilities the department shall consider the variations within this state in climate, geology, and such other factors as may be relevant to the management of hazardous wastes.

(2) A separate permit shall not be required, unless the permittee so requests, of a person otherwise subject to the requirements of this part 3 who is engaged in mining operations pursuant to a permit issued under the "Colorado Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act", article 33 of title 34, C.R.S.

(3) Any person who possesses a federal permit or has federal interim status under section 3005 (c) of the federal act for the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste shall be deemed to possess an identical permit or status with the department. Any such permit shall remain in effect until it expires or is suspended or revoked for failure to meet conditions in the permit or the requirements of this part 3.

(4) (a) Any deed for property which has been utilized for the disposal of hazardous waste and has received interim status or a permit under the federal act or a permit under this part 3 or has received a certificate of designation under part 2 of this article shall contain a notation that such property has been utilized for the disposal of hazardous waste.

(b) and (c) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1244, § 7, effective August 1, 1992.)

(5) Repealed.

(6) Any operation conducted at sites acquired by the state for the express purpose of hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal shall be in accordance with a lease which shall provide for payments to the state based on the quantity of waste managed, and shall also require, in lieu of taxes, payments to be transferred to the local government having jurisdiction as compensation for loss of valuation and which shall be adjusted annually to conform with current mill levies, assessment practices, and value of land improvements.

(7) As a condition to the issuance of any permit under subsection (1) of this section, the department may require, in accordance with rules and regulations, that the permittee post a bond or provide other evidence of financial assurance so that the department may, if the permittee is unable or unwilling to do so, arrange to rectify any improper hazardous waste management technique committed during the term of the permit. If a bond is posted, a portion of the bond shall be refunded to the permittee upon proper closure of the permitted hazardous waste management activity if use of such portion of the bond is not required.

(8) Prior to the issuance of any permit under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall, in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., give reasonable public notice and shall, upon sufficient interest, hold a public hearing on the application in the locality of the proposed site or facility.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1355, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2), (3), and (4)(a) amended, p. 1103, §§ 22, 23, effective November 2, 1984; (4)(a) amended, p. 2070, § 1, effective October 13. L. 92: (1), (3), (4), and (5)(a) amended, p. 1244, § 7, effective August 1. L. 2000: (5) repealed, p. 1071, § 4, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Regulation of Spills of Hazardous Materials", see 12 Colo. Law. 277 (1983). For article, "Hazardous Waste Regulation: Issues for the Real Estate Practitioner", see 13 Colo. Law. 48 (1984).

25-15-304. Hazardous waste service fund created.

(1) There is created in the state treasury a hazardous waste service fund, which shall consist of fees collected pursuant to section 25-15-302 (3.5) to reimburse the state for its annual program expenses incurred in the maintenance, monitoring, and other supervision of the lands and facilities used for the storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste. Such money shall be appropriated annually to the department by the general assembly which shall review such expenditures to assure that they are used to accomplish the purposes of this section. All unappropriated balances in the hazardous waste service fund shall remain therein and shall not revert to the general fund.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1357, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section amended, p. 1071, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1406), ch. 178, p. 813, § 15, effective June 29. L. 2022: (2) repealed, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2980, § 64, effective August 10.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

25-15-305. Judicial review.

(1) (a) Any final rule issued by the commission shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with the provisions of this article and article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(b) Judicial review of any rules promulgated by the commission shall be filed in the district court for the second judicial district.

(2) (a) Except as provided in section 25-15-308, any final determination issued by the department pursuant to this part 3, including but not limited to, permit determinations, permit terms or conditions, determinations regarding closure plans, or determinations regarding permits, closure plans, or corrective action plans required by a compliance order, shall be subject to review in accordance with the provisions of this section and section 24-4-106, C.R.S. A hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., shall not be required prior to the issuance of any final determination described in this paragraph (a).

(b) Any proceeding for judicial review of any final determination of the department shall be filed in the district court for the district in which the site or facility is or may be located.

(c) Any proceeding for judicial review of any final determination of the department described in paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) shall be filed within thirty days after said determination has become effective. Such determination shall become effective upon issuance or upon such later date as is specified in such determination.

(d) The contested provisions of a determination under review and the uncontested provisions that are not severable from such contested provisions, as determined by the department, shall be stayed during the pendency of the judicial review of such determination. All other provisions of the department's determination under review shall be fully effective unless, upon application and a showing of good cause by a party to the judicial review, the court stays such other provisions. The stay of any portion of a determination pursuant to this paragraph (d) shall have no effect on the obligations of the person to whom such determination applies to comply with applicable laws, regulations, and valid existing orders. The commission shall promulgate regulations governing the continuance of existing, expiring, or superseded permits, closure plans, or corrective action plans during the time period of any appeal of such determination pursuant to this section.

(e) Upon motion of a party to the judicial review, and in the discretion of the court, the court may request an interpretive rule from the commission pertaining to any rule adopted pursuant to this part 3 which is at issue in the judicial review only in the event that there is no genuine issue of material fact, or in the event that the parties have stipulated to the material facts for the purposes of such interpretive rule. The court may adjust the schedule of the judicial review to accommodate the receipt of such information. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-4-103 (1), C.R.S., in the event that an interpretive rule is requested by the court and the commission agrees to issue such an interpretation, notice to the public of the interpretive rule-making proceeding shall be given in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Such notice shall be provided within forty-five days following the receipt of the request. The commission shall receive written material, not to exceed fifteen pages in length, from any interested person no later than fifteen days following the date that notification is given. The commission shall issue the written interpretive rule no later than thirty days following the deadline for the receipt of any such written material. The legal effect of any such interpretive rule shall be determined in accordance with applicable law and is not presumed to be binding on any party to the judicial review.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1357, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1245, § 8, effective August 1.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

25-15-306. Local control of facilities - authorization by department - allocation of fees.

The department may enter into an agreement with a county, a city and county, or a municipality within whose jurisdiction is located one or more hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal sites or facilities for such local government to provide inspection, monitoring, and emergency response for such sites and facilities. The department shall make available to any such local government a reasonable portion of the fees appropriated from the hazardous waste service fund for conducting such functions. The department shall have the power to reassume any such function granted a local government if it appears to the department that the appropriate expertise is unavailable or that the resources provided are not appropriately applied for the agreed purpose, or if the department and the local government mutually so agree.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1357, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

25-15-307. Coordination with other programs.

(1) The department shall coordinate the hazardous waste program with all other programs within the department and with other agencies of federal, state, or local government which are related to hazardous waste.

(2) For the purposes of the administration and enforcement of this part 3, the department shall coordinate its activities with those of the Colorado state patrol relating to the transportation of hazardous materials. Rules and regulations of the commission relating to the transportation of hazardous waste shall be consistent with the rules and regulations of the Colorado state patrol on the transportation of hazardous materials promulgated pursuant to article 20 of title 42, C.R.S.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1357, § 1, effective July 1. L. 87: (2) amended, p. 1570, § 4, effective July 1. L. 92: (2) amended, pp. 1246, 1260, §§ 9, 24, effective August 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2563, § 72, effective January 1, 1995.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

25-15-308. Prohibited acts - enforcement - definition.

(1) On or after the date specified in section 25-15-102 (3), no person shall:

(a) Dispose of any hazardous waste off-site at any facility that does not have state or federal interim status, a federal permit, or a permit granted by the department pursuant to section 25-15-303;

(b) Dispose of on-site, treat, or store any hazardous waste without having therefor either state or federal interim status, a federal permit, or a permit granted by the department pursuant to section 25-15-303;

(c) Substantially alter any hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facility or site without first obtaining from the department a modification of an existing permit or a new permit.

(2) (a) Whenever the department finds that a person is or has been in violation of any permit, rule, regulation, or requirement of this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25, the department may issue an order identifying the factual and legal elements of such violation with particularity and requiring such person to comply with any such permit, rule, regulation, or requirement and may request the attorney general to bring suit for injunctive relief or for penalties pursuant to section 25-15-309 or 25-15-310.

(b) Such orders may contain an administrative penalty assessment as provided in section 25-15-309. Issuance of an administrative order without a penalty assessment shall not preclude the department from subsequently seeking an administrative or civil penalty for the violations detailed in the order. A hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S., shall not be required prior to the issuance of an order pursuant to this section.

(c) Any order issued pursuant to this section shall be served upon the person who is the subject of such order by personal service or by registered mail, return receipt requested. Any such order may be prohibitory or mandatory in effect. Unless provided otherwise in such order, the order shall be effective immediately upon issuance.

(3) (a) Any appeal of an order issued by the department pursuant to this section shall be taken in accordance with the provisions of this section. Notice of appeal shall be filed by personal service or by registered mail, return receipt requested, with the office of administrative courts in the department of personnel, with the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee, and with the commission in the case of an appeal of an administrative law judge's determination concerning an administrative penalty assessment. Notice of appeal shall be filed no later than thirty calendar days after the effective date of the order which is the subject of the appeal.

(b) The filing of an appeal of any order shall stay the obligation to submit payment of any monetary penalty pursuant to such order. Such filing shall not negate the appellant's obligation to otherwise comply with the order. An appellant may seek a stay of any other provision of an order in accordance with this section. The issuance of a stay shall not prevent the department from subsequently imposing a penalty for any subsequent violation by an appellant.

(c) Any person appealing an order may make a motion that the administrative law judge stay the enforcement of such order. The administrative law judge may stay the enforcement of any portion of an order if the administrative law judge determines that the balance of equities favors the moving party. An administrative law judge shall consider the following factors in considering a request for a stay of an order:

(I) The probability of serious harm to the moving party if the motion for a stay is denied;

(II) The probability that no serious harm to the public health or the environment will occur if the motion for a stay is granted;

(III) The merits of the moving party's case on appeal; and

(IV) The public interest.

(d) The stay of any portion of an order shall have no effect on the recipient's obligations under applicable statutes, regulations, permits, and valid, existing orders.

(e) The administrative law judge shall expedite hearing and determinations in regards to a motion for a stay pursuant to this subsection (3). The moving party shall have the burden of proof in any hearing regarding a motion for a stay.

(f) Any hearing held by an administrative law judge pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., except as otherwise provided in this section. Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this subsection (3), the department shall bear the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence in any hearing before an administrative law judge pursuant to this section.

(g) Upon motion of a party to the appeal, and in the discretion of the administrative law judge, an administrative law judge may request an interpretive rule from the commission pertaining to any rule which is at issue in the appeal only in the event that there is no genuine issue of material fact or in the event that the parties have stipulated to the material facts for the purposes of such interpretive rule. The administrative law judge may adjust the schedule of the appeal to accommodate the receipt of such information. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-4-103 (1), C.R.S., in the event that an interpretive rule is requested by an administrative law judge and the commission agrees to issue such an interpretation, notice to the public of the interpretive rule-making proceeding shall be given in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Such notice shall be provided within forty-five days following the receipt of the request. The commission shall accept written material, not to exceed fifteen pages in length, that is received from any interested person no later than fifteen days following the date that notification is given. The commission shall issue the written interpretive rule no later than thirty days following the deadline for the receipt of any such written material. The legal effect of any such interpretive rule shall be determined in accordance with applicable law and is not presumed to be binding on any party to the appeal.

(h) Except as provided in paragraph (i) of this subsection (3) and notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-4-105 (15), C.R.S., any appeal of the determination of the administrative law judge pursuant to this section or section 25-15-301 (4)(b) shall be taken to the district court in accordance with section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(i) Questions raised upon appeal of the determination of an administrative law judge as to the amount of penalty assessed by an order issued pursuant to this section shall be heard by the commission based upon the record developed by the administrative law judge. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-4-103 (1), C.R.S., in the event that the commission is requested to review the amount of a penalty, notice to the public of such penalty review shall be given in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-103, C.R.S. Such notice shall be provided within forty-five days following receipt of such request for review of a penalty.

(4) (a) Any action pursuant to this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25 shall commence within two years after the date upon which the department discovers an alleged violation of this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25 or within five years after the date upon which the alleged violation occurred, whichever date occurs earlier; except that such limitation period is tolled during any period that the alleged violation is intentionally concealed.

(b) If any action has not been commenced within the limitation period provided by paragraph (a) of this subsection (4) in connection with any disposal of hazardous waste without either state or federal interim status, a federal permit, or a permit granted by the department pursuant to section 25-15-303, the department, within two years after the date upon which the department discovers such disposal, may issue an order pursuant to this section requiring action to remediate such disposal. The department is not authorized under these circumstances to seek any administrative, civil, or criminal penalties for such disposal of hazardous waste.

(5) As used in this section, "intentionally" has the meaning set forth in section 18-1-501 (5).

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1357, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (1) amended, p. 1104, § 24, effective November 2, 1984. L. 92: (1)(a), (1)(b), and (2) amended and (3) and (4) added, p. 1247, § 10, effective August 1. L. 95: (3)(a) amended, p. 664, § 99, effective July 1. L. 2005: (3)(a) amended, p. 858, § 24, effective June 1. L. 2025: (2)(a) and (4)(a) amended and (5) added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2402, § 2, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

ANNOTATION

Exclusive authority for enforcement of § 25-15-301 et seq. is the department of health, and attorney general has no authority to bring suit for violations except upon request of the department. Harris v. Jefferson County Court, 808 P.2d 364 (Colo. App. 1991).

Citizen suit provision of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) may be employed to allege violations of Colorado's hazardous waste program. Sierra Club v. Chemical Handling Corp., 824 F. Supp. 195 (D. Colo. 1993).

"Disposal" must be construed to require a discrete act of disposal actuated by human conduct; otherwise, the statute of limitations might not run until a remote moment in time that could seldom if ever be conclusively pinpointed. People v. Thoro Prods. Co., Inc., 45 P.3d 737 (Colo. App. 2001), aff'd, 70 P.3d 1188 (Colo. 2003).

25-15-309. Administrative and civil penalties.

(1) A person who violates section 25-15-308, violates any compliance order of the department that is not subject to a stay pending judicial review and that has been issued pursuant to this part 3, or violates part 10 of article 17 of this title 25 shall, for each such violation, be subject to a penalty for each day during which such violation occurs or continues. The department may impose an administrative penalty of no more than fifteen thousand dollars per day per violation. In lieu of imposing an administrative penalty pursuant to this section, the department may seek a civil penalty for violation of state environmental law in the district court of the judicial district in which the violation occurs. The district court may impose a civil penalty of no more than twenty-five thousand dollars per day per violation.

(2) The department shall not be precluded from referring a matter for criminal prosecution regardless of whether an order is issued pursuant to section 25-15-301 (4)(a) or 25-15-308. The department shall not impose both a civil penalty and an administrative penalty for any particular instance of a violation of this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25.

(3) The department, the administrative law judge, the commission, or the court shall consider the factors contained in subsections (3)(a) to (3)(i) of this section in determining the amount of any administrative or civil penalty for a violation of this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25. The factors contained in subsections (3)(f), (3)(g), and (3)(h) of this section shall be mitigating factors and may be applied, together with other factors, to reduce penalties. Such factors are:

(a) The seriousness of the violation;

(b) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(c) The impact upon or the threat to the public health or the environment as a result of the violation;

(d) The degree, if any, of recalcitrance or recidivism upon the part of the violator;

(e) The economic benefit realized by the violator as a result of the violation;

(f) The voluntary and complete disclosure by the violator of such violation in a timely fashion after discovery and prior to the department's knowledge of the violation, provided that all reports required pursuant to state environmental law have been submitted as and when otherwise required;

(g) Full and prompt cooperation by the violator following disclosure of a violation, including, when appropriate, entering into in good faith and implementing a legally enforceable agreement to undertake compliance and remedial efforts;

(h) The existence of a regularized and comprehensive environmental compliance program or an environmental audit program that was adopted in a timely and good-faith manner and that includes sufficient measures to identify and prevent future noncompliance; and

(i) Any other aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, the department may enter into settlement agreements regarding any penalty or claim resolved pursuant to this part 3 or part 10 of article 17 of this title 25. Any settlement agreement may include but is not necessarily limited to the payment or contribution of money to state or local agencies or for other environmentally beneficial purposes.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1358, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1250, § 11, effective August 1. L. 2025: (1), (2), IP(3), and (4) amended, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2402, § 3, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

ANNOTATION

Before imposing a civil penalty under subsection (3), court must hold a hearing on the amount of the civil penalties and give the defendant an opportunity to present evidence on mitigating factors. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health v. Caulk, 969 P.2d 804 (Colo. App. 1998).

25-15-310. Criminal offenses - penalties.

(1) On or after the date specified in section 25-15-102 (3), no person shall:

(a) Transport or cause to be transported any hazardous waste identified or listed pursuant to this article to a facility which does not have a permit under this article or the federal act;

(b) Treat, store, or dispose of any hazardous waste identified or listed pursuant to this article either without having obtained a permit as required by this article or the federal act or in knowing violation of any material condition or requirement of a permit or interim status requirement;

(c) Omit any material information or make any false material statement or representation in any application, label, manifest, record, report, permit, or other document filed, maintained, or used for purposes of compliance with this article or with the federal act or regulations promulgated under this article or the federal act;

(d) Destroy, alter, or conceal any record required to be maintained or fail to file any record required to be filed under regulations promulgated by the commission under this part 3 or pursuant to the federal act; or

(e) Treat, store, or dispose of any hazardous waste identified or listed pursuant to this article in violation of any material condition or requirement of a permit or interim status requirement.

(2) Except as provided in section 18-13-112, 29-22-108, or 42-20-113, C.R.S., any person acting with criminal negligence as defined in section 18-1-501 (3), C.R.S., who violates any of the provisions of paragraph (a), (c), (d), or (e) of subsection (1) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars for each day of violation. If such conviction is for a violation committed after a previous conviction under this subsection (2), the maximum fine shall be doubled.

(3) Any person who knowingly, as defined in section 18-1-501 (6), C.R.S., violates any of the provisions of paragraph (a), (b), (c), or (d) of subsection (1) of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars for each day of violation, or by imprisonment not to exceed four years, or by both such fine and imprisonment. If said conviction is for a violation committed after a previous conviction of such person under this subsection (3), the maximum punishment shall be doubled with respect to both fine and imprisonment.

(4) (a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1252, § 12, effective August 1, 1992.)

(b) Any generator who otherwise stores waste on-site in compliance with the requirements of 6 CCR 1007-3, section 262.34 (a), as those requirements exist on July 1, 1988, but who knowingly exceeds the ninety-day storage period or any extension thereof is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as provided in subsection (2) of this section.

(5) The court shall consider the factors contained in paragraphs (a) to (i) of this subsection (5) in determining the amount of any criminal sanction to be imposed pursuant to this article. The factors contained in paragraphs (f), (g), and (h) of this subsection (5) shall be mitigating factors and may be applied, together with other factors, to reduce or eliminate sanctions or penalties. Such factors are:

(a) The seriousness of the violation;

(b) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(c) The impact upon or the threat to the public health or the environment as a result of the violation;

(d) The degree, if any, of recalcitrance or recidivism upon the part of the violator;

(e) The economic benefit realized by the violator as a result of the violation;

(f) The voluntary and complete disclosure by the violator of such violation in a timely fashion after discovery and prior to the department's knowledge of the violation, provided that all reports required pursuant to state environmental law have been submitted as and when otherwise required;

(g) Full and prompt cooperation by the violator following disclosure of a violation, including, when appropriate, entering into in good faith and implementing a legally enforceable agreement to undertake compliance and remedial efforts;

(h) The existence of a regularized and comprehensive environmental compliance program or an environmental audit program that was adopted in a timely and good-faith manner and that includes sufficient measures to identify and prevent future noncompliance; and

(i) Any other aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1358, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section amended, p. 1104, § 25, effective November 2, 1984; (2) amended, p. 2055, § 34, effective November 2, 1984. L. 88: (1)(a), (1)(b), and (2) amended, (1)(e) and (4) added, and (3) R&RE, pp. 1048, 1049, §§ 1-3, effective July 1. L. 92: IP(1), (1)(c), (1)(d), (2), (3), and (4)(a) amended and (5) added, p. 1252, § 12, effective August 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 1641, § 62, effective May 31. L. 96: (2) amended, p. 1473, § 23, effective June 1.

Editor's note: (1) Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

(2) Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 83-282 and Senate Bill 83-414 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the penalty for abandonment of a vehicle containing hazardous waste or the intentional spilling of hazardous waste on streets or highways, see § 18-13-112; for the penalty for causing or contributing to the occurrence of a hazardous substance incident, see § 29-22-108; for the penalties for violations of the "Hazardous Materials Transportation Act of 1987", see §§ 42-20-109, 42-20-111, 42-20-204, and 42-20-305.

ANNOTATION

Exclusive authority for enforcement of § 25-15-301 et seq. is the department of health, and attorney general has no authority to bring suit for violations except upon request of the department. Harris v. Jefferson County Court, 808 P.2d 364 (Colo. App. 1991).

50 U.S.C. §§ 1512a and 1521 preempt this state's enforcement of its regulations prohibiting the storage of any hazardous waste restricted from land disposal against the United States' storage of chemical weapons at an army weapons depot. Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health & Env. v. United States, 693 F.3d 1214 (10th Cir. 2012).

Applied in People v. Inman, 950 P.2d 640 (Colo. App. 1997).

25-15-311. Disposition of fines and penalties - repeal.

(1) Except as described in subsection (2) of this section, all receipts from penalties or fines collected under sections 25-15-309 and 25-15-310 shall be credited to the general fund of the state.

(2) (a) On and after July 1, 2025, all receipts from penalties or fines collected under sections 25-15-309 and 25-15-310 shall be credited to the rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement fund created in section 25-16-312; except that, for the 2025-26 state fiscal year and the 2026-27 state fiscal year, the credits described in this subsection (2) continue only until such time as the total amount of penalties and fines collected pursuant to sections 25-7-511, 25-15-309, and 25-15-310 and credited to the rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement fund equals two hundred thousand dollars.

(b) This subsection (2) is repealed, effective June 30, 2027.

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1358, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (HB 24-1457), ch. 356, p. 2433, § 3, effective August 7.

Editor's note: Although the act repealing and reenacting this article was effective July 1, 1981, this section was not effective until November 2, 1984. (See § 25-15-102 (3).)

25-15-312. Repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 81: Entire article R&RE, p. 1358, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: Entire section repealed, p. 1105, § 28(2), effective November 2, 1984.

25-15-313. Right to claim reimbursement.

(1) A public entity, political subdivision of the state, or unit of local government is hereby given the right to claim reimbursement from the parties or persons responsible for the hazardous waste abandonment or hazardous waste spill for costs resulting from action taken to remove, contain, or otherwise mitigate the effects of a hazardous waste abandonment or hazardous waste spill.

(2) As used in this section, "abandonment" means the act of leaving a thing with the intent not to retain possession of or assert ownership or control over it. The intent need not coincide with the act of leaving.

(3) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to change or impair any right of recovery or subrogation arising under any other provision of law.

(4) Claims for reimbursement made pursuant to this section shall be in accordance with article 22 of title 29, C.R.S.

Source: L. 83: Entire section added, p. 1106, § 1, effective June 3.

25-15-314. Solid and hazardous waste commission funding.

(1) The commission is hereby authorized to promulgate rules regarding the following:

(a) (I) The establishment of fees to offset the reasonable costs actually associated with the operations of the commission. Such fees may be imposed upon generators and transporters of hazardous wastes and upon facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous wastes. Such fees may be based upon a consideration of the quantity of hazardous wastes that is generated, transported, treated, stored, or disposed and the impact on small businesses. The fees imposed by this subparagraph (I) shall not exceed an amount equal to one-half of the appropriation made by the general assembly annually pursuant to section 25-15-315.

(II) In addition to the fees imposed pursuant to subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a), an amount equal to one-half of the appropriation made by the general assembly annually pursuant to section 25-15-315 shall be appropriated from the solid waste management fund created in section 30-20-118, C.R.S., to be expended for the commission's direct and indirect costs pursuant to this article.

(b) The establishment of a nominal filing fee to help defray reasonable administrative costs actually associated with processing petitions for interpretive rulings pursuant to sections 25-15-305 and 25-15-308. No filing fee established pursuant to the provisions of this paragraph (b) shall exceed one hundred dollars.

(2) All moneys collected pursuant to this section by the commission shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the solid and hazardous waste commission fund created pursuant to section 25-15-315.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1253, § 13, effective August 1. L. 2006: (1)(a) and (2) amended, p. 1132, § 11, effective July 1.

25-15-315. Solid and hazardous waste commission fund - creation.

There is hereby established in the state treasury a fund to be known as the solid and hazardous waste commission fund, which shall consist of moneys collected pursuant to section 25-15-314. All moneys in such fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for the purpose of covering the reasonable costs actually associated with the operation of the solid and hazardous waste commission. All moneys in the solid and hazardous waste commission fund that are not appropriated shall remain in such fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year. In accordance with section 24-36-114, C.R.S., all interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the solid and hazardous waste commission fund shall be credited to the general fund.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1254, § 13, effective August 1. L. 2005: Entire section amended, p. 287, § 32, effective August 8. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 1132, § 12, effective July 1.

25-15-316. Prior acts validated and rules continued.

(1) All acts, orders, and rules adopted by the state board of health under the authority of this article prior to August 1, 1992, that were valid prior to said date and not otherwise subject to judicial review shall, to the extent that they are not inconsistent with this article, be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the commission under the authority of this article. No provision of this part 3 shall be construed to validate any actions, orders, or rules that were not valid when adopted by the board of health prior to such date.

(2) All acts, orders, and rules adopted by the state board of health under the authority of part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., prior to July 1, 2006, that were valid prior to said date and not otherwise subject to judicial review shall, to the extent that they are not inconsistent with said provisions, be deemed and held to be legal and valid in all respects, as though issued by the commission under the authority of said provisions. No provision of this part 3 shall be construed to validate any actions, orders, or rules that were not valid when adopted by the board of health prior to such date.

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1254, § 13, effective August 1. L. 2006: Entire section amended, p. 1132, § 13, effective July 1.

25-15-317. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly declares that it is in the public interest to ensure that environmental remediation projects protect human health and the environment. The general assembly finds that environmental remediation projects may leave residual contamination at levels that have been determined to be safe for a specific use, but not all uses, and may incorporate engineered structures that must be maintained or protected against damage to remain effective. The general assembly finds that in such cases, it is necessary to provide an effective and enforceable means of ensuring the conduct of any required maintenance, monitoring, or operation, and of restricting future uses of the land, including placing restrictions on drilling for or pumping groundwater for as long as any residual contamination remains hazardous. The general assembly, therefore, declares that it is in the public interest to create environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions because such covenants and restrictive notices are necessary for the protection of human health and the environment.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 452, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 169, § 2, effective March 24.

25-15-318. Nature of environmental covenants.

(1) An environmental covenant shall be perpetual unless by its terms it is limited to a specific duration, unless the department approves a request to terminate or modify it pursuant to section 25-15-319 (1)(h), or unless it is terminated by a court of competent jurisdiction. An environmental covenant may not be extinguished, limited, or impaired through issuance of a tax deed or through adverse possession, nor may an environmental covenant be extinguished, limited, or impaired by reason of the doctrines of abandonment, waiver, lack of enforcement, or other common law principles relating to covenants, or by the exercise of eminent domain.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, including any common-law requirement for privity of estate, an environmental covenant shall run with the land and shall bind the owner of the land, the owner's successors and assigns, and any person using the land. An environmental covenant shall not be deemed unenforceable on the basis of:

(a) A lack of privity of contract;

(b) A lack of benefit to a particular parcel of land;

(c) Failure of the environmental covenant to expressly state that it runs with the land; or

(d) Any other inconsistency with common-law requirements applicable to common-law covenants.

(3) The requirements and restrictions of an environmental covenant are requirements under this part 3 but may only be enforced as provided in section 25-15-322. The creation of an environmental covenant does not trigger the application of any other requirement of this part 3.

(4) The department shall not acquire any liability under state law by virtue of accepting an environmental covenant, nor shall any named beneficiary of an environmental covenant acquire any liability under state law by virtue of being such a beneficiary.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 453, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 170, § 3, effective March 24.

25-15-318.5. Nature of a notice of environmental use restrictions.

(1) A notice of environmental use restrictions is an agency action based on the state's police power.

(2) A notice of environmental use restrictions is binding on current and subsequent owners of the affected land and any person using or possessing an interest in the land.

(3) The requirements and restrictions contained in a notice of environmental use restrictions are requirements under this part 3, but may be enforced only as provided in section 25-15-322. The creation of a notice of environmental use restrictions does not trigger the application of any other requirement of this part 3.

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 170, § 4, effective March 24.

25-15-319. Contents of environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions.

(1) Environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions shall include provisions regarding:

(a) Duration and any conditions under which the environmental covenant or restrictive notice may be modified or terminated;

(b) Any environmental use restrictions relied on in the remediation decision for the environmental remediation project for the subject property;

(c) A requirement that the owner of the property subject to the environmental covenant or restrictive notice notify the department at least fifteen days in advance of any transfer of ownership of some or all of the real property subject to the environmental covenant or restrictive notice;

(d) A requirement that the owner of the property notify the department simultaneously with submitting any application to a local government for a building permit or change in land use;

(e) A requirement to allow the department right of entry at reasonable times with prior notice for the purpose of determining compliance with the terms of the environmental covenant or restrictive notice. Nothing in this section shall impair any other authority the department may otherwise have to enter and inspect property subject to the environmental covenant or restrictive notice.

(f) (I) For environmental covenants, inclusion of the following statement on the first page of the instrument creating the environmental covenant in fifteen-point, bold-faced type: "This property is subject to an environmental covenant held by the Colorado department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-15-321, Colorado Revised Statutes."

(II) For restrictive notices, inclusion of the following statement on the first page of the restrictive notice in fifteen-point, bold-faced type: "This property is subject to a notice of environmental use restrictions imposed by the Colorado department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-15-321.5, Colorado Revised Statutes."

(g) A requirement to incorporate, either in full or by reference, the environmental covenant or restrictive notice in any leases, licenses, or other instruments granting a right to use the property that may be affected by the environmental covenant or restrictive notice;

(h) Modification or termination of the environmental covenant or restrictive notice consistent with this subsection (1). The owner of land subject to an environmental covenant or restrictive notice may request that the department approve modification or termination of the covenant or restrictive notice. The request shall contain information showing that the proposed modification or termination shall, if implemented, ensure protection of human health and the environment. The department shall review any submitted information and may request additional information. If the department determines that the proposal to modify or terminate the environmental covenant or restrictive notice will ensure protection of human health and the environment, it shall approve the proposal. No modification or termination of an environmental covenant or restrictive notice shall be effective unless it has been approved in writing by the department. Information to support a request for modification or termination may include one or more of the following:

(I) A proposal to perform additional remedial work;

(II) New information regarding the risks posed by the residual contamination;

(III) Information demonstrating that residual contamination has diminished;

(IV) Information demonstrating that an engineered feature or structure is no longer necessary;

(V) Information demonstrating that the proposed modification would not adversely impact the remedy and is protective of human health and the environment; and

(VI) Other appropriate supporting information; and

(i) Such other subjects as may be appropriate.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 453, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: IP(1), (1)(a), (1)(c), (1)(e), (1)(f), (1)(g), and IP(1)(h) amended, p. 170, § 5, effective March 24.

25-15-320. Environmental covenants - when required - waiver.

(1) No environmental covenant shall be required for any environmental remediation project that results in residual contamination levels that have been determined by the relevant regulatory agency to be safe for all uses and that does not incorporate any engineered feature or structure or require any monitoring, maintenance, or operation.

(2) Except as specified in subsections (3) and (4) of this section, an environmental covenant under this part 3 shall be required for any environmental remediation project in which the relevant regulatory authority makes a remedial decision on or after July 1, 2001, that would result in either or both of the following:

(a) Residual contamination at levels that have been determined to be safe for one or more specific uses, but not all uses; or

(b) Incorporation of an engineered feature or structure that requires monitoring, maintenance, or operation or that will not function as intended if it is disturbed.

(3) The department may waive the requirement for an environmental covenant in the following circumstances:

(a) If the department determines that it is authorized under another statute or decision of the Colorado supreme court to implement and enforce environmental use restrictions against the present and subsequent owners of real property remediated pursuant to an environmental remediation project and implements environmental use restrictions under such statute or decision; or

(b) For a parcel of land involved in an environmental remediation project that is owned by any person who is not being required to remediate the contamination, and:

(I) The owner of any such parcel does not grant an environmental covenant under this section;

(II) The county, city and county, or municipality having jurisdiction over the affected land has enacted an ordinance or resolution imposing the relevant environmental use restrictions; and

(III) The county, city and county, or municipality having jurisdiction and the department have entered into an intergovernmental agreement for oversight and enforcement of the local ordinance or resolution pursuant to section 29-1-203, C.R.S. Such agreement shall be binding and mutually enforceable. The department shall have such authority as may be provided in the intergovernmental agreement to bring suit for injunctive relief to enforce any local ordinance or resolution described in this subsection (3), but only with respect to properties that are subject to the requirements of this section. Any intergovernmental agreement under this section shall require that, insofar as the local ordinance or resolution applies to properties that are subject to the requirements of this section, any amendments to the local ordinance or resolution shall incorporate such requirements as the department may recommend to ensure continued protection of human health and the environment.

(4) (a) When an environmental covenant is required under subsection (2) of this section, a restrictive notice may be substituted for the covenant as follows:

(I) An owner of a parcel of land involved in an environmental remediation project who is being required to remediate contamination may request that the department approve a proposed restrictive notice for such parcel or may request that the department issue a restrictive notice.

(II) The department may unilaterally issue a restrictive notice containing the provisions described in section 25-15-319 when an environmental covenant is required under subsection (2) of this section and the owner of the subject property fails to create a covenant or restrictive notice within thirty days after:

(A) The date of a remedial decision for an environmental remediation project that relies solely on environmental use restrictions to protect human health and the environment; or

(B) The completion of construction work for environmental remediation projects that require physical work.

(b) Prior to issuing a restrictive notice unilaterally under subparagraph (II) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the department shall make a good-faith attempt to reach agreement with the owner of the subject property regarding a consensual covenant or notice.

(c) The department may not issue a restrictive notice for a parcel of land involved in an environmental remediation project that is owned by a person who is not being required to remediate the contamination, unless such person consents in writing.

(5) The department may accept environmental covenants or issue restrictive notices in cases where such covenants or notices are not required, including approvals of voluntary cleanup plans or petitions for no action determinations under sections 25-16-306 and 25-16-307, but the owner of the remediated land nonetheless desires to create such a covenant or requests that the department issue such a notice. A covenant or notice created under this subsection (5) may be enforced as any other covenant or notice.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 455, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: IP(2), (3)(b)(III), (4), and (5) amended, p. 171, § 6, effective March 24.

25-15-321. Creation, modification, and termination of an environmental covenant.

(1) An environmental covenant under this part 3 may be created only by the owner of the property through a written grant to the department by a deed or other instrument of conveyance specifically stating the intention of the grantor to create such a restriction under this article.

(2) The department is authorized to accept, refuse to accept, conditionally accept, hold, modify, and terminate environmental covenants.

(3) Instruments creating, modifying, or terminating an environmental covenant shall be recorded as any other instrument affecting title to and interests in real property.

(4) If the only uses allowed under the proposed environmental covenant are prohibited by existing ordinance or resolution, the department shall condition its acceptance of the covenant upon the applicant's demonstration that such applicant has obtained approval from the relevant authority that would allow for one or more of the proposed uses.

(5) Persons proposing to create, modify, or terminate an environmental covenant shall provide written notice of their intention to all persons holding an interest of record in the real property that will be subject to the environmental covenant, to all persons known to them to have an unrecorded interest in the property, and to all affected persons in possession of the property prior to such creation, modification, or termination, and shall provide the department with:

(a) A copy of the notice provided;

(b) A list of the persons to whom notice was given and the address or other location to which the notice was directed; and

(c) Such title information as the department may require.

(6) The department shall review and make a determination regarding all applications for creating, modifying, or terminating an environmental covenant within sixty days after receipt of such application, including the information described in subsection (5) of this section.

(7) Any determination by the department regarding a proposal to create, modify, or terminate an environmental covenant shall be subject to appeal in accordance with section 25-15-305.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 456, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: (6) amended, p. 173, § 7, effective March 24.

25-15-321.5. Notice of environmental use restrictions - creation, modification, and termination.

(1) A person who proposes to create, modify, or terminate a restrictive notice shall provide written notice of the person's intention to all persons holding an interest of record in the real property that will be subject to the restrictive notice, to all persons known to the person to have an unrecorded interest in the property, and to all affected persons in possession of the property prior to such creation, modification, or termination and shall provide the department with:

(a) A copy of the notice provided;

(b) A list of the persons to whom notice was given and the address or other location to which the notice was directed; and

(c) Such title information as the department may require.

(2) Before issuing a notice of environmental use restrictions unilaterally, the department shall provide a copy of the proposed restrictive notice to all persons holding an interest of record in the real property that will be subject to the restrictive notice, all persons known to the department to have an unrecorded interest in such property, and all affected persons in possession of such property, and shall offer such persons a minimum of thirty days to comment on the proposed restrictive notice, unless notice has already been provided pursuant to subsection (1) of this section. In determining whether to issue the restrictive notice unilaterally, the department shall consider any comments received.

(3) The department shall review and make a determination regarding all requests to create, modify, or terminate a restrictive notice within sixty days after receipt of such request, including the information described in subsection (1) of this section.

(4) Upon issuance or approval of the restrictive notice, the department shall record the restrictive notice in the clerk and recorder's office for the county or counties in which the affected land is situated. For approved restrictive notices, the department may allow the owner of the property to record the notice. No person may record a restrictive notice that does not have the department's written approval.

(5) The department may authorize any notice of environmental use restrictions created in accordance with this section to be replaced by an environmental covenant as described in section 25-15-319. The department may condition its authorization and approval of the termination of the notice of environmental use restrictions on the prior creation, department approval and acceptance, and effective recording of the environmental covenant.

(6) Modifications or terminations of restrictive notices shall be recorded as provided in subsection (4) of this section. No person may record a modification or termination of a restrictive notice that does not have the department's written approval.

(7) Any determination by the department to issue, approve, modify, or terminate a notice of environmental use restrictions shall be subject to appeal in accordance with section 25-15-305.

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 173, § 8, effective March 24.

25-15-322. Enforcement - remedies.

(1) An environmental covenant or restrictive notice imposed at any environmental remediation project shall be enforceable as provided in this section, even if the environmental remediation project is not otherwise subject to this part 3.

(2) In the event of an actual or threatened failure to comply with an environmental covenant or restrictive notice, the department may issue an order under this section requiring compliance with the terms of the environmental covenant or restrictive notice and may request the attorney general to bring suit in district court to enforce the terms of the environmental covenant or restrictive notice, to enforce the order issued pursuant to this section, or to seek other appropriate injunctive relief. An administrative order issued under this subsection (2) shall be subject to appeal in accordance with section 25-15-308.

(3) If a court of competent jurisdiction determines that an environmental covenant or restrictive notice is void or otherwise unenforceable, the department may take such action as may be authorized by any other law.

(4) The grantor of an environmental covenant may file suit in district court to enjoin actual or threatened violations of the covenant. Any third-party beneficiary specifically named in an environmental covenant or restrictive notice may file suit in district court to enjoin actual or threatened violations of the covenant or restrictive notice. The person who requested creation of a restrictive notice may file suit in district court to enjoin actual or threatened violations of the restrictive notice.

(5) An affected local government may file suit in district court to enjoin actual or threatened violations of any environmental covenant or restrictive notice that applies to land within its jurisdiction.

(6) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 174, § 9, effective March 24, 2008.)

(7) A court of competent jurisdiction is authorized to issue orders requiring compliance with an environmental covenant or restrictive notice, to enjoin actual or threatened violations of environmental covenants or restrictive notices, and to grant such other injunctive relief as it may deem appropriate.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 457, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 174, § 9, effective March 24. L. 2025: (5) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2079, § 218, effective August 6.

25-15-323. Registry of environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions.

The department shall create and maintain a registry of all environmental covenants and notices of environmental use restrictions, including any modification or termination thereof.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 458, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 175, § 10, effective March 24.

25-15-324. Coordination with affected local governments.

(1) The department shall provide each affected local government with a copy of every environmental covenant and restrictive notice within such local government's jurisdiction and shall also provide a copy of any documents modifying or terminating such environmental covenant or restrictive notice.

(2) Whenever an affected local government receives an application affecting land use or development of land that is subject to an environmental covenant or restrictive notice and that may relate to or impact such covenant or restrictive notice, the affected local government shall notify the department of the application. The department shall evaluate whether the application is consistent with the environmental covenant or restrictive notice and shall notify the affected local government of the department's determination in a timely fashion, considering the time frame for the local government's review of the application.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 458, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 175, § 11, effective March 24. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2079, § 217, effective August 6.

25-15-325. Other interests not impaired.

Except as specifically provided in an environmental covenant or restrictive notice or pursuant to section 25-15-326, no transfer of a water right or any change of a point of diversion at any time, nor any interest in real property cognizable under statute, common law, or custom in effect in this state prior to July 1, 2001, nor any lease or sublease thereof at any time shall be impaired, invalidated, or in any way adversely affected by sections 25-15-317 to 25-15-326. All interests not transferred or conveyed in the environmental covenant shall remain in the grantor of the environmental covenant, including the right to engage in all uses of the lands affected by the environmental covenant that are not inconsistent with the environmental covenant and not expressly prohibited by the environmental covenant or by law.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 458, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 175, § 12, effective March 24.

25-15-326. Validation.

(1) Any document recorded by the owner of real property that restricts or requires certain uses or activities relating to such real property, including any restrictions on drilling for or pumping groundwater, to protect human health or the environment by limiting exposure to hazardous substances or by ensuring the integrity of a response action, shall be considered valid and enforceable by its terms, regardless of whether such document is denominated an easement, covenant, deed restriction, or some other instrument.

(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall apply only to:

(a) Documents that were required as part of an environmental remediation decision that was rendered prior to July 1, 2001; and

(b) Documents recorded in connection with a voluntary cleanup plan approved under section 25-16-306 or petition for a no action determination approved under section 25-16-307.

(3) Nothing in this section shall impair the validity or enforceability of an environmental covenant created under section 25-15-321.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 458, § 2, effective July 1.

25-15-327. Applicability.

The requirements of section 25-15-320 apply to remedial decisions made on or after July 1, 2001, that would create one or more of the conditions described in section 25-15-320 (2).

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 459, § 2, effective July 1.

25-15-328. Household medication take-back program - creation - collection and disposal of medication injection devices - liability - definitions - cash fund - rules.

(1) (a) The general assembly finds and declares that prescription drug misuse is a rampant problem in Colorado, in part due to the accidental and intentional abuse of leftover household medications. The general assembly further declares that citizen access to a disposal location to return unused household medications will reduce the availability of household medications for unintended or abusive purposes and will further protect the environment through proper disposal.

(b) It is the intent of the general assembly to establish a household medication take-back program to facilitate the safe and effective collection and proper disposal of unused medications.

(2) As used in this section:

(a) "Approved collection site" means a site approved by the department for the collection of unused household medications.

(b) "Carrier" means an entity approved by the department to transport unused household medications from approved collection sites to a disposal location.

(c) "Disposal location" means a site approved by the department where unused household medications are destroyed in compliance with applicable laws so that the household medications are in a nonretrievable state and cannot be diverted for illicit purposes.

(d) "Household medications" means controlled substances approved for collection by federal law, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications in the possession of an individual.

(3) (a) Subject to available funds, the executive director of the department shall establish a household medication take-back program to collect and dispose of unused household medications. The program must allow for individuals to dispose of unused household medications at approved collection sites and for carriers to transport unused household medications from approved collection sites to disposal locations.

(b) Starting in the 2020-21 fiscal year, the executive director of the department shall use the money appropriated to the department pursuant to subsection (5)(b) of this section to implement a process for the safe collection and disposal of needles, syringes, and other devices used to inject medication. The executive director of the department shall determine the processes and locations for the safe collection and disposal of medication injection devices.

(4) A collection site, carrier, or disposal location is not subject to liability for incidents arising from the collection, transport, or disposal of household medications if the collection site, carrier, or disposal location complies with the household medication take-back program in good faith and does not violate any applicable laws.

(5) (a) The household medication take-back cash fund is created in the state treasury for the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation of this section. The fund consists of money appropriated or transferred to the fund by the general assembly and any gifts, grants, and donations from any public or private entity. The department shall transmit gifts, grants, and donations collected by the department to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the fund. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly.

(b) For the 2020-21 fiscal year and each year thereafter, the general assembly shall appropriate money from the general fund to the department for the purpose of expanding the household medication take-back program to include the safe collection and disposal of medication injection devices pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section.

(6) Nothing in this section:

(a) Affects the authority to collect and reuse medicine pursuant to section 12-280-135 or 12-280-135.5; or

(b) Prohibits the operation of existing medication take-back and disposal programs regulated by the department.

(7) The commission may promulgate rules for the implementation of this section.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1207), ch. 238, p. 879, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2017: (1)(a) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1326, § 195, effective May 25. L. 2019: (3) and (5) amended, (SB 19-227), ch. 273, p. 2582, § 11, effective May 23; (6)(a) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1704, § 166, effective October 1. L. 2025: (6)(a) amended, (SB 25-289), ch. 273, p. 1420, § 3, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-15-329. Discharge of preproduction plastic materials prohibited - definitions - repeal.

[Editor's note: This section is effective August 12, 2027.]

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Discharge" means the introduction or addition of preproduction plastic materials through land application at a location that does not have federal interim status, a federal permit granted pursuant to the federal act, or a state permit granted by the department pursuant to section 25-15-303.

(b) (I) "Facility" means a facility that makes, uses, packages, or transports plastic pellets or other preproduction plastic materials in the state.

(II) "Facility" does not include a domestic wastewater treatment works, as defined in section 25-8-103 (5).

(c) "Land application" means a discharge being applied to the land.

(d) "Preproduction plastic materials" has the meaning set forth in section 25-8-1102.

(2) A person shall not discharge plastic pellets or other preproduction plastic materials from a facility in the state.

(3) This section is repealed, effective August 12, 2027.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (SB 26-016), ch. 30, p. 136, § 4, effective August 12, 2027; entire section repealed, (SB 26-171), ch. 220, p. 1294, § 1, effective August 12, 2027.

Editor's note: Section 5(2) of chapter 30 (SB 26-016), Session Laws of Colorado 2026, provides that the act adding this section applies to conduct occurring on or after August 12, 2027.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 26-016, see section 1 of chapter 30, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

PART 4

INFECTIOUS WASTE

25-15-401. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds that there is a need for more clarity and uniformity regarding the definition of infectious waste and in the requirements for the handling, treatment, and disposal thereof and that the absence of such clarity and the inappropriate designation of general waste as infectious waste will result in further substantial and unnecessary costs, disparity, and confusion in the management of infectious waste, ultimately affecting many business and residential operations and facilities, including the operations and quality of care rendered by health-care providers.

(2) For the purposes set forth in subsection (1) of this section, the provisions of this part 4 are enacted as a matter of statewide concern. The provisions of this part 4 shall not apply to infectious waste which is also deemed to be hazardous waste pursuant to section 25-15-101 (6), nor shall infectious waste be deemed hazardous waste solely because it is characterized as infectious waste.

(3) The general assembly further finds that, because of the nature of infectious waste and the manner of its designation as provided in this part 4 and because this part 4 recommends portions of the guidelines of the United States environmental protection agency, no rules or regulations governing the generators of infectious waste are necessary for nor shall be applicable to the implementation of this part 4. This limitation shall not be construed to limit any other rule-making which is permitted under other authorizing statutes.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1175, § 1, effective April 23. L. 92: (2) amended, p. 1261, § 25, effective August 1.

25-15-402. Infectious waste - definitions.

(1) For the purposes of this part 4 and statewide applicability:

(a) "Infectious waste" means waste capable of producing an infectious disease and requires the consideration of certain factors necessary for induction of disease. These factors include:

(I) Presence of a pathogen of sufficient virulence;

(II) Dose;

(III) Portal of entry;

(IV) Resistance of host.

(b) For a waste to be infectious, it must contain pathogens with sufficient virulence and quantity so that exposure to the waste by a susceptible host could result in disease. All the factors specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) must be present simultaneously for disease transmission to occur and must be present in a manner which constitutes a substantial risk of infection to humans.

(2) (a) Infectious waste shall be designated as such by the generator in accordance with this part 4. Such designation shall not be based solely upon any source or type of waste but shall be based upon the factors specified in subsection (1) of this section.

(b) It is recommended by the general assembly that the following categories of waste, as published in the "EPA Guide for Infectious Waste Management", May 1986, by the United States environmental protection agency, be designated as infectious:

(I) Isolation wastes from persons diagnosed as having a disease caused by an organism requiring, pursuant to recommendations by the centers for disease control in the 1988 publication "Biosafety in the Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratory" (second edition), biosafety level IV containment;

(II) Cultures and stocks of infectious agents and associated biologicals;

(III) Human blood and blood products and body fluids consisting of serum, plasma and other blood components, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, and amniotic fluid;

(IV) Human pathological/anatomical waste consisting of tissues and body parts that are discarded from surgical, obstetrical, autopsy, and laboratory procedures;

(V) Contaminated sharps;

(VI) Contaminated laboratory or research animal carcasses, body parts, and bedding.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1176, § 1, effective April 23.

25-15-402.5. Disposition of fetal tissue.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "fetal death" means death prior to the complete expulsion or extraction from its mother of a product of human conception, irrespective of the duration of pregnancy. The death is indicated by the fact that after such expulsion or extraction the fetus does not breathe or show any other evidence of life such as beating of the heart, pulsation of the umbilical cord, or definite movement of voluntary muscles.

(2) Nothing in this part 4 shall be deemed to prohibit the treatment of the remains from a fetal death pursuant to article 135 of title 12.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 1032, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2019: (2) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1705, § 167, effective October 1.

25-15-403. Generator management plan.

(1) Each generator of infectious waste shall develop and implement an on-site infectious waste management plan which is appropriate for the particular facility. Such plan shall include:

(a) The designation of infectious waste generated by the facility;

(b) The handling of infectious waste which includes segregation, identification, packaging, storage, transportation, treatment techniques for each waste type, if applicable, and disposal;

(c) Contingency planning for spills or loss of containment;

(d) Staff training and the designation of a person responsible for implementation of the management plan;

(e) If on-site treatment is not available, the management plan shall provide for appropriate off-site treatment or disposal.

(2) The management plan, including the documentation provided in section 25-15-404 (2), shall be available for inspection to the hauler of any waste, to the disposal facility, and to the licensing or regulatory agency, if applicable, of the generator.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1177, § 1, effective April 23.

25-15-404. On-site disinfection.

(1) Any infectious waste which has been appropriately treated at the site of generation by the generator so as to render it noninfectious shall not thereafter be deemed infectious for purposes of handling or disposal.

(2) Appropriate treatment shall include any method of treatment which renders the infectious waste noninfectious. Use of a treatment method recommended by the United States environmental protection agency, as published in the "EPA Guide for Infectious Waste Management", May 1986, shall be conclusively presumed to be an appropriate treatment method. Any method of treatment shall include:

(a) Documentation by the generator that the method of treatment utilized for his operation is effective in rendering infectious waste noninfectious in such operation;

(b) Written standard operating procedures for the use of or implementation of the treatment method;

(c) Regular monitoring of the standard operating procedures and the effectiveness of such disinfective method.

(3) Upon request of the chairman of either the senate or house of representatives committees on health, environment, welfare, and institutions, or any successor committees, the department of public health and environment shall make a report to the senate and house of representatives committees on health, environment, welfare, and institutions, or any successor committees, on the current status, in view of scientific knowledge and technology, of the recommendations contained in the "EPA Guide for Infectious Waste Management", May 1986, and may make any additional recommendations it deems necessary.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1177, § 1, effective April 23. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2792, § 531, effective July 1. L. 2007: (3) amended, p. 2042, § 68, effective June 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-15-405. Appropriate treatment and disposal - nonliability.

(1) A generator of infectious waste using an appropriate treatment method with appropriate documentation as provided in section 25-15-404 (2) and, in good faith, utilizing disposal facilities for such waste shall not be civilly or criminally liable for injuries or damages allegedly resulting from the infectious character of such waste; except that any generator who does not use an appropriate treatment method or any generator who fails to utilize disposal facilities in good faith shall not be relieved of civil or criminal liability.

(2) When any infectious waste has been appropriately treated, the generator shall either identify it as such or provide the hauler and disposal facility with a written statement that its general waste includes infectious waste which has been appropriately treated to render it noninfectious.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1177, § 1, effective April 23.

25-15-406. Penalty.

(1) (a) Any generator who knowingly removes, causes to be removed, or allows to be removed from the site of generation any infectious waste which he knew was not appropriately treated and not identified as untreated when such infectious waste was so removed from the site of generation shall be subject to the civil penalties set forth in paragraph (b) of this subsection (1).

(b) Upon conviction of a first offense, a generator shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than three thousand dollars per day for each day of violation, not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars. Upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense which occurs within five years of a previous conviction, a generator shall be subject to a civil penalty of three thousand dollars per day for each day of violation, not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars.

(2) (a) Any person who knowingly hauls untreated infectious waste and recklessly spills or loses such waste or knowingly disposes of such waste at an unlawful site or disposal or treatment facility shall be subject to the civil penalties set forth in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2).

(b) Upon conviction of a first offense, a person shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than three thousand dollars per day for each day of violation, not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars. Upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense which occurs within five years of a previous conviction, a person shall be subject to a civil penalty of three thousand dollars per day, not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars.

(3) All civil penalties set forth in this section shall be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction upon action instituted by the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1178, § 1, effective April 23. L. 94: (3) amended, p. 2792, § 532, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (3), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-15-407. Presumption of noninfectiousness.

It is conclusively presumed that any infectious waste which has been appropriately treated and documented in section 25-15-404 (2) either on the site or off the site is not infectious after it has been so treated.

Source: L. 89: Entire part added, p. 1178, § 1, effective April 23.

PART 5

HAZARDOUS WASTE INCINERATOR OR PROCESSOR SITES

25-15-501. Short title.

This part 5 shall be known and may be cited as the "State Hazardous Waste Incinerator or Processor Siting Act".

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1264, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 87, § 1, effective March 22.

25-15-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Existing hazardous waste incinerator" means a hazardous waste incinerator that was in active operation, as authorized by applicable federal and state laws and regulations, on or before August 21, 1991.

(1.5) "Existing hazardous waste processor" means a hazardous waste processing facility that was in active operation, regardless of the amount of hazardous waste treated annually, as authorized by applicable federal and state laws and rules, on or before March 22, 2002.

(2) "Governing body having jurisdiction" means the board of county commissioners if a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site is located in any unincorporated portion of a county and means the governing body of the appropriate municipality if a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site is located within an incorporated area.

(3) (a) "Hazardous waste incinerator" means:

(I) Any hazardous waste incinerator as defined in regulations of the commission promulgated pursuant to section 25-15-302; or

(II) Any boiler or industrial furnace that burns hazardous waste, as defined in subpart B of part 260 of title 40, code of federal regulations, as from time to time amended, until such time as the commission, pursuant to section 25-15-302, promulgates a definition of boiler or industrial furnace, at which time such state definition shall operate in lieu of the foregoing federal definition. Such term shall include, but is not limited to, any cement kiln, lime kiln, aggregate kiln, or blast furnace.

(b) The term "hazardous waste incinerator" excludes any facility for incineration of a hazardous waste performing on-site remediation pursuant to the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980".

(4) (a) "Hazardous waste processing" means both of the following, except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (4):

(I) Any treatment method, technique, or process designed to change the physical, chemical, or biological character or composition of acute hazardous waste, as defined in rules of the commission promulgated pursuant to part 3 of this article, in order to neutralize such waste, reduce the volume of such waste, or render such waste less hazardous, safer for transport, amenable to recovery or use, or amenable to storage; and

(II) Any acute hazardous waste processing, as defined in rules of the commission promulgated pursuant to section 25-15-302.

(b) "Hazardous waste processing" does not include:

(I) The treatment of less than one thousand kilograms of acute hazardous waste per year;

(II) The treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste pursuant to a certificate of designation issued under, or otherwise regulated by, part 2 of this article;

(III) The processing of hazardous waste that is not listed as acute hazardous waste in rules of the commission promulgated pursuant to part 3 of this article;

(IV) The processing of any hazardous waste pursuant to any record of decision, consent decree, or administrative order authorized by or made pursuant to applicable federal or state laws and rules, as amended or revised, or any record of decision issued pursuant to a periodic revision of a record of decision that was made on or before March 22, 2002;

(V) The performance of on-site processing or treatment of hazardous waste associated with efforts to clean up contaminated soil, groundwater, or surface water pursuant to federal or state environmental laws;

(VI) The processing of hazardous waste incidental to commercial manufacturing;

(VII) The treatment, storage, management, or processing of solid waste pursuant to a certificate of designation issued under article 20 of title 30, C.R.S.;

(VIII) The conduct of any activities pursuant to an approved reclamation plan contained in a permit issued under, or otherwise regulated by, article 32 or 33 of title 34, C.R.S.; or

(IX) The conduct of any activities regulated under article 60 of title 34, C.R.S.

(5) "Hazardous waste processor" means a facility that engages in hazardous waste processing subject to the requirement for a part B permit or interim status under rules of the commission promulgated pursuant to section 25-15-302.

(6) "Hazardous waste processor site" means a location where hazardous waste is:

(a) Processed; or

(b) Generated or stored by the owner of a hazardous waste processor or by an affiliate or customer of a hazardous waste processor who produces hazardous waste.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1264, § 1, effective July 1; (3)(a) and (3)(b) amended, p. 1261, § 26, effective August 1. L. 93: (3) amended, p. 267, § 1, effective April 3. L. 2002: (1.5), (4), (5), and (6) added and (2) amended, p. 87, § 2, effective March 22.

25-15-503. Certificate required - incineration or processing of hazardous waste prohibited - exceptions.

(1) Any person desiring to own or operate a hazardous waste incinerator or processor shall first obtain a certificate of designation from the governing body having jurisdiction over the area in which such proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor site is located.

(2) Hazardous waste incineration or processing by any person is prohibited except on or at a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site for which a certificate of designation has been obtained as provided in this part 5.

(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section and section 25-15-507, any existing hazardous waste incinerator or processor shall be an approved activity for which obtaining a certificate of designation under the provisions of this part 5 shall be unnecessary.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1265, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 89, § 3, effective March 22.

25-15-504. Application for certificate - review by governing body.

(1) Any person desiring to own or operate a hazardous waste incinerator or processor shall make application to the governing body having jurisdiction over the area in which such incinerator, incinerator site, processor, or processor site is or is proposed to be located for a certificate of designation.

(2) An application made pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall be accompanied by a fee to be established by the governing body having jurisdiction. Such fee shall be based on the reasonable anticipated costs that may be incurred by such governing body in the application review and approval process imposed by this article. Such fee shall be for the reasonable costs necessary in the application review and hearing process imposed by this article and shall not exceed one hundred thousand dollars. The local governing body having jurisdiction shall provide an accounting of the actual costs incurred by such body in the application review and hearing process and shall refund any payment in excess of such costs within ninety days after completion of the certification process.

(3) An application made pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall set forth the location of the incinerator or processor site and incinerator or processor, the types of hazardous waste to be accepted or rejected, the types of incinerator or processor by-product disposal, the method of supervision, the anticipated access routes in the county in which the site is located, and such other information as may be required by the governing body having jurisdiction.

(4) The clerk of the governing body having jurisdiction shall promptly notify the county commissioners and the governing body of any other county or municipality within twenty miles of a proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor upon the filing of any application for a certificate of designation for such incinerator, processor, or site.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1265, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 89, § 4, effective March 22.

25-15-505. Grounds for approval.

(1) A governing body having jurisdiction shall approve or disapprove an application for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site certificate of designation within one hundred eighty days after receiving such application. Such governing body having jurisdiction may approve an application for a certificate of designation upon a finding of all of the following factors:

(a) That the proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor site would not pose a significant threat to the health or safety of the public or the environment, taking into consideration:

(I) The density of population in the areas neighboring such proposed site;

(II) The density of population in the areas that are adjacent to any portion of delivery roads to such proposed site and that lie within a fifty-mile radius of such proposed site; and

(III) The risk of accidents or crashes occurring during the transportation of waste to or at the proposed site;

(b) That the applicant has documented such applicant's financial ability to operate the proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor;

(c) That the applicant, taking into account such applicant's prior performance records, if any, in the treatment, storage, disposal, processing, or incineration of hazardous waste, has documented sufficient reliability, expertise, and competency to operate and manage the proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor; and

(d) That the proposed site conforms to the comprehensive land use plans and relevant land use regulations of the governing body having jurisdiction; except that, to the extent the commission has promulgated a rule imposing a condition on incinerator or processor operation pursuant to section 25-15-302, such comprehensive land use plans and rules shall not impose a condition more stringent than that contained in such state rule.

(2) In considering an application for a proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor, the governing body having jurisdiction shall take into account the effect that such hazardous waste incinerator or processor will have on the surrounding property, taking into consideration the types of processing to be used, wind and climatic conditions, and both the quality and quantity of public and private infrastructure necessary to facilitate the construction and subsequent operation of such incinerator, processor, or site.

(3) (a) Prior to the issuance of a certificate of designation for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor, the application, comprehensive land use plans, any relevant zoning ordinances, and any other pertinent information shall be presented to the governing body having jurisdiction at a public hearing to be held after notice. Such notice shall contain the date, time, and location of the hearing and shall state that the matter to be considered at such hearing is the applicant's application for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor. Such notice shall be published in a newspaper having general circulation in the county or municipality in which the proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor site is located at least ten days but no more than thirty days prior to the date of such hearing. Any such notice shall be printed prominently in at least ten-point, bold-faced type. Such notice shall be posted at the proposed hazardous waste incinerator or processor site for a period beginning at least thirty days before such public hearing and continuing through the date of such hearing.

(b) At any public hearing held pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), the governing body having jurisdiction shall hear or receive any written or oral testimony presented by the applicant and by governmental entities and residents or any interested party concerning such proposed incinerator or processor site. All such testimony shall be considered by the governing body having jurisdiction in making a decision concerning such application.

(4) The governing body having jurisdiction shall notify the department of the approval or disapproval of any application for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor certificate of designation within five days after such approval or disapproval.

(5) The governing body having jurisdiction over a hazardous waste incinerator or processor may enact local procedural rules in order to implement the provisions of this part 5. If a local procedural rule conflicts with any of the provisions of this article, the provisions of this article shall control.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1266, § 1, effective July 1; (1)(d) amended, p. 1261, § 27, effective August 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 90, § 5, effective March 22. L. 2026: (1)(a)(III) amended, (HB 26-1237), ch. 117, p. 469, § 21, effective August 12.

25-15-506. Certificate.

(1) A certificate of designation for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site shall identify the general types of waste that shall be incinerated or processed and the types of waste that shall be rejected by such hazardous waste incinerator or processor site, subject to a more specific statement of waste to be rejected in the hazardous waste permit issued pursuant to part 3 of this article or the federal act.

(2) Such certificate of designation shall be displayed in a prominent place at the hazardous waste incinerator or processor site.

(3) Such certificate of designation may provide such conditions as may reasonably be necessary for the safe operation of such site. Such conditions may include but are not limited to the provision by the site owner or operator of additional fire protection, security, or trained personnel for monitoring, inspections, and incident responses.

(4) A certificate of designation issued pursuant to this part 5 shall be deemed to satisfy any requirement imposed by part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., for a certificate of designation as a solid wastes disposal site and facility.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1268, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) and (2) amended, p. 91, § 6, effective March 22.

25-15-507. Substantial change in ownership, design, or operation.

(1) Any substantial change in the ownership of a hazardous waste incinerator or processor, including but not limited to an assignment or a transfer of the certificate of designation, or in the design or operation of a hazardous waste incinerator, incinerator site, processor, or processor site shall be submitted to the governing body having jurisdiction for its approval. Approval by the governing body having jurisdiction shall be required before such a substantial change may become effective. For the purposes of this section, "substantial change" shall have such meaning as is provided for such term in the rules of the commission promulgated pursuant to section 25-15-510.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, approval of a substantial change under this section shall be made if the governing body having jurisdiction finds all of the factors required by the provisions of section 25-15-505 (1) and has considered the factor provided in section 25-15-505 (2).

(3) A substantial change involving only a change in ownership, including an assignment or transfer of the certificate of designation, shall be made if the governing body having jurisdiction finds the factors required in section 25-15-505 (1)(b) and (1)(c).

(4) An application for approval of a substantial change under this section shall be accompanied by a fee established by the governing body having jurisdiction, which fee shall not exceed ten thousand dollars and which fee may be refunded in whole or in part.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1268, § 1, effective July 1; (1) amended, p. 1261, § 28, effective August 1. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 92, § 7, effective March 22.

25-15-508. Revocation or suspension of certificate.

(1) A governing body having jurisdiction that has granted a certificate of designation for a hazardous waste incinerator or processor may revoke or suspend such certificate of designation if such governing body having jurisdiction finds that:

(a) There was a material misrepresentation or misstatement of fact in the application for such certificate of designation;

(b) Such hazardous waste incinerator or processor is not being operated in substantial compliance with any term, condition, or limitation of its certificate of designation or any applicable rule adopted pursuant to this part 5; or

(c) The owner or operator of such hazardous waste incinerator or processor has failed to pay the annual fee to the governing body having jurisdiction as required by the provisions of section 25-15-515 (1).

(2) The revocation or suspension of a certificate of designation shall not relieve the owner or operator of the hazardous waste incinerator or processor from any legal liability.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1269, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 92, § 8, effective March 22.

25-15-509. Judicial review.

The award, denial, revocation, or suspension of a certificate of designation by the governing body having jurisdiction shall be subject to judicial review in the district court for the judicial district in which the hazardous waste incinerator or processor is located or is proposed to be located. Any request for such judicial review shall be made within thirty days after such award, denial, revocation, or suspension. If the court finds that the governing body having jurisdiction has acted reasonably and in accordance with the procedures and procedural limitations of this part 5, the court shall affirm the action of the governing body having jurisdiction. If the court finds that the action is arbitrary and capricious, not in accord with the procedures or procedural limitations of this part 5, unsupported by substantial evidence when the record is considered as a whole, or otherwise contrary to law, then the court shall hold unlawful and set aside the action and shall remand the case to the governing body having jurisdiction for further proceedings as appropriate.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1269, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 92, § 9, effective March 22.

25-15-510. Rules - limitations.

(1) The commission may promulgate rules establishing what constitutes a substantial change in ownership, design, or operation of a hazardous waste incinerator or processor under the provisions of section 25-15-507.

(2) The regulations promulgated by the commission pursuant to this section shall be based upon generally accepted scientific data.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1269, § 1, effective July 1; entire section amended, p. 1262, § 29, effective August 1. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 93, § 10, effective March 22.

25-15-511. List of hazardous wastes - final inventory.

The operator of any hazardous waste incinerator or processor site shall maintain a list of the hazardous wastes accepted for incineration or processing at such site. Such list shall indicate the types of hazardous waste accepted for incineration or processing at such hazardous waste incinerator or processor and the location of such waste. A copy of such list shall be provided to any person upon request and upon payment of a reasonable charge for the costs of the reproduction of such list. Upon the closure of a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site, a final inventory of hazardous wastes shall be prepared and filed with the department. The department shall make any such final inventory available for public inspection and copying at reasonable cost.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1270, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 93, § 11, effective March 22.

25-15-512. Inspections of hazardous waste incinerator or processor sites.

(1) The department shall conduct inspections of each hazardous waste incinerator or processor site at intervals determined by rules of the commission based upon the volume and toxicity of the wastes being received at such site. Such inspections shall include, but are not limited to, inspections conducted during the reception of hazardous wastes, during the incineration of hazardous wastes, during the processing of hazardous wastes, and during the shipment of incineration or processing by-products. The department shall be permitted reasonable access to all operations at any hazardous waste incinerator or processor site for the purpose of monitoring and inspecting such operations. Unless an emergency exists at such site, or unless the department has reason to believe that unlawful activity is being conducted or will be conducted at such site, the department shall provide prior notification of the inspection and shall conduct such inspection during normal business hours.

(2) The governing body having jurisdiction over any hazardous waste incinerator or processor site or the governing body of any other county or municipality having jurisdiction over such site pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement shall have physical and structural access to such site during the operating hours of such site for the purpose of periodic inspections by the agents of such governing body.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1270, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 1787, § 70, effective June 6. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 93, § 12, effective March 22.

25-15-513. Violation - criminal penalty.

Any person who violates any provision of this part 5 commits a petty offense and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1270, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1538, § 271, effective October 1. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 475, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2002 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 318, Session Laws of Colorado 2002.

25-15-514. Violation - civil penalty - reimbursement of costs.

(1) Any person who violates any provision of this part 5 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars per day of violation. Such penalty shall be determined and collected by the district court for the judicial district in which such violation occurs upon action instituted by the department or the governing body having jurisdiction. In determining the amount of any such penalty, the court shall take into account the seriousness of the violation, whether the violation was willful or due to mistake, the economic impact of the penalty on the violator, and any other relevant factors. All penalties collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit fifty percent of such moneys to the general fund and shall transmit the remaining fifty percent of such moneys to the governing body having jurisdiction.

(2) If the violation of the provisions of this part 5 for which a penalty has been assessed and paid into the general fund pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section results in a county, municipality, or other local government incurring costs to remove, contain, or otherwise mitigate the effects of the hazardous waste which was involved in the violation, such local government shall be entitled to reimbursement for such costs. A local government requesting reimbursement of such costs shall file a claim for reimbursement with the state treasurer. The state treasurer shall make reimbursements out of any funds attributable to the civil penalty imposed for such violation pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1271, § 1, effective July 1.

25-15-515. Annual fees - commercial hazardous waste incinerator or processor funds.

(1) (a) The owner or operator of any hazardous waste incinerator or processor for which a certificate of designation has been issued pursuant to this article shall be required, contingent upon the issuance of federal or state permits, to pay the governing body having jurisdiction an annual fee for the purpose of offsetting the estimated direct costs necessitated by such hazardous waste incinerator or processor. The governing body having jurisdiction shall provide the owner or operator of such hazardous waste incinerator or processor with an accounting of the basis of such fees. Such costs may include but are not limited to the improvement and maintenance of roads and bridges; fire protection; law enforcement; monitoring by county or municipal health officials pursuant to the requirements of state law, rules, and the certificate of designation; and emergency preparation and response. The amount of such fee shall be no more than the greater of two percent of the annual estimated operating cost of or the annual estimated gross revenue received for the incineration or processing of hazardous wastes by the hazardous waste incinerator or processor. The governing body having jurisdiction may provide reimbursement out of such fee moneys to other governmental units for the reasonable direct costs to such governmental units of increased services necessitated by such hazardous waste incinerator or processor.

(b) In lieu of the annual fees imposed under paragraph (a) of this subsection (1), the governing body may request that the owner or operator of any hazardous waste incinerator or processor site make a lump-sum payment covering the total amount of fees imposed under this section. Such lump sum payment shall not be made unless the governing body having jurisdiction and the owner or operator of a hazardous waste incinerator or processor agree to such payment.

(2) In the event that the owner or operator of a hazardous waste incinerator or processor site fails to pay the annual fee imposed pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the governing body having jurisdiction may suspend the certificate of designation for such site until such annual fee has been paid.

(3) Any governing body having jurisdiction is authorized to establish a hazardous waste incinerator or processor fund. All fees collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be deposited to the credit of said fund and appropriated by the governing body for the purposes for which such fees are collected.

Source: L. 92: Entire part added, p. 1271, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 94, § 13, effective March 22. L. 2004: (1)(b) amended, p. 1202, § 67, effective August 4.

PART 6

PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL CHEMICALS

Law reviews: For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-15-601. Short title.

The short title of this part 6 is the "Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Chemicals Protection Act".

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2426, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-081), ch. 147, p. 593, § 1, effective May 1.

25-15-602. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Contamination of the soil and water in the state from PFAS chemicals poses a significant threat to the environment of the state and the health of its residents;

(b) A growing body of scientific research has found that exposure to PFAS chemicals may lead to serious and harmful health effects;

(c) The full extent of the contamination of PFAS chemicals in the soil and water of the state is not currently known but is anticipated to be widespread and to require a significant expenditure of resources to be identified and remediated;

(d) PFAS chemicals continue to be used in products across a variety of industries and for many different purposes;

(e) PFAS chemicals are not necessary in many products and could be replaced with less harmful chemicals or technologies; and

(f) If the widespread sale and distribution of products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals and the installation of artificial turf that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals continue in the state:

(I) There is a larger risk of PFAS chemicals migrating into the natural environment;

(II) Residents of the state will likely suffer adverse health effects from exposure to PFAS chemicals; and

(III) The state and local communities will be burdened with the testing, monitoring, and clean-up costs necessary to keep residents safe from exposure to PFAS chemicals.

(2) The general assembly therefore determines and declares that it is imperative for the health and safety of the state's residents to create a regulatory scheme that:

(a) Phases out the sale or distribution of certain products and product categories in the state that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals; and

(b) Prohibits the installation of artificial turf that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2426, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2024: IP(1), IP(1)(f), and (2) amended, (SB 24-081), ch. 147, p. 593, § 2, effective May 1.

25-15-603. Definitions - repeal.

As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Adult mattress" means a mattress product that is not a crib or a toddler mattress.

(1.5) "Apparel" means:

(a) Clothing items intended for regular wear or formal occasions, including athletic wear, bibs, bodysuits, costumes, dancewear, diapers, dresses, everyday swimwear, everyday work uniforms, footwear, formal wear, leggings, leisurewear, onesies, overalls, pants, saris, scarves, school uniforms, shirts, skirts, sports uniforms, suits, tops, undergarments, and vests; and

(b) Outdoor apparel.

(1.7) (a) "Automotive cleaning product" means a chemically formulated consumer product labeled to indicate that the purpose of the product is to maintain the appearance of a motor vehicle, including products for washing, waxing, polishing, cleaning, or treating the exterior or interior surfaces of motor vehicles.

(b) "Automotive cleaning product" does not include automotive paint or paint repair products.

(2) "Carpet or rug" means a fabric product marketed or intended for use as a floor covering in households or businesses.

(2.5) (a) "Cleaning product" means a finished product used primarily for domestic, commercial, or institutional cleaning purposes.

(b) "Cleaning product" includes an air care product, an automotive cleaning product, a general cleaning product, and a polish or floor maintenance product.

(3) "Consumer" means the end user of a product.

(4) (a) "Cookware" means a durable houseware product that is used in residences or kitchens to prepare, dispense, or store food or beverages.

(b) "Cookware" includes pots, pans, skillets, grills, baking sheets, baking molds, trays, bowls, and cooking utensils.

(c) "Cookware" does not include food equipment intended primarily for use in commercial settings, including food equipment sold to a business that has a retail food establishment license.

(5) (a) "Cosmetic" means a product that is intended to be rubbed or introduced into; poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on; or otherwise applied to the human body for cleaning, cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance.

(b) "Cosmetic" includes a skin moisturizer, perfume, lipstick, nail polish, eye or facial makeup preparation, shampoo, conditioner, permanent wave, hair dye, and deodorant.

(c) "Cosmetic" does not include a product that requires a prescription for distribution or dispensation.

(d) (I) "Cosmetic" does not include hydrofluoroolefins used as propellants in cosmetics.

(II) This subsection (5)(d) is repealed, effective January 1, 2027.

(6) Repealed.

(7) "Drilling fluid" means a fluid that is circulated into the borehole of a well to lubricate and cool the drill bit.

(8) Repealed.

(9) (a) "Fabric treatment" means a product applied to fabric to give the fabric one or more characteristics, including stain resistance and water resistance.

(b) (I) "Fabric treatment" does not include hydrofluoroolefins used as propellants in fabric treatments.

(II) This subsection (9)(b) is repealed, effective January 1, 2027.

(10) "Food package" or "food packaging" means a package or packaging component used in direct contact with food and that is composed, in substantial part, of paper, paperboard, or other materials originally derived from plant fibers.

(11) "Hydraulic fracturing fluid" means the fluid, including the applicable base fluid and any additives, injected into an oil or gas well to perform hydraulic fracturing operations.

(12) (a) "Intentionally added PFAS chemicals" means PFAS chemicals that a manufacturer has intentionally added to a product and that have a functional or technical effect on the product.

(b) "Intentionally added PFAS chemicals" includes PFAS chemicals that are intentional breakdown products of an added chemical.

(13) (a) "Juvenile product" means a product designed for use by infants or children under twelve years of age.

(b) "Juvenile product" includes:

(I) Bassinets and other bedside sleepers;

(II) Booster seats, car seats, and other child restraint systems;

(III) Changing pads;

(IV) Co-sleepers;

(V) Crib or toddler mattresses;

(VI) Floor play mats;

(VII) Highchairs and highchair pads;

(VIII) Infant bouncers;

(IX) Infant carriers;

(X) Infant or toddler foam pillows;

(XI) Infant seats;

(XII) Infant sleep positioners;

(XIII) Infant swings;

(XIV) Infant travel beds;

(XV) Infant walkers;

(XVI) Nap cots;

(XVII) Nursing pads and pillows;

(XVIII) Play mats;

(XIX) Playpens;

(XX) Play yards;

(XXI) Polyurethane foam mats, pads, or pillows;

(XXII) Portable foam nap mats;

(XXIII) Portable infant sleepers and hook-on chairs;

(XXIV) Soft-sided portable cribs; and

(XXV) Strollers.

(c) "Juvenile product" does not include:

(I) Electronic products, including:

(A) Personal computers and any associated equipment;

(B) Audio and video equipment;

(C) Calculators;

(D) Wireless phones;

(E) Gaming consoles;

(F) Handheld devices incorporating a video screen; and

(G) Any associated peripheral device such as a mouse, keyboard, power supply unit, or power cord;

(II) An internal component of a juvenile product that would not come into direct contact with a child's skin or mouth during reasonably foreseeable use and abuse of the product; or

(III) Adult mattresses.

(14) (a) "Manufacturer" means the person that manufactures or assembles a product or whose brand name is affixed to a product.

(b) "Manufacturer" includes, if a product is imported into the United States and the manufacturer does not have a presence in the United States, the importer or first domestic distributor of the product.

(15) "Oil and gas operations" has the meaning set forth in section 34-60-103.

(16) "Oil and gas products" means hydraulic fracturing fluids, drilling fluids, and proppants.

(16.5) (a) "Outdoor apparel" means apparel intended primarily for use in outdoor activities, including bicycling, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, and skiing.

(b) "Outdoor apparel" does not include outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions.

(16.7) (a) "Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions" means outdoor apparel that is:

(I) An extreme and extended use product that provides protection against extended exposure to extreme rain conditions or against extended immersion in water or wet conditions, such as snow conditions, in order to protect the health and safety of the user;

(II) Designed for use by outdoor sports experts; and

(III) Not marketed for general consumer use.

(b) "Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions" includes outerwear intended for use in offshore fishing, offshore sailing, whitewater kayaking, and mountaineering.

(c) "Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions" does not include personal flotation devices made for the health and safety of the user.

(17) "Package" means material that is intended or used to contain, protect, handle, deliver, or present a product.

(18) "Packaging component" means an individual part of a package, including interior or exterior blocking, bracing, cushioning, weatherproofing, exterior strapping, coatings, closures, inks, and labels.

(19) "PFAS chemicals" has the meaning set forth in section 25-5-1302 (7).

(20) (a) "Product" means an item that is manufactured, assembled, or otherwise prepared for sale or distribution to consumers and that is sold or distributed for personal, residential, commercial, or industrial use, including for use in making other products.

(b) "Product" includes any product components.

(c) "Product" does not include:

(I) Drugs, medical devices, biologics, or diagnostics used in a medical setting or in medical applications regulated by the federal food and drug administration;

(II) Veterinary pesticide and parasiticide products approved by the federal environmental protection agency or the federal department of agriculture for use in animals;

(II.5) Biologics or diagnostics approved by the federal department of agriculture for use in a veterinary setting or in veterinary applications; or

(III) Packaging used for the products described in subsections (20)(c)(I), (20)(c)(II), or (20)(c)(II.5) of this section.

(d) "Product" does not include a used product offered for sale or resale.

(21) "Product category" means a class or division of products that share related characteristics.

(22) "Product component" means an identifiable component of a product, regardless of whether the manufacturer of the product is the manufacturer of the component.

(23) "Proppants" means materials that are inserted or injected into an underground geologic formation during oil and gas operations in order to prevent fractures from closing.

(23.5) "Ski wax" means a lubricant applied to the bottom of snow runners, including skis and snowboards, to improve the grip or glide properties of the snow runners.

(24) (a) "Textile" means any product made in whole or in part from a natural or synthetic fiber, yarn, or fabric.

(b) "Textile" includes leather, cotton, silk, jute, hemp, wool, nylon, and polyester.

(c) "Textile" does not include textiles used in medical, professional, or industrial settings.

(24.5) (a) "Textile article" means a textile that is primarily used in households and businesses.

(b) "Textile article" includes accessories, apparel, backpacks, and handbags.

(c) "Textile article" does not include:

(I) Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions;

(II) Outdoor textile furnishings;

(III) Outdoor upholstered furniture; and

(IV) Textile articles used in medical, professional, or industrial settings.

(25) (a) "Textile furnishings" means textiles of a type customarily used in households and businesses, including draperies, floor coverings, furnishings, bedding, towels, and tablecloths.

(b) "Textile furnishings" does not include textile furnishings used in medical, professional, or industrial settings.

(26) "Upholstered furniture" means any article of furniture that is:

(a) Designed for sitting, resting, or reclining; and

(b) Wholly or partially stuffed with filling material.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2427, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2024: (1.5), (1.7), (2.5), (4)(c), (16.5), (16.7), (23.5), and (24.5) added, (6) and (8) repealed, and (20)(c) amended, (SB 24-081), ch. 147, p. 594, § 3, effective May 1; (15) amended, (HB 24-1346), ch. 216, p. 1343, § 16, effective May 21.

25-15-604. Prohibition on the sale or distribution of certain consumer products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals - product disclosure requirements - repeal.

(1) On and after January 1, 2024, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use in the state any product in any of the following product categories if the product contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals:

(a) Carpets or rugs;

(b) Fabric treatments;

(c) Food packaging;

(d) Juvenile products; and

(e) Oil and gas products.

(2) Repealed.

(2.5) (a) On and after January 1, 2025, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use in the state, including in an internet listing or transaction, an outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions product that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals unless the product is accompanied by a legible and easily discernible disclosure that includes the phrase "made with PFAS chemicals".

(b) This subsection (2.5) is repealed, effective January 1, 2028.

(3) On and after January 1, 2025, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use the following products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals:

(a) Cosmetics;

(b) Indoor textile furnishings; and

(c) Indoor upholstered furniture.

(3.5) On and after January 1, 2026, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use in the state the following products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals:

(a) Cleaning products, except for cleaning products that are floor maintenance products used in hospital or medical settings;

(b) Cookware;

(c) Dental floss;

(d) Menstruation products; and

(e) Ski wax.

(4) On and after January 1, 2027, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use the following products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals:

(a) Outdoor textile furnishings; and

(b) Outdoor upholstered furniture.

(5) On and after January 1, 2028, a person shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use the following products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals:

(a) Cleaning products that are floor maintenance products used in hospital or medical settings;

(b) Textile articles;

(c) Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions; and

(d) Food equipment intended primarily for use in commercial settings that comes into direct contact with food.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1345), ch. 338, p. 2431, § 1, effective June 3. L. 2024: (2)(g), (2.5), (3.5), and (5) added, (SB 24-081), ch. 147, p. 596, § 4, effective May 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(g) provided for the repeal of subsection (2), effective January 1, 2026. (See L. 2024, p. 596.)

25-15-605. Prohibition on the installation of artificial turf that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals.

(1) On and after January 1, 2026, a person shall not install artificial turf that contains intentionally added PFAS chemicals on any portion of property in the state.

(2) Nothing in this section prohibits a person from maintaining artificial turf installed before January 1, 2026.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-081), ch. 147, p. 597, § 5, effective May 1.

ARTICLE 16

Hazardous Waste Sites

PART 1
CLEANUP

25-16-101. Legislative declaration.

25-16-102. Definitions.

25-16-103. Authorization to participate - implementation.

25-16-104. Financial participation.

25-16-104.5. Solid waste user fee - imposed - rate - legislative declaration - rules - repeal.

25-16-104.6. Fund established - administration - revenue sources - use.

25-16-104.7. Natural resource damage recoveries - fund created.

25-16-104.8. Report required. (Repealed)

25-16-104.9. Hazardous substance site response fund - creation - transfer - use - definition.

25-16-105. Repeal of part - repeal of various sections. (Repealed)

PART 2
RECOVERIES PURSUANT TO FEDERAL LAW - DISPOSITION

25-16-201. (Repealed)

PART 3
VOLUNTARY CLEAN-UP AND REDEVELOPMENT ACT

25-16-301. Short title.

25-16-302. Legislative declaration.

25-16-303. Voluntary clean-up and redevelopment program - general provisions - fees - access to property during reviews.

25-16-304. Voluntary clean-up plan.

25-16-305. Remediation alternatives.

25-16-306. Approval of voluntary clean-up plan - time limits - contents of notice - conditions under which approval is void - expiration of approval.

25-16-307. No action determinations.

25-16-308. Environmental assessment - requirements.

25-16-309. Coordination with other laws.

25-16-310. Enforceability of voluntary clean-up plans and no action determinations.

25-16-311. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

25-16-312. Rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement pilot grant program - fund created - definition - rules - repeal.

PART 1

CLEANUP

Law reviews: For comment, "Comprehensive General Liability Insurance Coverage for CERCLA Liabilities: A Recommendation for Judicial Adherence to State Canons of Insurance Contract Construction", see 61 U. Colo. L. Rev. 407 (1990).

25-16-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the existence of facilities subject to the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", including old radium mill residue deposits, poses a potential and significant health hazard. This article is therefore enacted to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by cooperating with the federal government in providing for the disposal and control of such wastes in a safe and environmentally sound manner to prevent or minimize other environmental impacts from such wastes and by providing for the creation of a hazardous substance response fund to provide the necessary state's share of the response costs of cleaning up such sites.

(2) The general assembly also finds and declares that in order to further the purposes of section 30-20-100.5, C.R.S., it is necessary for a portion of the solid waste user fee imposed under section 25-16-104.5 to be used for the purposes specified in part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S.

Source: L. 84: Entire article RC&RE, p. 785, § 1, effective April 12. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 915, § 1, effective July 1. L. 98: Entire section amended, p. 879, § 1, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", see 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.

25-16-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Attended solid waste disposal site" means a site established pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 30, C.R.S., at which an attendant is present during the normal hours of operation on or after December 31, 1984. This term shall not include any site which is deemed to hold a certificate of designation, but for which such certificate is not required, pursuant to section 30-20-102 (4), C.R.S.; nor shall it include any site used by a person for disposal of solid waste on his own property pursuant to section 30-20-102 (3), C.R.S.

(1.5) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created in section 25-15-302.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Federal act" means the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", as from time to time amended.

(4) "Hazardous substance" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act.

(5) "National contingency plan" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act and the OPA.

(5.3) "Oil" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the OPA.

(5.6) "OPA" means the federal "Oil Pollution Act of 1990", 33 U.S.C. sec. 2701 et seq., as amended.

(6) "Remedial action" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act.

(7) "Removal" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act.

(8) "Response" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act.

(9) "Responsible party" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in the federal act and the OPA.

(10) "Solid waste" has the same meaning as that ascribed to it in section 30-20-101 (6), C.R.S.

(11) "Waste producer" means any legal person who contracts for the transportation of waste ultimately destined for an attended solid waste disposal site.

Source: L. 84: Entire article RC&RE, p. 785, § 1, effective April 12. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 915, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) amended, p. 2792, § 533, effective July 1. L. 2010: (1.5) added, (HB 10-1329), ch. 358, p. 1702, § 1, effective June 7. L. 2016: (5) and (9) amended and (5.3) and (5.6) added, (SB 16-092), ch. 53, p. 123, § 1, effective August 10.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

(2) For the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980", see 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.

25-16-103. Authorization to participate - implementation.

(1) The general assembly hereby authorizes the department of public health and environment to participate in federal implementation of the federal act and the OPA and, for such purpose, the department has the authority to participate in the selection and performance of responses and remedial actions and to enter into cooperative agreements with the federal government providing for remedial actions and responses. The department, with the consent of the governor, has the authority to decline to participate with the federal government on remedial actions which the department determines are not in the interest of the state. Any cooperative agreements entered into under this article may provide assurances acceptable to the federal government that:

(a) The state will assure all future maintenance of the removal and remedial actions provided for the expected life of such actions;

(b) The state will assure the availability of an acceptable hazardous waste disposal facility for any necessary off-site storage, destruction, treatment, or secure disposition of the hazardous substances.

(2) Any state matching payment required by a cooperative agreement entered into pursuant to this section must be approved by the general assembly acting by bill.

Source: L. 84: Entire article RC&RE, p. 785, § 1, effective April 12. L. 88: IP(1) amended, p. 1050, § 1, effective April 4. L. 94: IP(1) amended, p. 2792, § 534, effective July 1. L. 2016: IP(1) amended, (SB 16-092), ch. 53, p. 123, § 2, effective August 10.

Cross references: (1) For the approval by the general assembly of the state matching payment as required by subsection (2) of this section, see L. 85, p. 919, § 7.

(2) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-16-104. Financial participation.

Subject to the provisions of section 25-16-103, the general assembly accepts the provisions of section 104 (c)(3)(C) of the federal act requiring the state to pay or assure payment of the necessary state share of response costs, as appropriated by the general assembly, including all future operation and maintenance costs. Any remedial action requiring state matching payment shall be explicitly approved by the general assembly acting by bill and shall be subject to appropriation.

Source: L. 84: Entire article RC&RE, p. 785, § 1, effective April 12. L. 88: Entire section amended, p. 1050, § 2, effective April 4.

Cross references: For the approval by the general assembly of the state matching payment as required by this section, see L. 85, p. 919, § 7.

25-16-104.5. Solid waste user fee - imposed - rate - legislative declaration - rules - repeal.

(1) Repealed.

(1.5) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that, for purposes of this section, a user fee is intended to be a charge imposed upon waste producers in addition to any charge specified by contract. Any such user fee imposed by this section shall be itemized and depicted on any bill, receipt, or other mechanism used for solid waste management services rendered to any person disposing of solid waste and shall be in addition to the costs of any other solid waste management services provided.

(1.7) (a) On or after July 1, 2010, the commission shall promulgate rules that establish a solid waste user fee upon each person disposing of solid waste at an attended solid waste disposal site. The operator of the site at the time of disposal shall collect the fee from waste producers or other persons disposing of solid waste. The effective date and amount of the fee shall be set by rule of the commission, and the amount shall be sufficient to offset:

(I) The department's direct and indirect costs associated with implementation of the solid waste management program under section 30-20-101.5, C.R.S.;

(II) The department's direct and indirect costs for the implementation of its responsibilities under the federal act, as described in this part 1, and to provide matching funds and cover future maintenance costs pursuant to section 25-16-103; and

(III) The anticipated payments to the department of law, pursuant to subparagraph (II) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1.7), for the direct and indirect costs of the department of law for the implementation of its responsibilities under the federal act, as described in this part 1, which costs are distinct from those described in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (a).

(b) (I) The portion of the fee collected for the costs described in subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.7) shall be transmitted to the department for deposit into the solid waste management fund created in section 30-20-118, C.R.S.

(II) The portions of the fee imposed under this subsection (1.7) that are collected for the costs described in subparagraphs (II) and (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.7) shall be transmitted to the department for deposit into the hazardous substance response fund created in section 25-16-104.6. The department may expend money from the portion of the fee collected under subparagraph (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.7) to compensate the department of law for all or a portion of the expenses incurred for services rendered under the federal act and the OPA, as billed to the department by the department of law. The department may expend money from the fees collected under this subsection (1.7) to finance the radon education and awareness program, established in section 25-11-114 (2), and the radon mitigation assistance program, established in section 25-11-114 (3).

(c) The fee established by the commission under this subsection (1.7) shall not exceed fifty cents per cubic yard of solid waste, of which no more than three and one-half cents shall pay for the costs described in subparagraph (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1.7).

(d) The department shall give the operators of attended solid waste disposal sites written notice of changes to the solid waste user fees no later than ninety days before the effective date of the changes. Failure to provide the notice required by this paragraph (d) shall invalidate the rules that changed the fees.

(2) (a) Repealed.

(a.5) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, one hundred percent of the moneys collected pursuant to subparagraph (II) of paragraph (a) of subsection (1.7) of this section from persons disposing of solid waste at an attended solid waste disposal site where a local government solid waste disposal fee is imposed to fund hazardous substance response activities at sites designated on the national priority list pursuant to the federal act shall be transmitted to the owner of the solid waste disposal site to the extent that the moneys are used to fund the response activities at the sites on the national priority list. The balance of any moneys described under this paragraph (a.5) that are not used to fund such response activities shall be credited to the hazardous substance response fund created in section 25-16-104.6.

(b) At the end of each fiscal year, the state treasurer shall transfer any moneys in the solid waste management fund created in section 30-20-118, C.R.S., that exceed sixteen and one-half percent of the moneys expended from such fund during the fiscal year to the hazardous substance response fund created in section 25-16-104.6.

(3) to (3.7) Repealed.

(3.9) (a) Beginning July 1, 2024, and subject to subsection (1.5) of this section, in addition to any other user fee imposed by this section, on or after July 1, 2007, there is imposed a user fee to fund the Colorado circular communities enterprise created in section 25-16.5-109 (3)(a). The operator of an attended solid waste disposal site located outside of the front range, including sites located in the counties of Custer, Fremont, Morgan, and Otero, unless modified pursuant to subsection (3.9)(c)(II) of this section, shall collect the fee at the time of disposal. The fee shall be imposed and passed through to waste producers and other persons disposing of waste at the following rate or at an equivalent rate established by the commission:

(I) Two cents per load transported by a motor vehicle that is commonly used for the noncommercial transport of persons over public highways;

(II) Four cents per load transported by a truck, as defined in section 42-1-102 (108), that is commonly used for the noncommercial transport of persons and property over the public highways; and

(III) An amount, per cubic yard per load transported by any commercial vehicle or other vehicle not included in the vehicles described in subsection (3.9)(a)(I) and (3.9)(a)(II) of this section, on and after January 1, 2016, of fourteen cents per cubic yard per load, which amount is equivalent to forty-seven cents per ton.

(b) Beginning July 1, 2024, any user fee collected by the operator of a solid waste disposal site or facility pursuant to subsection (3.9)(a) of this section shall be transmitted by the last day of the month following the end of each calendar quarter to the state treasurer, who shall credit one hundred percent of the money to the Colorado circular communities cash fund created in section 25-16.5-109 (4), to fund the Colorado circular communities enterprise pursuant to section 25-16.5-109.

(c) (I) Subject to subsections (1.5) and (3.9)(c)(II) of this section, in addition to any other user fee imposed by this section, on or after September 1, 2019, there is imposed a user fee to finance the Colorado circular communities enterprise created in section 25-16.5-109. At the time of disposal, the operator of an attended solid waste disposal site located in the front range shall collect the fee, which may be passed through to waste producers and other persons disposing of waste, in an amount per cubic yard per load transported by any commercial vehicle, or by other vehicle not included in the vehicles described in subsection (3.9)(a)(I) or (3.9)(a)(II) of this section, as set forth in the following schedule:

(A) On and after July 1, 2024, but before January 1, 2025, seventy-four cents per cubic yard per load, which is equivalent to two dollars and forty-seven cents per ton; and

(B) On and after January 1, 2025, seventy-eight cents per cubic yard per load, which is equivalent to two dollars and sixty cents per ton.

(II) Solid waste disposal sites or facilities located in the county of Custer, Fremont, Morgan, or Otero shall collect the fee specified in this subsection (3.9)(c) on loads that originate from the front range.

(III) Beginning July 1, 2024, an operator of a solid waste disposal site or facility subject to this subsection (3.9)(c) shall transmit the user fee collected pursuant to this subsection (3.9)(c) by the last day of the month following the end of each calendar quarter to the state treasurer, who shall credit it to the Colorado circular communities cash fund created in section 25-16.5-109 (4) to finance the Colorado circular communities enterprise pursuant to section 25-16.5-109.

(IV) An operator of an attended solid waste disposal site located in the front range need not collect the fee specified in this subsection (3.9)(c) on a load that contains any of the following materials that are separated out from the rest of the load: Asbestos-containing material, asbestos waste, friable asbestos-containing material as that term is defined in section 25-7-502 (6), friable asbestos, nonfriable asbestos waste, regulated asbestos-contaminated soil, nonregulated asbestos-contaminated soil, pathological waste, pharmaceutical waste, ash, biohazardous waste, infectious waste as that term is defined in section 25-15-402 (1)(a), medical waste, exploration and production waste as that term is defined in section 30-20-109 (1.5)(a)(I), technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material as that term is defined in section 25-11-201 (1)(f), grit and sludge, automobile shredder residue, dead animals, special waste liquids, or contaminated soils.

(c.5) As used in this subsection (3.9), "front range" means the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Douglas, Elbert, El Paso, Jefferson, Larimer, Pueblo, Teller, and Weld and the cities and counties of Broomfield and Denver.

(d) This subsection (3.9) is repealed, effective September 1, 2032.

(4) The department shall credit an amount equal to two and one-half percent of the money collected as fees by a solid waste disposal site or facility in order to defray the costs of such collection.

(5) Any operator who fails to collect or to transmit, within thirty days of the day specified in subsection (2) of this section, the fee imposed pursuant to this section is liable for payment of a civil penalty of ten percent of the total amount of fee money uncollected or untransmitted. Collection of such penalty and fee shall be in the manner provided for the collection and enforcement of taxes pursuant to article 21 of title 39, C.R.S.

(6) and (7) Repealed.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 916, § 3, effective July 1. L. 88: (6) added, p. 1051, § 3, effective April 4. L. 90: (1)(a) to (1)(c) and (4) amended, p. 1347, § 2, effective January 1, 1991. L. 93: (6) amended, p. 443, § 1, effective April 19. L. 94: (1)(b) amended, p. 2564, § 73, effective January 1, 1995. L. 98: (1), (2), and (6) amended, p. 879, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1), (2), and (3) amended, p. 1098, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2003: (3.5) added, p. 1515, § 2, effective May 1; (6) amended, p. 1811, § 1, effective May 21. L. 2007: IP(1) and (6) amended and (1.5), (3.7), and (3.9) added, p. 1133, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2009: (3.7)(a)(II) and (3.9)(a)(II) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1971, § 89, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1.7), (2)(a.5), and (7) added and (6) amended, (HB 10-1329), ch. 358, p. 1702, 1703, §§ 2, 3, effective June 7; (6) amended, (HB 10-1052), ch. 84, p. 281, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2013: IP(3.9)(a), (3.9)(a)(III), and (6) amended, (SB 13-050), ch. 384, p. 2247, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2016: (1.7)(b)(II) amended, (SB 16-092), ch. 53, p. 124, § 3, effective August 10; (1.7)(b)(II) amended, (HB 16-1141), ch. 128, p. 365, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2019: (3.9)(c) added, (SB 19-192), ch. 362, p. 3351, § 2, effective August 2. L. 2022: (3.9)(c)(VII) and (6) repealed and (3.9)(d) added, (HB 22-1159), ch. 336, p. 2387, § 5, effective August 10. L. 2024: (3.9) amended, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1127, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (3.5)(c)(I) provided for the repeal of subsection (3.5), effective July 1, 2006. (See L. 2003, p. 1515.)

(2) Amendments to subsection (6) by House Bill 10-1052 and House Bill 10-1329 were harmonized.

(3) Subsection (7) provided for the repeal of subsections (1), (2)(a), (3), (3.7), and (7), effective July 1, 2011. (See L. 2010, pp. 1702, 1703.)

(4) Amendments to subsection (1.7)(b)(II) by SB 16-092 and HB 16-1141 were harmonized.

(5) Subsection (3.9)(c)(III) provided for the repeal of subsections (3.9)(c)(I)(A), (3.9)(c)(I)(B), (3.9)(c)(I)(C), and (3.9)(c)(III), effective September 1, 2023. (See L. 2019, p. 3351.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1990 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 205, Session Laws of Colorado 1990. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2007 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1) and subsection (6) and enacting subsections (1.5), (3.7), and (3.9), see section 2 of chapter 278, Session Laws of Colorado 2007. For the legislative declaration in the 2010 act amending subsection (6), see section 1 of chapter 84, Session Laws of Colorado 2010.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1159, see section 1 of chapter 336, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-16-104.6. Fund established - administration - revenue sources - use.

(1) (a) There is hereby established in the state treasury the hazardous substance response fund. The fund is composed of money that the general assembly may choose to appropriate from the general fund, money derived from the fee imposed pursuant to section 25-16-104.5, and any interest derived therefrom; money recovered from responsible parties pursuant to the federal act or the OPA that is not generated by the state litigating as trustee for natural resources pursuant to section 25-16-104.7; money recovered through litigation by the state pursuant to the federal act or the OPA that is designated for future response cost; any money transferred to the fund pursuant to section 25-16-104.9; and any other money derived from public or private sources that may be credited to the fund. Money in the fund shall be annually appropriated by the general assembly, subject to section 25-16-104, remains available for the purposes of this article 16, and does not revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year. If the fund balance exceeds ten million dollars in any state fiscal year and the fund balance is not projected to fall below ten million dollars within twenty-four months, the department shall evaluate the need to reduce fees to bring the balance of the fund below ten million dollars and shall present the evaluation to the commission.

(b) Repealed.

(c) Notwithstanding any provision of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) to the contrary, on April 20, 2009, the state treasurer shall deduct seventeen million four hundred sixty-eight thousand five hundred seventeen dollars from the hazardous substance response fund and transfer such sum to the general fund.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) to the contrary, on June 1, 2009, the state treasurer shall deduct twelve million five hundred thousand dollars from the hazardous substance response fund and transfer such sum to the general fund.

(e) Notwithstanding any provision of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) to the contrary, on July 1, 2009, the state treasurer shall deduct two million five hundred thousand dollars from the hazardous substance response fund and transfer such sum to the general fund.

(f) Notwithstanding any provision of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) to the contrary, for the state fiscal year commencing July 1, 2010, the state treasurer shall make a one-time transfer from the hazardous substance response fund to the solid waste management fund created in section 30-20-118, C.R.S., of up to four hundred thousand dollars, to be used in connection with the department's solid waste management activities.

(g) Repealed.

(2) The general assembly may appropriate up to two and one-half percent of the money in the hazardous substance response fund for the department's costs of administration and its costs of collection of fees or civil penalties pursuant to section 25-16-104.5. In addition, the department is authorized, subject to appropriation by the general assembly, to use the money in the fund for the following purposes:

(a) To maintain an inventory of all sites and facilities at which hazardous substances have been disposed of in the state;

(b) To supply such state matching funds as may be needed to perform response actions at any site where action is being taken pursuant to the federal act;

(c) To provide any post-cleanup monitoring and maintenance required pursuant to the federal act;

(d) To provide for future response costs in connection with state activities at natural resource damage sites;

(e) To provide such state matching funds as may be needed to perform remediation activities at sites subject to remediation under the "Federal Water Pollution Control Act", 33 U.S.C. sec. 1251 et seq., where such remediation activities would keep the site from being added to the national priorities list established pursuant to the federal act;

(f) To remediate sites:

(I) That do not have a responsible party that will perform a remediation;

(II) That have been determined to present a threat to human health or the environment; and

(III) Where the remediation will allow the redevelopment of the property for the public good;

(g) Repealed.

(h) To finance the radon education and awareness program, established in section 25-11-114 (2), and the radon mitigation assistance program, established in section 25-11-114 (3).

(2.5) Money in the hazardous substance response fund may be appropriated as follows:

(a) To finance any litigation arising under this part 1, the federal act, or the OPA on behalf of the state;

(b) For the enforcement of court-approved remedies under the federal act out of moneys in the hazardous substance response fund received for future response costs, excluding fines, under the federal act.

(2.7) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 1503, § 1, effective May 31, 2007.)

(3) Before the department supplies hazardous substance response fund money as state matching funds for a particular site pursuant to paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section, the executive director of the department shall first make a written determination that no potentially responsible party or parties have offered to implement a proper removal and remedial action plan at such site at their own expense, consistent with the national contingency plan established pursuant to the federal act.

(4) It is the intent of the general assembly that state matching moneys be appropriated only from the hazardous substance response fund or the hazardous substance site response fund.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 917, § 3, effective July 1. L. 88: IP(2), (2)(b), and (3) amended and (4) added, p. 1051, § 4, effective April 4. L. 90: (1), IP(2), and (2)(d) amended and (2.5) and (2.7) added, p. 1349, § 1, effective July 1; IP(2) amended and (2.5) added, p. 1348, § 3, effective January 1, 1991. L. 96: (2.7) amended, p. 855, § 1, effective May 23. L. 2000: (2)(b) amended and (2)(e) and (2)(f) added, p. 892, § 3, effective January 1, 2001. L. 2002: (1) amended, p. 156, § 15, effective March 27. L. 2003: (2.5) amended, p. 1515, § 1, effective May 1. L. 2007: IP(2.5), (2.5)(a), and (2.7) amended, p. 1503, § 1, effective May 31. L. 2008: (2)(g) added, p. 1634, § 2, effective May 29; (1)(a) amended, p. 1907, § 104, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1)(c) added, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 625, § 24, effective April 20; (1)(d) and (1)(e) added, (SB 09-279), ch. 367, p. 1929, § 16, effective June 1. L. 2010: (1)(a) amended and (1)(f) added, (HB 10-1329), ch. 358, p. 1704, § 4, effective June 7. L. 2014: (4) amended, (HB 14-1339), ch. 299, p. 1252, § 2, effective May 31. L. 2016: (1)(b) repealed, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 472, § 26, effective July 1; (1)(a), IP(2.5), and (2.5)(a) amended, (SB 16-092), ch. 53, p. 124, § 4, effective August 10; IP(2) amended and (2)(h) added, (HB 16-1141), ch. 128, p. 367, § 4, effective August 10. L. 2023: (1)(a) amended, (SB 23-239), ch. 82, p. 290, § 1, effective April 17. L. 2024: (1)(a) amended, (HB 24-1418), ch. 85, p. 282, § 1, effective April 18. L. 2025: (1)(g) added, (SB 25-255), ch. 106, p. 457, § 1, effective April 24.

Editor's note: (1) Amendments to the introductory portion to subsection (2) by Senate Bill 90-176 and House Bill 90-1205 were harmonized.

(2) Subsection (2)(g)(IV) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(g), effective July 1, 2009. (See L. 2008, p. 1634.)

(3) Subsection (1)(g)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(g), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 457.)

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1990 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 205, Session Laws of Colorado 1990. For the legislative declaration contained in the 2008 act enacting subsection (2)(g), see section 1 of chapter 347, Session Laws of Colorado 2008.

(2) For the hazardous substance site response fund referenced in subsection (4), see § 25-16-104.9.

25-16-104.7. Natural resource damage recoveries - fund created.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, money recovered through litigation by the state acting as trustee of natural resources pursuant to the federal act or the OPA is credited to the natural resource damage recovery fund, which fund is created. The department may expend the custodial money in the fund without further appropriation for purposes authorized by the federal act or the OPA, including the restoration, replacement, or acquisition of the equivalent of natural resources that have been injured, destroyed, or lost as a result of a release of a hazardous substance or oil. In addition, the department shall use the money in the natural resource damage recovery fund in a manner that is consistent with any judicial order, decree, or judgment governing the use of any particular recovery credited to the fund.

(2) Repealed.

(3) To the extent authorized by law, and consistent with a final judicial order or decree in any litigation by the state acting as trustee of natural resources pursuant to the federal act or the OPA, any recovery of natural resource damage assessment or other costs, including litigation costs and fees, shall be credited to the fund from which such costs were originally paid.

(4) Repealed.

(5) (a) For state fiscal years commencing on or before July 1, 2024, and on or after July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the natural resource damage recovery fund to the natural resource damage recovery fund.

(b) For the state fiscal year commencing on July 1, 2025, in accordance with section 24-36-114 (1), the state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the natural resource damage recovery fund to the general fund.

(c) Repealed.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 918, § 3, effective July 1. L. 90: Entire section R&RE, p. 1350, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2) repealed, p. 287, § 33, effective August 8. L. 2007: (1) amended and (3) added, p. 325, § 1, effective April 2; (3) amended, p. 1504, § 2, effective May 31. L. 2010: (4) added, (HB 10-1325), ch. 30, p. 110, § 1, effective March 18. L. 2013: (1), (4)(b), and (4)(c) amended and (4)(b.5) added, (SB 13-113), ch. 84, p. 269, § 1, effective March 29. L. 2016: (1) and (3) amended, (SB 16-092), ch. 53, p. 125, § 5, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1) amended and (5) added, (SB 25-317), ch. 385, p. 2160, § 41, effective June 3.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (4)(c) provided for the repeal of subsection (4), effective July 1, 2020. (See L. 2013, p. 269.)

(2) Subsection (5)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (5)(c), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2025, p. 2160.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 25-317, see section 1 of chapter 385, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-16-104.8. Report required. (Repealed)

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1350, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2000: Entire section repealed, p. 462, § 6, effective August 2.

25-16-104.9. Hazardous substance site response fund - creation - transfer - use - definition.

(1) As used in this section, "fund" means the hazardous substance site response fund created in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) (a) The hazardous substance site response fund is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of any money transferred pursuant to section 24-75-220 (4)(a)(III.5). The general assembly may appropriate money in the fund to the department for the purposes specified in section 25-16-104.

(b) Repealed.

(3) Any moneys in the fund not expended may be invested by the state treasurer as provided by law. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of moneys in the fund are credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remain in the fund and may not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(4) Repealed.

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1339), ch. 299, p. 1252, § 1, effective May 31. L. 2023: (2) amended, (SB 23-239), ch. 82, p. 290, § 2, effective April 17. L. 2024: (4) added, (HB 24-1418), ch. 85, p. 282, § 2, effective April 18.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(b), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2023, p. 290.)

(2) Subsection (4)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(a), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 282.)

(3) Subsection (4)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(b), effective July 1, 2026. (See L. 2024, p. 282.)

25-16-105. Repeal of part - repeal of various sections. (Repealed)

Source: L. 84: Entire article RC&RE, p. 785, § 1, effective April 12. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 921, § 3, effective February 19. L. 88: Entire section repealed, p. 1052, § 6, effective April 4.

PART 2

RECOVERIES PURSUANT TO FEDERAL LAW - DISPOSITION

25-16-201. CERCLA recovery fund - creation - repeal of subsection. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 921, § 2, effective February 19; (1)(b) added by revision, p. 918, § 5; (1) amended, p. 918, § 4, effective July 1. L. 88: (1)(a) amended, p. 1051, § 5, effective April 4. L. 90: (2) repealed, p. 1351, § 4, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (1), effective January 1, 1990. (See L. 85, p. 918.)

PART 3

VOLUNTARY CLEAN-UP AND REDEVELOPMENT ACT

Law reviews: For article, "PFAS Regulation in Colorado", see 54 Colo. Law. 30 (Nov. 2025).

25-16-301. Short title.

This part 3 shall be known and may be cited as the "Voluntary Clean-up and Redevelopment Act".

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1948, § 1, effective July 1.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Brownfield Developments and Environmental Risk Assessments," see 25 Colo. Law. 53 (Apr. 1996). For article, "Remediation of Brownfields Under the Colorado Voluntary Cleanup and Redevelopment Act", see 78 Den. U. L. Rev. 1 (2000).

25-16-302. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby declares that the purpose of this part 3 is to provide for the protection of human health and the environment and to foster the transfer, redevelopment, and reuse of facilities and sites that have been previously contaminated with hazardous substances or petroleum products. The general assembly further declares that this program is intended to permit and encourage voluntary clean-ups of contaminated property by providing persons interested in redeveloping existing industrial sites with a method of determining what the clean-up responsibilities will be when they plan the reuse of existing sites. It is the further intent of the general assembly that this voluntary program operate in such a way as to:

(a) Eliminate impediments to the sale or redevelopment of previously contaminated property;

(b) Encourage and facilitate prompt clean-up activities; and

(c) Minimize administrative processes and costs.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1948, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-303. Voluntary clean-up and redevelopment program - general provisions - fees - access to property during reviews.

(1) The program established in this part 3 shall be voluntary and may be initiated by:

(a) The submission to the department of an application for approval of a voluntary clean-up plan pursuant to section 25-16-304 for properties where remediation may be necessary to protect human health and the environment in light of the current or proposed use of the property; or

(b) The submission to the department of a no action petition pursuant to section 25-16-307 for properties where remediation is complete or not necessary to protect human health and the environment in light of the current or proposed use of the property.

(2) No person, financial institution, or other entity financing a commercial real estate transaction shall require a purchaser to participate in the voluntary program contained in this part 3, and no entity of Colorado state government regulating any person, financial institution, or other entity financing a commercial real estate transaction shall require evidence of participation in this program to be a component of standard real estate loan documentation.

(3) (a) The program contained in this part 3 is voluntary and may only be initiated by the owner of the subject real property.

(b) The provisions of this part 3 shall not apply to the following:

(I) Property that is listed or proposed for listing on the national priorities list of superfund sites established under the federal act;

(II) Property that is the subject of corrective action under orders or agreements issued pursuant to the provisions of part 3 of article 15 of this title or the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", as amended;

(III) Property that is subject to an order issued by or an agreement with the water quality control division pursuant to part 6 of article 8 of this title;

(IV) A facility which has or should have a permit or interim status pursuant to part 3 of article 15 of this title for the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste; or

(V) Property that is subject to the provisions of part 2 of article 20.5 of title 8, C.R.S.

(4) (a) Each application for approval of a voluntary clean-up plan and each petition for a no action determination shall be accompanied by a filing fee determined by the department at a level sufficient to cover the direct and indirect costs of the department in processing applications for approval of voluntary clean-up plans and petitions for no action under this part 3, but such filing fee shall not exceed two thousand dollars.

(b) (I) The department shall establish and publish hourly rates for review charges performed by the department in connection with applications for approval of voluntary clean-up plans and petitions for no action under this part 3. Within thirty days after the department's approval or denial of a voluntary clean-up plan or no action petition, the department shall bill an applicant or petitioner for all direct and indirect charges of review of applications and petitions under this part 3 in accordance with the hourly rate structure established pursuant to this subparagraph (I). The department's charges shall be billed against the application fee paid pursuant to this subsection (4) in accordance with subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (b).

(II) (A) If the department bills charges in an amount less than the application fee, the department shall return any unused balance to the applicant or petitioner after the department's final determination in the matter has been made.

(B) If the department bills charges that exceed the application fee, the department may bill the applicant or petitioner for direct and indirect charges that the department incurs in excess of the application fee up to a maximum of an additional one thousand dollars.

(C) If the department determines that review of the application cannot be completed for three thousand dollars or less due to the size or complexity of the site, the department shall contact the applicant or petitioner prior to incurring additional charges. The applicant or petitioner shall then be given the opportunity to either negotiate an agreement containing an upper limit on the department's charges and complete the review, or withdraw the application and receive a refund of the unbilled balance of fees already paid to the department. Agreements negotiated pursuant to this sub-subparagraph (C) shall be in writing and shall be signed by authorized representatives of the parties.

(D) The department shall make its best efforts to determine whether the application review will exceed three thousand dollars within the first ten hours of review or, if the applicant or petitioner requests a pre-application conference, within ten business days after such conference.

(c) All moneys collected pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the hazardous substance response fund, created in section 25-16-104.6 (1). Moneys collected pursuant to this subsection (4) shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly only to defray the direct and indirect costs of the department in processing voluntary clean-up plans and petitions for no action determination as specified in this part 3.

(5) During the time allocated for review of applications for voluntary clean-up plans and petitions for no action determination under this part 3, the department shall, upon reasonable notice to the property owner, have access at all reasonable times to the subject real property.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1949, § 1, effective July 1. L. 95: (3)(b)(V) amended, p. 420, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2003: (4)(b) amended, p. 823, § 1, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", see Pub.L. 94-580, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq.

25-16-304. Voluntary clean-up plan.

(1) Any person who owns real property which has been contaminated with hazardous substances or petroleum products may submit an application for the approval of a voluntary clean-up plan to the department under the provisions of this section.

(2) A voluntary clean-up plan shall include:

(a) An environmental assessment of the real property which describes the contamination, if any, on the property and the risk the contamination currently poses to public health and the environment;

(b) A proposal, if needed, to remediate any contamination or condition which has or could lead to a release which poses an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment, considering the present and any differing proposed future use of the property and a timetable for implementing the proposal and for monitoring the site after the proposed measures are completed;

(c) A description of applicable promulgated state standards establishing acceptable concentrations of constituents in soils, surface water, or groundwater and, for constituents present at the site for which such state standards do not exist, a description of proposed clean-up levels and any current risk to human health or the environment based upon the current or proposed use of the site.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1950, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-305. Remediation alternatives.

(1) Remediation alternatives shall be based on the actual risk to human health and the environment currently posed by contaminants on the real property, considering the following factors:

(a) The present or proposed uses of the site;

(b) The ability of the contaminants to move in a form and manner which would result in exposure to humans and the surrounding environment at levels which exceed applicable promulgated state standards or, in the absence of such standards, which represent an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment;

(c) The potential risks associated with proposed clean-up alternatives and the economic and technical feasibility and reliability of such alternatives.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1951, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-306. Approval of voluntary clean-up plan - time limits - contents of notice - conditions under which approval is void - expiration of approval.

(1) (a) The department shall provide formal written notification that a voluntary clean-up plan has been approved or disapproved within no more than forty-five days after a request by a property owner, unless the property owner and the department agree to an extension of the review to a date certain. Such review shall be limited to a review of the materials submitted by the applicant and documents or information readily available to the department. If the department fails to act on an application within the time limits specified in this subsection (1), the voluntary clean-up plan shall be deemed approved. If the department has received eight applications for review of voluntary clean-up plans or no action petitions in a calendar month, the department may notify any additional applicants in that month that their plan or petition will be considered the following month, and the forty-five day period for department review shall begin on the first day of the month following receipt of the plan or petition.

(b) The department shall approve a voluntary clean-up plan if, based on the information submitted by the property owner, the department concludes that the plan will:

(I) Attain a degree of clean-up and control of hazardous substances or petroleum products, or both, that complies with all promulgated applicable state requirements, regulations, criteria, or standards;

(II) For constituents not governed by subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (b), reduce concentrations such that the property does not present an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment based upon the property's current use and any future uses proposed by the property owner.

(c) In the event that a voluntary clean-up plan is not approved by the department, the department shall promptly provide the property owner with a written statement of the reasons for such denial. If the department disapproves a voluntary clean-up plan based upon the applicant's failure to submit the information required by section 25-16-304, the department shall notify the applicant of the specific information omitted by the applicant.

(d) The approval of a voluntary clean-up plan by the department applies only to conditions on the property and state standards that exist as of the time of submission of the application.

(2) Written notification by the department that a voluntary clean-up plan is approved shall contain the basis for the determination and the following statement:

Based upon the information provided by [insert name(s) of property owner(s)] concerning property located at [insert address], it is the opinion of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment that upon completion of the voluntary clean-up plan no further action is required to assure that this property, when used for the purposes identified in the voluntary clean-up plan, is protective of existing and proposed uses and does not pose an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment at the site.

(3) (a) Failure of a property owner to materially comply with the voluntary clean-up plan approved by the department pursuant to this section shall render the approval void.

(b) Submission of materially misleading information by the applicant in the context of the voluntary clean-up plan shall render the department approval void.

(4) (a) If a voluntary clean-up plan is not initiated within twelve months and completed within twenty-four months after approval by the department, such approval shall lapse; except that the department may grant an extension of the time limit for completion of the voluntary clean-up plan.

(b) A property owner desiring to implement a voluntary clean-up plan after the time limits permitted in paragraph (a) of this subsection (4) shall submit a written petition for reapplication accompanied by written certification of a qualified environmental professional that the conditions on the subject real property are substantially similar to those that existed at the time of the original approval.

(c) Reapplications pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (4) shall be subject to limited review by the department, which shall complete such review within thirty days of receipt of a petition for reapplication; except that any reapplication that involves real property, the condition of which has substantially changed since approval of the original voluntary clean-up plan, shall be treated as a new application and shall be subject to all the requirements of this part 3.

(5) (a) Within forty-five days after the completion of the voluntary clean-up described in the voluntary clean-up plan approved by the department, the property owner shall provide to the department a certification from a qualified environmental professional that the plan has been fully implemented.

(b) If the owner is applying for the tax credit provided in section 39-22-526 (1), C.R.S., or to transfer a transferable expense amount pursuant to section 39-22-526 (2), C.R.S., the owner shall submit to the department the certification along with an application pursuant to section 25-16-303. The certification shall, in addition to certifying that the plan has been fully implemented, disclose the costs of implementation and include supporting documentation of those costs. The department shall then certify the accuracy of the costs and issue the property owner a certificate stating that the clean-up has occurred and the costs of such clean-up. The property owner may submit this certificate to the department of revenue to claim a tax credit or transfer a transferable expense amount under section 39-22-526, C.R.S.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1951, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2000: (5) amended, p. 891, § 1, effective January 1, 2001. L. 2008: (1)(b)(II) amended, p. 1907, § 105, effective August 5. L. 2014: (5)(b) amended, (SB 14-073), ch. 213, p. 797, § 2, effective August 6.

25-16-307. No action determinations.

(1) A property owner may file with the department a written petition to request a no action determination pursuant to this section. The department shall provide formal written notification that a no action petition has been approved or disapproved within no more than forty-five days after a request by a property owner, unless the property owner and the department agree to an extension of the review to a date certain. Such review shall be limited to a review of the materials submitted by the applicant and documents or information readily available to the department. If the department fails to act on a petition within the time limits specified in this subsection (1), the no action petition shall be deemed approved. If the department has received eight applications for review of voluntary clean-up plans or no action petitions in a calendar month, the department may notify any additional applicants in that month that their plan or petition will be considered the following month, and the forty-five day period for department review shall begin on the first day of the month following receipt of the plan or petition.

(2) (a) The department shall issue a written determination approving a no action petition when:

(I) The environmental assessment described in section 25-16-308 performed by a qualified environmental professional indicates the existence of contamination which does not exceed applicable promulgated state standards or contamination which does not pose an unacceptable risk to human health and the environment; or

(II) The department finds that contamination or a release or threatened release of a hazardous substance or petroleum product originates from a source on adjacent or nearby real property if a person or entity responsible for such a source of contamination is or will be taking necessary action, if any, to address the contamination.

(b) The department shall provide formal written notification of a no action determination, which shall contain the basis for the determination and the following statement:

Based upon the information provided by [insert name(s) of property owner(s)] concerning property located at [insert address], it is the opinion of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment that no further action is required to assure that this property, when used for the purposes identified in the no action petition, is protective of existing and proposed uses and does not pose an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment at the site.

(c) The approval of a no action petition by the department applies only to conditions on the property and state standards that exist as of the time of submission of the petition.

(3) Submission of materially misleading information by the applicant in the context of a no action petition shall render the department approval void.

(4) In the event that a no action petition is not approved by the department, the department shall promptly provide the property owner with a written statement of the reasons for such denial. If the department disapproves a no action petition based upon the applicant's failure to submit required information, the department shall notify the applicant of the specific information omitted.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1953, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-308. Environmental assessment - requirements.

(1) The department may only accept environmental assessments under this part 3 that are prepared by a qualified environmental professional. A qualified environmental professional is a person with education, training, and experience in preparing environmental studies and assessments.

(2) The environmental assessment described in section 25-16-304 (2)(a) shall include the following information:

(a) The legal description of the site and a map identifying the location and size of the property;

(b) The physical characteristics of the site and areas contiguous to the site, including the location of any surface water bodies and groundwater aquifers;

(c) The location of any wells located on the site or on areas within a one-half mile radius of the site and a description of the use of those wells;

(d) The current and proposed use of on-site groundwater;

(e) The operational history of the site and the current use of areas contiguous to the site;

(f) The present and proposed uses of the site;

(g) Information concerning the nature and extent of any contamination and releases of hazardous substances or petroleum products which have occurred at the site including any impacts on areas contiguous to the site;

(h) Any sampling results or other data which characterizes the soil, groundwater, or surface water on the site; and

(i) A description of the human and environmental exposure to contamination at the site based upon the property's current use and any future use proposed by the property owner.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1954, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-309. Coordination with other laws.

(1) Nothing in this part 3 shall absolve any person from obligations under any other law or regulation, including any requirement to obtain permits or approvals for work performed under a voluntary clean-up plan.

(2) If the United States environmental protection agency indicates that it is investigating a site which is the subject of an approved voluntary clean-up plan or no action petition, the department shall actively pursue a determination by the United States environmental protection agency that the property not be addressed under the federal act or, in the case of property being addressed through a voluntary clean-up plan, that no further federal action be taken with respect to the property at least until the voluntary clean-up plan is completely implemented.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1955, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-310. Enforceability of voluntary clean-up plans and no action determinations.

(1) Voluntary clean-up plans are not enforceable against a property owner; except that, if the department can demonstrate that a property owner who initiated a voluntary clean-up under an approved plan has failed to fully and properly implement that plan, the department may require further action if the action is authorized by other laws or regulations of this state.

(2) Information provided by a property owner to support a voluntary clean-up plan or no action petition shall not provide the department with an independent basis to seek penalties from the property owner pursuant to state environmental statutes or regulations. If, pursuant to other state statutes or regulations, the department initiates an enforcement action against the property owner subsequent to the submission of a voluntary clean-up plan or no action petition regarding the contamination addressed in the plan or petition, the voluntary disclosure of the information in the plan or petition shall be considered by the enforcing authority to reduce or eliminate any penalties assessed to the property owner.

Source: L. 94: Entire part added , p. 1955, § 1, effective July 1.

25-16-311. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

Source: L. 94: Entire part added, p. 1956, § 1, effective July 1. L. 99: Entire section repealed, p. 265, § 1, effective April 9.

25-16-312. Rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement pilot grant program - fund created - definition - rules - repeal.

(1) The rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement pilot grant program, referred to in this section as the "pilot grant program", is established in the department. The pilot grant program may award grants, beginning July 1, 2025, to local governments in rural communities to offset costs associated with the abatement of asbestos and lead paint in:

(a) Housing;

(b) Commercial buildings; and

(c) Other development projects.

(2) To be eligible for a grant from the pilot grant program, a local government must submit an application to the department. The application must:

(a) For renovation or demolition sites, include an inspection report consistent with the rules adopted pursuant to section 25-7-503 detailing asbestos-containing materials in excess of trigger levels;

(b) For renovation of lead-based paint abatement sites, include a description of eligibility that the facility meets the definition in section 25-7-1102 (2) or (7);

(c) For both asbestos and lead-based paint abatement, renovation, or demolition, include documentation demonstrating that the applicant has acquired any necessary permits and regulatory approval from the air pollution control division; and

(d) Include an assessment of the needs of the local government's rural communities specific to:

(I) The health and environmental impacts of asbestos- and lead-paint-contaminated structures;

(II) The presence or lack of certified asbestos abatement or lead paint abatement personnel or supervisors operating within, or traveling to, rural communities for abatement projects;

(III) The cost of acquiring certified asbestos abatement or lead paint abatement personnel or supervisors within rural communities;

(IV) The proximity to, and availability of, asbestos and lead paint disposal facilities; and

(V) Community impacts on economic development and affordable housing.

(3) (a) The rural housing and development asbestos and lead paint abatement fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money generated from penalties and fines collected pursuant to sections 25-15-309 and 25-15-310, as described in section 25-15-311; penalties collected pursuant to section 25-7-511; and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(b) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(c) The state treasurer shall credit any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year to the fund; except that, on June 30, 2027, the state treasurer shall credit any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund to the general fund.

(d) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department may expend money to award grants as described in subsection (1) of this section.

(4) As used in this section, unless the context requires otherwise, "rural community" has the meaning set forth in section 39-22-526 (1)(b)(II).

(5) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2027.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (HB 24-1457), ch. 356, p. 2431, § 1, effective August 7.

25-16.5 ARTICLE 16.5

Colorado Sustainability

25-16.5-101. Short title.

25-16.5-102. Legislative declaration.

25-16.5-103. Definitions.

25-16.5-104. Recycling resources economic opportunity fund - creation - repeal. (Repealed)

25-16.5-105. Recycling resources economic opportunity program - grants - repeal. (Repealed)

25-16.5-106. Statewide voluntary sustainability program.

25-16.5-107. Pollution prevention fees.

25-16.5-108. Pollution prevention fund - created.

25-16.5-109. Colorado circular communities enterprise - fund - goals - grant program - personal property tax reimbursements - gifts, grants, or donations - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

25-16.5-110. Stakeholder feedback - report.

25-16.5-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 16.5 is the "Colorado Sustainability Act".

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1110, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-16.5-101 as it existed prior to 2024.

25-16.5-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds that:

(a) The "Pollution Prevention Act of 1992", which has been instrumental in addressing certain environmental concerns over the previous three decades, should be updated to meet the state's evolving sustainability and circularity needs;

(b) Circularity, including waste diversion and aversion, involves more than diverting waste materials from the landfill. A circular business model prevents waste, uses resources efficiently, prioritizes renewable inputs, and invests in improved product design as a means to maximize a product's value by maximizing the product's usage and lifetime. At the end of a product's useful life, circularity involves recovering and reusing the product and any byproducts created in its manufacturing to make new materials and products.

(c) Waste diversion and aversion, which are important components of circularity and include organics management:

(I) Extend the useful life of local landfills;

(II) Mitigate greenhouse gas emissions;

(III) Protect the soil relied upon for the state's farmland; and

(IV) Save natural resources;

(d) It is critical to foster and recognize partnerships between governments, businesses, and communities in achieving the state's sustainability and circularity objectives. Businesses have the potential to lead in environmental stewardship and to play a vital role in reaching these objectives.

(e) Efforts to improve sustainability services and circularity in the state, including by providing coaching and recognition of businesses engaged in sustainability and circularity, support Colorado's environment and economy and the social fabric of our state.

(2) The general assembly further finds that:

(a) By merging the recycling resources economic opportunity program and the front range waste diversion enterprise into a new Colorado circular communities enterprise:

(I) The impact of waste disposal throughout the state can be minimized, and, as a result, the state's natural beauty and resources can be better maintained;

(II) Increased services may be provided to the waste disposal site operators that pay fees, as well as to residents and businesses throughout the state; and

(III) More diverse, equitable, efficient, and innovative solutions to waste management can be implemented through the evolving field of circularity, including regional and statewide solutions that benefit communities outside of the front range; and

(b) Through the development of regional solutions, public-private partnerships, and extended project periods, the Colorado circular communities enterprise will provide local governments, businesses, nonprofits, and other eligible entities with enhanced project design options to support community projects that will provide environmental and economic benefits throughout the state.

(3) Therefore, the general assembly declares that:

(a) The modernization of the "Pollution Prevention Act of 1992" is necessary to build a comprehensive framework for advancing sustainability and circularity efforts in the state through technical assistance, financial assistance, and recognition of innovative leaders in sustainable operations; and

(b) This article 16.5 fosters environmental sustainability by seeking to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental care in a manner that meets the needs of current generations in the state without compromising the needs of future generations.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1110, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-16.5-102 as it existed prior to 2024.

25-16.5-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Circular economy" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-601 (2).

(2) "Colorado circular communities enterprise" or "enterprise" means the Colorado circular communities enterprise created in section 25-16.5-109 (3).

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(4) "Federal act" means the federal "Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know Act of 1986", 42 U.S.C. sec. 11001 et seq., Title III of the federal "Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986", Pub.L. 99-499.

(5) "Hazardous substance" means those chemicals defined as hazardous substances under section 313 of the federal "Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986" (SARA Title III), as amended, and sections 101 (14) and 102 of the federal "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980" (CERCLA), 42 U.S.C. sec. 9601 et seq., as amended.

(6) "Local government" means a statutory or home rule city, county, or city and county.

(7) "Organic materials" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-901 (5).

(8) "School" means:

(a) A school of a school district;

(b) A district charter school, as defined in section 22-11-103 (12);

(c) An institute charter school, as defined in section 22-30.5-502 (6);

(d) An approved facility school, as defined in section 22-2-402 (1); or

(e) A board of cooperative services, as defined in section 22-5-103 (2).

(9) "State institution of higher education" has the meaning set forth in section 23-18-102 (10).

(10) "Sustainability" means nonregulatory activities that, for both current and future generations, protect the environment, support local and state economics, and promote public health.

(11) "Waste diversion and aversion" or "waste diversion or aversion" means the sustainable design, production, distribution, consumption, recoverability, reuse, waste prevention, repair, collection, and recycling of a variety of materials, including construction and demolition materials, single-stream materials, technology and electronic materials; food recovery; and the composting of raw and reused materials, including organic materials.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1112, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-16.5-103 as it existed prior to 2024.

25-16.5-104. Recycling resources economic opportunity fund - creation - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1113, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal, this section was similar to former § 25-16.5-106.5 as it existed prior to 2024.

(2) Subsection (5) provided for the repeal of this section, effective October 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 1113.)

25-16.5-105. Recycling resources economic opportunity program - grants - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1113, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal, this section was similar to former § 25-16.5-106.7 as it existed prior to 2024.

(2) Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective October 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 1113.)

25-16.5-106. Statewide voluntary sustainability program.

(1) The department shall establish a statewide, voluntary program that:

(a) Encourages, supports, and rewards businesses, such as for-profit entities, nonprofits, local governments, schools, and state institutions of higher education; and

(b) Moves the state toward evidenced sustainability.

(2) In implementing the statewide voluntary program, the department may:

(a) Provide assessments and technical assistance to businesses seeking to increase sustainability in their operations;

(b) Facilitate business collaborations and peer-to-peer support;

(c) Establish regional partnerships and partnerships with local governments, where partners consistently apply the department framework for achieving sustainable business operations;

(d) Support businesses in marketing their sustainability achievements and efforts;

(e) Recognize businesses' sustainability achievements;

(f) Promote funding opportunities that can assist businesses with achieving their sustainability goals;

(g) Provide services and funding to assist small businesses;

(h) To the extent funding is available, provide annual training that includes food waste prevention and reduction strategies, develop a food waste reduction guidance document, place the document on the department's public website, and update the document at least annually; and

(i) At the discretion of the department, deliver additional sustainability services to meet business needs.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1114, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (2)(g) and (2)(h) amended and (2)(i) added, (HB 25-1166), ch. 90, p. 372, § 1, effective August 6.

25-16.5-107. Pollution prevention fees.

(1) (a) The department shall charge and collect pollution prevention fees from any reporting facility that is required to file a report with the department pursuant to the federal act as follows:

(I) Facilities required to report pursuant to section 11002 of the federal act shall pay an annual fee not to exceed ten dollars per reporting facility;

(II) Each facility required to report pursuant to section 11022 of the federal act is required to pay an annual fee not to exceed ten dollars for every hazardous substance located at the facility in excess of the thresholds adopted by the United States environmental protection agency; and

(III) Each facility required to report pursuant to section 11023 of the federal act shall pay an annual fee not to exceed twenty-five dollars for every extremely hazardous substance located at the facility in excess of the thresholds adopted by the United States environmental protection agency.

(b) The department shall charge and collect pollution prevention fees from any federal agency from which, pursuant to federal Executive Order No. 12856, as published in 58 FR 41981 (1993), the department has the authority to collect pollution prevention fees.

(c) Any retail motor fuel outlet that is required to report pursuant to the federal act shall pay one-half of the fee set forth in subsection (1)(a) of this section.

(d) Any single reporting organization that owns or operates multiple reporting facilities is not required to pay more than a total of one thousand dollars for all pollution prevention fees required by this section.

(e) Agricultural businesses that are required to report under the federal act are not required to pay the pollution prevention fees set forth in this subsection (1).

(f) It is the intent of the general assembly that the department collect all fees from any reporting facility required to report under the federal act, including the pollution prevention fee, in a single, centralized billing procedure.

(2) The department shall transmit any money collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section to the state treasurer and the state treasurer shall credit the money to the pollution prevention fund created in section 25-16.5-108.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1114, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-16.5-108 as it existed prior to 2024.

25-16.5-108. Pollution prevention fund - created.

(1) There is created in the state treasury the pollution prevention fund. Any money collected pursuant to section 25-16.5-107 is credited to the fund. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund is credited to the general fund. At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund remains in the fund and is not credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(2) The money generated from the pollution prevention fees pursuant to section 25-16.5-107 is annually appropriated to the department to cover the direct and indirect costs for sustainability services set forth in section 25-16.5-106. The money in the fund shall not be used for the enforcement of any state law or regulation governing environmental protection.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1115, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-16.5-109 as it existed prior to 2024.

25-16.5-109. Colorado circular communities enterprise - fund - goals - grant program - personal property tax reimbursements - gifts, grants, or donations - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

(1) Legislative declaration. The general assembly:

(a) Finds that:

(I) Colorado has one of the lowest rates of waste diversion in the United States, recycling only about twelve percent of our waste compared to thirty-five percent nationwide;

(II) Colorado disposed of a record amount of trash in landfills in 2017, over nine million tons, while there was essentially no increase in the municipal waste diversion rate;

(III) Recycling, reuse, and remanufacturing contribute almost nine billion dollars to the Colorado economy annually, yet we are throwing away in our landfills more than one-quarter billion dollars' worth annually of recyclable material, such as aluminum, cardboard, paper, glass, and plastics, which material could have been recycled here in Colorado, thereby creating local jobs and strengthening local economies;

(IV) Recycling creates an average of nine times more jobs per ton of waste than does disposal in a landfill, and recycling is one of the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions;

(V) The front range:

(A) Generates about eighty-five percent of the waste statewide and has most of the infrastructure in place to divert waste from landfills; and

(B) Has higher densities of waste producers and recycling facilities than the rest of the state and thus fewer challenges regarding long distances to recycling facilities and markets;

(VI) To support waste diversion efforts, the average family living along the front range pays about eighty-six cents per year in the form of user fees assessed at fourteen cents per cubic yard of waste disposed of at attended landfills, which fees are used to support waste diversion efforts; and

(VII) Circularity can only be achieved when working collaboratively across the state to maximize the use of local materials and the local use of end products;

(VIII) Circularity and waste diversion and aversion infrastructure is needed statewide through a combination of local, regional, and statewide solutions; and

(IX) Circularity services, including waste diversion and aversion, support operators of attended solid waste disposal sites, waste producers, and persons paying the fee by extending the useful life of landfills, supporting expansion of fee services to meet community demand for composting and recycling services, and establishing local uses for collected materials that reduce the transportation costs of operators of attended solid waste disposal sites, waste producers, and persons paying the fee;

(b) Determines that:

(I) A circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, has substantial economic and environmental benefits for the state;

(II) The opportunity for improvement is great, yet the state lacks:

(A) A sufficient funding source to make these improvements; and

(B) A coherent circular economy policy, including waste diversion and aversion policies, at the local level; and

(III) It is in the state's interest to provide financial and technical assistance to communities to develop a circular economy and reach their waste diversion and aversion goals through technical assistance and a grant and funding opportunity program financed by user fees; and

(c) Declares that:

(I) Providing technical assistance, grants, and funding opportunities to support a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, constitutes a valuable service and benefit, and the Colorado circular communities enterprise provides useful business services to waste producers when, in exchange for payment of user fees, it provides technical assistance and awards grants or funding financed by the fees to entities that promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion;

(II) It is necessary, appropriate, and in the best interest of the state to acknowledge that by providing the business services specified in subsections (1)(b)(III) and (1)(c)(I) of this section, the enterprise engages in an activity conducted in the pursuit of a benefit, gain, or livelihood and therefore operates as a business;

(III) Consistent with the determination of the Colorado supreme court in Nicholl v. E-470 Public Highway Authority, 896 P.2d 859 (Colo. 1995), that the power to impose taxes is inconsistent with enterprise status under section 20 of article X of the state constitution, it is the conclusion of the general assembly that the user fee collected by the enterprise is a fee, not a tax, because the fee is imposed for the specific purpose of allowing the enterprise to defray the costs of providing the business services specified in subsections (1)(b)(III) and (1)(c)(I) of this section to waste producers that ultimately pay the fee and is collected at rates that are reasonably calculated based on the benefits received by those waste producers;

(IV) So long as the enterprise qualifies as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, the revenue from the user fees collected by the enterprise is not state fiscal year spending, as defined in section 24-77-102 (17), or state revenues, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(c), and does not count against either the state fiscal year spending limit imposed by section 20 of article X of the state constitution or the excess state revenues cap, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(b)(I)(G); and

(V) This section is necessary to provide incentives to local governments, for-profit waste management and waste diversion companies, state institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, or other entities that the board identifies as pursuing a circular economy for the state, including waste diversion and aversion.

(2) Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Board" means the board of directors of the enterprise.

(b) "Circular economy development center" means the circular economy development center created in section 25-17-602 (1).

(c) (I) "Eligible entity" means the following entities located or providing services in Colorado:

(A) Cities, counties, and cities and counties;

(B) Nonprofit and for-profit businesses promoting a circular economy, including waste diversion or aversion;

(C) State institutions of higher education and public or private schools; and

(D) Any other entity identified by the board as supporting or pursuing a circular economy for Colorado, including waste diversion and aversion.

(II) "Eligible entity" includes an entity listed in subsection (2)(c)(I) of this section that is locating to Colorado after recruitment by the circular economy development center pursuant to section 25-17-602 (1)(d) and in accordance with subsection (2)(c)(III) of this section.

(III) To qualify as an "eligible entity" by locating to Colorado after recruitment pursuant to subsection (2)(c)(II) of this section, an entity that is locating to Colorado must demonstrate that it has:

(A) Been in business in another jurisdiction for a minimum of three years;

(B) Identified a Colorado location to relocate or expand its business to;

(C) Registered with the Colorado secretary of state; and

(D) Been recommended by the circular economy development center.

(d) "Enterprise" means the Colorado circular communities enterprise created in subsection (3) of this section.

(e) "Fee" or "fees" means money collected by means of the user fees authorized by section 25-16-104.5 (3.9).

(f) "Fund" means the Colorado circular communities cash fund created in subsection (4) of this section.

(g) (I) "Grant and funding program" means the Colorado circular communities grant and funding program created in subsection (6) of this section.

(II) "Grant and funding program" includes:

(A) Grants;

(B) Purchases;

(C) Loans;

(D) Rebates;

(E) Noncompetitive formula funding; and

(F) Funding that may result from a request to the board from one or more public or private partners across multiple jurisdictions.

(h) "Producer responsibility program" means the producer responsibility program for statewide recycling established pursuant to part 7 of article 17 of this title 25.

(i) "Share table" means a station where a student may return whole food or beverage items that the student chooses not to consume. Returned food and beverage items are then available for redistribution to other students as necessary to prevent food waste and in compliance with federal, state, and local health and food safety requirements.

(3) Enterprise.

(a) There is created in the department the Colorado circular communities enterprise. The enterprise is and operates as a government-owned business within the department for the purpose of collecting the fee charged to waste producers and using the fee to provide grants, funding, and technical assistance and to pay for studies to promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion. The enterprise is a type 1 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions under the department.

(b) The enterprise constitutes an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution so long as it retains the authority to issue revenue bonds and receives less than ten percent of its total revenues in grants from all Colorado state and local governments combined. So long as it constitutes an enterprise pursuant to this subsection (3)(b), the enterprise is not subject to section 20 of article X of the state constitution.

(c) The enterprise's primary powers and duties are to:

(I) Collect the fee;

(II) Promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, by providing technical assistance and issuing grants and funding, as specified in subsection (6) of this section;

(III) Issue revenue bonds payable from the revenues of the enterprise to promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, as specified in this section;

(IV) Publish each year, on the department's website and as otherwise deemed appropriate by the board, the strategies that the board has prioritized for funding through the grant and funding program;

(V) Adopt, amend, or repeal policies for the regulation of the enterprise's affairs and the conduct of its business consistent with this section, including establishing application, review, approval, reporting, and other requirements for grants and funding;

(VI) Engage the services of contractors, consultants, and legal counsel, including the department and the attorney general's office, for professional and technical assistance and advice and to supply other services related to the conduct of the affairs of the enterprise, without regard to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24. The board shall encourage diversity in applicants for contracts and shall generally avoid using single-source bids. The department shall provide office space and administrative staff to the enterprise pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to this subsection (3)(c)(VI).

(VII) In coordination with the department, pay the direct and indirect costs associated with the department's oversight and the administrator's operation of the circular economy development center;

(VIII) Repealed.

(IX) Ensure continuity of enterprise operations. To ensure continuity, any grant agreement or contract entered into by the front range waste diversion enterprise board pursuant to this section as it existed before House Bill 24-1449 was enacted in 2024 is transferred or assigned to the Colorado circular communities enterprise board. The chair of the front range waste diversion board or the chair's designee is authorized to assign any contract or agreement of the front range waste diversion enterprise board on behalf of the dissolved front range waste diversion enterprise board to the circular communities enterprise board until January 31, 2025. The department is authorized to administer the services on behalf of the enterprise in the interim to the extent necessary to maintain operations. The enterprise shall compensate the department at fair market value for any interim services that the department provides.

(d) (I) The enterprise is governed by a board of directors. The executive director of the department shall appoint the following thirteen members of the board:

(A) One member representing the department; and

(B) Twelve members who, to the extent practicable, represent a balance of for-profit and nonprofit businesses and local governments and meet the eligibility requirements set forth in subsections (3)(d)(II) and (3)(d)(III) of this section.

(II) Members appointed pursuant to subsection (3)(d)(I)(B) of this section must have expertise in one or more of the following areas:

(A) The circular economy;

(B) Producer responsibility;

(C) Environmental health and safety;

(D) Circular economy or renewable energy business development or investment;

(E) Economic development;

(F) Public finance; or

(G) Expertise in statewide or community-wide waste diversion or aversion planning and implementation.

(III) When appointing members of the board, the executive director of the department shall ensure that, to the extent practicable:

(A) At least three members represent a local government, and at least one of the three members lives in or represents a community outside of the front range, as defined in section 25-16-104.5 (3.9)(c.5);

(B) At least three members represent waste haulers or landfill operators;

(C) At least three members live in or represent communities outside of the front range, as defined in section 25-16-104.5 (3.9)(c.5); and

(D) At least one member represents an organization that works to reduce burdens experienced by disproportionately impacted communities.

(e) The member appointed pursuant to subsection (3)(d)(I)(A) of this section shall call the first meeting of the board. The board shall elect a chair from among its members to serve for a term not to exceed two years, as determined by the board. The board shall meet at least quarterly, and the chair may call additional meetings as necessary for the board to complete its duties. Each member of the board is entitled to receive from money in the fund a per diem allowance of fifty dollars for each day spent attending an official board meeting.

(f) The term of office of board members is three years; except that the initial term of five members appointed pursuant to subsection (3)(d)(I)(B) of this section is two years. Members may serve for multiple consecutive or nonconsecutive terms.

(4) Fund.

(a) There is created in the state treasury the Colorado circular communities cash fund. The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to sections 25-16-104.5 (3.9) and 18-4-511 (4)(b) and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. The enterprise is exempt from section 24-77-108.

(b) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the enterprise to:

(I) Cover the direct and indirect costs for administering the enterprise and its services;

(II) Award grants and funding in accordance with this section;

(III) Provide technical assistance, including through the development and implementation of public policy, to eligible entities to promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion; and

(IV) Pay the direct and indirect costs associated with the department's oversight and the administrator's operation of the circular economy development center;

(V) Repealed.

(c) The board may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section.

(d) Repealed.

(5) Circular economy promotion.

(a) The enterprise shall promote a circular economy in the state, including waste diversion and aversion. In promoting a circular economy, the enterprise shall consider:

(I) Promoting reuse of natural resources and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions;

(II) Incentivizing Colorado businesses to:

(A) Use materials that Coloradans recycle and compost;

(B) Produce new products that meet known health and safety standards;

(C) Maximize the recovery and reuse of byproducts during the manufacturing process; and

(D) Minimize waste when manufacturing, selling, or distributing products;

(III) Incentivizing and supporting local, regional, and statewide infrastructure, systems, logistics, studies, and marketing to help create a sustainable circular economy;

(IV) Creating local jobs, developing Colorado's workforce, supporting regional businesses, and diversifying current and new end markets;

(V) Supporting circular economy and sustainable resource education;

(VI) Extending the useful life of local landfills;

(VII) Supporting statewide municipal waste diversion and aversion and waste reduction goals; and

(VIII) Reducing food waste by incentivizing public schools to develop and implement effective composting, excess food donation, or share table programs.

(b) To the extent practicable, in prioritizing and designing its services, the enterprise shall coordinate with:

(I) The circular economy development center;

(II) The producer responsibility program and nonprofit organization that the executive director of the department designates pursuant to section 25-17-705 (1)(b)(II) as the producer responsibility organization to implement and administer the producer responsibility program;

(III) The office of economic development created in section 24-48.5-101 (1); and

(IV) Any similar public and private initiatives identified by the board as supporting a circular economy.

(6) Grant and funding program.

(a) (I) The enterprise shall administer the grant and funding program and, subject to available revenue, shall award grants and funding from the fund as provided in this subsection (6).

(II) Before distributing money, the board shall assess and determine an equitable distribution of money from the fund for rural counties. This assessment may occur within each grant or funding opportunity or within the overall distribution of money, as determined by the board.

(III) If the grant applications or funding requests are insufficient to achieve the desired distribution, the board may distribute money in a manner that deviates from the equitable distribution determined by the board, but the board shall then evaluate and identify strategies to work toward an equitable distribution of money from the fund for future grant and funding opportunities.

(b) (I) The purpose of the grant and funding program is to provide economic and technical assistance to eligible entities in their efforts to promote a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, as described in this section.

(II) The board shall establish criteria to evaluate and prioritize applications or requests for grants or awards of funding. As part of the services that the board may contract for the enterprise pursuant to subsection (3)(c)(VI) of this section, the department shall review applications and requests for funding utilizing criteria that the board establishes.

(III) (A) Subject to subsection (6)(b)(III)(B) of this section, in reviewing applications and requests for funding, the department may engage stakeholders to inform the design of, identify gaps in, or assist in the review process or to gain increased understanding of topics that may merit inclusion in the approved project activities and deliverables, such as industry standards, environmental health and safety standards, business requirements, economic or investment considerations, or similar topics that will support the successful implementation of an approved project.

(B) In engaging a stakeholder, the department shall determine that the stakeholder does not have a conflict of interest regarding the grant application or funding request being designed or reviewed or, if the stakeholder has a conflict of interest, that the conflict can be managed through business practices, including disclosures and recusals, to maximize fairness across all applicants and entities requesting funding. A board member may serve as a stakeholder for the purpose of this subsection (6)(b)(III) if the board member does not have a conflict of interest or the conflict of interest can be managed in the same manner as other stakeholders.

(IV) The department shall develop grant and funding recommendations for the board that include the recommended grant or funding recipient, the project and its contribution to a circular economy, the grant or funding award amount, the duration of the grant, and whether the grant benefits rural areas of the state. The board shall review the department's recommendations in awarding grants or funding.

(c) At a minimum, at the time of application or request for funding or, if appropriate as determined by the board, at the time of awarding a grant or funding, an award of a grant or of funding must include the following information:

(I) A narrative description of the project;

(II) A description of how the project promotes a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion;

(III) The amount of in-kind contributions or matching funds, if any, that the applicant or outside sources will provide for the project budget; and

(IV) For nonprofit and for-profit grant project applications, whether there is local government support for the grant application.

(d) Grant and funding recipients may use the money received through the grant and funding program for staffing, supplies, equipment, marketing and communications, planning, policy research and development, community engagement, and programming and services required by the board.

(e) The board shall:

(I) Use its best efforts to award grants within ninety days after receipt of applications and to award other funding as soon as practicable;

(II) Not allocate more than fifty percent of the annual fee revenue in any single grant award;

(III) Include a scope of work or conditions of funding, including mileposts and deadlines for achievement of specified goals, in grant award and funding agreements; and

(IV) Determine the criteria for measuring progress. The board shall consider a grantee's or funding recipient's progress in awarding further grants to the grantee or funding to the funding recipient.

(f) (I) A grantee or funding recipient shall report to the board on the progress of the project financed by the grant or award of funding pursuant to terms specified by the board but no less than on an annual basis.

(II) The board may develop a policy regarding a grantee's noncompliance with the grant or funding agreement entered into by the grantee or funding recipient and the board, which policy may include a mechanism for the board to convert the grantee's grant or funding award to a loan with interest. Nothing in this subsection (6)(f) limits the board's authority to address noncompliance with action up to and including termination of the grant or funding agreement.

(7) Reporting. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the board shall submit a report by July 1 of each year to the committees of reference of the general assembly with jurisdiction over environment matters regarding:

(a) The unobligated balance of the fund;

(b) An overview of the grants and funding awarded and of any technical assistance provided;

(c) The progress toward achievement of a circular economy, including waste diversion and aversion, and the primary factors facilitating and inhibiting that progress; and

(d) Any suggested legislation or policy changes.

(8) Repeal.

(a) This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2032.

(b) The state treasurer shall transfer any money remaining in the fund on September 1, 2032, to the general fund.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1116, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2025: (2)(i) and (5)(a)(VIII) added and (5)(a)(VI) and (5)(a)(VII) amended, (HB 25-1059), ch. 77, p. 327, § 2, effective August 6.

Editor's note: Subsections (3)(c)(VIII)(B), (4)(b)(V)(B), and (4)(d)(II) provided for the repeal of subsections (3)(c)(VIII), (4)(b)(V), and (4)(d), respectively, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 1116.)

25-16.5-110. Stakeholder feedback - report.

(1) Stakeholders may provide the department with feedback about the effectiveness of the enterprise, including any factors that facilitate or inhibit progress, which factors may relate to the enterprise itself or to other areas such as the circular economy development center or producer responsibility program. At any time the department chooses, the department shall share the feedback with the board to inform the board's strategies and decisions.

(2) By January 1, 2030, the department, after engaging stakeholders, shall submit a report to the committees of reference of the general assembly with jurisdiction over environmental matters regarding the enterprise and any recommendations. The department's recommendations in the report may include:

(a) The statutory repeal date of the enterprise, if any;

(b) Enterprise fee amounts, including a proposed schedule for fee increases or a recommendation to move to a single, statewide fee; and

(c) Progress toward delivering statewide services.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article R&RE, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1126, § 1, effective July 1.

ARTICLE 17

Waste Diversion and Recycling

PART 1
RECYCLING OF PRODUCTS

25-17-101. Legislative declaration.

25-17-102. Definitions.

25-17-103. Labeling and coding.

25-17-104. Local government preemption - repeal. (Repealed)

25-17-105. Pilot program - recycled plastic and products - rules.

25-17-105.5. Pilot program - cathode ray tube product recycling.

25-17-106. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

25-17-107. Electronic device recycling task force - report - cash fund - repeal. (Repealed)

25-17-108. Statewide education campaign concerning recycling - repeal. (Repealed)

PART 2
STRATEGIES FOR MOTOR VEHICLE WASTE TIRES

25-17-201 to

25-17-208. (Repealed)

PART 3
ELECTRONIC DEVICE RECYCLING

25-17-301. Short title.

25-17-302. Definitions.

25-17-303. Landfill ban - rules.

25-17-304. State electronic device recycling - rules.

25-17-305. Immunity.

25-17-306. Public education.

25-17-307. Charitable donations of electronic devices.

25-17-308. Rules.

PART 4
ARCHITECTURAL PAINT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS

25-17-401. Short title.

25-17-402. Legislative declaration.

25-17-403. Definitions.

25-17-404. Paint stewardship program plan - assessment - rules - fees.

25-17-405. Paint stewardship program requirements - annual reports - customer information.

25-17-406. Retail sales - requirements - paint stewardship assessment added to purchase price - customer information.

25-17-407. Violations - enforcement - administrative penalty.

25-17-408. Fees - cash fund - creation.

25-17-409. Certificate of designation not required.

25-17-410. Limited exemption from antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions.

PART 5
MANAGEMENT OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS

25-17-501. Short title.

25-17-502. Legislative declaration.

25-17-503. Definitions - rules.

25-17-504. Restrictions on use of single-use plastic carryout bag - inventory exception.

25-17-505. Carryout bag fee - disposition of money.

25-17-506. Prohibition on use of expanded polystyrene food containers.

25-17-507. Enforcement - possible penalties.

25-17-508. Local government regulation - preemption.

25-17-509. Exemption for medical products.

PART 6
CIRCULAR ECONOMY DEVELOPMENT CENTER

25-17-601. Definitions.

25-17-602. Circular economy development center - creation - administration - reports.

25-17-603. Repeal of part.

PART 7
PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAM FOR STATEWIDE RECYCLING

25-17-701. Short title.

25-17-702. Legislative declaration.

25-17-703. Definitions.

25-17-704. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling advisory board - creation - membership.

25-17-705. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling - needs assessment - plan proposal - rules.

25-17-706. Minimum recyclable list - convenience standards.

25-17-707. Education and outreach program.

25-17-708. Producer requirements - additional producer responsibility organization - coordination plan - rules - confidentiality - compliance with local government codes - audit.

25-17-709. Producer responsibility dues - inspection of records - annual reporting.

25-17-710. Violations - enforcement - administrative penalty - injunction.

25-17-711. Limited exemption from antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions.

25-17-712. Eligibility for state or local incentive programs.

25-17-713. Producer exemptions - rules.

25-17-714. Restriction on fees.

25-17-715. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling administration fund - creation - purpose.

25-17-716. No obligation to provide recycling services.

PART 8
STANDARDS FOR PRODUCTS REPRESENTED AS COMPOSTABLE

25-17-801. Legislative declaration.

25-17-802. Definitions.

25-17-803. Requirements for products represented as compostable.

25-17-804. Marketing and advertising prohibitions for products that are not certified compostable - misleading labels, images, and words - plastic products.

25-17-805. Proof of compliance - information on commercial composting environment.

25-17-806. Education and outreach - complaint forum.

PART 9
ORGANICS DIVERSION

25-17-901 to

25-17-903. (Repealed)

PART 10
BATTERY STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS

25-17-1001. Short title.

25-17-1002. Legislative declaration.

25-17-1003. Definitions - rules.

25-17-1004. Requirement that producers participate in a battery stewardship plan - retailer requirements - no point-of-sale fees.

25-17-1005. Battery stewardship plans - review and approval by the executive director.

25-17-1006. Performance goals.

25-17-1007. Collection of charges - reimbursement of collection sites and electronic waste recyclers.

25-17-1008. Collection site requirements - statewide collection opportunities - minimum amount of collection sites.

25-17-1009. Assessment of battery-containing products required.

25-17-1010. Education and outreach requirements - coordination with other battery stewardship organizations - survey of public awareness.

25-17-1011. Annual reporting requirements - proprietary information.

25-17-1012. Annual fee - battery stewardship fund - responsibilities of the executive director - rules.

25-17-1013. Marking requirements for batteries - rules.

25-17-1014. Battery disposal and collection requirements.

25-17-1015. Enforcement - responsibilities of the department.

25-17-1016. Antitrust.

25-17-1017. Collection of batteries independent of a battery stewardship program.

25-17-1018. Rules.

25-17-1019. Propulsion batteries - propulsion battery providers - remanufacturers - secondary handlers - public outreach and education - collection of unwanted propulsion batteries - reporting requirement - marking and labeling requirements - solid waste disposal site and facility disposal prohibited.

25-17-1020. Applicability.

PART 1

RECYCLING OF PRODUCTS

25-17-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the recycling of materials and products is a matter of statewide concern and that such recycling should be promoted in cooperation with units of local government in light of its economic and environmental benefits. The general assembly further finds that the recycling of materials and products will decrease the amount of materials and products which is disposed of in landfills and will also spur economic development in the recycling industry in Colorado. It is the intent of the general assembly in adopting this act to encourage the development of the recycling industry and the development of markets for recycled materials and products.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that:

(a) Proper management of waste in all forms is necessary to protect the public health and environment for the citizens of this state;

(b) The diversion of waste from the waste stream by encouraging available, affordable, and innovative alternatives to disposal is a key strategy in any state-local waste management policy;

(c) A comprehensive, cooperative, and integrated approach to waste management is necessary to achieve the goal of diverting waste from the municipal waste stream;

(d) Such an approach should foster public and private initiatives to reduce and divert waste through: Source reductions; recycling, including the secondary use of waste material or products in all forms; composting as a recycling option for materials such as yard debris, food scraps, and soiled or otherwise unrecyclable paper which are not recovered using traditional recycling methods; and other waste management strategies and disposal alternatives; and

(e) The state's waste management policies should include a combination of tax incentives, procurement policies, and economic development incentives: To encourage government entities and businesses and individuals to reduce sources of waste, recycle, and compost; to encourage the development of the recycling industry; and to encourage the development of markets for reusable, recycled, and composted products and materials.

Source: L. 89: Entire section added, p. 1180, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 2133, § 6, effective June 12.

25-17-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Cathode ray tube product" means an item of scientific equipment or a consumer electronic product that contains a glass tube used to provide an electronic visual display. The term includes, but is not limited to, televisions, computer monitors, and oscilloscopes.

(1.5) "Label" means one of the code labels described in section 25-17-103 that is molded into the bottom of a plastic container.

(2) "Plastic" means any material made of polymeric organic compounds and additives that can be shaped by flow.

(3) "Plastic bottle" means a plastic container that has a neck that is smaller than the body of the container, accepts a screw-type, snap-cap, or other closure, and has a capacity of sixteen fluid ounces or more but less than five gallons.

(4) "Rigid plastic container" means any formed or molded container other than a bottle, intended for single use, composed predominantly of plastic resin, and having a relatively inflexible finite shape or form with a capacity of eight ounces or more but less than five gallons.

Source: L. 89: Entire article added, p. 1180, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2001: (1) amended and (1.5) added, p. 1470, § 1, effective June 6.

25-17-103. Labeling and coding.

On or after July 1, 1992, no person shall distribute, sell, or offer for sale in this state any plastic bottle or rigid plastic container manufactured on or after July 1, 1992, unless the product is labeled with a code indicating the plastic resin used to produce the bottle or container. Plastic bottles or rigid plastic containers with labels and basecups of a different material shall be coded by their basic material. Such code shall consist of a number placed within a triangle of arrows and letters placed below the triangle of arrows. The triangle shall be equilateral, formed by three arrows with the apex of each point of the triangle at the midpoint of each arrow, rounded with a short radius. The arrowhead of each arrow shall be at the midpoint of each side of the arrow. The triangle, formed by the three arrows curved at their midpoints, shall depict a clockwise path around the code number. The numbers and letters used shall be as follows: 1=PETE (polyethylene terephthalate), 2=HDPE (high density polyethylene), 3=V (vinyl), 4=LDPE (low density polyethylene), 5=PP (polypropylene), 6=PS (polystyrene), 7=OTHER (includes multi-layer).

Source: L. 89: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective July 1.

25-17-104. Local government preemption - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 2134, § 7, effective June 12. L. 2021: (2) added by revision, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, pp. 2910, 2916, §§ 1, 3.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, pp. 2910, 2916.)

25-17-105. Pilot program - recycled plastic and products - rules.

(1) The executive director of the department of local affairs may establish a pilot program for the purpose of encouraging private industry to engage in the research and development of new technologies for recycling plastics. The executive director of the department of local affairs may cooperate with any other entity of state government, including institutions of higher education, in developing the pilot program.

(2) The executive director of the department of local affairs may make grants or loans to private industry for the research and development authorized by subsection (1) of this section. Said grants and loans shall be made only to private industries for location or expansion in Colorado.

(3) The executive director of the department of local affairs is hereby authorized to accept any grants or loans from any public or private source for the purpose of encouraging plastics recycling. None of such moneys shall be used for overhead or administrative costs of the department.

(4) The executive director of the department of local affairs may establish a pilot program for the purpose of encouraging private enterprises and state and local government entities to develop and implement waste diversion strategies or programs. The executive director of such department is hereby authorized to accept grants or loans from any public or private source for the purpose of implementing this section. The executive director may make grants or loans from such moneys to such entities for the development of waste diversion strategies.

Source: L. 89: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: (4) added, p. 2134, § 8, effective June 12.

25-17-105.5. Pilot program - cathode ray tube product recycling.

(1) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall establish a cathode ray tube recycling pilot program, only if the department has received a grant, gift, or bequest pursuant to subsection (3) of this section that is sufficient to do so, for the purpose of:

(a) Minimizing the number of cathode ray tube products that are disposed of within Colorado, including through public education regarding:

(I) Why the disposal of cathode ray tube products in landfills should be minimized; and

(II) How to recycle cathode ray tube products;

(b) Developing local markets and business opportunities based on the recycling and reuse of cathode ray tube products;

(c) Encouraging private industry and public-private partnerships to undertake research and development of new technologies for the recycling, waste minimization, and disposal of cathode ray tube products;

(d) Providing businesses and individuals with easy access to cathode ray tube product recycling centers; and

(e) Leveraging public support of cathode ray tube recycling with private grants and in-kind contributions to the pilot program.

(2) The executive director of the department of public health and environment may make grants or loans to private industry and public-private partnerships for the purposes specified in subsection (1) of this section from any moneys in the cathode ray tube recycling fund, which fund is hereby created; except that said grants and loans shall be made only to entities that are located, or will be located, in Colorado.

(3) The executive director of the department of public health and environment is hereby authorized to request, receive, and expend grants, gifts, and bequests, specifically including federal moneys, and other moneys available from any public or private source, excluding appropriations from the general fund, for the purposes specified in subsection (1) of this section, subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly. The executive director shall transmit such moneys to the state treasurer, who shall credit the moneys to the cathode ray tube recycling fund.

(4) The general assembly shall make annual appropriations out of the cathode ray tube recycling fund to the department of public health and environment in an amount equal to the department's direct administrative costs in administering the cathode ray tube recycling pilot program and for purposes consistent with subsections (1) and (2) of this section, including developing and distributing public education materials.

(5) Repealed.

Source: L. 2001: Entire section added, p. 1470, § 2, effective June 6. L. 2009: (5) added, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 625, § 26, effective April 20. L. 2015: (5) repealed, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 961, § 75, effective August 5.

25-17-106. Repeal of part. (Repealed)

Source: L. 89: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 2134, § 9, effective June 12. L. 98: Entire section amended, p. 1066, § 2, effective June 1; entire section amended, p. 880, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section repealed, p. 177, § 16, effective March 24.

25-17-107. Electronic device recycling task force - report - cash fund - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (HB 09-1282), ch. 380, p. 2068, § 1, effective June 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2010. (See L. 2009, p. 2068.)

25-17-108. Statewide education campaign concerning recycling - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (SB 20-055), ch. 289, p. 1432, § 6, effective September 14.

Editor's note: Subsection (5) provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 1, 2021. (See L. 2020, p. 1432.)

PART 2

STRATEGIES FOR MOTOR VEHICLE WASTE TIRES

25-17-201 to 25-17-208. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2014: Entire part repealed, (HB 14-1352), ch. 351, p. 1595, § 10, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 2 was added in 1993. For amendments to this part 2 prior to its repeal in 2014, consult the 2013 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 3

ELECTRONIC DEVICE RECYCLING

25-17-301. Short title.

This part 3 shall be known and may be cited as the "Electronic Recycling Jobs Act".

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 434, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-302. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created in section 25-15-302.

(2) "Consumer" means a person who has purchased an electronic device primarily for personal or home business use.

(3) (a) "Electronic device" means a device that is marketed by a manufacturer for use by a consumer and that is:

(I) A computer, peripheral, printer, facsimile machine, digital video disc player, video cassette recorder, or other electronic device specified by rule promulgated by the commission; or

(II) A video display device or computer monitor, including a laptop, notebook, ultrabook, or netbook computer, television, tablet or slate computer, electronic book, or other electronic device specified by rule promulgated by the commission that contains a cathode ray tube or flat panel screen with a screen size that is greater than four inches, measured diagonally.

(b) "Electronic device" does not include:

(I) A device that is part of a motor vehicle or any component part of a motor vehicle, including replacement parts for use in a motor vehicle;

(II) A device, including a touch-screen display, that is functionally or physically part of or connected to a system or equipment designed and intended for use in any of the following settings, including diagnostic, monitoring, or control equipment:

(A) Industrial;

(B) Commercial, including retail;

(C) Library checkout;

(D) Traffic control;

(E) Security, sensing, monitoring, or counterterrorism;

(F) Border control;

(G) Medical; or

(H) Governmental or research and development;

(III) A device that is contained within any of the following:

(A) A clothes washer or dryer;

(B) A refrigerator, freezer, or refrigerator and freezer;

(C) A microwave oven or conventional oven or range;

(D) A dishwasher;

(E) A room air conditioner, dehumidifier, or air purifier; or

(F) Exercise equipment;

(IV) A device capable of using commercial mobile radio service, as defined in 47 CFR 20.3, that does not contain a video display area greater than four inches, measured diagonally; or

(V) A telephone.

(4) "Landfill" means a solid wastes disposal site and facility, as that term is defined in section 30-20-101 (8), C.R.S.

(5) "Peripheral" means a keyboard, mouse, or other device that is sold exclusively for external use with a computer and provides input or output into or from a computer.

(6) "Processing for reuse" means a method, technique, or process by which electronic devices that would otherwise be disposed of or discarded are instead separated, processed, and returned to their original intended purposes or to other useful purposes as electronic devices.

(7) "Recycle" or "recycling" means processing, including disassembling, dismantling, shredding, and smelting, an electronic device or its components to recycle a useable component, commodity, or product, including processing for reuse. "Recycling", with respect to electronic devices, does not include any process defined as incineration under applicable laws or rules.

(8) "State agency" means any department, commission, council, board, bureau, committee, institution of higher education, agency, or other governmental unit of the executive, legislative, or judicial branch of state government.

(9) (a) "Video display device" means:

(I) An electronic device with an output surface that displays or is capable of displaying moving graphical images or visual representations of image sequences or pictures that show a number of quickly changing images on a screen to create the illusion of motion; or

(II) An electronic device with a viewable screen of four inches or larger, measured diagonally, that contains a tuner that locks on to a selected carrier frequency or cable signal and is capable of receiving and displaying television or video programming via broadcast, cable, or satellite.

(b) "Video display device" includes a device that is an integral part of the display and cannot easily be removed from the display by the consumer and that produces the moving image on the screen. A video display device may use a cathode ray tube, liquid crystal display, gas plasma, digital light processing, or other image-projection technology.

(c) "Video display device" does not include a device that is part of a motor vehicle or any component part of a motor vehicle assembled by, or for, a vehicle manufacturer or franchised dealer, including replacement parts for use in a motor vehicle.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 434, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-303. Landfill ban - rules.

By July 1, 2013, a person shall not dispose of an electronic device or a component of an electronic device in a landfill in this state; except that a board of county commissioners for a county that does not have at least two electronic waste recycling events per year or an ongoing electronic waste recycling program that serves residents of the county may, by majority vote of the commissioners and in compliance with the requirements of this section, exempt its residents from the ban established by this section. A county shall make a good-faith effort to secure the electronic waste recycling services before the board of commissioners may exempt the county's residents from the landfill ban. An exemption from the landfill ban is valid for two years, after which the board may vote on another two-year exemption after again making a good-faith effort to secure a vendor to provide the recycling services. A county is not required to pay for the recycling services. Counties that currently do not have such services are encouraged to work with the department of public health and environment and other entities, such as the Colorado association for recycling, or its successor organization, to find an electronics recycling vendor that will serve that county.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 437, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-304. State electronic device recycling - rules.

(1) Effective July 1, 2013, each state agency shall recycle its electronic devices. The agency shall use only a recycler that is certified to a national environmental certification standard such as the R2 or e-steward standards or other comparable recycling or disposal standard; except that this certification requirement does not apply to processing for reuse conducted on behalf of state agencies as stipulated in section 17-24-106.6, C.R.S., by the division of correctional industries created in section 17-24-104, C.R.S. The commission may adopt rules to avoid the use of certifications that are not comparable.

(2) Upon receipt of a device, a recycler that accepts an electronic device from a state agency shall provide the agency with appropriate documentation verifying the recycler's certification as required in subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 437, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-305. Immunity.

(1) A recycler is not liable for personal or financial data or other information that a consumer or state agency may leave on an electronic device that is collected, processed, or recycled unless the recycler acted in a grossly negligent manner.

(2) A waste hauler, as that term is defined in section 30-20-1001 (16), C.R.S., or owner or operator of a landfill or transfer station does not violate this part 3 if the hauler, owner, or operator has made a good-faith effort to comply with this part 3 by posting and maintaining, in a conspicuous location at the waste hauler's facility, transfer station, or the landfill, a sign stating that electronic devices will not be accepted at the facility, transfer station, or landfill.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 437, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2014: (2) amended, (HB 14-1352), ch. 351, p. 1594, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2015: (2) amended, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 961, § 76, effective August 5.

25-17-306. Public education.

The department of public health and environment shall coordinate with existing public and private efforts regarding the development and implementation of a public education program about the recycling of electronic devices, the removal of data from an electronic device being offered for recycling, the benefits of electronic device recycling, how to find electronic device recyclers, and implementation of the landfill ban pursuant to section 25-17-303. The department shall perform these functions within its existing resources.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 438, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-307. Charitable donations of electronic devices.

(1) A charitable organization, as defined in section 6-16-103 (1), C.R.S., may:

(a) Refuse to accept a donation of an electronic device; and

(b) Establish a surcharge for acceptance of a donation of an electronic device.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 438, § 1, effective August 8.

25-17-308. Rules.

The commission shall adopt rules necessary to implement this part 3.

Source: L. 2012: Entire part added, (SB 12-133), ch. 127, p. 438, § 1, effective August 8.

PART 4

ARCHITECTURAL PAINT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS

25-17-401. Short title.

This part 4 shall be known and may be cited as the "Architectural Paint Stewardship Act".

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1864, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-402. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that paint disposal creates environmental and public health problems, and these problems should be addressed through the implementation of environmentally sound management practices for recycling postconsumer architectural paint.

(2) To that end, it is the general assembly's intent to establish a system of paint stewardship programs that:

(a) Provides substantial cost savings to household hazardous waste collection programs;

(b) Significantly increases the number of:

(I) Postconsumer architectural paint collection sites; and

(II) Recycling opportunities for households, businesses, and other generators of postconsumer architectural paint; and

(c) Exemplifies the principles of a product-centered approach to environmental protection, often referred to as "product stewardship".

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1864, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-403. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) "Architectural paint" means an interior or exterior architectural coating sold in a container of five gallons or less.

(b) "Architectural paint" does not include industrial, original equipment manufacturer, or specialty coatings as those terms are defined by the commission by rule.

(2) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created in section 25-15-302.

(3) "Curbside service" means a waste collection, recycling, and disposal service that provides pickup of covered architectural paint from residences, including single- and multi-family dwelling units, and small businesses in quantities that a residence or small business would reasonably generate.

(4) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 24-1-119, C.R.S.

(5) "Distributor" means a person who has a contractual relationship with one or more producers to market and sell architectural paint to retailers.

(6) "Energy recovery" means a process by which all or part of architectural paint materials are processed in order to use the heat content or another form of energy from the materials.

(7) "Environmentally sound management practices" means policies that a producer or a stewardship organization implements to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, including laws addressing:

(a) Record keeping;

(b) Tracking and documenting the disposal of architectural paint within and outside the state; and

(c) Environmental liability coverage for professional services and contractor operations.

(8) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee.

(9) "Paint stewardship assessment" means an amount that a producer participating in a paint stewardship program adds to the purchase price of a container of architectural paint sold in Colorado that covers the cost of collecting, transporting, and processing postconsumer architectural paint statewide.

(10) "Paint stewardship program" means a program created in accordance with section 25-17-405.

(11) "Postconsumer architectural paint" means unused architectural paint that the purchaser of the paint no longer wants.

(12) "Producer" means an original producer of architectural paint that sells, offers for sale, or distributes architectural paint within or into Colorado under either the producer's own name or a brand that the producer manufactures.

(13) "Recycling" means a process that transforms discarded products, components, or by-products into new usable or marketable materials that may involve a change in the product's identity. "Recycling" does not mean energy recovery or energy generation by means of combusting discarded products, components, or by-products with or without other waste products.

(14) "Retailer" means a person that sells or offers for sale architectural paint within or into Colorado.

(15) "Reuse" means the return of a product that has already been used into the marketplace for use in the same manner as originally intended without a change in the product's identity.

(16) "Sell" means to transfer title for consideration, including remote sales conducted through sales outlets, catalogs, or online. "Sell" does not include sales or donations of architectural paint in the original container for reuse.

(17) "Stewardship organization" means a corporation, nonprofit organization, or other legal entity created or contracted by one or more producers to implement a paint stewardship program.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1865, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-404. Paint stewardship program plan - assessment - rules - fees.

(1) Effective July 1, 2015, no producer shall sell, offer for sale, or distribute architectural paint in Colorado unless the producer is implementing or participating in a paint stewardship program approved by the executive director. The executive director may approve an earlier start date as part of his or her approval of a paint stewardship program plan submitted in accordance with subsection (2) of this section. A paint stewardship program must commence within ninety days after the executive director's approval of the paint stewardship program plan.

(2) One or more producers, or a stewardship organization contracted by one or more producers, shall submit for approval a paint stewardship program plan to the executive director by January 1, 2015. To be approved, a paint stewardship program plan must:

(a) Identify the following:

(I) A list of each producer participating in the program;

(II) The contact information for the producer or stewardship organization implementing the program; and

(III) A list of all brands covered by the program;

(b) Describe the manner in which the program will collect, transport, reuse, recycle, and process postconsumer architectural paint, including a description of the following:

(I) Energy recovery and disposal; and

(II) Standards to ensure the use of environmentally sound management practices, including collection standards;

(c) Describe the manner in which the program will collect postconsumer architectural paint. At a minimum, a program plan must establish collection practices that:

(I) Provide convenient collection sites throughout the state;

(II) To ensure adequate collection coverage, use demographic and geographic information modeling to determine the number and distribution of collection sites based on the following criteria:

(A) At least ninety percent of Colorado residents must have a permanent collection site within a fifteen-mile radius of their homes;

(B) An additional permanent site must be provided for every thirty thousand residents of an urbanized area, as defined by the United States census bureau, and distributed in a manner that provides convenient and reasonably equitable access for residents within each urbanized area, unless the executive director approves otherwise; and

(C) For the portion of Colorado residents who will not have a permanent collection site within a fifteen-mile radius of their homes, the plan must provide collection events at least once per year; and

(III) Include specific information on how to serve geographically isolated populations and a proposal for how to measure and report service to those populations. This information must include a description of how the program will work with existing recyclers and local governments that wish to continue to be involved in paint recycling and collection.

(d) Notwithstanding the requirements of subparagraphs (I) and (II) of paragraph (c) of this subsection (2), the plan may, in lieu of providing collection sites for a specified geographic area or population, identify an available curbside service that provides access to residents that is at least as convenient and equitably accessible as a collection site;

(e) Describe how the paint stewardship program will incorporate and fairly compensate service providers for activities that may include:

(I) For services such as permanent collection sites, collection events, or curbside services, the coverage of costs for collecting postconsumer architectural paint and architectural paint containers;

(II) The reuse or processing of postconsumer architectural paint at a permanent collection site; and

(III) The transportation, recycling, and proper disposal of postconsumer architectural paint;

(f) Provide a list of the names, locations, and hours of operation for facilities accepting postconsumer architectural paint for recycling under the program;

(g) Identify one or more designated persons responsible for:

(I) Ensuring the program's compliance with this part 4 and the rules promulgated under this part 4; and

(II) Serving as a contact person for the department with respect to the paint stewardship program;

(h) Describe the manner in which the program will achieve the following goals:

(I) Reducing the generation of postconsumer architectural paint;

(II) Promoting the reuse of postconsumer architectural paint; and

(III) Using best practices that are both environmentally and economically sound to manage postconsumer architectural paint. These practices should follow a waste handling hierarchy, which provides a preference for source reduction, then reuse, followed by recycling, energy recovery, and finally waste disposal.

(i) Include an education and outreach program that must:

(I) Target consumers, painting contractors, and paint retailers;

(II) Reach all architectural paint markets served by the participating producers; and

(III) Include a methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of the education and outreach program on an annual basis, including methods for determining the percentage of consumers, painting contractors, and retailers who are aware of:

(A) Ways to reduce the generation of postconsumer architectural paint; and

(B) Opportunities available for the reuse and recycling of postconsumer architectural paint;

(j) (I) Demonstrate sufficient funding for the architectural paint stewardship program described in the plan through the imposition of a paint stewardship assessment that each producer shall charge retailers and distributors for each container of the producer's architectural paint sold in Colorado. Each producer shall remit the paint stewardship assessments collected to the paint stewardship program. Each retailer and distributor shall add the amount of the paint stewardship assessment to the purchase price of a container of the producer's architectural paint sold in Colorado. The paint stewardship program must not impose any fees on customers for the collection of post-consumer architectural paint.

(II) To ensure that a paint stewardship program's funding mechanism is equitable and sustainable, the funding mechanism must:

(A) Provide a uniform paint stewardship assessment that does not exceed the amount necessary to recover program costs; and

(B) Require that any funds generated by the aggregate amount of fees charged to consumers be placed back into the program.

(k) Include a proposed budget and a description of the process used to determine the paint stewardship assessment required by paragraph (j) of this subsection (2).

(3) (a) The executive director shall review a paint stewardship program plan submitted in accordance with subsection (2) of this section for compliance with this part 4, including a review of the proposed paint stewardship assessment required by paragraph (j) of subsection (2) of this section, to ensure that the paint stewardship assessment does not exceed an amount necessary to recover program costs. The executive director shall approve or reject a plan in writing within ninety days after receipt of the plan. If a plan meets the criteria of subsection (2) of this section, the executive director shall approve the plan. If the executive director rejects a plan, the executive director shall include in the written rejection the reason or reasons for rejecting the plan.

(b) (I) If the executive director approves a paint stewardship program plan, the executive director shall add:

(A) The producer or group of producers participating in the paint stewardship program plan to a list of producers participating in an approved paint stewardship program plan; and

(B) The brands being sold by the producer or group of producers to a list of brands included in an approved paint stewardship program plan.

(II) The executive director shall publish the lists on the department's website, and he or she shall update the published lists as necessary.

(c) The executive director's rejection of a paint stewardship program plan constitutes a final agency action that may be appealed in accordance with the procedures set forth in section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(d) If the executive director's decision to reject a paint stewardship program plan is not appealed pursuant to section 24-4-106, C.R.S., or the executive director prevails on appeal, the producer, group of producers, or stewardship organization that submitted the paint stewardship program plan must submit a revised plan within ninety days after the date on which the executive director's decision was affirmed or, if no appeal was pursued, the date on which the time for appeal expired. The revised plan must provide the information required by subsection (2) of this section. The executive director shall approve or reject a revised plan under the procedure set forth in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3). The executive director's rejection of a revised plan may be appealed in accordance with section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(4) When submitting a paint stewardship program plan, a revised plan, or an annual report, as required by section 25-17-405, one or more producers or a stewardship organization contracted by one or more producers shall pay a paint stewardship program plan fee, revised plan fee, or annual report fee in an amount that the commission has established or adjusted by rule. In establishing or adjusting a fee by rule, the commission shall consult with the executive director and, as needed, with an association of producers.

(5) The aggregate amount of fees charged to consumers pursuant to this section shall be in an amount not to exceed the actual cost of the program.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1866, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-405. Paint stewardship program requirements - annual reports - customer information.

(1) A paint stewardship program must be financed and either managed or contracted by a producer or group of producers. The program must be implemented statewide and include:

(a) The collection, transportation, reuse, recycling, and disposal of postconsumer architectural paint; and

(b) Initiatives to reduce the generation of postconsumer architectural paint.

(2) A paint stewardship program shall comply with any fire, hazardous waste, or other relevant ordinances or resolutions adopted by a local government.

(3) (a) On or after March 31 of the second year of a paint stewardship program's implementation, and annually thereafter, one or more participating producers, or a stewardship organization contracted by one or more producers, shall submit a report to the executive director describing the progress of the paint stewardship program. The paint stewardship program report must include the following information from the preceding calendar year:

(I) A description of the method or methods used to reduce, reuse, collect, transport, recycle, and process postconsumer architectural paint;

(II) The total volume, in gallons, and type of postconsumer architectural paint collected, with the data broken down by:

(A) Collection site; and

(B) Method of waste handling used to handle the collected postconsumer architectural paint, such as reuse, recycling, energy recovery, or waste disposal;

(III) The total volume, in gallons, of postconsumer architectural paint sold in Colorado by the producer or producers participating in the paint stewardship program;

(IV) For the education and outreach program implemented in compliance with section 25-17-404 (2)(i):

(A) Samples of any materials distributed; and

(B) A description of the methodology used and the results of the evaluation conducted pursuant to section 25-17-404 (2)(i)(III). The results must include the percentage of consumers, painting contractors, and retailers made aware of the ways to reduce the generation of postconsumer architectural paint, available opportunities for reuse of postconsumer architectural paint, and collection options for postconsumer architectural paint recycling.

(V) The name, location, and hours of operation of each facility added to or removed from the list developed in accordance with section 25-17-404 (2)(f);

(VI) Any proposed changes to the paint stewardship program plan. The executive director shall review any proposed changes set forth in the annual report in accordance with the review procedures for a revised plan, as set forth in section 25-17-404 (3).

(VII) A copy of an independent third party's report auditing the paint stewardship program. The audit must include a detailed list of the program's costs and revenues.

(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the executive director shall annually compile the results of the reports received pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section into a general report describing the progress of the paint stewardship programs. The executive director shall annually present the report to the health and human services committee of the senate and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees.

(4) As part of the education and outreach program set forth in section 25-17-404 (2)(i), a producer shall distribute paint stewardship program information to all retailers offering the producer's architectural paint for sale. The information may include the following:

(a) Signage that is prominently displayed and easily visible to the consumer;

(b) Written materials that may be provided to the consumer at the time of purchase or delivery or both and templates of those materials for reproduction by the retailer; and

(c) Promotional materials including advertising materials that reference the architectural paint stewardship program.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1870, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2017: (3)(b) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 94, § 9, effective March 16.

25-17-406. Retail sales - requirements - paint stewardship assessment added to purchase price - customer information.

(1) The executive director, upon the executive director's own motion, may, and, upon a person's written complaint, shall, investigate a producer to determine whether, on the date that the producer's architectural paint was sold at retail, the producer or the producer's brand was listed on the department's website as part of an approved paint stewardship program. If the executive director determines that the producer's architectural paint was sold in violation of this part 4, the executive director may order the producer to cease and desist from distributing the architectural paint until the producer is in compliance with this part 4.

(2) For each container of architectural paint sold in Colorado, a retailer shall add the amount of the producer's paint stewardship assessment, established under section 25-17-404 (2)(j), to the purchase price of the container of architectural paint.

(3) A retailer selling architectural paint or offering architectural paint for sale shall, at the time of sale of any of a producer's architectural paint, provide customers with information about the producer's paint stewardship program, as provided by the producer pursuant to section 25-17-405 (4). If a retailer fails to disseminate information about the producer's paint stewardship program pursuant to this subsection (3), but the retailer can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the executive director that the producer failed to provide the requisite education and outreach program information to the retailer, the retailer is neither liable nor prohibited from selling the producer's architectural paint.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1872, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-407. Violations - enforcement - administrative penalty.

(1) In addition to other penalties prescribed by this part 4 or any other law, a producer or stewardship organization that violates this part 4 is liable for an administrative penalty assessment not to exceed one thousand dollars per day for the first violation and five thousand dollars per day for a second or subsequent violation.

(2) If a person is liable pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the executive director shall serve by personal service or by certified mail an order that imposes an administrative penalty on the person who has been designated in the paint stewardship program plan as the contact person.

(3) The contact person may submit a written request to the executive director for a hearing by personal service or by certified mail within thirty calendar days after the date of the order. An administrative law judge from the office of administrative courts shall conduct the hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(4) If a request for a hearing is filed, payment of any monetary penalty is stayed pending a final decision by the administrative law judge after the hearing on the merits. The department is not precluded from imposing an administrative penalty against the producer or stewardship program for subsequent violations of this part 4 committed during the pendency of the stay.

(5) The department bears the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence in a hearing held pursuant to this section.

(6) The executive director may enter into a settlement agreement with a producer or stewardship organization assessed an administrative penalty under this section.

(7) The executive director shall transfer any moneys collected under this section to the state treasurer, who shall deposit the moneys into the general fund.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1873, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-408. Fees - cash fund - creation.

The executive director shall transmit all fees collected under section 25-17-404 (4) to the state treasurer, who shall credit them to the paint stewardship program cash fund, hereby created and referred to in this section as the "fund". The moneys in the fund are appropriated to the department for the purposes set forth in this part 4. All interest earned from the investment of moneys in the fund is credited to the fund. Any moneys not expended at the end of the fiscal year remain in the fund and do not revert to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1873, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-409. Certificate of designation not required.

If a retailer or other facility serving as a postconsumer architectural paint collection site would not otherwise be required to obtain a certificate of designation as a solid wastes disposal site and facility pursuant to section 30-20-102, C.R.S., then the retailer or other facility need not obtain a certificate of designation.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1874, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-410. Limited exemption from antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions.

If a producer or group of producers participating in a paint stewardship program or a stewardship organization contracted by one or more producers to implement a paint stewardship program engages in an activity performed solely in furtherance of implementing the paint stewardship program and in compliance with the provisions of this part 4, the activity is not a violation of the antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions of the "Unfair Practices Act", article 2 of title 6, or the "Colorado State Antitrust Act of 2023", article 4 of title 6.

Source: L. 2014: Entire part added, (SB 14-029), ch. 383, p. 1874, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (HB 23-1192), ch. 427, p. 2519, § 5, effective June 7.

PART 5

MANAGEMENT OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS

25-17-501. Short title.

The short title of this part 5 is the "Plastic Pollution Reduction Act".

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2910, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-502. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that limiting the use of single-use plastic carryout bags and expanded polystyrene products will mitigate the harmful effects on our state's natural resources and our environment that result from disposing of these products in our landfills.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2910, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-503. Definitions - rules.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) "Carryout bag" means a bag that is furnished to a customer at a store or retail food establishment at the point of sale for use by the customer to transport or carry purchased items.

(b) "Carryout bag" does not include:

(I) A bag made of paper when the paper has a basis weight of thirty pounds or less;

(II) A bag that a pharmacy provides to a customer purchasing prescription medication;

(III) A bag that a customer uses inside a store to:

(A) Package loose or bulk items, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, candy, or greeting cards; nails, bolts, screws, or other small hardware items; live insects, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, or other small species; and bulk seed, bulk livestock feed, or bulk pet feed;

(B) Contain or wrap frozen foods, meat, seafood, fish, flowers, potted plants, or other items that, if they were to come in contact with other items, could dampen or contaminate the other items; or

(C) Contain unwrapped prepared foods or bakery goods; or

(IV) A laundry, dry cleaning, or garment bag.

(2) "Container" means a receptacle upon which or inside which food may be placed for consumption, whether or not the receptacle can be fully closed. "Container" includes hinged food containers, plates, bowls, cups, and trays.

(3) "Expanded polystyrene" means blown polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam™, and any other expanded or extruded foam consisting of thermoplastic petrochemical materials utilizing a styrene monomer and processed by techniques that may include:

(a) For expandable bead polystyrene, fusion of polymer spheres;

(b) Injection molding;

(c) Foam molding; and

(d) For extruded foam polystyrene, extrusion blow molding.

(4) (a) "Food" means any raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice, beverage, or ingredient used or intended for use or for sale, in whole or in part, for human consumption.

(b) "Food" does not include a drug, as that term is defined in section 25-5-402 (9).

(5) "Plastic" means a synthetic material made from linking monomers through a chemical reaction to create a polymer chain that can be molded or extruded at high heat into various solid forms that retain their defined shapes during their life cycle and after disposal.

(6) "Point of sale" means a check-out stand, cash register, or other point at which a sales transaction occurs in a store or retail food establishment or, for products that are ordered remotely from a store or retail food establishment and delivered, the location where the products are delivered.

(7) "Ready-to-eat food" means food that is cooked or otherwise prepared in advance for immediate consumption.

(8) "Recycled paper carryout bag" means a carryout bag made from one hundred percent:

(a) Recycled material; or

(b) Other post-consumer content.

(9) (a) "Retail food establishment" has the meaning set forth in section 25-4-1602 (14) except as provided in subsection (9)(b) of this section.

(b) "Retail food establishment" does not include farmers markets and roadside markets as described in section 25-4-1602 (14)(j).

(10) (a) "Reusable carryout bag" means a carryout bag that is designed and manufactured for at least one hundred twenty-five uses, can carry at least twenty-two pounds over a distance of one hundred seventy-five feet, has stitched handles, and is made of cloth, fiber, or other fabric or a recycled material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

(b) "Reusable carryout bag" does not include bags made of biologically based polymers such as corn or other plant sources; except that a carryout bag made of hemp is a reusable carryout bag if it is designed and manufactured in accordance with subsection (10)(a) of this section.

(11) "School" has the meaning set forth in section 23-3.9-101 (6).

(12) (a) "Single-use plastic carryout bag" means a carryout bag that is a single-use plastic product made predominantly of plastic derived from natural gas, petroleum, or a biologically based source, such as corn or other plant sources, and that is provided to a customer at the point of sale.

(b) "Single-use plastic carryout bag" does not include a reusable carryout bag.

(13) "Small store" means a store that operates solely in Colorado, has three or fewer locations in the state, and is not part of a franchise, corporation, or partnership that has physical locations outside of Colorado.

(14) (a) "Store" means, except as provided in subsection (14)(c) of this section, a grocery store, supermarket, convenience store, liquor store, dry cleaner, pharmacy, drug store, clothing store, or other type of retail establishment at which carryout bags are traditionally provided to customers.

(b) "Store" includes a farmers market, roadside market or stand, festival, or other temporary vendor or event that includes temporary vendors.

(c) "Store" does not include a small store.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2910, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-504. Restrictions on use of single-use plastic carryout bag - inventory exception.

(1) Subject to section 25-17-505 (1), on and after January 1, 2024, a store or retail food establishment shall not provide a single-use plastic carryout bag to a customer; except that a retail food establishment need not comply with this section if the retail food establishment:

(a) Prepares or serves food in individual portions for immediate on- or off-premises consumption; and

(b) Is not a grocery store or convenience store.

(2) Repealed.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2913, § 2, effective July 6.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (2), effective September 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2913.)

25-17-505. Carryout bag fee - disposition of money.

(1) Repealed.

(2) (a) On and after January 1, 2024, a store may provide a customer with one or more recycled paper carryout bags at the point of sale only if the customer pays a carryout bag fee of ten cents per recycled paper carryout bag, or a higher fee if a municipality or county in which the store is located raises the fee amount by ordinance or resolution. For each carryout bag fee collected pursuant to this subsection (2), the store shall:

(I) Remit, in accordance with subsection (3)(d) of this section, sixty percent to the municipality within which the store is located or, if the store is not located within a municipality, to the county within which the store is located, which municipality or county shall use the remitted fee to pay:

(A) Its administrative and enforcement costs incurred as a result of this section; and

(B) For any recycling, composting, or other waste diversion programs and related outreach and education activities; and

(II) Retain forty percent, which portion of the fee does not count as revenue for the purpose of calculating sales tax.

(b) The carryout bag fee set forth in subsection (2)(a) of this section does not apply to a customer that provides evidence to the store that the customer is a participant in a federal or state food assistance program.

(c) Repealed.

(3) In providing carryout bags for a fee pursuant to this section, a store shall:

(a) For each customer provided a carryout bag for a fee, provide on the customer's transaction receipt a record of the number of carryout bags provided as part of the transaction and the total amount of fees charged for the carryout bags provided, itemized by type of carryout bag;

(b) Not refund to the customer any portion of the carryout bag fee, either directly or indirectly, or advertise or otherwise convey to customers that any portion of the carryout bag fee will be refunded;

(c) Conspicuously display a sign in a location inside or outside the store, which sign alerts customers about the carryout bag fee; and

(d) (I) On a quarterly basis, remit from the total amount of carryout bag fees collected in the previous quarter the amount that is owed to the municipality or county:

(A) To the finance department or division or equivalent agency of the municipality within which the store is located; or

(B) If the store is not located within a municipality, to the finance department or division or equivalent agency of the county within which the store is located.

(II) A store need not remit carryout bag fees collected in any quarter in which the collected fees total less than twenty dollars. The store shall retain those collected fees until the store has more than twenty dollars worth of collected fees to remit and shall remit those fees as part of the next quarterly remittance.

(III) If a municipality or county has not established a process to accept fees remitted pursuant to subsection (3)(d)(I) of this section, the store shall retain and use the portion of the fees collected in the previous quarter that would have been remitted to the municipality or county for the purposes listed in subsections (1)(a)(I)(B) and (2)(a)(I)(B) of this section and to purchase reusable bags.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2913, § 2, effective July 6. L. 2023: IP(3)(d)(I) amended and (3)(d)(III) added, (HB 23-1285), ch. 295, p. 1771, § 1, effective June 1.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (2)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(c), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2913.)

(2) Subsection (1)(c) provided for the repeal of subsection (1), effective September 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2913.)

25-17-506. Prohibition on use of expanded polystyrene food containers.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, effective January 1, 2024, a retail food establishment shall not distribute an expanded polystyrene product for use as a container for ready-to-eat food in this state.

(2) If a retail food establishment purchased expanded polystyrene products before January 1, 2024, the retail food establishment may distribute any remaining inventory of the expanded polystyrene products then purchased for use as containers for ready-to-eat food in this state until the inventory is depleted.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2915, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-507. Enforcement - possible penalties.

(1) (a) Except as provided in subsections (1)(b) and (1)(c) of this section, a local government may enforce a violation of this part 5 against a store or retail food establishment that is located within the boundaries of the local government in the manner that the local government chooses.

(b) (I) A county that chooses to enforce a violation of this part 5 against a store or retail food establishment located within the unincorporated boundaries of the county may seek injunctive relief against the store or retail food establishment or may assess the following civil penalties against the store or retail food establishment:

(A) Up to five hundred dollars for a second violation; or

(B) Up to one thousand dollars for a third or subsequent violation.

(II) A county that chooses to enforce a violation of this part 5 may both seek injunctive relief and impose a civil penalty in accordance with this subsection (1)(b).

(c) A local government shall not enforce a violation of this part 5 against a retail food establishment located within a school.

(2) For purposes of this section, each retail sales transaction in which a violation of this part 5 is committed, regardless of whether multiple violations of this part 5 are committed in one retail sales transaction, constitutes a single violation of this part 5.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2915, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-508. Local government regulation - preemption.

On and after July 1, 2024, a local government may enact, implement, or enforce any ordinance, resolution, rule, or charter provision that is as stringent as or more stringent than this part 5.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2916, § 2, effective July 6.

25-17-509. Exemption for medical products.

Nothing in this part 5 prohibits or limits the use of any material used in the packaging of a product that is regulated as a drug, medical device, or dietary supplement by the food and drug administration in the United States department of health and human services under the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 321 et seq., as amended, or any equipment and materials used to manufacture such products.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1162), ch. 440, p. 2916, § 2, effective July 6.

PART 6

CIRCULAR ECONOMY DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1159, see section 1 of chapter 336, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-17-601. Definitions.

As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Administrator" means the third-party administrator with which the department contracts pursuant to section 25-17-602 (2).

(2) "Circular economy" means an economy that uses a systems-focused approach and involves industrial processes and economic activities that:

(a) Are restorative or regenerative by design;

(b) Enable resources used in industrial processes and economic activities to maintain their highest values for as long as possible; and

(c) Aim to eliminate waste through the superior design of materials, products, and systems, including business models.

(3) "Circular economy development center" or "center" means the circular economy development center created in section 25-17-602.

(4) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 24-1-119.

(5) "End market business" means a business, or a portion of a business, that processes or reuses recyclable material.

(6) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1159), ch. 336, p. 2383, § 2, effective August 10.

25-17-602. Circular economy development center - creation - administration - reports.

(1) Creation. The circular economy development center is hereby created in the department. The purpose of the center is to grow existing markets, create new markets, and provide necessary infrastructure, systems, logistics, and marketing to create a sustainable circular economy for recycled commodities and compost in Colorado. The primary activities of the center are:

(a) Connecting end markets to existing state grants and incentives;

(b) Working with processors and manufacturers in the state to increase the use of recycled content inputs;

(c) Supporting waste reduction and reuse within systems that advance circularity goals;

(d) Marketing Colorado recycled materials and recruiting out-of-state recycling end markets, including manufacturers, to Colorado;

(e) Facilitating connections among recyclers, waste haulers, processors, manufacturers, transporters, municipalities, investors, higher education, and other entities;

(f) Supporting end-market-related businesses as those businesses look to scale or grow; and

(g) Evaluating Colorado's recycling end markets and supply chains.

(2) Administration.

(a) On or before July 1, 2023, subject to available appropriations, the department shall contract with a third-party administrator to operate the center.

(b) In soliciting for a third-party administrator of the center, the department shall require applicants to submit a proposed work plan for the center, which work plan, at a minimum, outlines goals, strategies, activities, deliverables, and expected outcomes.

(c) The administrator shall update the work plan described in subsection (2)(b) of this section annually, and the department shall approve or disapprove the work plan. In submitting an updated work plan pursuant to this subsection (2)(c), the administrator shall include in the updated work plan recommended actions for developing markets for commodities comprising a significant percentage of the waste stream and having potential for use as an industrial or commercial feedstock.

(d) In administering the center, the administrator:

(I) Shall seek and consider the input of:

(A) The department;

(B) The office of economic development created in section 24-48.5-101;

(C) Representatives from the public and private sectors engaged in waste diversion or economic development activities on the western slope, in the mountains, on the front range, and in eastern and southeastern Colorado; and

(D) To the extent practicable, representatives of nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education; and

(II) May seek and solicit on behalf of the center gifts, grants, and donations to pay for the functions of the center, as described in subsection (6) of this section.

(3) Web page. The center shall maintain a public web page.

(4) Reports.

(a) Repealed.

(b) (I) Beginning September 1, 2023, and on or before each September 1 thereafter, the center shall submit a report to the department describing the progress of the center. The report must include the following information from the preceding state fiscal year:

(A) A summary of activities completed by the center;

(B) The results achieved and progress made by the center on its approved work plan and progress in achieving its objective of completing circular economies for materials in the state; and

(C) A summary of activities and opportunities that the center plans to address in the future.

(II) The department shall include the report described in subsection (4)(b)(I) of this section in its annual presentation to the general assembly pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

(5) Costs. The direct and indirect costs associated with the department's oversight and the administrator's operation of the center shall be paid by money appropriated to the department from:

(a) The Colorado circular communities cash fund, pursuant to section 25-16.5-109 (4).

(b) Repealed.

(6) Gifts, grants, and donations. The center may seek, solicit, accept, and expend gifts, grants, and donations from public and private sources for the purposes of this part 6.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1159), ch. 336, p. 2384, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2024: (5) amended, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1130, § 5, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (4)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(a), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2022, p. 2384.)

(2) Subsection (5)(b)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (5)(b), effective October 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, p. 1130.)

25-17-603. Repeal of part.

This part 6 is repealed, effective September 1, 2030. Before the repeal, the functions of the center are scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1159), ch. 336, p. 2386, § 2, effective August 10.

PART 7

PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAM FOR STATEWIDE RECYCLING

25-17-701. Short title.

The short title of this part 7 is the "Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act".

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2389, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-702. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Recycling has a positive impact on the environment and public health by saving energy, conserving natural resources, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions;

(b) Recycling has a positive benefit on Colorado's economy, with the recycling, remanufacturing, and reuse industries affecting eighty-six thousand jobs in Colorado and contributing over eight billion dollars in economic benefits annually;

(c) In 2020, Colorado only recycled fifteen percent of its waste, which is less than half of the national average;

(d) Colorado is not on track to meet the statewide recycling and waste diversion goals that the pollution prevention advisory board assistance committee adopted in 2016 and set forth in an integrated solid waste and materials management plan;

(e) There can be negative environmental, social, economic, and health impacts in the production, consumption, and end-of-use management of consumer products and packaging across their life cycles;

(f) All parties have the obligation to share in the responsibility to reduce negative impacts of end-of-use management for covered materials by building a system designed to minimize waste and to increase reuse and recycling of products and packaging; and

(g) A producer responsibility program in Colorado would:

(I) Establish a centralized system for managing recycling in the state that is funded through annual producer responsibility dues paid by the producers of covered materials;

(II) Establish a clear and uniform statewide list of readily recyclable materials;

(III) Provide a sustainable funding mechanism for recycling services and recycling infrastructure across all areas of Colorado;

(IV) Promote the increased use of readily recyclable materials in new products and packaging;

(V) Encourage producers to design and manage covered materials to prevent or minimize their negative environmental, social, economic, and health impacts;

(VI) Be managed by an independent nonprofit organization that consults with an advisory board of recycling experts and would be overseen by the department;

(VII) Invest in recycling end-market development and innovations that could attract new businesses to Colorado and create a more resilient domestic supply chain; and

(VIII) Leverage existing recycling systems and infrastructure by working with both public and private service providers.

(2) The general assembly therefore declares that it is in the public interest of Colorado to require producers to finance a producer responsibility program that provides statewide recycling services for covered materials.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2389, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: IP(1) and (1)(d) amended, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1130, § 6, effective July 1.

25-17-703. Definitions.

As used in this part 7, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Additional producer responsibility organization" means a nonprofit organization designated by the department as an additional producer responsibility organization pursuant to section 25-17-708 (2)(b).

(2) "Advisory board" means the producer responsibility program for statewide recycling advisory board created in section 25-17-704 (1).

(3) "Amended plan proposal" means an amended plan proposal for the implementation of the program submitted to the advisory board after the advisory board's initial review of the plan proposal in accordance with section 25-17-705 (5).

(4) "Collection" means the gathering and transportation of covered materials from covered entities for the purpose of recycling.

(5) "Collection rate" means the weight of covered materials that are collected under the program in a calendar year divided by the weight of covered materials used for products sold or distributed by producers within or into the state in the same calendar year, expressed as a percentage.

(6) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created under section 25-15-302 (1)(a).

(7) "Compost" means the material or product that is developed under controlled conditions and that results from biological degradation processes by which organic wastes decompose.

(8) (a) "Compost facility" means a site where compost is produced.

(b) "Compost facility" includes only those compost facilities that readily accept and process packaging material collected from consumers.

(9) "Compostable" means a covered material associated with organic waste streams that is capable of undergoing aerobic biological decomposition in a controlled composting system as demonstrated by meeting ASTM D6400 or ASTM D6868, or any successor standards.

(10) "Consumer" means any person who purchases or receives covered materials in the state and is located at a covered entity.

(11) "Convenience standards" means the standards for the program as described in section 25-17-706 (3).

(12) "Covered entity" means the following locations in the state from which covered materials are collected:

(a) All single-family or multifamily residences in the state; and

(b) Nonresidential locations identified in the final plan, including public places; small businesses; schools, as defined in section 22-1-132 (2)(c); hospitality locations; and state and local government buildings.

(13) (a) "Covered materials" includes:

(I) Packaging material, except as specified in subsection (13)(b) of this section; and

(II) Paper products, except as specified in subsection (13)(b) of this section.

(b) "Covered materials" does not include:

(I) Packaging materials intended to be used for the long-term storage or protection of a durable product and that are intended to transport, protect, or store the product for at least five years;

(II) Paper products that, through their use, could become unsafe or unsanitary to handle;

(III) Printed paper used to distribute financial statements, billing statements, medical documents, or other vital documents required to be provided in paper form by applicable consumer protections laws or other state or federal laws;

(IV) Bound books;

(V) Beverage containers subject to a returnable container deposit, if applicable;

(VI) Packaging material used exclusively in industrial or manufacturing processes;

(VII) Packaging material used to contain a product that is regulated as a drug, medical device, or dietary supplement by the federal food and drug administration under the "Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 301 et seq., as amended, or any federal regulation promulgated under the act, or any equipment and materials used to manufacture such products;

(VIII) Packaging material used to contain a product that is regulated as animal biologics, including vaccines, bacterins, antisera, diagnostic kits, and other products of biological origin under the federal "Virus-Serum-Toxin Act", 21 U.S.C. sec. 151 et seq., as amended;

(IX) Packaging material used to contain a product that is regulated under the "Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act", 7 U.S.C. sec. 136 et seq., as amended;

(X) Packaging material used to contain architectural paint covered under a paint stewardship program in accordance with part 4 of this article 17;

(XI) Packaging material used to contain a product that is required under state law to be sold in packaging material that meets the standards set forth in the "Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970", 15 U.S.C. sec. 1471 et seq., as amended;

(XII) Packaging material used to contain a portable electronic device, as defined in section 10-4-1501, that has been repaired and reconditioned to be sold as a refurbished product;

(XIII) Paper products used for a print publication that primarily includes content derived from primary sources related to news and current events;

(XIV) Packaging material used to contain a product that is regulated as infant formula, as defined in 21 U.S.C. sec. 321 (z), as a medical food, as defined in 21 U.S.C. sec. 360ee (b)(3), or as fortified nutritional supplements used for individuals who require supplemental or sole source nutrition to meet nutritional needs due to special dietary needs directly related to cancer, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, malnutrition, or failure to thrive, as those terms are defined by the World Health Organization's "International Classification of Diseases" (tenth revision), as amended or revised, or any other medical conditions as determined by the commission by rule; and

(XV) Any other material that, based on an analysis by the organization of the operational and financial impacts of the proposed changes and after consultation with the advisory board, the commission determines by rule to not be a covered material.

(14) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 24-1-119.

(15) "Environmentally sound management practices" means policies that ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, including laws addressing:

(a) Record keeping;

(b) Tracking and documenting the disposition of covered materials collected from covered entities; and

(c) Environmental liability coverage for professional services and contractor operations.

(16) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee.

(17) "Final plan" means the plan proposal or amended plan proposal that has been designated as the final plan by the executive director pursuant to section 25-17-705 (5)(c)(I).

(18) "Front range" means the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Douglas, Elbert, El Paso, Jefferson, Larimer, Pueblo, Teller, and Weld and the cities and counties of Broomfield and Denver.

(19) "Local government" means a home rule or statutory county, municipality, or city and county.

(20) "Materials recovery facility" means a facility for processing covered materials that are collected for recycling before they are conveyed to end-market businesses.

(21) "Mechanical recycling" means a form of recycling that does not change the basic molecular structure of the material being recycled.

(22) "Minimum recyclable list" means the list of covered materials developed under section 25-17-706 (1)(a).

(23) "Needs assessment" means the assessment of the state's recycling needs conducted pursuant to section 25-17-705 (3).

(24) "Nonprofit organization" means a tax-exempt charitable or social welfare organization operating under 26 U.S.C. sec. 501 (c)(3) or 501 (c)(4) of the federal "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended.

(25) (a) (I) "Packaging material" means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use and is used for the containment, protection, handling, or delivery of products to the consumer at the point of sale, including through an internet transaction.

(II) "Packaging material" includes products supplied to or purchased by consumers for the express purpose of facilitating food or beverage consumption and that are:

(A) Ordinarily disposed of after a single or short-term use; and

(B) Not designed for reuse or refill.

(III) "Packaging material" includes paper, plastic, glass, metal, cartons, flexible foam, rigid packaging, or other materials or combination of these materials.

(b) "Packaging material" does not include:

(I) Packaging materials used solely in transportation or distribution to nonconsumers;

(II) Packaging materials used solely in business-to-business transactions where a covered material is not intended to be distributed to the end consumer;

(III) Packaging materials that are not sold or distributed to covered entities; or

(IV) Packaging materials that are used for products sold or distributed outside the state.

(26) "Paper products" means paper and other cellulosic fibers, whether or not they are used as a medium for text or images, including:

(a) Flyers;

(b) Brochures;

(c) Booklets;

(d) Catalogs;

(e) Telephone directories;

(f) Newspapers;

(g) Magazines; and

(h) Paper used for writing or any other purpose.

(27) "Plan proposal" means the plan proposal for the implementation of the program submitted to the advisory board in accordance with section 25-17-705 (4).

(28) "Postconsumer-recycled-content rate" means the amount of postconsumer recycled materials used in the production of covered materials in a calendar year divided by the amount of covered materials used for products sold or distributed by producers within or into their United States market territory in the same calendar year, expressed as a percentage.

(29) (a) "Postconsumer recycled material" means only those covered materials that have served their intended end use as consumer items and that have been separated or diverted from the waste stream for the purposes of collection and recycling as a secondary material feedstock.

(b) "Postconsumer recycled material" includes returns of material from the distribution chain.

(c) "Postconsumer recycled material" does not include waste material generated during or after the completion of a manufacturing process.

(30) "Producer" means:

(a) (I) If the product is sold or distributed in the state using packaging materials under the manufacturer's own brand or is sold or distributed in the state using packaging materials that lack identification of a brand, the person that manufactures the product;

(II) If the product is manufactured by a person other than the brand owner, the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state, whether or not the trademark is registered in the state; or

(III) If there is no person described in subsection (30)(a)(I) or (30)(a)(II) of this section within the United States, the person that imports the product using covered materials into the United States for use in a commercial enterprise that sells or distributes the item in the state;

(b) For the purposes of products that are sold or distributed in the state through an internet transaction:

(I) The producer of the packaging material used to directly protect or contain the product; and

(II) For the purposes of packaging material used to ship a product to a consumer, the person that packages or ships the product to the consumer;

(c) For the purposes of a paper product that is a magazine, newspaper, catalog, telephone directory, or similar publication, the publisher of the paper product;

(d) For the purposes of paper products not described in subsection (30)(c) of this section:

(I) The person that manufactures the paper product under the manufacturer's own brand; or

(II) If the paper product is manufactured by a person other than the brand owner, the person that is the owner or licensee of the brand or trademark under which the paper product is used in a commercial enterprise, sold, or distributed in or into the state, whether or not the trademark is registered in the state; or

(e) For any other covered material, the person that first distributes the covered material in or into the state.

(31) "Producer responsibility dues" means the amounts established in section 25-17-705 (4)(i)(II) that a producer participating in the program pays annually into the program pursuant to section 25-17-709 (1).

(32) "Producer responsibility organization" or "organization" means the nonprofit organization designated to implement the program pursuant to section 25-17-705 (1)(b)(II).

(33) "Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling" or "program" means the producer responsibility program for statewide recycling created in accordance with section 25-17-705.

(34) "Proprietary information" means information that, if made public:

(a) Would divulge competitive business information or trade secrets of the entity that developed the information; or

(b) Would reasonably hinder the entity's competitive advantage in the market.

(35) (a) "Public place" means an indoor or outdoor location in the state that is open to and generally used by the public.

(b) "Public place" includes streets; sidewalks; plazas; town squares; state-owned or local-government-owned parks, beaches, and forests; other state-owned or local-government-owned land open for recreation or other public uses; and transportation facilities, including bus and train stations and airports.

(c) "Public place" does not include industrial, commercial, or privately owned property.

(36) "Readily recyclable material" means a covered material that is included on the minimum recyclable list.

(37) (a) "Recycling" means the reprocessing, by means of a manufacturing process, of a used material into a product or a secondary raw material.

(b) "Recycling" does not include:

(I) Energy recovery or energy generation by means of combustion;

(II) Use as a fuel;

(III) Use as alternative daily cover as defined in section 30-20-1402 (1); or

(IV) Landfill disposal of discarded covered materials.

(38) (a) "Recycling rate" means the weight of covered materials that are recycled under the program in a calendar year divided by the weight of covered materials used for products sold or distributed by producers within or into the state in the same calendar year, expressed as a percentage.

(b) The recycling rate is measured at the point where collected covered materials have been prepared for sale or delivery to material reclaimers or end markets after processing at a materials recovery facility or similar establishment that sells directly to reclaimers or end markets.

(39) (a) "Recycling services" means services provided for the recycling of covered materials, including the collection, transportation, and processing of covered materials from the consumer to the end market.

(b) "Recycling services" includes curbside services and drop-off centers.

(40) "Recycling services costs" means the costs of recycling programs to provide recycling services, including applicable costs related to:

(a) The administration of recycling programs;

(b) Capital improvements to recycling programs;

(c) The collection, transportation, sorting, and processing of covered materials;

(d) Public education about recycling programs; and

(e) Disposal of nonrecyclable collected covered materials.

(41) "Responsible end market" means a materials market in which the recycling of materials or the disposal of contaminants is conducted in a way that:

(a) Benefits the environment; and

(b) Minimizes risks to public health and worker health and safety.

(42) "Retailer" means a person that sells to consumers within or into the state, including sales made through an internet transaction, products for which covered materials are used.

(43) "Reuse" or "refill" means the return into the marketplace of a covered material that:

(a) Has already been used in the same manner as originally intended without a change in the covered material's purpose; and

(b) Was intended to be used for its original purpose at least five times.

(44) "Service provider" means a public or private entity, other than the producer responsibility organization, that provides recycling services in the state.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2391, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (20) amended, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1130, § 7, effective July 1.

25-17-704. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling advisory board - creation - membership.

(1) The producer responsibility program for statewide recycling advisory board is hereby created in the department. The department may select an impartial, third-party facilitator to convene and provide administrative support to the advisory board.

(2) (a) The advisory board consists of the following thirteen voting members and two nonvoting members appointed by the executive director:

(I) Three voting members representing local governments in the state, including:

(A) One member representing a municipality or city and county;

(B) One member representing a county; and

(C) One member representing a local government not located in the front range;

(II) One voting member representing a materials recovery facility;

(III) One voting member representing a hauler of recyclable materials, whether representing the public or private sector;

(IV) One voting member representing an environmental or community-based nonprofit organization;

(V) One voting member representing a packaging material supplier that is not a producer, with the member rotating to a packaging material supplier of a different type of packaging material after each new term;

(VI) One voting member representing a manufacturer of recycled paper products that is not a producer;

(VII) One voting member representing a trade association, chamber of commerce, or other business advocacy organization representing businesses that are headquartered in the state;

(VIII) One voting member representing a retailer's association or a retailer that is not a producer;

(IX) One voting member representing a compost facility;

(X) One voting member who has experience in environmental justice and representing underserved communities;

(XI) One voting member representing a solid waste landfill or transfer station operating an on-site, public-facing recycling collection program;

(XII) One nonvoting member representing the department; and

(XIII) One nonvoting member representing the producer responsibility organization.

(b) (I) The members of the advisory board must have relevant knowledge and expertise in recycling programs or the impacts of covered materials on the state and the environment.

(II) In appointing members, the executive director shall ensure to the extent possible the geographic diversity of the advisory board's membership, including regions outside of the front range.

(3) The executive director shall make all appointments to the advisory board no later than December 31, 2022. The appointments for initial terms to the advisory board shall be staggered so that some of the members serve initial two-year terms and other members serve initial three-year terms, and all members serve subsequent terms of three years. The executive director shall fill any vacancy by appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(4) The advisory board shall convene its first meeting no later than March 1, 2023. At the first meeting, the voting members shall select a chair and vice-chair from among the voting members for a term not to exceed two years, as determined by the advisory board. The advisory board shall conduct annual meetings and may conduct meetings more frequently upon the request of the chair or of at least seven of the voting members of the advisory board. The organization may provide technical and staff assistance to the advisory board.

(5) The advisory board is subject to the open meetings provisions of the "Colorado Sunshine Act of 1972", contained in part 4 of article 6 of title 24, and the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.

(6) Advisory board members are entitled to be reimbursed at a rate consistent with other boards and commissions created within the department for necessary travel within the state and other reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

(7) The advisory board shall:

(a) Advise the organization throughout the needs assessment process in accordance with section 25-17-705 (3)(b);

(b) Review the needs assessment reported to the advisory board pursuant to section 25-17-705 (3)(c);

(c) Review the plan proposal submitted under section 25-17-705 (4);

(d) Consult with the organization on amendments to the plan proposal and the amended plan proposal;

(e) Recommend that the executive director approve or reject the plan proposal or amended plan proposal;

(f) Review the annual report submitted by the organization under section 25-17-709 (2)(a); and

(g) Consult with the organization on the development and updating of the minimum recyclable list.

(8) In consultation with the organization, the advisory board may recommend amendments to the final plan to the executive director for inclusion in the annual report under section 25-17-709 (2)(c).

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2398, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-705. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling - needs assessment - plan proposal - rules.

(1) (a) On or before June 1, 2023, producers or their designated agents shall establish a nonprofit organization to fulfill the requirements of this part 7 and shall provide notification to the department that includes:

(I) The name, address, and contact information of a person responsible for ensuring the compliance of the nonprofit organization and participating producers with this part 7;

(II) A list of participating producers; and

(III) A description of the funding mechanism that the nonprofit organization will use to conduct the needs assessment.

(b) Upon receipt of the notification given pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, the executive director shall:

(I) Acknowledge receipt of the notification; and

(II) Designate the nonprofit organization as the producer responsibility organization to implement and administer the producer responsibility program for statewide recycling.

(c) The organization designated by the executive director pursuant to subsection (1)(b)(II) of this section must have a governing board with voting members that represent a diverse range of producers by size and type and represent producers of different types of covered materials. The members of the governing board shall not have more than one member per corporate entity. The governing board of the organization shall include nonvoting members that represent trade associations for types of covered materials. The organization shall provide public notice of any board meetings at least seventy-two hours before the board meeting.

(2) The producer responsibility organization shall:

(a) Facilitate a needs assessment in consultation with the advisory board;

(b) Consult with the advisory board in the development of the plan proposal prior to its submission, including in the development of the cost formulas for reimbursements to service providers pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(III) of this section;

(c) Submit a plan proposal in accordance with subsection (4) of this section that covers a period of five years; and

(d) Operate and administer the program in accordance with the final plan, the provisions of this part 7, and the rules adopted by the commission under this part 7.

(3) (a) On or before September 1, 2023, the organization shall hire an independent third party approved by the executive director to conduct an assessment of the state's recycling needs. The organization shall issue a request for proposals in accordance with the provisions of the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24, and any rules, for the selection of the independent third party. Prior to the commencement of the needs assessment, the organization shall consult with the advisory board on the scope of the needs assessment and provide any necessary recommendations to the third-party consultant conducting the needs assessment. The needs assessment shall be inclusive of and address the needs of all geographic areas of the state. At a minimum, the needs assessment must identify:

(I) The service availability, capacity, performance, and gaps in recycling services provided to residential covered entities throughout the state and the prices paid for recycling services;

(II) The documented recycling services costs incurred by public and private service providers to provide recycling services for residential covered entities;

(III) Demographic factors and other variables to be considered in the development of reimbursement rates for service providers in accordance with subsection (4)(j) of this section;

(IV) The levels of contamination at materials recovery facilities and compost facilities throughout the state and the impacts of contamination on those facilities;

(V) The service availability, gaps, and recycling services costs associated with providing recycling services to nonresidential covered entities, with particular attention to small businesses, and which types and locations of nonresidential covered entities could be provided with recycling services that would increase statewide collection and recycling rates in a cost-effective manner;

(VI) The processing capacity of existing infrastructure and the additional infrastructure needed to meet or exceed the convenience standards, reduce contamination, and improve the quality of recyclable materials and the projected scenarios for increasing the recycling rate and collection rate of covered materials, as identified pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(XIII) of this section;

(VII) An evaluation of the opportunities and costs of various service methods to increase recycling rates overall for specific covered material types;

(VIII) A proposed list of covered materials for inclusion in the minimum recyclable list and additional materials that may be collected in different geographic areas through curbside services, drop-off centers, or other means;

(IX) The market conditions and opportunities for the use of recycled covered materials in the state and in different geographic areas of the state, including the transportation gaps and opportunities affecting access to markets;

(X) Opportunities for the use of innovative new technologies, including artificial intelligence technologies, for the recycling and reuse of covered materials;

(XI) The availability and scope of any reuse or refill systems in the state affecting the use of covered materials;

(XII) Education needs in the state with respect to the education needs described in section 25-17-707; and

(XIII) At least three projected scenarios for increasing the recycling rate and collection rate of covered materials in the state, including recycling rates and collection rates that the state could meet by January 1, 2030, and January 1, 2035, and the operating and capital costs needed to reach each projected scenario, including:

(A) A review and assessment of the impact of the exemptions described in sections 25-17-703 (13)(b), 25-17-703 (25)(b), and 25-17-713 on the feasibility and short-term and long-term success of the program;

(B) A review and assessment of the impact of producer exemptions in other international and domestic extended producer responsibility programs implemented by a producer responsibility organization; and

(C) A determination of whether any industry sector would be disproportionately impacted as a result of the exemptions described in subsection (3)(a)(XIII)(A) of this section; and

(XIV) The capacity, costs, and gaps for compost facilities to process and recover compostable materials.

(b) The organization shall consult with the advisory board throughout the needs assessment process and in determining which projected scenario identified pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(XIII) of this section to implement in its plan proposal.

(c) On or before January 30, 2024, the organization shall report the results of the needs assessment to the advisory board and the executive director. The executive director shall post the results of the needs assessment on the department's website and provide public notice and an opportunity to comment on the results of the needs assessment. In finalizing the needs assessment, the executive director shall include in the needs assessment a summary of any comments received pursuant to this subsection (3)(c) and identify any significant changes made to the needs assessment based on such comments.

(d) On or before March 15, 2024, the executive director shall submit and present the needs assessment to the joint budget committee or any successor committee. In the submittal and presentation, the executive director shall identify the projected scenarios identified pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(XIII) of this section and make a recommendation as to which projected scenario the plan proposal should incorporate. If the joint budget committee approves the executive director's recommendation, the organization shall implement that projected scenario in the plan proposal. If the joint budget committee does not approve the executive director's recommendation, the committee may propose legislation to direct the organization to implement a projected scenario identified pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(XIII) of this section. If the joint budget committee does not approve the executive director's recommendation, the organization shall not implement a scenario or plan without approval of the general assembly acting by bill.

(e) On or before May 1, 2029, and on or before May 1 every five years thereafter, the organization shall hire an independent third party approved by the executive director to conduct an updated assessment of the state's recycling needs to reevaluate the program and identify any recycling service needs in the state that are not being met by the program. In consultation with the advisory board, the organization may modify the scope of an updated needs assessment by April 15, 2029, and on or before April 15 every five years thereafter. The organization shall report the results of the updated needs assessment to the executive director in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in subsection (3)(c) of this section. The organization shall use the findings of the updated needs assessment to create an updated plan proposal and submit the updated plan proposal to the advisory board in accordance with subsection (4) of this section. In consultation with the advisory board and the organization, the executive director may waive the requirement to conduct an updated needs assessment under this subsection (3)(e).

(4) On or before February 1, 2025, the organization shall submit a plan proposal for the program to the advisory board, that, except as set forth in subsection (4)(z) of this section, only addresses recycling services for residential covered entities. The plan proposal must cover a period of five years, and an updated plan proposal must be submitted to the advisory board on or before February 1 every five years thereafter. Any updated plan proposal must address recycling services for both residential and any applicable nonresidential covered entities, as identified in the needs assessment pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(V) of this section. In developing the plan proposal and any updated plan proposals, the organization shall solicit and consider input from the advisory board and provide opportunity for additional stakeholder input. To be approved, a plan proposal must:

(a) Provide contact information for the organization and a representative of the organization;

(b) Describe how the plan proposal will address and implement the findings of the needs assessment;

(c) Describe the manner in which the organization solicited and considered input from stakeholders and the advisory board in developing the plan proposal. The organization must provide a summary of any comments about the plan proposal from the advisory board and additional stakeholders and identify changes made to the plan proposal based on the comments.

(d) Describe how the organization will notify affected producers of their obligations under this part 7;

(e) Describe how the organization will track compliance among producers and will collaborate with the executive director to bring producers into compliance;

(f) Include a comprehensive list of the covered materials included in the program in accordance with this part 7;

(g) Establish recycling practices that:

(I) Meet or exceed the convenience standards;

(II) Use open, competitive, and fair procurement practices when entering into contracts with service providers, and, when entering into contracts with private service providers, adopt a preference for service providers with strong labor standards and worker safety practices;

(III) Ensure that any covered materials collected for recycling will be transferred to a responsible end market; and

(IV) Use environmentally sound management practices;

(h) Describe how the organization will work with newspaper publishers and magazine and periodical publishers to accept print or online advertising in lieu of all or a portion of the producer responsibility dues for newspapers, magazines, and periodicals circulated within the state;

(i) Establish a funding mechanism that:

(I) Does not exceed the direct and indirect costs of implementing the program, including the costs of:

(A) Providing recycling services under the program through contracts with service providers or reimbursement of recycling services costs under the reimbursement rates proposed pursuant to subsection (4)(j) of this section;

(B) Meeting the reporting requirements set forth in section 25-17-709 (2);

(C) Conducting the needs assessment;

(D) Developing and updating the final plan;

(E) Implementing the education and outreach program set forth in section 25-17-707;

(F) Reimbursing the department pursuant to section 25-17-715 for its costs in administering and implementing this part 7, including the costs of the advisory board; and

(G) Reimbursing the department pursuant to section 25-17-715 for the costs of enforcing this part 7 pursuant to section 25-17-710;

(II) Is funded through producer responsibility dues. The producer responsibility dues must vary by the type of covered material, whether or not the material is readily recyclable, and be based on the net recycling services costs for each covered material in the state. The organization may use up to five percent of the producer responsibility dues collected from producers for administration of the program, over the terms of the program, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, but the organization shall not use any producer responsibility dues collected from producers to pay employee bonuses.

(III) Requires:

(A) Any surplus money generated by the program to be placed back into the program for program improvements or a reduction in producer responsibility dues;

(B) The organization to maintain a financial reserve sufficient to operate the program in a fiscally prudent and responsible manner; and

(C) Annual updates to the producer responsibility dues schedule to reflect changes in program costs and relevant plan revisions and how the organization will solicit and incorporate input from all producers in setting and revising the annual producer responsibility dues schedule;

(IV) Includes eco-modulation factors that lower producer responsibility dues to incentivize:

(A) Reductions in the amount of packaging materials used for products;

(B) Innovations and practices to enhance the recyclability or commodity value of covered materials;

(C) High levels of postconsumer recycled material use;

(D) Designs for the reuse and refill of covered materials; and

(E) High recycling and refill rates of covered materials;

(V) Includes eco-modulation factors that increase producer responsibility dues to discourage:

(A) Designs and practices that increase the costs of recycling, reusing, or composting covered materials;

(B) Designs and practices that disrupt the recycling of other materials; and

(C) Producers from using covered materials that are not on the minimum recyclable list; and

(VI) At the request of a producer or producers of a covered material, may include a special assessment paid by the producers of that covered material to cover system improvements that improve the collection and recycling of that covered material or facilitate the addition of the covered material to the list of readily recyclable materials;

(j) Include reimbursement rates for one hundred percent of the net recycling services costs of the recycling services provided by service providers under the program consistent with the requirements of section 25-17-706. The reimbursement rates must:

(I) Be calculated using an objective cost formula or formulas;

(II) Incorporate the relevant cost information identified by the needs assessment pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(III) of this section;

(III) Be calculated on a per unit basis such as per ton, per household, or other unit of measurement; and

(IV) Take into account:

(A) Regional recycling services costs;

(B) Population density;

(C) The number and types of households served;

(D) The collection method used;

(E) The revenue generated from covered materials;

(F) The amount of inbound contamination and other factors affecting the quality of covered materials; and

(G) Other demographic factors identified in the needs assessment pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(III) of this section;

(k) Describe the process to evaluate and revise the objective cost formulas as necessary and using documented costs. If the plan proposal includes more than one objective cost formula for recycling services, the plan proposal must describe the conditions under which each formula will be applied.

(l) Include a schedule of reimbursement rates for service providers that elect to participate in the program and be reimbursed by the organization for providing recycling services for the program and describe a process for updating the schedule periodically and as necessary;

(m) Include a proposed budget and a description of the process used to determine producer responsibility dues, including a de minimis level in which no dues are charged and an optional flat rate for producers below a certain size to minimize the administrative and reporting costs of the producers and the organization;

(n) Describe a plan that outlines, if the organization ceases to exist or ceases to administer the program, how any producer responsibility dues that have not been used to implement the program will be transferred to another organization designated by the executive director under subsection (1)(b)(II) of this section to administer the program or will be transferred to the fund to be managed by the department until transferred to another designated organization;

(o) Include the minimum recyclable list established in accordance with section 25-17-706 (1)(a);

(p) Set targets for the minimum collection rates, minimum recycling rates, and minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates for certain types of covered materials, including paper products, glass, metal, and plastic, that the state will strive to meet by January 1, 2030, and January 1, 2035;

(q) Describe how the organization plans to continue to increase the state's minimum collection rates, minimum recycling rates, and minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates after January 1, 2030, and January 1, 2035;

(r) Describe how the organization will verify minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates and how postconsumer-recycled-content rates will be calculated using weight and other metrics and describe any waivers from minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates granted to a type or subcategory of covered materials and the criteria for evaluating such waivers, including food safety requirements, technological feasibility, or inadequate supply, and how often the waivers will be reviewed;

(s) Describe how the organization will provide producers with the opportunity to purchase postconsumer-recycled materials from processors at market prices if the producer is interested in obtaining recycled feedstock to achieve minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates;

(t) Describe how the organization will reduce or offset the producer responsibility dues for any producer or group of producers that fund or operate a collection program that:

(I) Covers a specific type of covered material that is not processed by materials recovery facilities; and

(II) Has recycling rates that meet or exceed the minimum recycling rate target set forth in the plan proposal pursuant to subsection (4)(p) of this section;

(u) Describe how the organization will work with service providers to:

(I) Utilize and expand on existing recycling services and infrastructure and existing education and outreach programs;

(II) Reduce contamination of covered materials delivered to materials recovery facilities and compost facilities by:

(A) Requiring each materials recovery facility and compost facility participating in the program to report annually to the organization on contamination levels at each facility; and

(B) Providing funding or other assistance to compost facilities to reduce the costs of managing or increase the effectiveness of efforts to manage contamination and to process and recover compostable packaging materials;

(III) Invest in new or upgraded recycling infrastructure;

(IV) Propose an approach to measure and report on the use of reusable and refillable covered materials and establish goals and strategies for increasing the use of reusable and refillable covered materials;

(V) Mitigate the impacts of covered materials on other materials and equipment at sorting and processing facilities;

(VI) Invest in market development for covered materials in the state; and

(VII) Increase the recycling of collected covered materials;

(v) Describe how the organization will work with and incentivize producers to reduce the packaging of products using covered materials through product design changes, the development or expansion of systems for reusable packaging, and product innovation;

(w) Describe how the program will prioritize the use of end markets that return postconsumer recycled materials to their original product type;

(x) Describe how the organization will evaluate and monitor the use of responsible end markets through methods such as processor contracts or financial incentives;

(y) Describe how the organization will implement the education and outreach program set forth in section 25-17-707;

(z) Describe a process and timeline, beginning no later than 2028, to expand recycling services to applicable nonresidential covered entities, as identified in the needs assessment pursuant to subsection (3)(a)(V) of this section; and

(aa) Include any additional information required by the department.

(5) (a) The advisory board shall review the plan proposal for compliance with this part 7. The advisory board shall consult with the organization throughout its review of the plan proposal. Within ninety days after the submission of the plan proposal to the advisory board, the advisory board shall either provide any recommended amendments to the plan proposal to the organization or, if the advisory board does not have any recommended amendments, forward the plan proposal to the executive director. The organization shall provide responsive answers to the advisory board's recommendations and submit the amended plan proposal to the advisory board within sixty days after its receipt of the recommended amendments. Within forty-five days after the submission of the amended plan proposal to the advisory board, the advisory board shall forward the amended plan proposal to the executive director with its recommendation for approval or rejection and, if applicable, a written explanation of the basis for recommending rejection of the plan proposal. Within eight days after receiving the plan proposal, the executive director shall post the plan proposal on the department's website and provide public notice and an opportunity to comment on the plan proposal.

(b) (I) Within one hundred twenty days after receiving the plan proposal or amended plan proposal, the executive director shall:

(A) Approve the plan proposal or amended plan proposal; or

(B) Reject the plan proposal or amended plan proposal.

(II) If the executive director rejects the plan proposal or amended plan proposal, the executive director shall notify the organization of the rejection and the reasons for the rejection, which reasons must be based on the failure of the plan proposal or amended plan proposal to comply with the requirements specified in subsection (4) of this section. The organization must submit a new plan proposal to the advisory board within sixty days after receiving the executive director's rejection. The new plan proposal must be reviewed by the advisory board and the new plan proposal or new amended plan proposal must be reviewed and approved or rejected by the executive director in accordance with subsection (5)(a) of this section and this subsection (5)(b).

(c) (I) If the executive director approves the plan proposal or amended plan proposal pursuant to subsection (5)(b)(I) of this section, the executive director shall designate the plan proposal or amended plan proposal as the final plan and shall publish the final plan on the department's website.

(II) The organization shall begin implementing the final plan within six months after it is approved.

(6) (a) The organization may submit proposed amendments to the final plan annually to the advisory board for inclusion in the annual report under section 25-17-709 (2)(c). At least sixty days prior to the deadline to submit the annual report, the department may request that the organization submit an amendment to the annual plan to address a specific concern or aspect of the plan. At least thirty days prior to submitting the annual report pursuant to section 25-17-709 (2)(a), the organization shall consult with the advisory board on any proposed amendments to the final plan. The advisory board shall submit any proposed amendments to the executive director. The executive director shall approve or reject the proposed amendments based on the plan proposal requirements specified in subsection (4) of this section.

(b) The organization shall continue to operate the program in accordance with the final plan pending the approval or rejection of a proposed amendment by the executive director. The executive director's rejection of a proposed amendment pursuant to this subsection (6) does not relieve the organization of its responsibility to continue to operate the program in accordance with the final plan.

(7) The executive director shall enforce this part 7 in accordance with section 25-17-710 and the commission shall promulgate rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24 as may be necessary for the administration of this part 7 and the enforcement of this part 7 pursuant to section 25-17-710. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the organization may not make any determination as to a person's compliance with this part 7.

(8) (a) On January 1, 2025, and each January 1 thereafter, as an alternative to participating in the program, a producer may submit to the advisory board an individual program plan proposal. A producer must notify the department of its intent to submit an individual program plan proposal by January 1, 2024, and by each January 1 thereafter. The individual program plan proposal must:

(I) Comply with the requirements of subsection (4) of this section, as applicable;

(II) Describe how the producer participating in the individual program plan proposal will contribute to the costs of the department in overseeing the program;

(III) Describe how the producer will reimburse service providers that provide recycling services for the covered materials covered by the individual program plan proposal; and

(IV) Describe any alternative collection programs run by the producer and its recycling rates.

(b) The advisory board shall review and make recommendations on, and the executive director shall approve or reject, any individual program plan proposals in accordance with the procedures set forth in subsection (5) of this section. After the executive director approves the individual program plan proposal, the executive director shall designate the individual program plan proposal as the plan that the producer is authorized to implement and administer as an alternative to participating in the program.

(c) The producer implementing a plan described in subsection (8)(b) of this section shall submit any amendments to the plan to the advisory board in accordance with subsection (6) of this section. The advisory board shall review and make recommendations on, and the executive director shall approve or reject, any amendments to the plan in accordance with subsection (6) of this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2401, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-706. Minimum recyclable list - convenience standards.

(1) (a) The organization shall develop a minimum recyclable list based on the availability of recycling services, recycling collection and processing infrastructure, and recycling end markets for covered materials, as determined by the needs assessment.

(b) The organization shall update the minimum recyclable list, and submit any updates for inclusion in the annual report pursuant to section 25-17-709 (2)(a), in response to recycling collection and processing improvements and changes in recycling end markets. The advisory board shall consult with the organization on any updates to the minimum recyclable list in accordance with the procedures set forth in section 25-17-705 (6).

(2) (a) To be eligible for reimbursement for recycling services provided under the program, service providers must provide recycling services for all readily recyclable materials in a manner that facilitates attaining the rate targets established in the final plan under section 25-17-705 (4)(p).

(b) The executive director may grant a service provider an exception to the requirements of subsection (2)(a) of this section if the service provider demonstrates to the reasonable satisfaction of the executive director that it is not able to provide recycling services or meet the convenience standards for a readily recyclable material.

(c) Service providers are eligible for reimbursement from the organization for the collection of covered materials that are not included in the minimum recyclable list for the regions where the organization has established a reasonable cost for the supplemental collection of covered materials that are not readily recyclable and a responsible end market has been established. The services described in this subsection (2)(c) are not subject to the convenience standards.

(d) The organization shall reimburse service providers for the recycling services costs to provide recycling services for all readily recyclable materials and covered materials that the organization approves pursuant to subsection (2)(c) of this section.

(e) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, nothing in this part 7 restricts a service provider from collecting or processing covered materials that are not included in the minimum recyclable list.

(3) (a) The organization shall contract with service providers to provide covered entities with convenient and equitable access to recycling services for all readily recyclable materials, at no charge to the covered entity, with the goal of achieving the recycling rate, collection rate, and postconsumer-recycled-content rate targets established in the final plan under section 25-17-705 (4)(p).

(b) The collection of readily recyclable materials must be provided in a manner that is as convenient as the collection of solid waste in the geographic area in which the covered entity is located.

(c) Any covered entities in the state that are receiving recycling services on December 31, 2022, must continue to receive equivalent recycling services through the program or a service provider on and after December 31, 2022.

(d) The organization shall not restrict a person's ability to contract directly with service providers to obtain recycling services for covered materials.

(e) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, nothing in this part 7 voids or cancels any contract between a resident and a service provider for the provision of recycling services that is executed prior to December 31, 2022.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2412, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-707. Education and outreach program.

(1) The organization shall develop and implement a statewide education and outreach program that is designed to increase the recycling and reuse of covered materials and includes education and outreach on:

(a) Proper end-of-life management of covered materials;

(b) The location and availability of recycling services under the program; and

(c) How to prevent littering in the process of providing recycling services for covered materials.

(2) The education and outreach program must, at a minimum:

(a) Provide clear and concise recycling instructions that are consistent statewide and accessible for all demographic groups;

(b) Coordinate with existing recycling education materials and services provided throughout the state; and

(c) Be designed to help the state achieve the minimum collection rate and minimum recycling rate targets established in the final plan under section 25-17-705 (4)(p) and reduce levels and impacts of inbound contamination from covered materials at materials recovery facilities and compost facilities.

(3) The organization shall consult with the advisory board and other entities providing recycling education in the state on the development and distribution of education outreach services and materials. The organization may contract with service providers, local governments, and nonprofit organizations to conduct recycling education and outreach services under the education and outreach program developed under subsection (1) of this section.

(4) The organization shall develop a proposed methodology for evaluating and reporting on the effectiveness of the education and outreach program.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2414, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-708. Producer requirements - additional producer responsibility organization - coordination plan - rules - confidentiality - compliance with local government codes - audit.

(1) Effective July 1, 2025, a producer shall not sell or distribute any products that use covered materials in the state unless the producer is participating in the program or, on or after January 1, 2029, except as set forth in the final plan or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7. A producer must report the data necessary to meet its plan obligations and may use prorated national data if state-specific data is not available or feasible to generate.

(2) (a) On January 1, 2029, and every January 1 thereafter, a nonprofit organization may request that the executive director designate the nonprofit organization as an additional producer responsibility organization.

(b) The executive director may designate a nonprofit organization as an additional producer responsibility organization if the executive director, in coordination with the advisory board, determines that the designation of the additional producer responsibility organization is necessary to:

(I) Increase recycling rates;

(II) Expand recycling services to covered entities that are not covered under the final plan; or

(III) Provide recycling services for a specific type of covered material.

(c) If the executive director designates an additional producer responsibility organization pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section, the additional producer responsibility organization shall submit a coordination plan to the executive director for approval in accordance with the rules promulgated pursuant to this subsection (2)(c). Within one hundred twenty days after the designation of the first additional producer responsibility organization, the executive director shall promulgate by rule standards and requirements for a coordination plan and for coordination between the organization and any additional producer responsibility organizations designated by the executive director. A coordination plan approved or ordered by the executive director shall be implemented by the organization and any additional producer responsibility organizations designated by the executive director. If the coordination plan conflicts with the final plan or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, the provisions of the coordination plan prevail. A coordination plan approved or ordered by the executive director is valid until revoked or until a new coordination plan is approved or ordered by the executive director.

(3) The executive director, the advisory board, the organization, an additional producer responsibility organization, and any other person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7:

(a) Must keep confidential any proprietary information provided by a producer; and

(b) Shall not include any proprietary information provided by a producer in the plan proposal, the amended plan proposal, the final plan, any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or any amendment to the final plan or other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7.

(4) (a) The program and any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 must comply with any fire, solid waste, or other relevant ordinances or resolutions adopted by a local government and with applicable state and federal laws, including the exemptions set forth in section 30-20-102 (5).

(b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a local government is not required to provide recycling services under the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7. To the extent that a local government elects to provide recycling services under the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, the organization, additional producer responsibility organization, or other person responsible for administering a plan approved by the executive director under this part 7 shall reimburse the local government for those recycling services in accordance with section 25-17-706 (2) and the final plan or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7.

(c) A local government that receives reimbursement funds from the organization shall use such funds for the local government's recycling program.

(5) The organization, any additional producer responsibility organization, and any person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 shall cause to be conducted an annual financial audit of the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 by an independent third-party auditor. The audit must include a detailed list of the program's or plan's costs and revenues from the producer responsibility dues.

(6) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the organization and any additional producer responsibility organization shall not be considered a state-sponsored or state-owned entity and shall not be considered an enterprise, as defined in section 20 (2)(d) of article X of the state constitution. Employees of the organization and any additional producer responsibility organization shall not be considered employees of the state.

(7) The organization, any additional producer responsibility organization, and any person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 shall preserve all books and records in accordance with state and federal laws and be open to inspection by the department at any time.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2414, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-709. Producer responsibility dues - inspection of records - annual reporting.

(1) (a) Except as set forth in a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 on or after January 1, 2029, by a date determined by the organization that is no later than January 1, 2026, and annually thereafter by a date determined by the organization, a producer shall pay producer responsibility dues to the organization based on the funding mechanism described in the plan proposal pursuant to section 25-17-705 (4)(i).

(b) A producer shall make all documents and records related to the calculation and payment of producer responsibility dues, recycling rates, collection rates, postconsumer-recycled-content rates, and any other materials necessary for the executive director to determine compliance with this part 7 available for inspection by the executive director. In connection with enforcing a violation by a producer pursuant to section 25-17-710, the executive director may request in writing that the producer provide any such documents or records to the executive director.

(c) The organization, any additional producer responsibility organization, and any person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 shall maintain all documents and records necessary for the executive director to determine compliance with this part 7 and submit any such documents and records to the executive director upon a request by the executive director pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(d) By January 1, 2026, and each year thereafter, the executive director shall develop an eco-modulation bonus schedule that is designed to reduce the producer responsibility dues of producers that meet certain benchmarks established by the executive director by rule. The executive director shall consult with the organization and the advisory board in developing the eco-modulation bonus schedule. The organization shall reduce the producer responsibility dues of producers in accordance with the eco-modulation bonus schedule developed by the executive director.

(2) (a) Before March 31 of the second year of the program's implementation, and by March 31 each year thereafter, the organization shall submit a report to the advisory board describing the progress of the program. Within two years after the implementation of the final plan or any updated plan proposals submitted to the advisory board pursuant to section 25-17-705 (4), the report must also include an evaluation of the impacts of the exemptions described in section 25-17-713 (1) on the performance of the program and the producer responsibility dues schedule. The advisory board shall review the report and forward the report to the executive director. The advisory board shall also review any proposed amendments to the final plan and any updates to the minimum recyclable list and forward the amendments and updates to the executive director with its recommendation for approval or rejection. The executive director shall post the report on the department's website. The program report must include the following information from the preceding calendar year:

(I) A detailed description of the progress toward each element of the final plan as described in section 25-17-705 (4);

(II) A list of all the producers, brands, and covered materials covered by the final plan;

(III) A list of producers that are not participating in the program and any producers that may be out of compliance with one or more obligations imposed by this part 7;

(IV) The total weight of the covered materials that producers used for products that are sold or distributed in the state;

(V) The total amount of producer responsibility dues collected under the program, including an annual schedule of producer responsibility dues assessed by weight for each type of covered material and any annual increases or decreases in the dues schedule and the reasons for these adjustments;

(VI) The total weight of each type of covered material that is collected and recycled under the program, with the data broken down by:

(A) Means of collection, including by curbside service or drop-off center or other means;

(B) The number of covered entities, by type and by county, serviced through curbside collection;

(C) The method used to handle the collected covered material; and

(D) Geographic area;

(VII) The recycling rate, collection rate, and postconsumer-recycled-content rate for each type of covered material and a description of the organization's process in achieving the minimum rate targets set forth in the final plan pursuant to section 25-17-705 (4)(p);

(VIII) The rate schedules for reimbursement to service providers, any proposed adjustments to the rate schedules, and a summary of any disputes arising between the organization and service providers concerning rates and how the disputes were addressed;

(IX) A summary of the education and outreach efforts implemented in accordance with section 25-17-707, including:

(A) Samples of any materials distributed; and

(B) A description of the methodology used and the results of the evaluation conducted pursuant to section 25-17-707 (4);

(X) A list of the names, locations, and hours of operation for curbside services, drop-off centers, and other entities accepting or collecting covered materials under the program;

(XI) A description of the organization's efforts to ensure that covered materials have been responsibly managed and delivered to responsible end markets under the program;

(XII) A list of the recycling end markets of any covered materials, and, if the covered materials are processed through a method other than mechanical recycling, the list must include:

(A) A description of how the method will affect the ability to recycle the covered material into feedstock for the manufacture of new products;

(B) A description of how the method will increase the types and amounts of recycled plastic for food and pharmaceutical-grade packaging and applications;

(C) A description of any applicable state and federal air, water, and waste permitting compliance requirements for the method; and

(D) An analysis of the environmental impacts of the method compared to the environmental impacts of incineration of solid waste in landfills;

(XIII) A copy of an independent third party's report auditing the program pursuant to section 25-17-708 (5);

(XIV) A description of the status of reserve funds, an assessment of the adequacy of those funds to cover program costs, and a description of how any program shortfalls will be addressed;

(XV) Any amendments to the final plan in accordance with section 25-17-705 (6);

(XVI) Any updates to the minimum recyclable list in accordance with section 25-17-706 (1)(b); and

(XVII) A description of the advisory board's feedback on any amendments to the final plan pursuant to section 25-17-705 (6)(a).

(b) Before March 31 of the second year of any plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 that is not the final plan, and by March 31 each year thereafter, an additional producer responsibility organization or other person responsible for administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 shall submit a report to the advisory board describing the progress of the plan. The report must include the information described in subsection (2)(a) of this section, as applicable, from the preceding calendar year. The advisory board shall review the report and forward the report to the executive director. The advisory board shall also review any proposed amendments to the plan and forward the amendments to the executive director with its recommendation for approval or rejection. The executive director shall post the report on the department's website.

(c) The executive director shall annually compile the results of the reports received pursuant to subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section into a general report describing the progress of the program and any other plans approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7. The executive director shall include the department's activities and expenses that were reimbursed pursuant to section 25-17-715 in the general report. Additionally, at least every three years starting in 2028, the executive director shall include in the general report the outcome of the consumer cost impact review conducted by the department pursuant to subsection (4) of this section. The executive director shall post the report on the department's website and submit the report to the governor and shall annually present the general report to the health and human services committee of the senate and the energy and environment committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, during the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearings held pursuant to part 2 of article 7 of title 2. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the reporting requirement specified in this subsection (2)(c) continues indefinitely.

(3) If, based on the annual report submitted under subsection (2) of this section, the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 is not on track to meet the minimum collection rates, minimum recycling rates, or minimum postconsumer-recycled-content rates set forth in the program or plan, the executive director may require the organization, with respect to the program, or the additional producer responsibility organization or other person responsible for administering the plan, with respect to any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, to amend its respective plan under section 25-17-705 (6).

(4) No less than every three years, starting in 2028, the department shall conduct a review of consumer cost impacts resulting from the program, including assessments of increased prices for covered materials relative to the prices for those materials in other states, as well as local government expenditures and consumer spending on recycling services and trash collection and disposal.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2416, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-710. Violations - enforcement - administrative penalty - injunction.

(1) If the organization, an additional producer responsibility organization, a person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or a producer violates any portion of this part 7, the organization, additional producer responsibility organization, person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or producer is liable for an administrative penalty not to exceed:

(a) For a first violation, an initial penalty of five thousand dollars for the first day of each violation and one thousand five hundred dollars per day for each day the violation continues;

(b) For a second violation committed within twelve months after a prior violation, an initial penalty of ten thousand dollars for the first day of each violation and three thousand dollars per day for each day the violation continues; and

(c) For a third or subsequent violation committed within twelve months after two or more prior violations, an initial penalty of twenty thousand dollars for the first day of each violation and six thousand dollars per day for each day the violation continues.

(2) (a) If the organization, an additional producer responsibility organization, a person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or a producer violates any portion of this part 7, the executive director shall serve by personal service or by certified mail an order that imposes an administrative penalty on the organization, additional producer responsibility organization, person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or producer.

(b) The organization, additional producer responsibility organization, person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or producer may submit a written request for a hearing to the executive director by personal service or by certified mail within thirty-five calendar days after the date of the order imposing an administrative penalty. The commission shall conduct the hearing in accordance with section 24-4-105.

(c) If a request for a hearing is filed, the requirement to pay a penalty is stayed pending a final decision by the commission after a hearing on the merits. The executive director is not precluded from imposing an administrative penalty against the organization, additional producer responsibility organization, person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or producer for subsequent violations of this part 7 committed during the pendency of the stay.

(d) The executive director bears the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence in a hearing held pursuant to this section.

(3) The executive director may enter into a settlement agreement with the organization, additional producer responsibility organization, person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or producer assessed an administrative penalty under this section.

(4) The executive director shall transfer any money collected under this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the Colorado circular communities cash fund created in section 25-16.5-109 (4).

(5) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, nothing in this part 7:

(a) Creates a private right of action; or

(b) Authorizes enforcement of this part 7 against anyone other than the organization, an additional producer responsibility organization, a person administering a plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7, or a producer.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2420, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (4) amended, (HB 24-1449), ch. 192, p. 1130, § 8, effective July 1.

25-17-711. Limited exemption from antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions.

If the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7 engages in an activity performed solely in furtherance of implementing the program or plan and in compliance with this part 7, the activity is not a violation of the antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions of the "Unfair Practices Act", article 2 of title 6, or the "Colorado State Antitrust Act of 2023", article 4 of title 6.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2422, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (HB 23-1192), ch. 427, p. 2519, § 6, effective June 7.

25-17-712. Eligibility for state or local incentive programs.

Nothing in this part 7 affects a person's eligibility for any state or local incentive programs for which the person is otherwise eligible.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2422, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-713. Producer exemptions - rules.

(1) A producer is exempt from the requirements of this part 7 if the producer is:

(a) A person with less than five million dollars in realized gross total revenue, not including on-premises alcohol sales, during the prior calendar year;

(b) A person that has used less than one ton of covered materials for products sold or distributed within or into the state during the prior calendar year;

(c) The state or a local government;

(d) A nonprofit organization;

(e) An agricultural employer, as defined in section 8-3-104 (1), regardless of where the agricultural employer is located, with less than five million dollars in realized gross total revenue in the state from consumer sales of agricultural products sold under the brand name of the farmer, egg producer, grower, or individual grower cooperative;

(f) An individual business operating a retail food establishment that is located at a physical business location and that is licensed under section 25-4-1607 (1)(a) or section 32-106.5 (1) to section 32-106.5 (5) of the Denver code of ordinances; or

(g) A builder, a construction company, or construction contractors.

(2) The commission shall adjust by rule the dollar limitation set forth in subsection (1)(a) of this section on July 1, 2023, and on July 1 of each year thereafter, based on the percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items and all urban consumers, or its successor index.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2422, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-714. Restriction on fees.

A person shall not charge any kind of point-of-sale or point-of-collection fee to consumers to recoup its costs in meeting the obligations of or complying with this part 7.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2423, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-715. Producer responsibility program for statewide recycling administration fund - creation - purpose.

(1) There is hereby created in the state treasury the producer responsibility program for statewide recycling administration fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The fund consists of all producer responsibility dues transferred to the fund pursuant to this section and money that the general assembly transfers to the fund for use by the department. The organization shall transmit a portion of the producer responsibility dues to the state treasurer for deposit in the fund for purposes of reimbursing:

(a) The department, including the advisory board, for the reasonable costs incurred in administering and implementing any portion of this part 7; and

(b) The department for the reasonable costs incurred in enforcing this part 7 pursuant to section 25-17-710.

(2) (a) By June 30, 2026, the department shall notify the organization of the costs in administering, implementing, and enforcing this part 7 since August 10, 2022.

(b) By June 30 of each year after June 30, 2026, the department shall notify the organization of the costs of administering, implementing, and enforcing this part 7 during the immediately preceding year.

(c) Upon receipt of the department's cost accounting, the organization shall transmit to the state treasurer, for deposit in the fund, an amount of producer responsibility dues necessary to reimburse the department for its costs.

(3) The general assembly shall annually appropriate money from the fund to the department for the purposes set forth in subsection (1) of this section.

(4) All unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund at the end of any state fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund remains in the fund and does not revert to the general fund.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2423, § 1, effective August 10.

25-17-716. No obligation to provide recycling services.

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a private service provider is not required to provide recycling services under the program or any other plan approved by the executive director pursuant to this part 7.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1355), ch. 337, p. 2424, § 1, effective August 10.

PART 8

STANDARDS FOR PRODUCTS REPRESENTED AS COMPOSTABLE

25-17-801. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Composting and recycling are two of the most cost-effective climate change solutions that can be implemented;

(b) Landfilling food scraps and yard trimmings causes these organic materials to decompose without oxygen, creating vast amounts of methane, a greenhouse gas that is eighty-four times more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term;

(c) Diverting these organic materials into local circular systems creates jobs and supports the growing number of composting hauling and processing businesses in the state;

(d) Finished compost is a valuable soil amendment that builds healthier soils that are more resilient to drought and flooding and creates more productive agricultural lands;

(e) To leverage the potential benefits of certified compostable bags and products, it is vital to clearly label these products in a way that makes them immediately and easily identifiable as certified compostable upon quick inspection at point of sale and point of use and in a public sorting area and processing facility;

(f) Sales of falsely marketed or "greenwashed" food service ware and packaging products that look like certified compostable products yet do not compost according to the standards set by ASTM International are harmful to our state's economy by:

(I) Creating confusion and causing undue cost burden to individual and business consumers;

(II) Increasing cost and operational challenges for compost manufacturers;

(III) Contaminating compostable material streams; and

(IV) Reducing the value of the finished compost and sometimes making it unmarketable;

(g) Environmental marketing claims for products marketed as compostable, whether implicit or implied, should adhere to uniform and recognized standards for compostability;

(h) Products marketed as compostable should be readily and easily identifiable as complying with uniform and recognized standards; and

(i) Implementing a standardized system and verification methods may create the ability for compost facilities to accept these products in the future.

(2) The general assembly therefore declares that it is in the public interest of the state to establish standards for products represented, marketed, or advertised as compostable.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1084, § 1, effective August 7.

25-17-802. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "ASTM 5988" means the ASTM International standard 5988 entitled "Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials in Soil", as that standard existed as of January 1, 2019.

(2) "ASTM D6400" means the ASTM International standard D6400 entitled "Standard Specification for Labeling of Plastics Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities", as that standard existed as of January 1, 2019.

(3) "ASTM D6868" means the ASTM International standard D6868 entitled "Standard Specification for Labeling of End Items that Incorporate Plastics and Polymers as Coatings or Additives with Paper and Other Substrates Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities", as that standard existed as of January 1, 2019.

(4) "ASTM International" means ASTM International or any successor entity.

(5) "Biodegradable mulch film" means any film product used as a technical tool in commercial farming applications that:

(a) Fulfills the plant growth and regulated metals requirements of ASTM D6400; and

(b) Shows at least a ninety percent biodegradation absolute or relative to microcrystalline cellulose over a period of less than two years according to ISO 17556 or ASTM 5988.

(6) "Certified compostable" means that a product has received certification by a recognized, independent, third-party verification body that the product is compostable.

(7) "Commercial composting facility" means any solid waste composting facility regulated by the department that:

(a) Accepts a fee for solid waste composting; or

(b) Composts solid waste to create a compost or soil amendment and distributes the finished compost or soil amendment off-site for a fee.

(8) "Compostable" means that a product is capable of undergoing aerobic biological decomposition in a controlled composting system as demonstrated in accordance with ASTM D6400 or ASTM D6868, as applicable.

(9) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 24-1-119.

(10) "Federal trade commission guidelines" means the federal trade commission guides for the use of environmental marketing claims, codified in 16 CFR 260 et seq., as amended.

(11) "Film product" means a bag, sack, wrap, or other sheet film product that is a single-use product made predominantly of plastic derived from natural gas, petroleum, or a biologically based source, including corn and other plant sources.

(12) (a) "Food service product" means a product intended for one-time use and that is used for food or drink that is offered for sale or use.

(b) "Food service product" includes containers, plates, bowls, cups, lids, beverage containers, meat trays, deli rounds, utensils, sachets, straws, condiment packaging, clamshells and other hinged or lidded containers, wraps, and portion cups.

(13) "ISO 17556" means the International Organization for Standardization document entitled "Plastics - Determination of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil by measuring the oxygen demand in a respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved", as that document existed as of January 1, 2019.

(14) "Local government" means a home rule or statutory county, municipality, or city and county.

(15) "Packaging" means any material that is intended for single or short-term use and is designed for the containment, protection, handling, or delivery of a product.

(16) (a) "Plastic product" means a product made of plastic, whether alone or in combination with another material, including paperboard.

(b) "Plastic product" includes:

(I) A product made of petrochemical or plant-based plastics;

(II) A package or packaging component;

(III) A film product; and

(IV) A food service product that is a plastic product.

(17) (a) "Producer" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-703 (30).

(b) "Producer" does not include any person described in section 25-17-713 (1)(e) or (1)(f).

(18) (a) "Product accessory" means any standard or common components, appurtenances, or accessories that are sold, offered for sale, or distributed with a particular product.

(b) "Product accessory" includes lids, straws, and labels.

(19) "Proprietary information" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-703 (34).

(20) (a) "Small product" means a product with a width of one-half inch or less of printable surface space.

(b) "Small product" includes straws and utensils.

(21) "Untreated wood" means wood, including raw or kiln-dried wood, that is unpainted and not treated with any chemicals intended to resist decomposition.

(22) (a) "Utensil" means a product designed to be used by a consumer to facilitate the consumption of food or beverages.

(b) "Utensil" includes knives, forks, spoons, sporks, cocktail picks, chopsticks, splash sticks, and stirrers.

(23) "Wood" means renewable wood or fiber-based substrate.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1085, § 1, effective August 7.

25-17-803. Requirements for products represented as compostable.

(1) A producer of a product that is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in the state shall not represent the product as compostable in the state unless:

(a) The product is certified compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400 or ASTM D6868, as applicable; and

(b) To the extent consistent with federal trade commission guidelines and in a manner that ensures that the product is easily and immediately distinguishable as certified compostable, as described in subsection (1)(a) of this section, upon quick inspection at point of sale and point of use and in a public sorting area and processing facility, the product and its packaging:

(I) Display a certification logo that indicates that the product is certified compostable;

(II) Display the word "compostable" where possible; and

(III) Use green-colored labeling or striping or other easily recognizable green symbols, colors, tinting, marks, or design patterns that differentiate the product from products that are not certified compostable.

(2) Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, a producer of any product described in subsection (1) of this section that is a small product is required to comply only with the requirements of subsection (1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(II), or (1)(b)(III) of this section.

(3) (a) Any product accessory that is not a small product and that is sold, offered for sale, or distributed with any product described in subsection (1) of this section must:

(I) Comply with subsection (1) of this section if the product is certified compostable;

(II) Display a label on the product accessory and its packaging that clearly describes the recyclability of the product accessory; or

(III) Display a label on the product accessory and its packaging that includes the phrase "landfill only".

(b) Any product accessory that is a small product may comply with the requirements of subsections (2) and (3)(a) of this section, as applicable, in a manner that is in proportion to the size of the product accessory.

(4) Notwithstanding anything in this section to the contrary, the requirements of this section do not apply to a producer of a product that is comprised entirely of untreated wood.

(5) This section is effective July 1, 2024.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1088, § 1, effective August 7.

25-17-804. Marketing and advertising prohibitions for products that are not certified compostable - misleading labels, images, and words - plastic products.

(1) A producer of a product that is not certified compostable shall not market or advertise the product in the state using:

(a) Tinting, color schemes, labeling, or words that are required for products represented as compostable pursuant to section 25-17-803; or

(b) Labeling, images, or words that could be reasonably anticipated to mislead consumers into believing that the product is compostable.

(2) (a) A producer of a plastic product shall not market or advertise the product in the state using:

(I) The words "natural", "biodegradable", "degradable", "decomposable", "oxo-degradable", "bioassimilable", "omnidegradable", or any other similar form of these words; or

(II) Any labeling, images, or words that imply that the plastic product will eventually break down, fragment, biodegrade, or decompose in a landfill or other environment in the same manner as a product that is certified compostable.

(b) The prohibitions in subsection (2)(a) of this section do not apply to biodegradable mulch film.

(3) A producer of a product that is compostable shall not market or advertise the product using a chasing arrow resin identification code or recycling symbol of any form.

(4) Each producer that sells, offers for sale, or distributes a product in the state is encouraged to use labeling, images, and words that assist consumers in identifying products that are suitable for recycling or landfill only, as applicable, and that are not compostable.

(5) The requirements of this section apply only to the extent consistent with any applicable federal law.

(6) The prohibition in subsection (1)(a) of this section does not apply to brand colors or colors used in a manner that is not clearly intended to indicate compostability.

(7) This section is effective January 1, 2024.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1089, § 1, effective August 7.

25-17-805. Proof of compliance - information on commercial composting environment.

(1) On and after January 1, 2024, at the request of any person, including the attorney general, a producer shall provide information and documentation demonstrating the producer's compliance with this part 8 in a format that is easily understandable and scientifically accurate, which may include providing a certification demonstrating that a product is certified compostable.

(2) At the request of a commercial composting facility, a producer is encouraged to provide the commercial composting facility information regarding the characteristics, such as heat or moisture levels, of the commercial composting environment in which the producer's product has been tested and found to be compostable.

(3) Notwithstanding anything in this section to the contrary, nothing in this section requires a producer to disclose proprietary information to any person.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1090, § 1, effective August 7.

25-17-806. Education and outreach - complaint forum.

(1) The department shall, in collaboration with local governments, conduct education and outreach activities to inform retail establishments, consumers, producers, and retailers about the requirements and prohibitions of this part 8.

(2) (a) On or before January 1, 2024, the department shall establish a forum that allows any person to file a complaint against a producer for a violation of this part 8. The forum established by the department may include any of the following mechanisms to receive complaints:

(I) A complaint form on the department's website;

(II) A telephone hotline; or

(III) A public outreach strategy based on social media.

(b) The department shall provide any nonfrivolous and nontrivial complaints received through the forum to the attorney general's office.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (SB 23-253), ch. 209, p. 1090, § 1, effective August 7.

PART 9

ORGANICS DIVERSION

Editor's note: (1) Section 25-17-903 provided for the repeal of this part 9, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2023, p. 1082.)

(2) This part 9 was added in 2023. For amendments to this part 9 prior to its repeal in 2025, consult the 2024 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

25-17-901 to 25-17-903. (Repealed)

PART 10

BATTERY STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS

25-17-1001. Short title.

The short title of this part 10 is the "Battery Stewardship Act".

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2380, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1002. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds that:

(a) Multiple studies have established that expensive and hazardous risks result from the improper handling and disposal of batteries. It is in the public interest of Colorado residents to reduce the inherent risk of fires that can occur when batteries are improperly disposed of and to encourage the recovery of valuable materials in batteries that can be put back into the supply chain.

(b) According to analyses conducted by several state organizations, access to collection, recovery, and recycling programs for portable small and medium-format batteries is limited, inconvenient, and costly for most Colorado residents. Colorado communities that operate battery collection events and facilities report that such events and facilities are costly for local governments to operate.

(c) Without a coordinated battery stewardship program, consumers will continue to be confused about proper battery disposal;

(d) Ensuring the proper recovery of used portable small and medium-format batteries prevents the ignition of fires and the release of toxic materials into the environment; and

(e) It is the best practice for a battery stewardship program to collect all battery types and chemistries, as evidenced by successful battery stewardship programs operating in other states.

(1.5) The general assembly further finds that:

(a) Electric vehicles are crucial tools for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which the state is striving to eliminate by 2050. Electric vehicles are also vital to reducing local air pollution in areas of the state, such as the Denver metro and north front range areas, that the federal environmental protection agency has designated as being in nonattainment with a national ambient air quality standard. To achieve emission reductions needed to meet state-mandated climate goals and federally required ozone levels, many more electric vehicles will need to be deployed in Colorado.

(b) As electric vehicle sales in the state continue to grow, substantially more electric vehicles will be retired in the coming years, and their batteries, known as propulsion batteries, will need responsible end-of-life management;

(c) Propulsion batteries often retain value even after they cease to power the original vehicles into which they were placed and can be reused, remanufactured, repurposed, or recycled. Extending the useful lifespan of propulsion batteries improves the sustainability profile of the electric vehicle industry and creates local economic opportunities.

(d) Multiple analyses have established that expensive and hazardous risks result from the improper handling, storage, and disposal of propulsion batteries; and

(e) Unwanted propulsion batteries that are stored improperly instead of being sorted for reuse, remanufacturing, repurposing, or ultimate recycling and recovery of valuable materials could potentially reduce the environmental benefits of a robust circular economy for propulsion batteries while also increasing the risk of battery fires. A robust extended provider responsibility policy is needed to enable a propulsion battery circular economy.

(2) The general assembly therefore declares that it is in the public interest of Colorado to:

(a) Require producers of batteries and providers of propulsion batteries to finance and implement a coordinated, state-approved system that increases access to the safe and responsible end-of-life management of batteries in Colorado;

(b) Reduce the inherent risk of fire that can occur when propulsion batteries are improperly disposed of; and

(c) Encourage the reuse, remanufacturing, and repurposing of propulsion batteries and the ultimate recycling and recovery of the valuable materials in a propulsion battery that can be put back into the supply chain.

(3) The general assembly further declares that battery stewardship organizations established pursuant to this part 10 are independent, nongovernmental entities and, for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, are not districts, as defined in section 20 (2)(b) of article X of the state constitution.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2380, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1.5) added and (2) amended, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2064, § 2, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-17-1003. Definitions - rules.

As used in this part 10, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Approved plan" means a battery stewardship plan that has been approved by the executive director pursuant to section 25-17-1005.

(1.5) "Battery" means a device consisting of one or more electrically connected electrochemical cells, which device is designed to receive, store, and deliver electric energy.

(2) "Battery-containing product" means a product sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state that contains or is packaged with rechargeable or primary batteries that are covered batteries.

(2.5) "Battery management hierarchy" means the process of secondary handlers, remanufacturers, repurposers, and propulsion battery providers first striving to reuse, repurpose, or remanufacture propulsion batteries, when doing so is possible and cost-effective, before propulsion battery recycling.

(3) "Battery stewardship organization" or "organization" means a producer that directly implements a battery stewardship plan in accordance with this part 10 or a nonprofit organization designated by a producer or a group of producers to implement a battery stewardship plan in accordance with this part 10.

(4) "Battery stewardship plan" or "plan" means a plan for the collection, transportation, processing, and recycling of covered batteries submitted to the executive director pursuant to section 25-17-1005 (1).

(5) "Battery stewardship program" or "program" means a program implemented by a battery stewardship organization in accordance with an approved plan.

(6) "Collection rate" means a percentage, by weight, of covered batteries that a battery stewardship organization collects, which is calculated by dividing the total weight of the covered batteries that the battery stewardship organization collected during the previous calendar year by the average annual weight of covered batteries that were estimated by the organization to have been sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state during the previous three calendar years by producers participating in an approved plan.

(7) "Commission" means the solid and hazardous waste commission created in section 25-15-302 (1)(a).

(8) (a) "Covered battery" means a portable battery, a medium-format battery, or any battery sold loose or as an easily removable battery within a battery-containing product or a motorized device.

(b) "Covered battery" does not include:

(I) A battery contained within a medical device, as defined in 21 U.S.C. sec. 321 (h) as of August 6, 2025;

(II) A battery that contains an electrolyte as a free liquid;

(III) A lead-acid battery weighing more than eleven pounds;

(IV) An embedded battery;

(V) A battery that is damaged, is defective, or has been recalled; or

(VI) A battery, including a propulsion battery, assembled by or for a vehicle manufacturer, that is designed to power a motor vehicle, a part of a motor vehicle, or a component part of a motor vehicle, including a replacement part for use in a motor vehicle.

(8.5) "Critical minerals" means minerals designated as critical minerals by the United States secretary of the interior, acting through the director of the United States geological survey, pursuant to 30 U.S.C. sec. 1606 (c).

(9) "Damaged or defective battery" means a battery that has been damaged or identified by the manufacturer as being defective for safety reasons and that has the potential of producing a dangerous evolution of heat, fire, or short circuit, as described in 49 CFR 173.185 (f), or as updated by the commission by rule to maintain consistency with federal standards.

(10) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102.

(10.5) (a) "Dispositioning" or "dispositioned" means evaluating a propulsion battery to determine the most suitable battery management option based on metrics such as the chemistry, condition, format, and location of the propulsion battery.

(b) "Dispositioning" or "dispositioned" may include evaluating a propulsion battery for secondary use by a repurposer or a propulsion battery recycler.

(11) "Disproportionately impacted community" has the meaning set forth in section 24-4-109 (2)(b)(II).

(12) "Easily removable" means a battery that is intended or designed by the manufacturer to be removable by the user of the battery with no more than commonly used household tools.

(12.5) "Education and outreach plan" means a plan submitted by a propulsion battery provider or group of propulsion battery providers to the executive director pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (2).

(13) "Embedded battery" means a battery that is contained in a product and that is not designed to be easily removable.

(13.5) "End of life" means:

(a) The stage when a covered battery is no longer suitable for use as a battery and must be recycled; or

(b) The stage when a propulsion battery is no longer suitable for use as a propulsion battery or for repurposing and is directed for propulsion battery recycling.

(14) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department.

(15) "Fund" means the battery stewardship fund created in section 25-17-1012 (2)(a).

(16) "Household hazardous waste facility" means a facility that is subject to federal and state regulations and rules that ensure that the facility is collecting universal waste, including universal waste batteries, in a manner that prevents the harmful impact of improper disposal of the universal waste and pursuant to federal and state regulations and rules governing universal waste handlers.

(17) "Local government" means a county, city, town, city and county, or special district within the state of Colorado.

(18) "Materials recovery facility" means a facility that processes materials that are collected for recycling before being conveyed to end-market businesses.

(19) "Medium-format battery" means the following primary or rechargeable covered batteries:

(a) For primary batteries, a battery weighing at least four and four-tenths pounds and no more than twenty-five pounds; or

(b) For rechargeable batteries, a battery weighing:

(I) More than eleven pounds or having a rating of more than three hundred watt-hours, or both; and

(II) No more than twenty-five pounds and having a rating of no more than two thousand watt-hours.

(19.5) "Orphaned battery" means:

(a) A propulsion battery that has an unidentifiable propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer or a propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer that no longer exists; or

(b) An unwanted propulsion battery that has not been collected or managed in accordance with the battery management hierarchy.

(20) "Portable battery" means the following primary or rechargeable covered batteries:

(a) For primary batteries, a battery weighing no more than four and four-tenths pounds; or

(b) For rechargeable batteries, a battery weighing no more than eleven pounds and having a rating of no more than three hundred watt-hours.

(21) "Primary battery" means a battery that is not capable of being recharged.

(22) (a) "Producer" means:

(I) For covered batteries sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state:

(A) If the covered battery is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state under the brand of the battery manufacturer, the producer is the person that manufactures the battery;

(B) If the covered battery is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state under a retail brand or under a brand owned by a person other than the battery manufacturer, the producer is the brand owner;

(C) If there is no person that subsection (22)(a)(I)(A) or (22)(a)(I)(B) of this section applies to, the producer is the licensee of the brand or trademark under which the covered battery is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state, regardless of whether the trademark is registered in the state;

(D) If there is no person in the United States that subsection (22)(a)(I)(A), (22)(a)(I)(B), or (22)(a)(I)(C) of this section applies to, the producer is the person that is the importer of record for the covered battery into the United States; and

(E) If there is no person with a commercial presence in the state that subsection (22)(a)(I)(A), (22)(a)(I)(B), (22)(a)(I)(C), or (22)(a)(I)(D) of this section applies to, the producer is the person that first sells, offers for sale, or distributes the covered battery in or into the state; and

(II) For covered battery-containing products sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state:

(A) If the battery-containing product is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state under the brand of the product manufacturer, the producer is the person that manufactures the battery-containing product;

(B) If the battery-containing product is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state under a retail brand or under a brand owned by a person other than the product manufacturer, the producer is the brand owner;

(C) If there is no person that subsection (22)(a)(II)(A) or (22)(a)(II)(B) of this section applies to, the producer is the licensee of the brand or trademark under which the battery-containing product is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state, regardless of whether the trademark is registered in the state;

(D) If there is no person in the United States that subsection (22)(a)(II)(A), (22)(a)(II)(B), or (22)(a)(II)(C) of this section applies to, the producer is the person that is the importer of record for the battery-containing product into the United States; and

(E) If there is no person with a commercial presence in the state that subsection (22)(a)(II)(A), (22)(a)(II)(B), (22)(a)(II)(C), or (22)(a)(II)(D) of this section applies to, the producer is the person that first sells, offers for sale, or distributes the battery-containing product in or into the state.

(b) "Producer" does not include a person that only manufactures, sells, offers for sale, distributes, or imports in or into the state a battery-containing product if:

(I) The only batteries contained in or supplied with the battery-containing product are supplied by a producer that has joined a battery stewardship organization with an approved plan acknowledging that the producer is the producer for that covered battery pursuant to this part 10; and

(II) The producer provides written certification to both the person described in this subsection (22)(b) and the battery stewardship organization of which the producer is a member.

(c) A person is not the producer of a covered battery or battery-containing product sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state if another party has contractually accepted responsibility as a producer and has joined a battery stewardship organization with an approved plan acknowledging that the other party is the producer for that covered battery or battery-containing product pursuant to this part 10.

(23) "Proprietary information" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-703 (34).

(23.3) "Propulsion battery" means a battery that is primarily used to supply power to propel a battery electric motor vehicle, as defined in section 43-4-1202 (1.5), a plug-in hybrid electric motor vehicle, as defined in section 43-4-1202 (14), or a hybrid vehicle, as defined in section 42-4-1012 (2.5)(a)(III).

(23.5) (a) "Propulsion battery provider" means:

(I) A person that first sells, offers for sale, or distributes a propulsion battery or a vehicle containing a propulsion battery in or into the state, including vehicle manufacturers licensed pursuant to applicable state laws or propulsion battery manufacturers that distribute propulsion batteries under their own name or brand;

(II) If there is not a person that subsection (23.5)(a)(I) of this section applies to, the owner or licensee of the brand or trademark under which the propulsion battery is sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state. This includes an exclusive licensee with the exclusive right to use the brand or trademark in connection with the distribution or sale of propulsion batteries.

(III) If there is not a person that subsection (23.5)(a)(I) or (23.5)(a)(II) of this section applies to, the person that imports the propulsion battery into the state for sale, distribution, or installation.

(b) "Propulsion battery provider" does not include:

(I) A dealer of a vehicle containing a propulsion battery;

(II) A secondary handler that sells, offers for sale, registers, or distributes a vehicle containing a propulsion battery in or into the state; or

(III) A person that sells a used vehicle in or into the state.

(c) For the purposes of this subsection (23.5), the sale of a propulsion battery occurs in the state if the propulsion battery, or the vehicle containing the propulsion battery, is delivered to a licensed dealer or directly to a consumer in the state.

(23.7) (a) "Propulsion battery recycler" means an entity or facility that:

(I) Operates in accordance with all required permits and regulatory exclusions in all applicable federal, state, and local laws;

(II) Conducts propulsion battery recycling; and

(III) Performs at least one of the following activities:

(A) Extracts and separates materials from end-of-life propulsion batteries, including metals, compounds, or intermediate fractions, and directs these materials to one or more additional propulsion battery recyclers for further processing or refining; or

(B) Refines end-of-life propulsion batteries or propulsion battery materials, such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, graphite, iron, lithium compounds, manganese, and nickel, back to useable materials suitable for reintroduction into battery, manufacturing, or other industrial supply chains.

(b) "Propulsion battery recycler" does not include an entity or facility that only engages in the collection or transportation of, or the logistics of moving, propulsion batteries or propulsion battery materials during the recycling process.

(23.9) (a) "Propulsion battery recycling" means the recovery of critical minerals that are present in the propulsion battery feedstock, using one or more propulsion battery recyclers.

(b) (I) "Propulsion battery recycling" does not include disposal or sham recycling under the federal "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976", 42 U.S.C. sec. 6901 et seq., or other applicable federal law.

(II) For the purposes of this subsection (23.9)(b), sham recycling and legitimate recycling are determined in accordance with the legitimacy criteria set forth in 40 CFR 260.43.

(24) "Rechargeable battery" means a battery that contains one or more voltaic or galvanic cells, which are electrically connected to produce electric energy and designed to be recharged.

(24.5) (a) "Recovery" means the extraction, separation, or regeneration of critical minerals or cathode materials in their elemental, compound, or intermediate form, such as refined metals, salts, oxides, hydroxides, or regenerated cathode materials, or other commercially usable forms.

(b) "Recovery" does not include lithium recovered as slag and used as concrete additives.

(25) "Recycling" has the meaning set forth in section 25-17-703 (37).

(26) "Recycling efficiency rate" means the ratio of the weight of components and materials recycled by a battery stewardship organization from covered batteries to the weight of covered batteries as collected by the battery stewardship organization.

(26.3) "Remanufacture" means a standardized industrial process through which battery cores are returned to same-as-new or better condition and performance, which process is in line with specific technical specifications including engineering, quality, and testing standards.

(26.5) "Remanufacturer" means a person that remanufactures a propulsion battery.

(26.7) "Repurpose" means the process of modifying a propulsion battery or propulsion battery pack, module, or cell to store and supply electricity in a manner other than the original intended purpose of the propulsion battery.

(26.8) "Repurposer" means a person that uses a propulsion battery to fulfill a different use than the use for which the propulsion battery was originally designed.

(26.9) "Responsible propulsion battery management" means ensuring a propulsion battery is dispositioned and managed pursuant to the battery management hierarchy, while also ensuring that any propulsion battery no longer suitable for use in a vehicle is ultimately directed to either a repurposer or a propulsion battery recycler.

(27) "Retailer" means a person that sells covered batteries or battery-containing products in or into the state, including sales made through an internet transaction, or offers or otherwise makes available covered batteries or battery-containing products to a customer in the state.

(27.1) "Reuse" means the use of a propulsion battery in a vehicle other than the original vehicle into which the propulsion battery was placed.

(27.2) (a) "Secondary handler" means a commercial entity other than the propulsion battery provider that takes possession of a propulsion battery or removes a propulsion battery from a vehicle for the purpose of selling, dispositioning, repairing, reusing, or recycling the propulsion battery with a propulsion battery recycler.

(b) "Secondary handler" includes a solid waste disposal site and facility.

(27.3) "Solid waste collector" means a person that operates collection routes for the removal of solid waste from residential, multiresidential, commercial, or industrial premises.

(27.4) "Solid waste disposal site and facility" has the same meaning as "solid wastes disposal site and facility" as defined in section 30-20-101 (8).

(27.5) "State of charge" means the measure of a propulsion battery's remaining capacity, expressed as a percentage of its total capacity.

(27.6) "State of health" means a calculated parameter that correlates to usable propulsion battery energy for the certified range value and is normalized from zero to one hundred percent.

(28) "Universal waste" has the meaning set forth in rules adopted by the commission.

(29) "Universal waste battery" means a waste battery generated by a nonresidential entity, such as a business, school, or government agency, that is managed as universal waste regulated in accordance with the commission's rules governing standards for universal waste management.

(30) "Universal waste handler" means the owner or operator of a facility that receives, accumulates, and sends universal waste to another universal waste handler, a destination facility, or a foreign destination in accordance with the commission's rules governing standards for universal waste management.

(30.5) (a) "Unwanted propulsion battery" means a propulsion battery that is no longer wanted by the owner.

(b) "Unwanted propulsion battery" includes a propulsion battery that has been damaged, including in a thermal runaway incident.

(31) "Written certification" means written certification by a producer that:

(a) The producer is a member of a battery stewardship organization; and

(b) A covered battery or battery-containing product is marked in accordance with section 25-17-1013 or the rules adopted in accordance with section 25-17-1013.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2381, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (1.5), (2.5), (8.5), (10.5), (12.5), (13.5), (19.5), (23.3), (23.5), (23.7), (23.9), (24.5), (26.3), (26.5), (26.7), (26.8), (26.9), (27.1), (27.2), (27.3), (27.4), (27.5), (27.6), and (30.5) added and (8)(b)(VI) amended, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2065, § 3, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-17-1004. Requirement that producers participate in a battery stewardship plan - retailer requirements - no point-of-sale fees.

(1) On and after August 1, 2027:

(a) A producer selling, making available for sale, or distributing covered batteries or battery-containing products in or into the state shall participate in and finance a battery stewardship organization that has submitted a plan pursuant to section 25-17-1005 (1)(a); and

(b) Except as provided in section 25-17-1003 (22)(b) and (22)(c), a producer shall not sell, make available for sale, or distribute covered batteries or battery-containing products in or into the state unless that producer participates in a battery stewardship organization and a battery stewardship plan.

(2) (a) On and after July 1, 2029, a retailer shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute, or otherwise make available for sale a covered battery or battery-containing product in the state unless the producer of the covered battery or battery-containing product is participating in a battery stewardship organization with an approved plan.

(b) A retailer does not violate subsection (2)(a) of this section if the list provided by the executive director in accordance with section 25-17-1012 (2)(d)(III) includes, as of the date a product sold by the retailer is made available for retail sale, the producer or brand of covered battery or battery-containing product as a participant in an approved plan.

(c) (I) A retailer of a covered battery or a battery-containing product is not required to make a retail location available to serve as a collection site for a battery stewardship program.

(II) A retailer that offers a retail location that serves as a collection site must comply with an approved battery stewardship plan and the requirements for collection sites described in section 25-17-1008.

(d) A retailer shall not sell, offer for sale, distribute, or otherwise make available for sale a covered battery or battery-containing product unless the covered battery or battery-containing product is marked in accordance with section 25-17-1013 or the rules adopted in accordance with section 25-17-1013.

(e) (I) A battery stewardship organization shall make information available to a retailer for voluntary use that the retailer may use to inform customers of available end-of-life management options for covered batteries collected by the battery stewardship organization, which information must include in-store signage, written materials, and other promotional materials.

(II) A retailer selling, offering for sale, distributing, or otherwise making available a covered battery or battery-containing product may provide the information described in subsection (2)(e)(I) of this section to customers and the public.

(3) A retailer, producer, or battery stewardship organization shall not charge a point-of-sale fee to consumers to cover the administrative or operational costs of a battery stewardship organization or a battery stewardship program.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2386, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1005. Battery stewardship plans - review and approval by the executive director.

(1) No later than July 1, 2027, and every five years thereafter, a battery stewardship organization shall submit to the executive director a plan for the collection, transportation, processing, and recycling of covered batteries under a battery stewardship program. The executive director shall review and approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve a plan based on whether the plan:

(a) Lists and provides contact information for each producer, covered battery brand, and battery-containing product brand covered by the plan, including identifying producers that have contractually accepted responsibility as a producer in accordance with section 25-17-1003 (22)(c);

(b) Proposes performance goals that are consistent with section 25-17-1006, including establishing performance goals for each of the five calendar years after the plan is submitted to the executive director;

(c) Describes how the organization will make retailers aware of the obligation described in section 25-17-1004 (2)(a) to sell only covered batteries and battery-containing products of producers participating in an approved plan;

(d) Describes the education and communications strategy being implemented pursuant to section 25-17-1010 to promote participation in the approved plan and to provide the information necessary for effective participation of consumers, retailers, and others;

(e) Describes how the organization will make signage, written materials, and other promotional materials available to collection sites so that collection sites may use the materials to inform consumers of available end-of-life management options for covered batteries collected by the organization;

(f) Lists promotional activities to be undertaken by the organization, including the identification of consumer awareness goals and strategies that the organization will employ to achieve these goals when the program is implemented;

(g) Includes collection site safety training procedures related to covered battery collection activities at collection sites, including a description of operating protocols to reduce the risk of a spill or fire, response protocols in the event of a spill or fire, and protocols for safe management of damaged or defective batteries that are returned to collection sites;

(h) Describes the method to establish and administer a means for fully funding the program in a manner that equitably distributes the program's costs among the producers participating in the organization, including a description of the charges collected from producers pursuant to section 25-17-1007 (1). If a producer chooses to directly implement a plan individually without designating a nonprofit organization, the plan must describe the proposed method to establish and administer a means for fully funding the program.

(i) Describes how the program will collect all covered types and brands of covered batteries on a free, continuous, convenient, visible, and accessible basis, and in accordance with section 25-17-1008, including a description of how the statewide collection opportunities described in section 25-17-1008 (4)(b) and (4)(c) will be met and a list of the names and addresses of collection sites participating in the program;

(j) Describes how the program will work with materials recovery facilities and secondary processors to properly process and transport for recycling any covered batteries improperly sent to the facilities through the waste or recycling streams;

(k) Provides an explanation for any delay anticipated by the organization for the implementation of the management of medium-format batteries such that the implementation will not begin within six months after the plan is approved, including a delay in the ability to collect, package, transport, or process medium-format batteries in accordance with this part 10, and establishes an expected date of compliance for the management of medium-format batteries that is no later than January 1, 2029, if a delay occurs;

(l) Describes the criteria to be used by the program to determine whether an entity may serve as a collection site for covered batteries under the program;

(m) Identifies proposed service providers, such as sorters, transporters, and processors, to be used by the program for the final disposition of covered batteries and proposed provisions for record keeping, tracking, and documenting the fate of collected covered batteries;

(n) Details how the program will achieve a recycling efficiency rate of at least sixty percent for rechargeable batteries and at least seventy percent for primary batteries;

(o) Proposes goals for increasing public awareness of the program and describes how the public education and outreach components of the program required by section 25-17-1010 will be implemented; and

(p) If the performance goals described in section 25-17-1006, and as approved in the battery stewardship plan, have not been met, includes corrective measures to be implemented by the organization to meet its performance goals, which may include improvements to the collection site network or increased expenditures dedicated to education and outreach.

(2) A battery stewardship organization must provide plan amendments to the executive director for approval when proposing changes to the performance goals described in section 25-17-1006 based on the experience of the program, including the experience of the program during the six months before the submission of the amendments, or when there is a change to the method of financing the program pursuant to section 25-17-1007 (1).

(3) (a) The executive director shall review battery stewardship plans and plan amendments for compliance with this part 10 and shall approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve a plan or a plan amendment within one hundred twenty days after receipt of the plan or plan amendment; except that, if multiple plans are submitted, the review timeline is extended by sixty days.

(b) If the executive director disapproves a battery stewardship plan or plan amendment, the executive director shall provide a written notice of disapproval explaining how the plan or plan amendment does not comply with this part 10. The battery stewardship organization shall submit to the executive director a revised plan, plan amendment, or notice of plan withdrawal within sixty days after the date that the written notice of disapproval is issued. The executive director shall review a revised plan or plan amendment within ninety days after the organization submits the revised plan, plan amendment, or notice of plan withdrawal.

(c) If a revised plan is disapproved by the executive director, a producer operating under the plan is not in compliance with this part 10 until the executive director approves a plan submitted by an organization that covers the producer or the producer's battery brand or battery-containing product brand.

(d) If a plan, plan amendment, or revised plan is submitted to the executive director pursuant to this section, the executive director shall make the plan, plan amendment, or revised plan available for public review and comment for at least thirty days.

(e) A battery stewardship organization shall provide written notification to the executive director within thirty days after a producer begins to participate or ceases to participate in the organization or after the adding or removing of a processor or transporter.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2387, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1006. Performance goals.

(1) A battery stewardship plan must include performance goals that measure, on an annual basis, the achievements of the battery stewardship program, including:

(a) The collection rate for covered batteries by the program, including target collection rates for primary batteries and rechargeable batteries;

(b) The recycling efficiency rate of the program, including target recycling efficiency rates of at least sixty percent for rechargeable batteries and at least seventy percent for primary batteries; and

(c) Public awareness of the program, including goals for public awareness, convenience, and accessibility that meet or exceed the minimum requirements established in section 25-17-1010.

(2) A battery stewardship organization shall meet the performance goals established pursuant to the organization's approved plan and shall not reduce or cease collection, education and outreach, or other activities implemented under an approved plan based on the achievement of performance goals.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2390, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1007. Collection of charges - reimbursement of collection sites and electronic waste recyclers.

(1) (a) A battery stewardship organization implementing a battery stewardship plan on behalf of producers shall develop and administer a system to collect charges from participating producers to cover the costs of program implementation, including:

(I) Covered battery collection, sortation, transportation, processing, and recycling in a manner that is safe for public health and the environment;

(II) Education and outreach;

(III) Program administration, evaluation, and reporting; and

(IV) Payment of annual fees to the department pursuant to section 25-17-1012 (1).

(b) A battery stewardship organization is responsible for all costs of a battery stewardship program, including the costs described in subsection (1)(a) of this section.

(2) (a) A battery stewardship organization shall reimburse a participating collection site, as described in section 25-17-1008, for:

(I) Demonstrable costs incurred by a local government serving as a collection site, a solid waste facility, or a local government's designated collection site as a result of implementing a battery stewardship program, including associated labor costs and other costs associated with accessibility and collection site standards such as storage; and

(II) Costs of agreed-upon education and outreach.

(b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a local government is not required to serve as a collection site pursuant to this part 10.

(c) A battery stewardship organization shall, at a minimum, provide collection sites with appropriate containers for covered batteries subject to its program as well as training, signage, safety guidance, and educational materials at no cost to the collection sites.

(3) A battery stewardship organization shall reimburse electronic waste recyclers for the costs to remove and recycle covered batteries from battery-containing products.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2390, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1008. Collection site requirements - statewide collection opportunities - minimum amount of collection sites.

(1) (a) A battery stewardship organization implementing a battery stewardship plan shall provide the collection of covered batteries, including all types and brands of covered batteries, on a free, continuous, convenient, visible, and accessible basis to any person.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, a battery stewardship plan must arrange for the collection of each type and brand of covered battery from a person at a collection site in accordance with the statewide collection opportunities described in subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section.

(2) (a) For each collection site used by a battery stewardship program, the battery stewardship organization implementing the program shall:

(I) Provide suitable collection containers for covered batteries so that the covered batteries are segregated from other solid waste; or

(II) Make mutually agreeable alternative arrangements with the collection site for the collection of covered batteries at the collection site.

(b) The location of the collection containers described in subsection (2)(a) of this section must be:

(I) Within view of an individual who has been designated by the organization hosting the collection site as responsible for complying with the safe collection of batteries; and

(II) Accompanied by signage that is made available to the collection site by the organization and that informs consumers regarding the end-of-life management options for covered batteries collected by the collection site.

(3) (a) Medium-format batteries must be collected at household hazardous waste facilities or other staffed collection sites or events that meet applicable federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.

(b) Damaged or defective batteries must be collected at collection sites and events staffed by individuals trained to handle and ship those batteries.

(4) (a) (I) A battery stewardship organization implementing a battery stewardship plan shall:

(A) Ensure statewide collection opportunities for all covered batteries in accordance with subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section; and

(B) For the purposes of providing efficient delivery of services and avoiding unnecessary duplication of effort and expense, coordinate activities with other program operators, including covered battery collectors, recycling programs, and electronic waste recyclers, with regard to the proper management or recycling of collected covered batteries.

(II) A battery stewardship organization shall determine statewide collection opportunities through geographic information modeling that considers permanent collection sites.

(III) A battery stewardship program may rely, in part, on collection events to supplement the collection site criteria required by subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section. Only permanent collection services specified in subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section satisfy the requirements of this subsection (4)(a).

(b) Within six months after a battery stewardship plan is approved pursuant to section 25-17-1005 (1) and no later than October 1, 2028, a battery stewardship organization shall provide statewide collection opportunities for portable batteries that include:

(I) At least one permanent collection site for portable batteries within a fifteen-mile radius for at least ninety-five percent of the state's residents; and

(II) At least one permanent collection site or a collection service, or one collection event per year, for portable batteries in addition to those required by subsection (4)(b)(I) of this section for every thirty thousand residents of a county.

(c) (I) Within six months after a battery stewardship plan is approved pursuant to section 25-17-1005 (1) and no later than January 1, 2029, a battery stewardship organization shall provide statewide collection opportunities for medium-format batteries that include:

(A) At least fifteen permanent collection sites in the state;

(B) Reasonable geographic dispersion of collection sites throughout the state;

(C) A permanent collection site in each county of at least one hundred fifty thousand persons, as determined by the most recent federal decennial census; and

(D) Service to areas without a permanent collection site.

(II) A battery stewardship organization shall ensure that there is a collection event for medium-format batteries, including damaged or defective medium-format batteries, at least once annually in each county of the state that does not have a permanent collection site.

(d) The statewide collection opportunities set forth in subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section may be satisfied by the collection locations participating in a household battery recycling program sponsored by the executive director or a local government.

(5) Each collection site must meet applicable federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.

(6) (a) If cost-effective, mutually agreeable, and otherwise practicable, a battery stewardship organization shall use existing public and private waste collection services and facilities in implementing a battery stewardship program, including collection sites that are established through other battery collection services, transporters, consolidators, processors, electronic waste recyclers, and retailers.

(b) Upon the submission of a request by an entity to serve as a collection site, a battery stewardship program shall use the entity as a collection site for covered batteries for up to the minimum number of collection sites required for compliance with subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section if the entity meets the criteria for collection sites in the approved plan.

(c) A battery stewardship program may use additional collection sites in excess of the minimum number of collection sites required for compliance with subsections (4)(b) and (4)(c) of this section as may be agreed between the battery stewardship organization and the applicable entity.

(d) (I) The department may issue a warning to, suspend, or terminate a collection site that:

(A) Does not adhere to the criteria for collection sites in the approved plan; or

(B) Poses an immediate health and safety concern.

(II) A battery stewardship organization shall report a noncompliant site to the department for review and potential enforcement action. The battery stewardship organization shall suspend services to the site at the time the battery stewardship organization reports the site to the department and until the site comes into compliance.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2391, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1009. Assessment of battery-containing products required.

(1) On or before December 1, 2028, a battery stewardship organization shall complete an assessment of the opportunities and challenges associated with the end-of-life management of portable and medium-format embedded batteries in the state. A battery stewardship organization should, to the extent feasible, extrapolate findings from related studies, including those conducted within Colorado, and apply the findings to the assessment for Colorado.

(2) In completing the assessment, a battery stewardship organization shall consult with the department and interested stakeholders and may coordinate with other battery stewardship organizations.

(3) As part of the assessment, a battery stewardship organization shall identify adjustments to the battery stewardship program requirements established by this part 10 that would maximize public health, safety, and environmental benefits.

(4) The assessment must consider:

(a) The different categories and uses of battery-containing products;

(b) Methods by which unwanted battery-containing products are managed in Colorado and other states and United States territories;

(c) Challenges posed by the potential collection in rural and urban areas, management, and transportation of battery-containing products, including challenges associated with removing batteries that were not intended or designed to be easily removed from products other than by the manufacturer; and

(d) Which requirements of this part 10 may apply to battery-containing products in a manner that is identical or analogous to the requirements applicable to covered batteries.

(5) The department shall submit the assessment completed pursuant to this section to the general assembly on or before March 1, 2029.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2394, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (5) amended, (HB 26-1219), ch. 115, p. 458, § 1, effective August 12.

25-17-1010. Education and outreach requirements - coordination with other battery stewardship organizations - survey of public awareness.

(1) A battery stewardship organization shall carry out promotional activities in support of the implementation of a battery stewardship program, including:

(a) The development and maintenance of a website;

(b) The development and distribution of periodic press releases and articles;

(c) The development and placement of advertisements for use on social media or other relevant media platforms;

(d) The development of promotional materials about the program and the requirements for the disposal of covered batteries pursuant to section 25-17-1014 to be used by persons, including retailers, government agencies, waste and recycling collectors, and nonprofit organizations;

(e) The development and distribution to collection sites of collection site safety training procedures that are in compliance with state and local law to help ensure proper management of covered batteries at collection sites; and

(f) The development and implementation of outreach and educational resources that are conceptually, linguistically, and culturally accurate for the communities served and that reach the state's diverse ethnic populations, including through meaningful consultation with disproportionately impacted communities.

(2) A battery stewardship organization shall provide:

(a) Consumer-focused educational and promotional materials to each collection site used by the battery stewardship program and to retailers that sell covered batteries or battery-containing products;

(b) Safety information related to covered battery collection activities to the operator of each collection site, including appropriate protocols to reduce risks of spills or fires, response protocols in the event of a spill or fire, and response protocols in the event of detection of a damaged or defective battery;

(c) Safety training materials for firefighters and first responders related to battery fires, response protocols in the event of a battery fire, and protocols for safe management of covered and damaged or defective batteries; and

(d) Educational materials to the operator of each collection site for the management of recalled batteries, which are not required to be collected pursuant to this part 10, to help facilitate the transportation and processing of recalled batteries.

(3) A battery stewardship organization may seek reimbursement from the producer of a recalled battery for expenses incurred in the collection, transportation, and processing of the recalled battery.

(4) Upon request by a retailer or other potential collector, a battery stewardship organization shall provide the retailer or other potential collector educational materials describing collection opportunities for batteries.

(5) If multiple battery stewardship organizations are implementing approved plans, the organizations shall coordinate in carrying out their education and outreach responsibilities pursuant to this section and shall include a summary of their coordinated education and outreach efforts in the annual reports required by section 25-17-1011.

(6) During the first year of program implementation, and every five years thereafter, a battery stewardship organization shall carry out, in coordination with the other approved battery stewardship organizations, a survey of public awareness regarding the requirements of the program established pursuant to this part 10. The battery stewardship organization shall share the results of the public awareness survey with the executive director through the annual reporting process described in section 25-17-1011.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2395, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1011. Annual reporting requirements - proprietary information.

(1) On or before June 1, 2029, and on or before each June 1 thereafter, a battery stewardship organization shall submit an annual report to the executive director covering the preceding calendar year of battery stewardship plan implementation. The report must include the following:

(a) An independent third-party financial assessment of the program implemented by the organization, including a breakdown of the program's expenses, such as collection expenses, recycling expenses, education and outreach expenses, and overhead expenses;

(b) A summary financial statement documenting the financing of the organization's program and an analysis of program costs and expenditures, including an analysis of the program's expenses, such as collection, transportation, recycling, education, and administrative overhead. The summary financial statement must be sufficiently detailed to show that the charges collected from producers as a result of the producers' activities in the state are spent on program implementation in the state. If the organization is implementing similar programs in multiple states, the organization may submit a financial statement including all covered states, as long as the statement breaks out financial information pertinent to Colorado.

(c) The weight, by chemistry, of covered batteries collected under the program;

(d) The weight of materials recycled from covered batteries collected under the program, in total and by method of battery recycling;

(e) A calculation of the recycling efficiency rates, as measured in accordance with subsection (2) of this section;

(f) A list of all facilities used in the processing and final disposition of covered batteries, including identification of a facility's location and whether the facility is located domestically, in an organization for economic cooperation and development country, or in a country that meets organization for economic cooperation and development operating standards. For domestic facilities, the organization shall provide a summary of the violations of environmental laws and regulations at each facility over the three years immediately preceding the submission of the annual report.

(g) For each facility used in the final disposition of covered batteries, a description of how the facility recycled or otherwise managed batteries and battery components;

(h) The weight and chemistry of covered batteries sent to each facility used for the final disposition of batteries. The information in this subsection (1)(h) may be approximated for program operations in the state based on extrapolations of national or regional data for programs in operation in multiple states.

(i) The collection rate achieved under the program, including a description of how this collection rate is calculated and how it compares to the collection rate goals established pursuant to section 25-17-1006 (1)(a);

(j) The estimated aggregate sales, by weight and chemistry, of covered batteries and of batteries contained in or with battery-containing products sold, offered for sale, or distributed in or into the state by participating producers for each of the three years immediately preceding the submission of the annual report;

(k) A description of the manner in which the collected covered batteries were managed and recycled, including a discussion of best available technologies and recycling efficiency rate;

(l) A description of the education and outreach efforts supporting plan implementation, including:

(I) An evaluation of the effectiveness of education and outreach activities;

(II) A summary of education and outreach provided to consumers, collection sites, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers by the program operator for the purpose of promoting the collection and recycling of covered batteries;

(III) A description of how the education and outreach efforts meet the requirements of section 25-17-1010;

(IV) Samples of education and outreach materials;

(V) A summary of coordinated education and outreach efforts with any other battery stewardship organizations implementing an approved plan; and

(VI) A summary of any changes made to education and outreach activities during the calendar year immediately preceding the submission of the annual report;

(m) A list of all collection sites used to implement the program, an address for each collection site, an up-to-date map indicating the location of each collection site, and links to appropriate websites where there are existing websites associated with a collection site;

(n) A description of methods used to collect, transport, and recycle covered batteries by the organization; and

(o) A summary of progress made toward the performance goals established pursuant to section 25-17-1006 and an explanation of why performance goals were not met, if applicable.

(2) The weight of covered batteries or recovered resources from those batteries must only be counted once toward an organization's recycling efficiency rate and for the purposes of collecting charges pursuant to section 25-17-1007 (1)(a) and may not be counted by more than one battery stewardship organization.

(3) The executive director and an organization shall keep proprietary information provided by a producer confidential.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2396, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1012. Annual fee - battery stewardship fund - responsibilities of the executive director - rules.

(1) (a) In addition to the annual fee described in subsection (1)(b) of this section, a battery stewardship organization shall pay a one-time plan review fee, in the amount of fifty thousand dollars, at the time the battery stewardship organization submits a plan to the executive director for approval. If the executive director approves the plan, the battery stewardship organization shall pay an additional administrative fee of eighty-six thousand dollars within three months after the plan is approved. There is no fee when a battery stewardship organization seeks to renew a plan that was previously approved by the executive director or submits a plan amendment.

(b) Within twelve months after a plan is approved, and on or before each July 1 thereafter, a battery stewardship organization shall pay to the department an annual fee to cover the department's cost of implementing, administering, and enforcing this part 10. The state treasurer shall credit the annual fees to the fund, and the department shall use the fees for costs associated with the administration of this part 10. The commission shall establish the fee amount by rule.

(2) (a) The battery stewardship fund is created in the state treasury.

(b) The fund consists of fees paid to the department pursuant to subsections (1) and (3) of this section and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(c) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund. Money not expended at the end of a state fiscal year remains in the fund and does not revert to the general fund or any other fund.

(d) The department shall use funds collected pursuant to this section to provide direct services to battery stewardship organizations with an approved plan to ensure effective program oversight, compliance support, and public engagement. Such services include:

(I) Reviewing, approving, and providing feedback on battery stewardship plans and plan amendments to ensure compliance with state law and to help organizations meet performance goals efficiently;

(II) Conducting compliance audits, reviewing annual reports submitted pursuant to section 25-17-1011 within ninety days after submission, and offering applicable technical recommendations to improve program effectiveness and transparency;

(III) Providing, upon request, a list of approved battery stewardship organizations, participating producers, and compliant retailers to increase consumer awareness and promote participation in a battery stewardship program;

(IV) Offering technical assistance, including regulatory guidance, best practices for collection site operations, and support for retailers and producers navigating compliance requirements;

(V) Collaborating with approved battery stewardship organizations to address operational challenges, facilitate coordination between producers, recyclers, and local governments, and ensure continuous program improvement; and

(VI) Enforcing this part 10 pursuant to section 25-17-1015, ensuring fair enforcement among participants, and protecting the integrity of battery stewardship programs.

(3) (a) (I) In addition to the annual fee described in subsection (3)(b) of this section, a propulsion battery provider shall pay a program initiation fee. The program initiation fee must be split into three payments, and a propulsion battery provider shall make one of each of the payments on July 1, 2027, July 1, 2028, and July 1, 2029, respectively. The sum of the program initiation fees paid by propulsion battery providers in a given year must offset any general fund allocations by covering any costs incurred by the department in implementing section 25-17-1019.

(II) The program initiation fee amount required to be paid by each propulsion battery provider is based on each propulsion battery provider's percentage of all propulsion battery vehicles registered in the state, according to registration data collected by the division of motor vehicles in the department of revenue as of April 26, 2026, as follows:

(A) A propulsion battery provider that is responsible for more than five percent of all propulsion battery vehicles registered in the state as of April 26, 2026, shall pay a program initiation fee of twenty-nine thousand seven hundred dollars, consisting of three separate payments of nine thousand nine hundred dollars, each made on July 1, 2027; July 1, 2028; and July 1, 2029, respectively;

(B) A propulsion battery provider that is responsible for more than two percent but no more than five percent of all propulsion battery vehicles registered in the state as of April 26, 2026, shall pay a program initiation fee of fourteen thousand eight hundred fifty dollars, consisting of three separate payments of four thousand nine hundred fifty dollars, each made on July 1, 2027; July 1, 2028; and July 1, 2029, respectively;

(C) A propulsion battery provider that is responsible for more than one-fifth percent but no more than two percent of all propulsion battery vehicles registered in the state as of April 26, 2026, shall pay a program initiation fee of four thousand nine hundred fifty dollars, consisting of three separate payments of one thousand six hundred fifty dollars, each made on July 1, 2027; July 1, 2028; and July 1, 2029, respectively; and

(D) A propulsion battery provider that is responsible for one-fifth percent or less of all propulsion battery vehicles registered in the state as of April 26, 2026, is not required to pay a program initiation fee.

(III) Any general fund allocations required for the department to process the program initiation fees shall be reimbursed to the general fund the following year using the money gathered from the program initiation fees.

(IV) A propulsion battery provider is not required to pay the program initiation fee when the propulsion battery provider seeks to update their registration information that they previously provided to the executive director pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (1)(a).

(b) (I) On or before July 1, 2030, and on or before each July 1 thereafter, a propulsion battery provider shall pay to the department an annual fee to cover the department's cost of implementing, administering, and enforcing section 25-17-1019. The state treasurer shall credit the annual fees to the fund, and the department shall use the fees for costs associated with the administration of section 25-17-1019.

(II) On or before July 1, 2029, the commission shall establish the annual fee amount by rule. The fee amount must be based on factors such as the propulsion battery provider's relative market share of propulsion batteries in the state and the number of unwanted propulsion batteries collected by the propulsion battery provider. The sum of annual fees paid by propulsion battery providers that are registered pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (1)(a) and fees paid by secondary handlers pursuant to section 25-17-1015 (2)(d) must cover the department's annual costs of administering section 25-17-1019 starting in 2030 and must not exceed one hundred forty thousand dollars across all participating entities. A single propulsion battery provider shall not be required to pay more than ten percent of the total amount of annual fees.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2398, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (2)(b) amended and (3) added, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2069, § 4, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-17-1013. Marking requirements for batteries - rules.

(1) (a) Except as otherwise provided in rules adopted by the commission pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, on and after January 1, 2028, a producer or retailer shall not sell, offer for sale, or distribute in or into the state a covered battery or battery-containing product unless the covered battery is:

(I) Marked with an identification of the producer of the covered battery; and

(II) Marked with proper labeling to ensure proper collection and recycling, by identifying the chemistry of the covered battery and including an indication that the covered battery should not be disposed of as household waste.

(b) Subsection (1)(a) of this section does not apply to a covered battery that is less than one-half inch in diameter or that does not contain a surface length that exceeds one-half inch.

(2) The commission may adopt rules establishing marking requirements for covered batteries or battery-containing products as needed to maintain consistency with the labeling requirements or voluntary standards for batteries established in federal law or the laws of other states.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2400, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1014. Battery disposal and collection requirements.

(1) On and after January 1, 2030, a person shall manage unwanted covered batteries through the following methods:

(a) Delivery to a collection site, event, or program established by or included in a battery stewardship program created pursuant to this part 10; and

(b) For covered batteries that are hazardous waste as defined under federal or state hazardous or solid waste laws, management in a manner consistent with those laws.

(2) On and after January 1, 2030:

(a) A fee shall not be charged when a loose covered battery is delivered or collected for management. Nothing in this part 10 prohibits the charging of fees for battery-containing products.

(b) A person shall collect, transport, and process covered batteries in accordance with this part 10, unless the covered batteries are hazardous waste as defined under federal or state hazardous or solid waste laws;

(c) A person shall not knowingly cause or allow:

(I) The mixing of a covered battery with recyclable materials that are intended for processing and sorting at a materials recovery facility;

(II) The mixing of a covered battery with municipal waste that is intended for disposal at a sanitary landfill;

(III) The disposal of a covered battery in a sanitary landfill;

(IV) The mixing of a covered battery with waste that is intended for burning or incineration; or

(V) The burning or incineration of a covered battery;

(d) An owner or operator of a solid waste facility does not violate this section if the facility has posted in a conspicuous location a sign stating that covered batteries must be managed through collection sites established by a battery stewardship organization and are not accepted for disposal; and

(e) A solid waste collector does not violate this section for a covered battery placed in a disposal container by a third party.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2400, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1015. Enforcement - responsibilities of the department.

(1) For violations related to covered batteries, propulsion batteries, and the management of universal waste pursuant to this part 10, the enforcement process is conducted pursuant to section 25-15-308 and rules adopted by the commission in accordance with section 25-15-302.

(2) To implement section 25-17-1019, the department shall:

(a) Notify solid waste collectors that the disposal of propulsion batteries in landfills is prohibited and that secondary handlers can contact a propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer to take responsibility for an unwanted propulsion battery;

(b) Determine how to proceed if the federal government enacts a law or adopts regulations pertaining to propulsion batteries that may impact the requirements of section 25-17-1019;

(c) Provide a link on the department's public website to each propulsion battery provider's website in order to expedite the collection of unwanted propulsion batteries;

(d) Assess the annual reports submitted pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (9) to determine whether any secondary handlers required the collection of ten or more unwanted propulsion batteries in a given year and, if so, assess a collection charge of one thousand dollars to be paid to the department by the secondary handler and credited toward the annual fee amount to reduce the amount of propulsion battery provider annual fees;

(e) Provide a link on the department's public website to a digital registration form that an entity can use to register pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (1);

(f) Compile a list of entities registered pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (1) and make the list available upon request; and

(g) Conduct an email survey with entities registered pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (1) and solid waste disposal sites and facilities to request feedback on the functioning of the propulsion battery recycling program set forth in section 25-17-1019 to understand their experience, any knowledge of orphaned batteries, and any recommended program improvements. Based on the findings of the survey, the department shall assess the effectiveness of the responsibility framework outlined in section 25-17-1019 to collect unwanted propulsion batteries. The department shall include a summary of the survey findings and the department's assessment with the aggregated nonproprietary data posted annually on the department's public website pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(3) The department shall include the aggregated nonproprietary data collected on propulsion batteries pursuant to section 25-17-1019 (9) with the data on recycling, solid waste, and solid waste diversion that is collected and reported annually by the department to the standing committee of reference in each house of the general assembly exercising jurisdiction over matters concerning public health and the environment pursuant to section 30-20-122 (1) and shall annually post the data on the department's public website.

(4) Nothing in this part 10 exempts a person from complying with any other applicable local, state, or federal laws or regulatory requirements.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2401, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2071, § 5, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-17-1016. Antitrust.

If a battery stewardship organization engages in an activity performed solely in furtherance of implementing an approved plan in compliance with this part 10, the activity is not a violation of the antitrust, restraint of trade, and unfair trade practices provisions of the "Unfair Practices Act", article 2 of title 6, or the "Colorado State Antitrust Act of 2023", article 4 of title 6.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2401, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1017. Collection of batteries independent of a battery stewardship program.

(1) Nothing in this part 10 prevents or prohibits a person from offering or performing a fee-based, household collection, or a mail-back program for end-of-life portable batteries or medium-format batteries independently of a battery stewardship program, provided that the person meets the following requirements:

(a) The person's services shall be performed, and the person's facilities shall be operated, in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and requirements, including all applicable federal department of transportation and environmental protection agency regulations;

(b) The person shall make available all batteries collected from the person's Colorado customers to a battery stewardship organization; and

(c) After consolidation of portable or medium-format batteries at the person's facilities, the transport to and processing of the batteries by the battery stewardship organization's designated sorters or processors is at the battery stewardship organization's expense.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2401, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1018. Rules.

The commission may adopt rules implementing this part 10.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (SB 25-163), ch. 421, p. 2402, § 1, effective August 6.

25-17-1019. Propulsion batteries - propulsion battery providers - remanufacturers - secondary handlers - public outreach and education - collection of unwanted propulsion batteries - reporting requirement - marking and labeling requirements - solid waste disposal site and facility disposal prohibited.

(1) (a) On or before July 1, 2027, a propulsion battery provider shall register with the department by:

(I) Providing to the department, through informal digital correspondence or by submitting a digital form, the propulsion battery provider's business name, contact information, address, and business description; and

(II) Informing the department whether the propulsion battery provider plans to file its education and outreach plan individually or as part of a group of propulsion battery providers. A propulsion battery provider intending to file as part of a group shall provide to the department the names of the other propulsion battery providers in the group, if feasible. A propulsion battery provider may participate in a group education and outreach plan without participating in group propulsion battery collection activities.

(b) A remanufacturer or repurposer may elect to register with the department at any time by providing, through informal digital correspondence or by submitting a digital form, the entity's business name, contact information, address, and business description. A remanufacturer or repurposer is not required to pay the registration fee.

(c) Before an unwanted propulsion battery is collected from a secondary handler by a propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer, the secondary handler shall register with the department by providing to the department, through informal digital correspondence or by submitting a digital form, the secondary handler's business name, contact information, address, and business description. A secondary handler is not required to pay the registration fee.

(2) On or before January 2, 2029, a propulsion battery provider or group of propulsion battery providers shall submit to the executive director an education and outreach plan. The education and outreach plan must:

(a) Include a public education and outreach strategy for secondary handlers that describes:

(I) The solid waste disposal site and facility ban in subsection (12) of this section;

(II) The requirements for secondary handlers in subsection (10) of this section;

(III) The process for how a secondary handler can notify the propulsion battery provider that an unwanted propulsion battery needs collection; and

(IV) Information about secondary handler registration, including a link to the registration form created by the department pursuant to section 25-17-1015 (2)(e);

(b) Specify how the propulsion battery provider's contact information for secondary handlers can be accessed;

(c) Include information that the propulsion battery provider requires to determine the eligibility of a propulsion battery that needs collection, including:

(I) Confirmation that the battery is a propulsion battery that has been removed from a vehicle;

(II) Confirmation that, to the best of the secondary handler's knowledge, the propulsion battery has not been modified or taken apart;

(III) Confirmation that the propulsion battery is fully owned by the secondary handler with no known pending claims for loss or damages by an insurance provider;

(IV) The make, model, and year of the vehicle from which the propulsion battery came, if available;

(V) The dimensions and weight of the propulsion battery, if available;

(VI) A photograph of the propulsion battery and a photograph of the label on the propulsion battery;

(VII) An assessment as to whether, to the best of the secondary handler's knowledge, the propulsion battery is damaged or defective;

(VIII) A copy of the secondary handler's federal department of transportation hazmat transportation shipping certification, if available; and

(IX) Secondary handler registration information; and

(d) Describe how secondary handlers and first responders can access emergency response guides for electric vehicles.

(3) On and after July 1, 2029, a propulsion battery provider shall not sell, make available for sale, or distribute a propulsion battery in or into the state unless the propulsion battery provider has submitted an education and outreach plan to the executive director in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.

(4) A propulsion battery provider shall develop and maintain one or more websites or equivalent means, available in both English and Spanish, that include the information in the propulsion battery provider's education and outreach plan. At least one website must include the following:

(a) A link to the propulsion battery provider's emergency response guides for electric vehicles;

(b) The propulsion battery provider's contact information for secondary handlers; and

(c) Instructions for how secondary handlers can provide the information described in subsection (2)(a)(III) of this section for a propulsion battery provider to determine the eligibility of an unwanted propulsion battery.

(5) A propulsion battery provider shall:

(a) Except as provided in subsection (5)(c) of this section, upon receiving notification in accordance with the notification process outlined in subsection (2)(a)(III) of this section that an unwanted propulsion battery needs collection, retrieve the battery and ensure responsible propulsion battery management. The propulsion battery provider shall retrieve an unwanted propulsion battery:

(I) Within sixty days after receiving notification from a secondary handler, unless mutually agreeable terms for a longer collection timeline are made with a secondary handler or there is an unexpected delay due to circumstances force majeure; and

(II) Within thirty days after receiving notification from a solid waste disposal site and facility.

(b) Ensure the responsible propulsion battery management of all propulsion batteries within the possession of the propulsion battery provider in accordance with the battery management hierarchy;

(c) Fully fund the costs of the collection of an unwanted propulsion battery offered by a secondary handler; except that a propulsion battery provider is not responsible for the collection of a propulsion battery that:

(I) Has been remanufactured by a remanufacturer, unless the remanufacturer is in a contractual relationship with the propulsion battery provider and the contract provides that the propulsion battery provider retains responsibility for responsible propulsion battery management;

(II) Has been repurposed by a repurposer, unless the repurposer is in a contractual relationship with the propulsion battery provider and the contract provides that the propulsion battery provider retains responsibility for responsible propulsion battery management;

(III) Has been disassembled into modules or cells; or

(IV) Is contained within a vehicle or product that is directly owned or controlled by an insurance company; and

(d) Provide the state of health of a propulsion battery embedded in a vehicle through the vehicle's in-vehicle display or through a nonproprietary on-board diagnostic scan tool for a vehicle that is model year 2028 or later. A propulsion battery provider may, but is not required to, supply state of health information for a propulsion battery that has been removed from or is outside of a vehicle. For a propulsion battery embedded in a hybrid vehicle, a propulsion battery provider satisfies this requirement by making the state of health available through a nonproprietary on-board diagnostic scan tool.

(6) On and after July 1, 2029, a propulsion battery provider shall not sell, offer for sale, or distribute in or into the state a propulsion battery unless the propulsion battery provider:

(a) (I) Applies a label to the propulsion battery that includes the name of the propulsion battery provider responsible for the propulsion battery, its date of manufacture, and the following:

(A) An identification of the chemistry of the propulsion battery, including the cathode type and anode type, in accordance with SAE International J2984 standard, "Chemical Identification of Transportation Batteries for Recycling";

(B) The rated capacity or energy as measured by SAE International J2288 standard, "Life Cycle Testing of Electric Vehicle Battery Modules";

(C) The hazardous substances contained in the propulsion battery;

(D) Product safety and recall information; and

(E) Safe disposal information.

(II) A propulsion battery provider that applies a label shall attach the label to the exterior of the propulsion battery so that the label is visible and accessible when the propulsion battery is removed from the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended procedures for battery removal. The label must remain legible, adhered, and functionally intact under expected environmental and life-cycle conditions within the vehicle.

(b) (I) To comply with subsection (6)(a)(I) of this section, a propulsion battery provider may apply a quick response (QR) code to the propulsion battery that links to a data repository website.

(II) The data repository website may include information that covers a period of time representing multiple dates of manufacture if the rest of the label information required by this subsection (6) is consistent across the multiple dates of manufacture and the data repository website entry includes the applicable range of dates of manufacture.

(7) On and after July 1, 2029, a remanufacturer selling propulsion batteries in the state:

(a) Shall relabel a propulsion battery to ensure that the remanufacturer's brand is clearly marked on the label. If the original label remains, the remanufacturer shall place the new label adjacent to the original label and clearly identify the original label as obsolete. If the remanufacturer alters the propulsion battery's composition or chemistry, the remanufacturer shall update the label or provide a new data repository website link or quick response (QR) code to reflect the new composition.

(b) Shall ensure responsible propulsion battery management when:

(I) A propulsion battery that the remanufacturer disassembles or remanufactures is ultimately not sold for use in a vehicle; and

(II) An unwanted propulsion battery that has been removed from a vehicle by a secondary handler in the state is collected by the remanufacturer;

(c) Shall fully fund the costs of the collection of an unwanted propulsion battery that the remanufacturer has remanufactured if offered by a secondary handler;

(d) Is not responsible for collecting a remanufactured propulsion battery if:

(I) The remanufactured propulsion battery has been repurposed by a repurposer, unless the repurposer is in a contractual relationship with the remanufacturer and the contract provides that the remanufacturer retains responsibility for responsible propulsion battery management;

(II) The remanufactured propulsion battery is contained within a vehicle or product that is directly owned or controlled by an insurance company;

(III) The remanufacturer is in a contractual relationship with the propulsion battery provider and the contract provides that the propulsion battery provider retains responsibility for the dispositioning and management of the propulsion battery; or

(IV) The remanufactured propulsion battery has been disassembled into modules or cells;

(e) Except as provided in subsection (7)(d) of this section, upon receiving notification that an unwanted propulsion battery needs collection in accordance with the notification process outlined in subsection (7)(f) of this section, shall retrieve the battery:

(I) Within sixty days after receiving notification from a secondary handler, unless mutually agreeable terms for a longer collection timeline are made with a secondary handler or there is an unexpected delay due to circumstances force majeure; and

(II) Within thirty days after receiving notification from a solid waste disposal site and facility; and

(f) Shall establish a process for a secondary handler to notify the remanufacturer that an unwanted propulsion battery needs collection. The process must include the following:

(I) An education and outreach program for secondary handlers;

(II) The remanufacturer's contact information for secondary handlers; and

(III) Information that the remanufacturer requires to determine the eligibility of a propulsion battery that needs collection, including:

(A) Confirmation that the battery is a propulsion battery that has been removed from a vehicle;

(B) Confirmation that, to the best of the secondary handler's knowledge, the propulsion battery has not been modified or taken apart by anyone other than the propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer;

(C) Confirmation that, to the best of the secondary handler's knowledge, the propulsion battery is fully owned by the secondary handler with no known pending claims for loss or damages by an insurance provider;

(D) The make, model, and year of the vehicle from which the propulsion battery came, if available;

(E) The dimensions and weight of the propulsion battery, if available;

(F) A photograph of the propulsion battery and a photograph of the label on the propulsion battery;

(G) An assessment as to whether, to the best of the secondary handler's knowledge, the propulsion battery is damaged or defective;

(H) A copy of the secondary handler's federal department of transportation hazmat transportation shipping certification, if available; and

(I) Secondary handler registration information.

(8) (a) A propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer shall not recover the costs of compliance with this part 10 by imposing a fee or other charge on a franchised motor vehicle dealer.

(b) A propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer may contract with a third party to manage propulsion batteries to satisfy the requirements of this section.

(9) (a) On or before June 1, 2030, and on or before each June 1 thereafter, a propulsion battery provider and a remanufacturer shall submit an annual report to the executive director covering the preceding calendar year of the responsible propulsion battery management of the propulsion batteries collected by the propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer pursuant to this section. The report must include the following:

(I) Any updates to education and outreach materials for secondary handlers and how the updates were communicated;

(II) The number of unwanted propulsion batteries that needed to be collected from a secondary handler and the number of unwanted propulsion batteries collected, by chemistry;

(III) For each request received to collect an unwanted propulsion battery:

(A) The date that the secondary handler notified the propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer that the unwanted propulsion battery needed to be collected and provided the eligibility information described in subsections (2)(c) and (7)(f)(III) of this section;

(B) The date a plan was communicated to the secondary handler for collecting the unwanted propulsion battery; and

(C) The date the unwanted propulsion battery was collected or, if applicable, the reasons that the unwanted propulsion battery was not collected, including supporting information such as photographs;

(IV) The number of propulsion batteries, separated by chemistry, sent for reuse, remanufacturing, repurposing, and propulsion battery recycling, respectively;

(V) The propulsion battery recyclers used in the propulsion battery recycling process, including identification of a recycler's location;

(VI) A description of the general processes used by propulsion battery recyclers to achieve required recovery rates; and

(VII) For each propulsion battery recycler used:

(A) The recovery rate of lithium, cobalt, and nickel present in the propulsion battery feedstock, using the calculations described in this subsection (9). The targeted critical minerals and specific ratios must be listed separately. A mineral that is not targeted in the recovery process may be listed as a percent or it can be stated that the mineral is not targeted and recovered by the propulsion battery recycler.

(B) The form of the majority of recovered battery material must be identified as elemental, compound, or intermediate, consistent with the recovery definition in section 25-17-1003 (24.5).

(b) A propulsion battery recycler shall recover the following critical minerals in the elemental, compound, or intermediate form at the following minimum rates, which rates are calculated based on each propulsion battery recycler's facility-level yearly average:

(I) By 2031:

(A) Ninety percent of cobalt;

(B) Ninety percent of nickel; and

(C) Fifty percent of lithium; and

(II) By 2035:

(A) Ninety percent of cobalt;

(B) Ninety percent of nickel; and

(C) Eighty percent of lithium.

(c) The recovery rate for each target critical mineral must be calculated on an annual basis for each propulsion battery recycler using a mass balance approach. The calculation must account for the mass of the target critical mineral contained in materials entering the recycling process, including waste propulsion batteries or intermediate materials, and the mass of the target critical mineral recovered in materials leaving the recycling process that meet the definition of "recovery" as defined in section 25-17-1003 (24.5).

(d) The recovery rate of a target critical mineral equals the mass of target critical mineral recovered in materials leaving the recycling process divided by the mass of target critical mineral present in materials entering the recycling process. The mass of target critical minerals entering and leaving the recycling process shall be determined based on their chemical composition, using analytical methods and sampling procedures that are representative of the material flows.

(e) A propulsion battery recycler shall determine the proportion of different battery chemistries present in materials entering the recycling process by means of a sorting analysis based on continuous sampling or representative sampling methods consistent with generally accepted industry standards.

(f) (I) The executive director shall keep proprietary information, as marked by a propulsion battery provider, remanufacturer, or propulsion battery recycler, confidential and make nonproprietary information available upon request.

(II) The information described in subsections (9)(a)(I), (9)(a)(II), (9)(a)(IV), (9)(a)(VI), and (9)(a)(VII) of this section and aggregated information from subsections (9)(a)(III) and (9)(a)(V) of this section is not proprietary.

(III) Any information made publicly available must be aggregated so that no individual propulsion battery provider, remanufacturer, or propulsion battery recycler is identifiable.

(IV) An annual report submitted pursuant to this subsection (9) may be unique to Colorado or include information for multiple states.

(V) A propulsion battery provider that is also a remanufacturer may submit one annual report.

(10) (a) On and after July 1, 2029:

(I) A secondary handler shall manage a propulsion battery by ensuring responsible propulsion battery management;

(II) If a secondary handler determines that a propulsion battery is an unwanted propulsion battery, the secondary handler shall notify the appropriate propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer or any entity that the propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer has designated to facilitate the collection of unwanted propulsion batteries;

(III) A secondary handler managing propulsion batteries shall maintain records for three years detailing the propulsion batteries sold or transferred by the secondary handler and the person the batteries were sold or transferred to;

(IV) When shipping a propulsion battery, a secondary handler is responsible for ensuring compliance with proper personnel training requirements for shipping under 49 CFR 172.700 to 172.704;

(V) When removing a propulsion battery from a vehicle, a secondary handler shall record the last-known state of health and state of charge, if available, and disclose these values at the time of sale or transfer of the propulsion battery to another person;

(VI) In order to promote the battery management hierarchy, a secondary handler shall store propulsion batteries not suspected of damage or instability in a covered area, minimizing exposure to precipitation and extreme heat or cold. A secondary handler shall store propulsion batteries that are visibly damaged or otherwise suspected to have the potential for thermal runaway in an isolated area away from flammable materials.

(VII) A secondary handler working with propulsion batteries shall obtain relevant safety training to assist with the safe handling and storage of propulsion batteries.

(b) Subsections (10)(a)(III), (10)(a)(V), (10)(a)(VI), and (10)(a)(VII) of this section do not apply to a solid waste disposal site and facility.

(c) Notwithstanding section 25-17-1018, the commission shall not adopt rules for the purposes of implementing subsections (10)(a)(VI) and (10)(a)(VII) of this section.

(11) (a) On and after July 1, 2029, a repurposer shall:

(I) Relabel a propulsion battery that is repurposed in the state to ensure that the repurposer's brand is clearly marked on the label. If the original label remains, the repurposer shall place the new label adjacent to the original label and clearly identify the original label as obsolete.

(II) Ensure the propulsion battery recycling of propulsion batteries that are within the repurposer's possession and that can no longer be repurposed unless the propulsion battery provider or remanufacturer agrees to accept continued responsibility for the propulsion battery by contract.

(b) (I) On or before June 1, 2030, and on or before each June 1 thereafter, a registered repurposer shall submit an annual report to the executive director covering the preceding calendar year of the repurposer's responsible propulsion battery management. The report must include the following:

(A) The number of propulsion batteries that the repurposer repurposed from Colorado; and

(B) The name and address of where the repurposed batteries were sold or transferred, including for batteries sent for use in a secondary application and those sent for propulsion battery recycling.

(II) The annual report submitted pursuant to this subsection (11) may be unique to Colorado or may include information for multiple states.

(III) A repurposer that is also a remanufacturer may submit one annual report.

(12) On and after July 1, 2029:

(a) A person shall not dispose of a propulsion battery by taking the propulsion battery to a solid waste disposal site and facility; and

(b) A person not identified in this section is responsible for ensuring the responsible propulsion battery management of propulsion batteries by working with a secondary handler, propulsion battery provider, remanufacturer, repurposer, or propulsion battery recycler.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2072, § 6, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-17-1020. Applicability.

A vehicle containing a propulsion battery originally sold in the state is not subject to this part 10 when the vehicle is retired out of state.

Source: L. 2026: Entire section added, (SB 26-003), ch. 341, p. 2083, § 6, effective August 12.

Cross references: For the short title ("Promoting Responsible End-of-Life Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries Act") in SB 26-003, see section 1 of chapter 341, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

ARTICLE 18

Underground Storage Tanks

25-18-101 to 25-18-109. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire article repealed, p. 420, § 12, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This article was added in 1989. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1995, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this article were relocated to article 20.5 of title 8. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said article.

25-18.5 ARTICLE 18.5

Illegal Drug Laboratories

25-18.5-101. Definitions.

25-18.5-102. Illegal drug laboratories - rules.

25-18.5-103. Discovery of illegal drug laboratory - property owner - cleanup - liability.

25-18.5-104. Entry into illegal drug laboratories.

25-18.5-105. Drug laboratories - governing body - authority.

25-18.5-106. Powers and duties of department.

25-18.5-107. Enforcement.

25-18.5-108. Illegal drug laboratory fund.

25-18.5-109. Judicial review.

25-18.5-110. Reporting - rules.

25-18.5-101. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the state board of health in the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Certified industrial hygienist" means an individual who is certified by the American board of industrial hygiene or its successor.

(3) "Clean-up standards" means the acceptable standards for the remediation of an illegal drug laboratory involving methamphetamine, as established by the board under section 25-18.5-102.

(4) "Consultant" means a certified industrial hygienist or industrial hygienist who is not an employee, agent, representative, partner, joint venture participant, or shareholder of the contractor or of a parent or subsidiary company of the contractor, and who has been certified under section 25-18.5-106.

(5) "Contractor" means a person:

(a) Hired to decontaminate an illegal drug laboratory in accordance with the procedures established by the board under section 25-18.5-102; and

(b) Certified by the department under section 25-18.5-106.

(6) "Department" means the Colorado department of public health and environment.

(7) "Governing body" means the agency or office designated by the city council or board of county commissioners where the property in question is located. If there is no such designation, the governing body shall be the county, district, or municipal public health agency, building department, and law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the property in question.

(8) "Illegal drug laboratory" means the areas where controlled substances, as defined by section 18-18-102, C.R.S., have been manufactured, processed, cooked, disposed of, used, or stored and all proximate areas that are likely to be contaminated as a result of the manufacturing, processing, cooking, disposal, use, or storage.

(9) "Industrial hygienist" has the same meaning as set forth in section 24-30-1402 (2.2), C.R.S.

(10) "Property" means anything that may be the subject of ownership, including land, buildings, structures, and vehicles.

(11) "Property owner", for the purposes of real property, means the person holding record fee title to real property. "Property owner" also means the person holding title to a manufactured home.

Source: L. 2004: Entire article added, p. 532, § 1, effective April 21. L. 2005: (2.5) added, p. 1495, § 1, effective June 9. L. 2009: (2) amended and (2.7) added, (SB 09-060), ch. 140, p. 600, § 1, effective April 20. L. 2010: (2.5) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2106, § 125, effective August 11. L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1564, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-102. Illegal drug laboratories - rules.

(1) The board shall promulgate rules in accordance with section 24-4-103, C.R.S., as necessary to implement this article, including:

(a) Procedures for testing contamination, evaluating contamination, and establishing the acceptable standards for cleanup of illegal drug laboratories involving methamphetamine;

(b) Procedures for a training and certification program for people involved in the assessment, decontamination, and sampling of illegal drug laboratories. The board may develop different levels of training and certification requirements based on a person's prior experience in the assessment, decontamination, and sampling of illegal drug laboratories.

(c) A definition of "assessment", "decontamination", and "sampling" for purposes of this article;

(d) Procedures for the approval of persons to train consultants or contractors in the assessment, decontamination, or sampling of illegal drug laboratories; and

(e) Procedures for contractors and consultants to issue certificates of compliance to property owners upon completion of assessment, decontamination, and sampling of illegal drug laboratories to certify that the remediation of the property meets the clean-up standards established by the board under paragraph (a) of this subsection (1).

(2) The board shall establish fees for the following:

(a) Certification of persons involved in the assessment, decontamination, and sampling of illegal drug laboratories;

(b) Monitoring of persons involved in the assessment, decontamination, and sampling of illegal drug laboratories, if necessary to ensure compliance with this article; and

(c) Approval of persons involved in training for consultants or contractors under paragraph (d) of subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The board shall adopt rules for determining administrative penalties for violations of this article, based on the factors enumerated in section 25-18.5-107 (2)(g).

Source: L. 2004: Entire article added, p. 533, § 1, effective April 21. L. 2009: Entire section amended, (SB 09-060), ch. 140, p. 600, § 2, effective April 20. L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1565, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-103. Discovery of illegal drug laboratory - property owner - cleanup - liability.

(1) (a) Upon notification from a peace officer that chemicals, equipment, or supplies of an illegal drug laboratory are located on a property, or when an illegal drug laboratory is otherwise discovered and the property owner has received notice, the owner of any contaminated property shall meet the clean-up standards for property established by the board in section 25-18.5-102; except that a property owner may, subject to paragraph (b) of this subsection (1), elect instead to demolish the contaminated property. If the owner elects to demolish the contaminated property, the governing body or, if none has been designated, the county, district, or municipal public health agency, building department, or law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the property may require the owner to fence off the property or otherwise make it inaccessible for occupancy or intrusion.

(b) An owner of personal property within a structure or vehicle contaminated by illegal drug laboratory activity has ten days after the date of discovery of the laboratory or contamination to remove or clean the property according to board rules and paragraph (c) of this subsection (1). If the personal property owner fails to remove the personal property within ten days, the owner of the structure or vehicle may dispose of the personal property during the clean-up process without liability to the owner of the personal property for the disposition.

(c) A person who removes personal property or debris from a drug laboratory shall secure the property and debris to prevent theft or exposing another person to any toxic or hazardous chemicals until the property and debris is appropriately disposed of or cleaned according to board rules.

(2) (a) Except as specified in subsection (2)(b) of this section, once a property owner has received certificates of compliance from a contractor and a consultant in accordance with section 25-18.5-102 (1)(e), or has demolished the property, or has met the clean-up standards and documentation requirements of this section as it existed before August 7, 2013, the property owner:

(I) Shall furnish copies of the certificates of compliance to the governing body and the department; and

(II) Is immune from a suit brought by a current or future owner, renter, occupant, or neighbor of the property for health-based civil actions that allege injury or loss arising from the illegal drug laboratory.

(b) A person convicted for the manufacture of methamphetamine or for possession of chemicals, supplies, or equipment with intent to manufacture methamphetamine is not immune from suit.

(3) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

Source: L. 2004: Entire article added, p. 533, § 1, effective April 21. L. 2005: Entire section amended, p. 1495, § 2, effective June 9. L. 2010: (1)(a) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2106, § 126, effective August 11. L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1566, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2023: IP(2)(a) and (2)(a)(I) amended, (SB 23-148), ch. 326, p. 1957, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-104. Entry into illegal drug laboratories.

(1) If a structure or vehicle has been determined to be contaminated or if a governing body or law enforcement agency issues a notice of probable contamination, the owner of the structure or vehicle shall not permit any person to have access to the structure or vehicle unless:

(a) The person is trained or certified to handle contaminated property under board rules or federal law; or

(b) The owner has received certificates of compliance under section 25-18.5-102 (1)(e).

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 1496, § 3, effective June 9. L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1567, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-105. Drug laboratories - governing body - authority.

(1) Governing bodies may declare an illegal drug laboratory that has not met the clean-up standards set by the board in section 25-18.5-102 a public health nuisance.

(2) Governing bodies may enact ordinances or resolutions to enforce this article, including preventing unauthorized entry into contaminated property; requiring contaminated property to meet clean-up standards before it is occupied; notifying the public of contaminated property; coordinating services and sharing information between law enforcement, building, public health, and social services agencies and officials; and charging reasonable inspection and testing fees.

Source: L. 2005: Entire section added, p. 1496, § 3, effective June 9. L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1567, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-106. Powers and duties of department.

(1) The department shall implement, coordinate, and oversee the rules promulgated by the board in accordance with this article, including:

(a) The certification of persons involved in the assessment, decontamination, or sampling of illegal drug laboratories;

(b) The approval of persons to train consultants and contractors in the assessment, decontamination, or sampling of illegal drug laboratories.

(2) On and after January 1, 2024, the department shall create and make available to the public an online database of any residential real property, as defined in section 38-35.7-103 (5), that has been used as an illegal drug laboratory involving methamphetamine. The department shall remove a residential real property from the database five years after the later date on the certificates of compliance issued by a contractor and a consultant in accordance with section 25-18.5-102 (1)(e). Each residential real property on the database must contain a field that is made available to the public and that records whether the property has a certificate of compliance issued pursuant to section 25-18.5-102 (1)(e).

Source: L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1568, § 1, effective August 7. L. 2023: (2) added, (SB 23-148), ch. 326, p. 1957, § 2, effective August 7.

25-18.5-107. Enforcement.

(1) A person that violates any rule promulgated by the board under section 25-18.5-102 is subject to an administrative penalty not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars per day per violation until the violation is corrected.

(2) (a) Whenever the department has reason to believe that a person has violated any rule promulgated by the board under section 25-18.5-102, the department shall notify the person, specifying the rule alleged to have been violated and the facts alleged to constitute the violation.

(b) The department shall either:

(I) Send the notice by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the alleged violator's last-known address; or

(II) Personally serve the notice upon the alleged violator or the alleged violator's agent.

(c) The alleged violator has thirty days following receipt of the notice to submit a written response containing data, views, and arguments concerning the alleged violation and potential corrective actions.

(d) Within fifteen days after receiving notice of an alleged violation, the alleged violator may request an informal conference with department personnel to discuss the alleged violation. The department shall hold the informal conference within the thirty days allowed for a written response.

(e) After consideration of any written response and informal conference, the department shall issue a letter, within thirty days after the date of the informal conference or written response, whichever is later, affirming or dismissing the violation. If the department affirms the violation, the department shall issue an administrative order within one hundred eighty days after the time for a written response has expired. The administrative order must include any remaining corrective actions that the violator shall take and any administrative penalty that the department determines is appropriate.

(f) The department shall serve an administrative order under this article on the person subject to the order by personal service or by registered mail, return receipt requested, at the person's last-known address. An order may be prohibitory or mandatory in effect. The order is effective immediately upon issuance unless otherwise provided in the order.

(g) In determining the amount of an administrative penalty, the department shall consider the following factors:

(I) The seriousness of the violation;

(II) Whether the violation was intentional, reckless, or negligent;

(III) Any impact on, or threat to, the public health or environment as a result of the violation;

(IV) The violator's degree of recalcitrance;

(V) Whether the violator has had a prior violation and, if so, the nature and severity of the prior violation;

(VI) The economic benefit the violator received as a result of the violation;

(VII) Whether the violator voluntarily, timely, and completely disclosed the violation before the department discovered it;

(VIII) Whether the violator fully and promptly cooperated with the department following disclosure or discovery of the violation; and

(IX) Any other relevant aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

(3) If the department determines that a person has been grossly noncompliant with the rules promulgated by the board under section 25-18.5-102, the department may:

(a) Suspend or revoke the person's certification for the assessment, decontamination, or sampling of illegal drug laboratories; or

(b) Suspend or revoke the approval of a person to provide training for consultants or contractors performing assessment, decontamination, or sampling of illegal drug laboratories.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1568, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-108. Illegal drug laboratory fund.

The illegal drug laboratory fund is hereby established in the state treasury. The department shall transfer the fees collected under section 25-18.5-102 (2) to the state treasurer who shall credit these fees to the fund. The general assembly shall appropriate the moneys in the fund for the implementation of this article. The treasurer shall credit to the fund all interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund. The moneys in the fund stay in the fund at the end of the fiscal year and do not revert to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1570, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-109. Judicial review.

The department's decisions are subject to judicial review in accordance with section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article amended, (SB 13-219), ch. 293, p. 1570, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.5-110. Reporting - rules.

(1) Upon discovering an illegal drug laboratory involving methamphetamine on a residential real property, as defined in section 38-35.7-103 (5), a law enforcement agency and a consultant shall notify the department of the fact. The notice must include the property's address, the name of the property owner, and any other information required by rule adopted pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(2) The board may adopt rules as necessary to specify any additional information that must be included in the notice required by subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-148), ch. 326, p. 1958, § 3, effective August 7.

25-18.7 ARTICLE 18.7

Industrial Hemp Remediation Pilot Program

25-18.7-101 to 25-18.7-105. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire article repealed, (SB 13-241), ch. 342, p. 1997, § 2, effective May 28.

Editor's note: This article was added in 2012 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2013. For the text of this article prior to 2013, consult the 2012 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. This article was relocated to article 61 of title 35. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this article, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

25-18.9 ARTICLE 18.9

Disposable Wipes

25-18.9-101. Legislative declaration.

25-18.9-102. Definitions.

25-18.9-103. Determination of surface area of a principal display panel.

25-18.9-104. Labeling requirements - exceptions.

25-18.9-105. Enforcement.

25-18.9-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Over the past several years, consumer demand for premoistened, disposable wipe products, including baby wipes, surface cleaning wipes, hand sanitizing wipes, and makeup removal wipes, has significantly increased;

(b) These wipe products are composed, entirely or in part, of petrochemical-derived fibers that were never designed to be flushed down toilets;

(c) Consumer confusion has resulted in millions of these nonflushable wipes being improperly disposed of by being flushed down toilets;

(d) Wipes that were not designed to be flushed do not break down like toilet paper, so when improperly disposed of in toilets, the wipes often cause sewer blockage and overflow, clog pipes and mechanical equipment, release plastic materials and wastewater into waterways, and block private drain lines, which can result in flooded homes and businesses;

(e) The National Association of Clean Water Agencies has determined that United States municipalities and wastewater treatment providers incur costs in excess of one billion dollars annually on maintenance to remove clogs caused by wipes; and

(f) Clear "Do Not Flush" labeling on the packages for wipes that are not designed to be flushed is a critical step in helping consumers practice responsible flushing habits, which in turn leads to healthier homes and communities and the protection of the environment, waterways, and public infrastructure used for the collection, transport, and treatment of wastewater.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (SB 23-150), ch. 63, p. 222, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.9-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 18.9:

(1) "Covered entity" means:

(a) The manufacturer of a covered product that is sold or offered for sale in this state; and

(b) A wholesaler, supplier, or retailer that is responsible for the labeling or packaging of a covered product.

(2) "Covered product" means a consumer product sold or offered for sale in this state that is:

(a) A premoistened, nonwoven disposable wipe marketed as a baby wipe or diapering wipe; or

(b) A premoistened, nonwoven disposable wipe that is:

(I) Composed entirely of or in part of petrochemical-derived fibers; and

(II) Likely to be used in a bathroom with significant potential to be flushed, including baby wipes, bathroom cleaning wipes, toilet cleaning wipes, hard surface cleaning wipes, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizing wipes, antibacterial wipes, facial cleansing wipes, makeup removal wipes, general purpose cleaning wipes, personal care wipes for use on the body, feminine hygiene wipes, adult incontinence wipes, adult hygiene wipes, and body cleansing wipes.

(3) "High contrast" means:

(a) Tonal contrast that is shown by either a light symbol on a solid dark background or a dark symbol on a solid light background; and

(b) Having at least seventy percent contrast between the symbol artwork and background using the formula [(B1- B2) ÷ B1] x 100, where:

(I) B1 is the light reflectance value of the relatively lighter area; and

(II) B2 is the light reflectance value of the relatively darker area.

(4) "Label" means a representation made by statement, word, picture, design, or emblem on a covered product package, whether affixed to or written directly on the package.

(5) "Label notice" means:

(a) The phrase "Do Not Flush" in a size equal to at least two percent of the surface area of the principal display panel;

(b) For covered products regulated pursuant to the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", 15 U.S.C. sec. 1261 et seq., as amended, by the federal consumer product safety commission under 16 CFR 1500.121, that if at least two percent of the surface area of the principal display panel would result in a type size larger than first aid instructions pursuant to the "Federal Hazardous Substances Act", then, to the extent permitted by federal law, the phrase "Do Not Flush" in type size equal to or greater than the type size required for the first aid instructions; and

(c) For covered products required to be registered by the federal environmental protection agency under the "Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act", 7 U.S.C. sec. 136 et seq., as amended, that if at least two percent of the surface area of the principal display panel would result in a type size on the principal display panel larger than a warning pursuant to the "Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act", then, to the extent permitted by federal law, the phrase "Do Not Flush" in a type size equal to or greater than the type size required for the "Keep Out of Reach of Children" statement required under 40 CFR 156.66.

(6) "Principal display panel" means the side of a product package that is most likely to be displayed, presented, or shown under customary conditions of display for retail sale.

(7) "Symbol" means the "Do Not Flush" symbol, or a symbol that is equivalent, as depicted in the INDA/EDANA Code of Practice Second Edition and published within "Guidelines for Assessing the Flushability of Disposable Nonwoven Products", Edition 4, May 2018, which is in a size equal to at least two percent of the surface area of the principal display panel, except as specified in section 25-18.9-104 (1)(a)(II)(C).

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (SB 23-150), ch. 63, p. 223, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.9-103. Determination of surface area of a principal display panel.

(1) For a cylindrical or nearly cylindrical package, the surface area of the principal display panel constitutes forty percent of the product package as measured by multiplying the height of the container by the circumference.

(2) For a flexible film package in which a rectangular prism or nearly rectangular prism stack of wipes is housed within the film, the surface area of the principal display panel is measured by multiplying the length by the width of the side of the package when the flexible packaging film is pressed flat against the stack of wipes on all sides of the stack.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (SB 23-150), ch. 63, p. 224, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.9-104. Labeling requirements - exceptions.

(1) Except as provided in subsections (2), (3), (4), and (6) of this section, a covered product manufactured on or after December 31, 2023, shall be labeled clearly in adherence to the following requirements:

(a) For cylindrical or near cylindrical packaging intended to dispense individual wipes, a covered entity shall:

(I) Place the symbol and label notice on the principal display panel in a location reasonably viewable each time a wipe is dispensed; or

(II) Place the symbol on the principal display panel and either the symbol or label notice, or the symbol and label notice in combination, on the flip lid, subject to the following:

(A) If the label notice does not appear on the flip lid, the label notice shall be placed on the principal display panel;

(B) The symbol or label notice, or the symbol and label notice in combination, on the flip lid may be embossed, and in that case are not required to comply with subsection (1)(f) of this section; and

(C) The symbol or label notice, or the symbol and label notice in combination, on the flip lid must cover a minimum of eight percent of the surface area of the flip lid.

(b) (I) For flexible film packaging intended to dispense individual wipes, a covered entity shall:

(A) Place the symbol on both the principal display panel and the dispensing side panel; and

(B) Place the label notice on either the principal display panel or dispensing side panel in a prominent location reasonably visible to the user each time a wipe is dispensed.

(II) If the principal display panel is on the dispensing side of the package, two symbols are not required.

(c) For refillable tubs or other rigid packaging intended to dispense individual wipes and be reused by the consumer for that purpose, a covered entity shall place the symbol and label notice on the principal display panel in a prominent location reasonably visible to the user each time a wipe is dispensed.

(d) For packaging not intended to dispense individual wipes, a covered entity shall place the symbol and label notice on the principal display panel in a prominent and reasonably visible location.

(e) A covered entity shall ensure that the packaging seams, folds, or other package design elements do not obscure the symbol or the label notice.

(f) A covered entity shall ensure that the symbol and label notice have sufficiently high contrast with the immediate background of the packaging to render the symbol and label notice likely to be seen and read by an ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use.

(2) For covered products sold in bulk at retail, both the outer package visible at retail and the individual packages contained within must comply with the labeling requirements in this section applicable to the particular packaging types, except for:

(a) Individual packages contained within the outer package that are not intended to dispense individual wipes and contain no retail labeling; and

(b) Outer packages that do not obscure the symbol and label notice on individual packages contained within.

(3) If a covered product is provided within the same packaging as another consumer product for use in combination with the other consumer product, the outside retail packaging of the other consumer product does not need to comply with the labeling requirements of subsection (1) of this section.

(4) If a covered product is provided within the same package as another consumer product for use in combination with the other product and is in a package smaller than three inches by three inches, the covered entity responsible for the labeling or packaging of the covered product may comply with the requirements of subsection (1) of this section by placing the symbol and label notice in a prominent location reasonably visible to the user of the covered product.

(5) A covered entity, directly or through a corporation, partnership, subsidiary, division, trade name, or association in connection with the manufacturing, labeling, packaging, advertising, promotion, offering for sale, sale, or distribution of a covered product, shall not make any representation, in any manner, expressly or by implication, including through the use of a product name, endorsement, depiction, illustration, trademark, or trade name, about the flushable attributes, flushable benefits, flushable performance, or flushable efficacy of a covered product.

(6) (a) If a covered product is required to be registered by the federal environmental protection agency under the "Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act", 7 U.S.C. sec. 136 et seq., as amended, and, to the extent not preempted by 7 U.S.C. sec. 136v (b), by the Colorado department of agriculture under the "Pesticide Act", article 9 of title 35, then the covered entity, to the extent permitted under federal law, shall submit a label compliant with the labeling requirements of this section no later than December 31, 2023, to the federal environmental protection agency and, upon its approval, to the department of agriculture, which shall review the label of the covered product in the manner authorized under the "Pesticide Act", article 9 of title 35, and administrative rules adopted under the "Pesticide Act", article 9 of title 35.

(b) If the federal environmental protection agency or the Colorado department of agriculture does not approve a product label that otherwise complies with the labeling requirements of this section, the covered entity shall use a label that complies with as many of the requirements of this section as the relevant agency has approved.

(7) A covered entity may include on a covered product words or phrases in addition to those required for the label notice if the words or phrases are consistent with the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (SB 23-150), ch. 63, p. 225, § 1, effective August 7.

25-18.9-105. Enforcement.

A person that, in the course of the person's business, vocation, or occupation, violates section 25-18.9-104 commits a deceptive trade practice under the "Colorado Consumer Protection Act", article 1 of title 6.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (SB 23-150), ch. 63, p. 227, § 1, effective August 7.

ENVIRONMENT - SMALL COMMUNITIES

ARTICLE 19

Small Community Environmental Flexibility Act

25-19-101. Short title.

25-19-102. Legislative declaration.

25-19-103. Definitions.

25-19-104. Environmental priorities plan.

25-19-105. Integrated environmental compliance agreements.

25-19-106. Planning assistance.

25-19-107. Mentoring.

25-19-108. Implementation within existing resources.

25-19-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Small Community Environmental Flexibility Act".

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1005, § 1, effective July 1.

25-19-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that small communities throughout the state are struggling to identify adequate resources, particularly for infrastructure improvements, to comply with the numerous environmental requirements that have been established by federal and state laws.

(2) The general assembly further finds and determines that citizens in small communities, as well as all citizens of the state, are entitled to the benefits of appropriate measures for public health and environmental protection.

(3) The general assembly therefore declares that the provisions of this article are enacted to provide maximum flexibility for small communities to comply with the environmental laws of this state without diminishing the public health and environmental protection provided to the citizens of Colorado.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1005, § 1, effective July 1.

25-19-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created by section 25-1-102.

(2) "Environmental priorities plan" means a plan prepared in accordance with section 25-19-104.

(3) "Integrated environmental compliance agreement" means an agreement entered into between a small community and the department pursuant to section 25-19-105.

(4) "Small community" means a municipality, county, or special district with a population of less than two thousand five hundred persons or a combination of two or more such municipalities, counties, or special districts working together pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement for purposes of participation in the program established pursuant to this article.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1006, § 1, effective July 1.

25-19-104. Environmental priorities plan.

(1) Any small community wishing to enter into an integrated environmental compliance agreement pursuant to section 25-19-105 shall submit to the department on or before July 1, 1998, an environmental priorities plan prepared in accordance with the provisions of this section; except that an environmental priorities plan may be submitted by a small community after July 1, 1998, if the department finds that the small community did not become aware of and could not have reasonably anticipated the environmental compliance concerns of the community in time to meet the deadline of July 1, 1998.

(2) An environmental priorities plan shall:

(a) Identify the environmental requirements enumerated in section 25-19-105 that pose an existing compliance problem or a near term compliance problem for the small community;

(b) Demonstrate the resource limitations that make it difficult for the small community to achieve and sustain compliance within the established statutory or regulatory deadlines;

(c) Set forth the small community's proposed environmental compliance priorities, including the identified actions to be taken, anticipated expenditures required for such actions, and a proposed schedule that would result in compliance with all individual environmental requirements as soon as practicable, within an overall period not to exceed ten years, without adversely impacting public health or the environment outside of the small community; and

(d) Describe the public process that has resulted in the formulation of the environmental compliance priorities for the small community.

(3) A small community participating in the program created by this article shall take reasonable steps to provide the public affected by its actions with a meaningful opportunity to participate in the preparation of an environmental priorities plan, through whatever combination of public meetings or hearings or opportunity for written input is most practical for the particular community.

(4) A small community participating in the program created by this article shall provide a copy of its proposed plan to any person who has so requested prior to the small community's submission of its plan to the department.

(5) and (6) Repealed.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1006, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2022: (5) and (6) repealed, (SB 22-212), ch. 421, p. 2980, § 65, effective August 10.

25-19-105. Integrated environmental compliance agreements.

(1) The department is authorized to enter into integrated environmental compliance agreements with small communities in accordance with the provisions of this section.

(2) The environmental requirements that may be addressed in an integrated environmental compliance agreement are the requirements established by or pursuant to article 7, 8, 11, or 15 of this title, article 20.5 of title 8, C.R.S., or article 20 of title 30, C.R.S. An integrated environmental compliance agreement may address environmental requirements applicable to a solid waste disposal site and facility only if such site and facility receives twenty tons per day or less of solid waste.

(3) Any integrated environmental compliance agreement with a small community shall:

(a) Identify actions to be taken by the small community, including a schedule with interim deadlines, that will result in compliance with each of the applicable individual environmental requirements as soon as practicable, within an overall period not to exceed ten years;

(b) Be consistent with an approved environmental priorities plan for the small community;

(c) Contain a provision directing that the agreement will not take effect until the community's registered electors have approved any creation of a multiple-fiscal year debt or other financial obligation for which an election is required by section 20 of article X of the Colorado constitution and which is required to implement the terms of the agreement;

(d) Be structured as a formal enforcement agreement to ensure continued compliance or to resolve an existing compliance issue involving a small community; and

(e) Be enforceable pursuant to the provisions of the statutes governing the individual environmental requirements addressed in the agreement with respect to any of the agreement deadlines that are not met.

(4) A small community participating in the program created by this article shall provide a copy of its proposed agreement to any person who has so requested in writing prior to the small community's submission of its plan to the department. Before the agreement is approved by the department, the department shall allow at least twenty days within which any person may review and submit written comments on the agreement to the small community and the department.

(5) An integrated environmental compliance agreement may be amended by agreement of the small community and the department to address compliance concerns not anticipated at the time of the original agreement. The amended agreement shall require compliance with any new requirement added to the amended agreement as soon as practicable, within an overall period not to exceed ten years from the date of the amendment. The deadline for any requirement addressed in the original agreement may be extended as a part of the amendment of the agreement, but the deadline may not be extended beyond ten years after the date of the original agreement.

(6) An integrated environmental compliance agreement entered into under this article shall not be deemed to impair, modify, or otherwise affect prior agreements entered into between a small community and any entity other than the department.

(7) Any provision of an integrated compliance agreement implementing a requirement that, absent such agreement, would no longer be applicable as the result of repeal or modification of a statutory or regulatory requirement shall be unenforceable.

(8) No component of an integrated environmental compliance agreement that would result in an increased regulatory compliance burden on any other entity shall be approved without such entity's consent.

(9) Paragraph (e) of subsection (3) of this section notwithstanding, if requested by the small community, the department may file in district court a complaint and a proposed consent order embodying the requirements of the integrated environmental compliance agreement to require compliance with any applicable standard, limitation, or order.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1007, § 1, effective July 1. L. 96: (2) amended, p. 1473, § 24, effective June 1.

25-19-106. Planning assistance.

The department of local affairs shall provide assistance to small communities in the preparation of environmental priorities plans upon request.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1009, § 1, effective July 1.

25-19-107. Mentoring.

The department, in cooperation with the department of local affairs, is authorized to identify opportunities for small communities with similar compliance problems to share information or for larger communities to work with small communities in addressing the technical and other issues involved in preparing an environmental priorities plan.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1009, § 1, effective July 1.

25-19-108. Implementation within existing resources.

Any department of state implementing any provision of this article shall do so without additional appropriations of state moneys and without additional personnel.

Source: L. 95: Entire article added, p. 1009, § 1, effective July 1.

SAFETY - DISABLED PERSONS

ARTICLE 20

Duties Owed Disabled Persons - Identification

25-20-101. Short title.

25-20-102. Definitions.

25-20-103. Identifying devices for persons having certain conditions.

25-20-104. Duty of peace officer.

25-20-105. Duty of medical practitioners.

25-20-106. Duty of others.

25-20-107. Falsifying identification or misrepresenting condition.

25-20-108. Uniformity of application and construction.

25-20-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Uniform Duties to Disabled Persons Act".

Source: L. 73: p. 753, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-1.

25-20-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 20, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Disabled condition" means the condition of being unconscious, semiconscious, incoherent, or otherwise incapacitated to communicate.

(2) "Disabled person" means a person in a disabled condition.

(3) "Emergency symbol" means the caduceus inscribed within a six-barred cross used by the American medical association to denote emergency information.

(4) "Identifying device" means an identifying bracelet, necklace, metal tag, or similar device bearing the emergency symbol and the information needed in an emergency.

(5) "Medical practitioner" means a person licensed or authorized to practice medicine pursuant to article 240 of title 12.

(6) "Peace officer" means any county sheriff, undersheriff, deputy sheriff, or coroner, any municipal police officer or marshal, or any Colorado state patrol officer.

Source: L. 73: p. 753, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-2. L. 94: (4) amended, p. 2564, § 75, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2005: (4) amended, p. 651, § 24, effective May 27. L. 2019: IP and (5) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1705, § 168, effective October 1.

25-20-103. Identifying devices for persons having certain conditions.

(1) A person who suffers from epilepsy, diabetes, a cardiac condition, or any other type of illness that causes temporary blackouts, semiconscious periods, or complete unconsciousness, or who suffers from a condition requiring specific medication or medical treatment, is allergic to certain medications or items used in medical treatment, wears contact lenses, has religious objections to certain forms of medication or medical treatment, or is unable to communicate coherently or effectively in the English language, is authorized and encouraged to wear an identifying device.

(2) Any person may carry an identification card bearing his name, type of medical condition, physician's name, and other medical information.

(3) By wearing an identifying device a person gives his consent for any peace officer or medical practitioner who finds him in a disabled condition to make a reasonable search of his clothing or other effects for an identification card of the type described in subsection (2) of this section.

Source: L. 73: p. 754, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-3.

25-20-104. Duty of peace officer.

(1) A peace officer shall make a diligent effort to determine whether any disabled person he finds is an epileptic or a diabetic, or suffers from some other type of illness that would cause the condition. Whenever feasible, this effort shall be made before the person is charged with a crime or taken to a place of detention.

(2) In seeking to determine whether a disabled person suffers from an illness, a peace officer shall make a reasonable search for an identifying device and an identification card of the type described in section 25-20-103 (2) and examine them for emergency information. The peace officer may not search for an identifying device or an identification card in a manner or to an extent that would appear to a reasonable person in the circumstances to cause an unreasonable risk of worsening the disabled person's condition.

(3) A peace officer who finds a disabled person without an identifying device or identification card is not relieved of his duty to that person to make a diligent effort to ascertain the existence of any illness causing the disabled condition.

(4) A claim for relief against a peace officer does not arise from his making a reasonable search of the disabled person to locate an identifying device or identification card, even though the person is not wearing an identifying device or carrying an identification card.

(5) A peace officer who determines or has reason to believe that a disabled person is suffering from an illness causing his condition shall promptly notify the person's physician, if practicable. If the officer is unable to ascertain the physician's identity or to communicate with him, the officer shall make a reasonable effort to cause the disabled person to be transported immediately to a medical practitioner or to a facility where medical treatment is available. If the officer believes it unduly dangerous to move the disabled person, he shall make a reasonable effort to obtain the assistance of a medical practitioner.

Source: L. 73: p. 754, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-4.

25-20-105. Duty of medical practitioners.

(1) A medical practitioner, in discharging his duty to a disabled person whom he has undertaken to examine or treat, shall make a reasonable search for an identifying device or identification card of the type described in section 25-20-103 (2) and examine them for emergency information.

(2) A claim for relief against a medical practitioner does not arise from his making a reasonable search of a disabled person to locate an identifying device or identification card, even though the person is not wearing an identifying device or carrying an identification card.

Source: L. 73: p. 754, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-5.

25-20-106. Duty of others.

(1) A person, other than a peace officer or medical practitioner, who finds a disabled person shall make a reasonable effort to notify a peace officer. If a peace officer or medical practitioner is not present, a person who finds a disabled person may make a reasonable search for an identifying device, and, if the identifying device is found, may make a reasonable search for an identification card of the type described in section 25-20-103 (2). If a device or card is located, the person making the search shall attempt promptly to bring its contents to the attention of a peace officer or medical practitioner.

(2) A claim for relief does not arise from a reasonable search to locate an identifying device or identification card as authorized by subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The duties imposed by this article are in addition to, and not in limitation of, other duties existing under the laws of this state.

Source: L. 73: p. 755, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-6.

25-20-107. Falsifying identification or misrepresenting condition.

Any person who, with intent to deceive, provides, wears, uses, or possesses a false identifying device or identification card of the type described in section 25-20-103 (2) commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 73: p. 755, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-7. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3239, § 476, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-20-108. Uniformity of application and construction.

This article shall be so applied and construed as to make uniform the law with respect to the subject matter among those states which enact it.

Source: L. 73: p. 755, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 66-39-8.

PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, AND TREATMENT SERVICES

25-20.5 ARTICLE 20.5

Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment Services for Children and Youth

PART 1
ADMINISTRATION

25-20.5-101. Legislative declaration. (Repealed)

25-20.5-102. Definitions.

25-20.5-103. Prevention services division - creation.

25-20.5-104. Functions of division.

25-20.5-105. State plan for delivery of prevention, intervention, and treatment services to youth - contents. (Repealed)

25-20.5-106. State board of health - rules - program duties. (Repealed)

25-20.5-107. Memoranda of understanding - duties of executive director - program meetings. (Repealed)

25-20.5-108. Prevention, intervention, and treatment program requirements - reports - reviews - annual review summary. (Repealed)

25-20.5-109. Programs not included. (Repealed)

25-20.5-110. Coordinated comprehensive community-based prevention and intervention services - pilot program - reports - repeal. (Repealed)

25-20.5-111. Colorado Homeless Youth Services Act. (Repealed)

25-20.5-112. Voluntary competency-based community health worker registry - requirements - rules - definition.

PART 2
TONY GRAMPSAS YOUTH SERVICES PROGRAM

25-20.5-201 to

25-20.5-205. (Repealed)

PART 3
CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, AND CHRONIC PULMONARY DISEASE PREVENTION, EARLY DETECTION, AND TREATMENT PROGRAM

25-20.5-301. Definitions.

25-20.5-302. Program.

25-20.5-303. Cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease program review committee.

25-20.5-304. Grant program.

25-20.5-305. Evaluation.

25-20.5-306. Administration - limitation.

PART 4
CHILD FATALITY PREVENTION ACT

25-20.5-401. Short title.

25-20.5-402. Legislative declaration.

25-20.5-403. Definitions.

25-20.5-404. Local and regional review teams - creation - membership - authority.

25-20.5-405. Local review teams - duties - authority.

25-20.5-406. State review team - creation - membership - vacancies.

25-20.5-407. State review team - duties - definitions.

25-20.5-408. Access to records.

25-20.5-409. Administration - funding - cash fund.

PART 5
SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH CENTER GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-501. Legislative declaration.

25-20.5-502. Definitions.

25-20.5-503. School-based health center grant program - creation - funding - grants.

PART 6
PRIMARY CARE OFFICE

25-20.5-601 to

25-20.5-605. (Repealed)

PART 7
STATE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM

25-20.5-701 to

25-20.5-706. (Repealed)

PART 8
COMMUNITY CRIME VICTIMS GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-800.3. Definitions.

25-20.5-801. Community crime victims grant program - created - cash fund.

25-20.5-802. Repeal of part - sunset review.

PART 9
COLORADO CHILD ABUSE RESPONSE AND EVALUATION NETWORK (CARENETWORK)

25-20.5-901. Short title.

25-20.5-902. Definitions.

25-20.5-903. CARENetwork - structure - resource center.

PART 10
MAKING OPIOID ANTAGONISTS AVAILABLE

25-20.5-1001. Making opioid antagonists available - bulk purchasing - immunity.

PART 11
HARM REDUCTION GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-1101. Harm reduction grant program - creation - application - permissible uses - department duties.

25-20.5-1102. Harm reduction grant program cash fund - creation.

25-20.5-1103. Rules.

25-20.5-1104. Repeal of part - sunset review. (Repealed)

PART 12
OFFICE OF GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION

25-20.5-1201. Definitions.

25-20.5-1202. Office of gun violence prevention - created - director - staff - collaboration.

25-20.5-1203. Gun violence prevention awareness and education - violence intervention grant program - rules.

25-20.5-1204. Resource bank - duties.

25-20.5-1205. Federal grants - other funds - gifts, grants, and donations.

25-20.5-1206. Rules - report.

PART 13
COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE PROGRAM

25-20.5-1301. Definitions.

25-20.5-1302. Community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response program - creation - department duties - rules.

25-20.5-1303. Community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response cash fund.

PART 14
HEALTH-CARE WORKFORCE RESILIENCE AND RETENTION PROGRAM

25-20.5-1401. Definitions.

25-20.5-1402. Health-care workforce resilience and retention program - implementation - duties.

25-20.5-1403. Health-care workforce resilience and retention cash fund.

25-20.5-1404. Exemption from the procurement code.

PART 15
HOUSE BILL 22-1326 INDEPENDENT STUDY

25-20.5-1501. (Repealed)

PART 16
OVERDOSE DETECTION MAPPING APPLICATION PROGRAM

25-20.5-1601. Overdose detection mapping application program.

PART 17
OVERDOSE TRENDS REVIEW COMMITTEE

25-20.5-1701. Colorado overdose trends review committee - recommendations - report.

PART 18
COMMUNITY PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAMS

25-20.5-1801. Transfer of functions - employees - property - records.

25-20.5-1802. Colorado substance use disorders prevention collaborative - created - mission - administration - report - repeal. (Repealed)

PART 19
ECONOMIC MOBILITY PROGRAM

25-20.5-1901. Economic mobility program - creation - fund - reporting - legislative declaration.

PART 20
REGIONAL HEALTH CONNECTOR PROGRAM

25-20.5-2001. Regional health connector program - creation - third-party contract - department duties - rules - definitions.

PART 21
DISORDERED EATING PREVENTION PROGRAM

25-20.5-2101 to

25-20.5-2104. (Repealed)

PART 22
HEALTHY FOOD INCENTIVES PROGRAM

25-20.5-2201. Legislative declaration.

25-20.5-2202. Healthy food incentives program - creation - nonprofit organization.

PART 23
LOCAL OVERDOSE FATALITY REVIEW

25-20.5-2301. Definitions.

25-20.5-2302. Establishment of overdose fatality review teams.

25-20.5-2303. Composition of overdose fatality review teams - required members - additional members - responsibilities of the chair.

25-20.5-2304. Purposes and duties of overdose fatality review teams.

25-20.5-2305. Overdose fatality review access to information - fees - disclosure - no liability for sharing records.

25-20.5-2306. Confidentiality - closed meetings - records not open to inspection - civil liability.

25-20.5-2307. Prohibition against any law enforcement use.

PART 1

ADMINISTRATION

25-20.5-101. Legislative declaration. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 561, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2013: (1)(a), (1)(c), and (2) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 585, § 12, effective July 1. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 145, § 2, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 20.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment, created pursuant to section 25-1-102.

(2) "Division" means the prevention services division created in section 25-20.5-103.

(3) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of public health and environment.

(4) "Prevention, intervention, and treatment program" means a program that provides prevention, intervention, or treatment services.

(5) "Prevention, intervention, and treatment services" means services that are designed to promote the well-being of youth and their families by decreasing high-risk behaviors, strengthening healthy behaviors, and promoting family stability.

(6) Repealed.

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 562, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2004: (2) amended, p. 113, § 2, effective August 4. L. 2013: (5) and (6) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 586, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2020: IP amended and (6) repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 146, § 3, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsections (5) and (6), see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-103. Prevention services division - creation.

(1) There is hereby created within the department of public health and environment a prevention services division. The division shall be headed by the director of prevention services appointed by the executive director of the department of public health and environment in accordance with section 13 of article XII of the state constitution.

(2) The division is a type 2 entity, as defined in section 24-1-105, and exercises its powers and performs its duties and functions specified in this article 20.5 under the department of public health and environment.

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 563, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2004: (1) amended, p. 114, § 3, effective August 4. L. 2022: (2) amended, (SB 22-162), ch. 469, p. 3370, § 56, effective August 10.

Cross references: For the short title (the "Debbie Haskins 'Administrative Organization Act of 1968' Modernization Act") in SB 22-162, see section 1 of chapter 469, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-20.5-104. Functions of division.

(1) The division has the following functions:

(a) and (b) Repealed.

(c) To act as a liaison with communities throughout the state and assist the communities in their efforts to assess their needs with regard to prevention, intervention, and treatment services and to provide information to assist the communities in obtaining funding for appropriate prevention, intervention, and treatment programs;

(d) To provide technical assistance to communities and to entities that provide prevention, intervention, and treatment services;

(e) To operate the prevention and intervention programs specified in this article and such other prevention and intervention programs as may be created in or transferred to the division by executive order to be funded solely by nonstate moneys, including but not limited to reviewing applications submitted by entities to receive funding through said programs, awarding grants based on such applications, and notifying the state board of health of the grants awarded and the amounts of said grants;

(f) To solicit and accept grants from the federal government and to solicit and accept contributions, grants, gifts, bequests, and donations from individuals, private organizations, and foundations for the operation of any prevention and intervention programs under the authority of the division;

(g) To periodically review the federal funding guidelines for federal prevention, intervention, and treatment programs and to seek the maximum flexibility in the use of federal money in funding prevention, intervention, and treatment programs;

(h) To seek such federal waivers as may be necessary to allow the division to combine federal moneys available through various federal prevention, intervention, and treatment programs and to combine said moneys with moneys appropriated by the general assembly to fund state prevention, intervention, and treatment programs to allow the greatest flexibility in awarding combined program funding to community-based prevention, intervention, and treatment programs.

(i) Repealed.

(2) In addition to any prevention and intervention programs created in or transferred to the division by executive order and any prevention and intervention programs transferred to the division by the executive director pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, the division shall operate the following prevention and intervention programs:

(a) to (e) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(f) The school-based health center grant program created in part 5 of this article.

(2.5) Repealed.

(3) In operating prevention and intervention programs, on receipt of an application for funding through any of said prevention and intervention programs, the division shall review the application and determine whether there are other prevention, intervention, and treatment programs operated by state agencies within this state through which funding may be available to the applicant. With the applicant's consent, the division shall forward a copy of the application to any such program for consideration.

(4) The executive director shall transfer any prevention and intervention programs operated by the department to the division, as he or she deems appropriate. The division shall collaborate with any other division within the department that operates a prevention, intervention, and treatment program in the same manner that it collaborates with other state agencies that operate prevention, intervention, and treatment programs.

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 563, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2001: (2)(e) amended, p. 251, § 6, effective March 29. L. 2006: (2)(f) added, p. 1597, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1)(a), (1)(e), and (2) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 586, § 14, effective July 1. L. 2020: (1)(a) and (1)(b) repealed and (1)(g) amended, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 146, § 4, effective September 14. L. 2023: (2.5) added, (HB 23-1008), ch. 338, p. 2028, § 2, effective August 7.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (1)(i)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (1)(i), effective July 1, 2004. (See L. 2000, p. 563.)

(2) Subsection (2.5)(f) provided for the repeal of subsection (2.5), effective September 1, 2025. (See L. 2023, p. 2028.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act amending subsections (1)(a), (1)(e), and (2), see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013. For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020. For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1008, see section 1 of chapter 338, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-20.5-105. State plan for delivery of prevention, intervention, and treatment services to youth - contents. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 565, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2013: IP(1) and (2) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 587, § 15, effective July 1. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 147, § 5, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-106. State board of health - rules - program duties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 566, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2002: (4)(a) repealed, p. 222, § 1, effective April 3. L. 2010: (2)(b)(III) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2106, § 127, effective August 11. L. 2013: (1) and (3) amended, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 588, § 16, effective July 1. L. 2018: IP(2) and (2)(b)(III) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 442, § 101, effective August 8. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 148, § 6, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-107. Memoranda of understanding - duties of executive director - program meetings. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 568, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2002: (6)(a) and (6)(b) amended, p. 222, § 2, effective April 3. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 150, § 7, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-108. Prevention, intervention, and treatment program requirements - reports - reviews - annual review summary. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 570, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2002: IP(2)(a) amended, p. 223, § 3, effective April 3. L. 2017: (6) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 95, § 10, effective March 16. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 151, § 8, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-109. Programs not included. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 572, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2017: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, (HB 17-1329), ch. 381, p. 1982, § 57, effective June 6. L. 2020: Entire section repealed, (HB 20-1038), ch. 44, p. 153, § 9, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1038, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-20.5-110. Coordinated comprehensive community-based prevention and intervention services - pilot program - reports - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire article added, p. 573, § 1, effective May 18. L. 2002: (2)(b)(III) amended, p. 223, § 4, effective April 3.

Editor's note: Subsection (7) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2004. (See L. 2000, p. 573.)

25-20.5-111. Colorado Homeless Youth Services Act. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 1572, § 1, effective June 7. L. 2004: Entire section repealed, p. 862, § 4, effective May 21.

25-20.5-112. Voluntary competency-based community health worker registry - requirements - rules - definition.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "voluntary competency-based community health worker registry" means the registry in the department that lists individuals who have completed state-approved training and credentialing requirements based on competency statements that represent generalist entry-level core competencies for unlicensed community health workers.

(2) A community health worker must complete a state-approved training program that meets credentialing requirements based on competency statements that represent generalist entry-level core competencies for unlicensed community health workers and must be listed on the department's voluntary competency-based community health worker registry in order to be reimbursed through the state medical assistance program for providing community health worker covered services to a medicaid member.

(3) Participation in the voluntary competency-based community health worker registry is not required for community health workers who do not seek reimbursement through medicaid.

(4) The department shall promulgate rules pursuant to this article 20.5 as necessary to implement and administer the voluntary competency-based community health worker registry.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-002), ch. 157, p. 681, § 3, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 23-002, see section 1 of chapter 157, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

PART 2

TONY GRAMPSAS YOUTH SERVICES PROGRAM

25-20.5-201 to 25-20.5-205. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire part repealed, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 584, § 6, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This part 2 was added in 2000. For amendments to this part 2 prior to its repeal in 2013, consult the 2012 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act repealing this part 2, see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

PART 3

CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, AND CHRONIC PULMONARY DISEASE PREVENTION, EARLY DETECTION, AND TREATMENT PROGRAM

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2005 act enacting this part 3, see section 1 of chapter 241, Session Laws of Colorado 2005.

25-20.5-301. Definitions.

As used in this part 3, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Health disparities" means an unequal burden of cancer, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pulmonary disease impacting specific populations, including but not limited to racial and ethnic populations, minority populations, rural populations, urban populations, low-income populations, or any other underserved population.

(2) "Program" means the cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease prevention, early detection, and treatment program created in section 25-20.5-302.

(3) "Review committee" means the cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease program review committee created pursuant to section 25-20.5-303.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 936, § 27, effective June 2.

25-20.5-302. Program.

(1) There is hereby created, in the prevention services division of the department, the cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease prevention, early detection, and treatment program for the purpose of assisting in the implementation of the state's strategic plans regarding cancer and cardiovascular disease. The program shall fund competitive grants to provide a cohesive approach to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease prevention, early detection, and treatment in Colorado. The division shall administer the program with the goal of developing a comprehensive approach that will bring together stakeholders at the community and state level who are interested in impacting cancer, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pulmonary disease. Grant applications shall address at least one of the following program criteria:

(a) Translating evidence-based strategies regarding the prevention and early detection of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease into practical application in health-care, workplace, and community settings;

(b) Providing appropriate diagnosis and treatment services for anyone who has abnormalities discovered in screening and early detection programs;

(c) Implementing education programs for the public and health-care providers regarding the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease; and

(d) Providing evidence-based strategies to overcome health disparities in the prevention and early detection of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 937, § 27, effective June 2.

25-20.5-303. Cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease program review committee.

(1) There is hereby created the cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease program review committee. The review committee is established in the prevention services division of the department. The review committee is responsible for overseeing program strategies and activities and ensuring compliance with section 25-20.5-302.

(2) The review committee shall consist of the director of the disease prevention services division of the department, or the director's designee, and fifteen members appointed as follows:

(a) The executive director of the department or the executive director's designee.

(b) The executive director shall appoint three members, all of whom are department staff with expertise in cancer, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pulmonary disease.

(c) The state board shall appoint:

(I) One member who is a member of the state board;

(II) One member who is a chronic pulmonary disease professional;

(III) One member who is cardiovascular disease professional;

(IV) One member who is a cancer professional;

(V) Two members who are public health professionals;

(VI) One member who is a recognized expert in health disparities;

(VII) One member who represents the rural interest in regard to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease; and

(VIII) One member who is a primary care provider.

(d) The president of the senate shall appoint one member of the senate.

(e) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint one member of the house of representatives.

(3) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (3), members of the review committee shall serve three-year terms; except that, of the members initially appointed to the review committee, five members appointed by the state board shall serve two-year terms. Members of the review committee appointed pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (2) of this section shall not serve more than two consecutive terms.

(b) The terms of the members appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives and the president of the senate and who are serving on March 22, 2007, shall be extended to and expire on or shall terminate on the convening date of the first regular session of the sixty-seventh general assembly. As soon as practicable after such convening date, the speaker and the president shall appoint or reappoint members in the same manner as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of subsection (2) of this section. Thereafter, the terms of members appointed or reappointed by the speaker and the president shall expire on the convening date of the first regular session of each general assembly, and all subsequent appointments and reappointments by the speaker and the president shall be made as soon as practicable after such convening date. The person making the original appointment or reappointment shall fill any vacancy by appointment for the remainder of an unexpired term. Members shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and shall continue in office until the member's successor is appointed.

(4) The composition of the review committee shall reflect, to the extent practical, Colorado's ethnic, racial, and geographical diversity.

(5) The review committee shall elect from its membership a chair and a vice-chair of the committee.

(6) The division shall provide staff support to the review committee.

(7) Except as otherwise provided in section 2-2-326, C.R.S., members of the review committee shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed from moneys deposited in the prevention, early detection, and treatment fund created in section 24-22-117, C.R.S., for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties pursuant to this part 3.

(8) If a member of the review committee has an immediate personal, private, or financial interest in any matter pending before the review committee, the member shall disclose the fact and shall not vote upon such matter.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 937, § 27, effective June 2. L. 2007: (3) amended, p. 188, § 24, effective March 22. L. 2014: (7) amended, (SB 14-153), ch. 390, p. 1964, § 23, effective June 6.

25-20.5-304. Grant program.

(1) The program shall fund programs and initiatives that provide evidence-based education and intervention strategies for cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease prevention, early detection, and treatment through a competitive grant program which shall be overseen by the review committee. The state board, upon recommendations of the review committee, shall adopt rules that specify, but need not be limited to, the following:

(a) The procedures and timelines by which an entity may apply for program grants;

(b) Grant application contents;

(c) Criteria for selecting the entities that shall receive grants and determining the amount and duration of the grants;

(d) Reporting requirements for entities that receive grants pursuant to this section; and

(e) The qualifications of an adequate proposal.

(2) The review committee shall review the applications received pursuant to this section and submit to the state board and the executive director of the department recommended grant recipients, grant amounts, and the duration of each grant. Within thirty days after receiving the review committee's recommendations, the executive director shall submit his or her recommendations to the state board. The review committee's recommendations regarding grants for projects impacting rural areas shall be submitted to the state board and the executive director of the department of local affairs. Within thirty days after receiving the review committee's recommendations, the executive director of the department of local affairs shall submit his or her recommendations to the state board. The state board shall have the final authority to approve the grants under this part 3. If the state board disapproves a recommendation for a grant recipient, the review committee may submit a replacement recommendation within thirty days. In making grant recommendations, the review committee shall follow the intent of the program as outlined in section 25-20.5-302. The state board shall award grants to the entities selected by the review committee, specifying the amount and duration of each grant award. In reviewing and approving grant applications, the review committee and the state board shall ensure that grants are distributed statewide and address the needs of Colorado's disparate populations, as well as the needs of both urban and rural residents of Colorado. Grants providing for treatment services shall not exceed ten percent of the total amount of grant funds distributed in any given year.

(3) (a) For the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cardiovascular disease, the review committee and the state board are encouraged to consider programs that address the major risk factors of cardiovascular disease including but not limited to blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings.

(b) For the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer, the review committee and the state board are encouraged to consider programs to increase screening for cancer including but not limited to colorectal cancer screening.

(c) For the prevention, early detection, and treatment of chronic pulmonary disease, the review committee and the state board are encouraged to consider programs to expand the prevention, early detection, and treatment of chronic pulmonary diseases.

(4) A minimum of ten percent of the moneys awarded through the grant program shall be directed to projects impacting rural areas as part of the governor's rural healthcare initiative and a minimum of ten percent of the moneys awarded through the grant program shall be directed to each of the following three disease areas: Cancer; cardiovascular disease; and chronic pulmonary disease; except that, if the review committee determines that there are no adequate proposals in a given disease or geographic area for a particular grant cycle, the review committee may waive the ten percent requirement.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 939, § 27, effective June 2.

25-20.5-305. Evaluation.

Each fiscal year, the state board shall select a grant recipient to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Costs for the evaluation must be adequately funded from the amount annually appropriated by the general assembly to the division from the prevention, early detection, and treatment fund.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 940, § 27, effective June 2. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (SB 21-181), ch. 429, p. 2843, § 7, effective July 6. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (HB 26-1390), ch. 248, p. 1400, § 2, effective May 29.

25-20.5-306. Administration - limitation.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the prevention services division of the department may receive up to five percent of the moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly to the division from the prevention, early detection, and treatment fund created in section 24-22-117, C.R.S., for the actual costs incurred in administering the program, including the hiring of sufficient staff within the division to effectively administer the program and the reimbursement of review committee members pursuant to section 25-20.5-303 (4).

(2) For fiscal year 2011-12, and for any fiscal year in which a declaration of a state fiscal emergency is declared pursuant to section 21 (7) of article X of the state constitution, the prevention services division of the department may receive up to five percent of the moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly from the prevention, early detection, and treatment fund created in section 24-22-117, C.R.S., for the actual costs incurred in administering the program, including the hiring of sufficient staff within the division to effectively administer the program and the reimbursement of review committee members pursuant to section 25-20.5-303 (4).

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 940, § 27, effective June 2. L. 2011: Entire section amended, (SB 11-211), ch. 145, p. 504, § 5, effective June 3.

PART 4

CHILD FATALITY PREVENTION ACT

25-20.5-401. Short title.

This part 4 shall be known and may be cited as the "Child Fatality Prevention Act".

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 974, § 1, effective June 2.

25-20.5-402. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that protection of the health and welfare of the children of this state is an important goal of the citizens of this state, and the injury and death of infants and children are serious public health concerns that require legislative action. The general assembly further finds that the prevention of child abuse, neglect, and fatalities is a community responsibility; that professionals from disparate disciplines have responsibilities to children and have expertise that can promote the safety and well-being of children; and that multidisciplinary reviews of child abuse, neglect, and fatalities can lead to a greater understanding of the causes of, and methods of preventing, child abuse, neglect, and fatalities.

(2) It is, therefore, the intent of the general assembly in enacting this part 4 to establish state and local multidisciplinary, multi-agency child fatality prevention review teams. The purpose of these teams is:

(a) For local or regional review teams, to review specific cases of child fatalities in the team's service area that occur from birth through seventeen years of age and involve unintentional injury, violence, motor vehicle incidents, child abuse or neglect, sudden unexpected infant death, suicide, or undetermined causes and to provide the state with individual case findings to develop a community approach to the systemic issues surrounding child fatalities;

(b) For the state review team, to review the individual case findings of the local and regional review teams and to create a report based on those findings to make specific recommendations regarding systemic trends across the state that may help prevent future child fatalities;

(c) To help the people of Colorado understand the incidence and causes of child fatalities and therefore encourage public action to prevent further child fatalities;

(d) To identify services provided by public, private, and nonprofit agencies to children and their families that are designed to prevent, and that are effective in preventing, child fatalities;

(e) To identify gaps or deficiencies that may exist in the delivery of services provided by public, private, and nonprofit agencies to children and their families that are designed to prevent child fatalities; and

(f) To make recommendations for, act as a catalyst for, and implement any changes to laws, rules, and policies that will support the safe and healthy development of the children in this state and prevent future child fatalities.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 974, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1029, § 2, effective May 14.

25-20.5-403. Definitions.

As used in this part 4, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "County department" means the county or district department of human or social services.

(2) "Local or regional review team" means a local or regional child fatality prevention review team established pursuant to section 25-20.5-404.

(3) "State review team" means the Colorado state child fatality prevention review team created pursuant to section 25-20.5-406.

(4) Repealed.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 975, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: (2) amended and (4) repealed, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1030, § 3, effective May 14. L. 2018: (1) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 442, § 102, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-20.5-404. Local and regional review teams - creation - membership - authority.

(1) On or before January 1, 2015, each county or district public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506 shall establish, or arrange to be established, subject to available appropriations, a local child fatality prevention review team. County or district public health agencies may collaborate to form a regional child fatality prevention review team to fulfill the requirements of this section.

(2) Each local or regional review team shall consist of representatives of public and nonpublic agencies in the county or counties that provide services to children and their families and of other individuals who represent the community.

(3) (a) A local or regional review team must include representatives from the following entities located within the service area of the establishing county or district public health agency or agencies:

(I) Each county department;

(II) Local law enforcement agencies;

(III) The district attorney's office;

(IV) School districts;

(V) Each county department of public health;

(VI) Each coroner's office or county medical examiner's office; and

(VII) Each county attorney's office.

(b) A local or regional review team may include but is not limited to representatives from the following entities or groups located within the service area of the establishing county or district public health agency or agencies:

(I) Hospitals, trauma centers, or other providers of emergency medical services;

(II) Each county board of human or social services;

(III) Mental health professionals;

(IV) Medical professionals specializing in pediatrics;

(V) Each court-appointed special advocate program;

(VI) Child advocacy centers;

(VII) Private out-of-home placement providers;

(VIII) Victim advocates associated with law enforcement agencies; and

(IX) The community at large.

(4) Each local or regional review team has the authority to establish committees to review specific types of child fatalities.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 975, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: (1), (2), IP(3)(a), IP(3)(b), and (4) amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1030, § 4, effective May 14. L. 2018: (3)(b)(II) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 442, § 103, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-20.5-405. Local review teams - duties - authority.

(1) The local or regional review team shall conduct individual, case-specific reviews of fatalities of children from birth through seventeen years of age occurring in the jurisdiction of the local or regional review team for the purpose of identifying prevention recommendations related, at a minimum, to the following causes of child fatality:

(a) Undetermined causes;

(b) Unintentional injury;

(c) Violence;

(d) Motor vehicle incidents;

(e) Child abuse or neglect as defined in section 19-1-103 (1), C.R.S., including the death of a child who was previously unknown to the county department but whose death included circumstances related to child abuse or neglect, regardless of the official manner of death;

(f) Sudden unexpected infant death; or

(g) Suicide.

(2) With respect to each child fatality reviewed, the local or regional review team shall:

(a) Review the cause and manner of the child fatality as determined by the local coroner, pathologist, or medical examiner, and determine whether the local or regional review team concurs with the coroner's, pathologist's, or medical examiner's findings. Any information requested from the local coroner must be in compliance with section 30-10-606, C.R.S.

(b) In cases in which the local or regional review team does not concur with the cause or manner of death as determined by the local coroner, pathologist, or medical examiner, forward a report of the local or regional review team's analysis of the cause and manner of the child fatality to the local coroner, pathologist, or medical examiner for his or her consideration;

(c) Evaluate means by which the fatality might have been prevented;

(d) Report case review findings, as appropriate, to public and private agencies that have responsibilities for children, including the office of the child protection ombudsman as described in sections 19-3.3-103 and 19-3.3-103.4, and make prevention recommendations to these agencies that may help to reduce the number of child fatalities;

(e) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(e.5) No later than two months after reviewing a case, enter information regarding the child fatality into a web-based data-collection system, utilized by the department;

(f) Submit to the state review team the following information:

(I) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(II) A listing of any system issues identified through the review process and recommendations to the state review team and the appropriate agencies for system improvements and needed resources, training, and information dissemination where gaps and deficiencies may exist;

(III) Any changes, positive or negative, that appear to have resulted from implementation of previous recommendations made by the local or regional review team to the state review team and appropriate agencies; and

(IV) Examples of services known by the local or regional review team to be provided by public or private agencies to children and their families that are designed to prevent child fatalities and that are effective in preventing such fatalities.

(V) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(g) Secure the most reliable information possible that is related to a child fatality to provide a thorough, comprehensive review of each child fatality; and

(h) Request capacity assistance as necessary from the department for the purpose of conducting a child fatality review.

(3) Each local or regional review team may, within existing appropriations and community resources, promote continuing education for professionals involved in investigating, treating, and preventing child abuse and neglect as a means of preventing child fatalities due to abuse or neglect and other child fatalities. The local or regional review team may also, within existing resources, promote public education related to preventing child fatalities related to abuse and neglect.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 976, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1031, § 5, effective May 14. L. 2021: (2)(d) amended, (HB 21-1272), ch. 324, p. 1986, § 2, effective June 24. L. 2025: (2)(d) amended, (HB 25-1200), ch. 270, p. 1397, § 8, effective August 6.

25-20.5-406. State review team - creation - membership - vacancies.

(1) There is hereby created the Colorado state child fatality prevention review team in the department of public health and environment.

(2) (a) The governor shall appoint eighteen voting members of the state review team specified in this subsection (2)(a) as follows:

(I) Two members who represent the county sheriffs within the state, one of whom represents a rural area of the state;

(II) Two members who represent the county coroners within the state;

(III) Two members who represent peace officers within the state who specialize in crimes against children;

(IV) Two members who represent the district attorneys within the state, one of whom represents a rural area of the state;

(V) Six members who represent members of the medical profession within the state who specialize in traumatic injury or children's health, including four physicians and two nurses;

(VI) One member who represents local fire department employees within the state;

(VII) One member who represents county attorneys within the state who practice in the area of dependency and neglect;

(VIII) One member who represents county commissioners within the state; and

(IX) One member who represents the office of Colorado's child protection ombudsman.

(b) The executive director of the department of human services shall appoint six voting members, as follows:

(I) Two members who represent the unit within the department of human services that is responsible for child welfare;

(II) Repealed.

(III) Two members who represent the behavioral health administration in the department of human services;

(IV) One member who represents the division of youth services; and

(V) One member who represents the directors of county departments of human or social services.

(c) The executive director of the department of public health and environment shall appoint eight voting members who represent the department of public health and environment, one of whom represents county or district public health agencies.

(d) The commissioner of education shall appoint one voting member who represents the department of education.

(e) The executive director of the department of public safety shall appoint one voting member who represents the department of public safety.

(f) A member of the department of public health and environment shall call a preliminary meeting of the members of the state review team specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) of this subsection (2), and the voting members appointed pursuant to said paragraphs may, by a majority vote, select an additional twelve nonvoting members of the state review team as follows:

(I) Four members who represent injury prevention or safety specialists from hospitals within the state;

(II) One member who represents organizations specializing in auto safety or driver safety within the state;

(III) One member who represents sudden infant death specialists within the state;

(IV) One member who represents the state network of child advocacy centers within the state;

(V) One member who represents a state domestic violence coalition;

(VI) One member who represents the court-appointed special advocate program directors, described in section 19-1-203, C.R.S., within the state;

(VII) One member who represents the office of the child's representative, established in section 13-91-104, C.R.S.;

(VIII) One member who represents a private out-of-home placement provider; and

(IX) One member of the community with experience in childhood death.

(3) Members shall be appointed for three-year terms and shall be eligible for reappointment upon the expiration of the terms. Vacancies in the appointed membership shall be filled by the appointing entity.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 978, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2010: (2)(c) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2107, § 128, effective August 11. L. 2011: (2)(b)(III) amended, (HB 11-1303), ch. 264, p. 1168, § 64, effective August 10. L. 2013: IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(VII), (2)(a)(VIII), IP(2)(b), (2)(c), (2)(d), and (2)(e) amended and (2)(a)(IX) added, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1033, § 6, effective May 14. L. 2017: (2)(b)(II) repealed and (2)(b)(III) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1256, § 17, effective May 25; (2)(b)(IV) amended, (HB 17-1329), ch. 381, p. 1982, § 58, effective June 6. L. 2022: IP(2)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 61, § 83, effective February 25; (2)(b)(III) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1509, § 59, effective July 1. L. 2024: (2)(b)(V) amended, (HB 24-1222), ch. 155, p. 690, § 15, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

25-20.5-407. State review team - duties - definitions.

(1) The state review team shall:

(a) Form committees to review a child fatality case, if a local or regional child fatality review team has not conducted such a review of the case, if the child fatality occurred in the state of Colorado and was related to one or more of the following causes:

(I) Undetermined causes;

(II) Unintentional injury;

(III) Violence;

(IV) Motor vehicle incidents;

(V) Child abuse or neglect, as defined in section 19-1-103 (1), C.R.S.;

(VI) Sudden unexpected infant death; and

(VII) Suicide.

(b) Outline trends and patterns of child fatalities in Colorado;

(c) Identify and investigate risk factors that may lead to child fatalities;

(d) Characterize groups of children who are at risk for a child fatality;

(e) Evaluate the services offered and the system responses to children who are at risk of a child fatality and review recommendations of local or regional review teams, if any;

(e.5) Consider a review of all systemic child-related issues when evaluating services offered or system responses to children who are at risk of fatality. For purposes of this paragraph (e.5),"systemic child-related issues" means any issue involving one or more agencies.

(f) Take steps to improve the quality and scope of data obtained through investigations and review of child fatalities;

(f.5) Utilize a child fatalities data-collection system, using nationally developed public health guidelines, to ensure the proper identification of all potential child abuse or neglect fatalities;

(g) Report to the governor and to the public health care and human services committee and the judiciary committee of the house of representatives and the health and human services committee and the judiciary committee of the senate of the Colorado general assembly, or any successor committees, concerning any recommendations for changes to any law, rule, or policy that the state review team has determined will promote the safety and well-being of children. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the state review team shall report annually on or before July 1, 2014, and on or before July 1 each year thereafter. In its report, the state review team shall provide a list of system strengths and weaknesses identified through the review process and recommendations for preventive actions to promote the safety and well-being of children. The annual report must include an analysis of the state review team's recommendations from the previous year and state what policy changes, if any, were made to improve child safety and well-being. The state review team shall make the annual report publicly available and will conduct outreach efforts to educate members of the child protection community on report findings.

(h) Provide an annual summary to the state department of human services outlining the trends and patterns of child abuse and neglect fatalities, including information regarding the findings from cases known and unknown to the county departments of human or social services;

(i) Collaborate with the department of human services child fatality review team, created pursuant to section 26-1-139, C.R.S., to make joint recommendations for the prevention of child fatalities;

(j) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

(k) Subject to available appropriations, administer moneys to county or district public health agencies to support local or regional review team activities;

(l) Provide training and technical assistance to local or regional review teams regarding the facilitation of a child fatality review process, data collection, evidence-based prevention strategies, and the development of prevention recommendations. The training and technical assistance for local or regional review teams must be provided through federally funded training programs for improving effectiveness in conducting child fatality reviews; except that, if such federally funded programs are unavailable, the state, subject to available appropriations, may provide the training and technical assistance. The training and technical assistance may also include, but need not be limited to:

(I) Strategies or assistance with convening and facilitating local and regional review teams;

(II) Establishing methods of notification after a child fatality has occurred; and

(III) Strategies for members of state, local, or regional review teams to address a conflict of interest in a child fatality review;

(m) Provide an annual data report to each local or regional review team summarizing its local or regional review data entered into the web-based data-collection system;

(n) Subject to available appropriations and community resources, distribute information to the public concerning risks to children and recommendations for promoting the safety and well-being of children;

(o) Serve as a link with child fatality review teams throughout the country and participate in national child fatality review team activities; and

(p) Perform any other functions necessary to enhance the capability of the state of Colorado to reduce and prevent childhood injuries and fatalities.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 980, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1033, § 7, effective May 14. L. 2017: (1)(g) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 95, § 11, effective March 16. L. 2018: (1)(h) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 442, § 104, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-20.5-408. Access to records.

(1) Review team access to records.

(a) Notwithstanding any other state law to the contrary but subject to the requirements of applicable provisions of federal law, the state review team and the local or regional review teams have access to all records and information in the possession of the state department of human services and the county departments of human or social services that are relevant to the review of a child fatality, including records and information related to previous reports and investigations of suspected child abuse or neglect.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection (1), notwithstanding any other state law to the contrary, but subject to the requirements of applicable provisions of federal law, the state review team and the local or regional review teams shall have access to all other records and information that are relevant to a review of a child fatality and that are in the possession of a state or local governmental agency. These records include, but are not limited to, birth certificates, records of coroner or medical examiner investigations, and records of the department of corrections.

(c) Treatment records for behavioral, mental health, or substance use disorders may be accessed only with the written consent of appropriate parties in accordance with applicable federal and state law.

(2) Public access to records and information.

(a) Open meetings. Meetings of the state review team and local or regional review teams shall be subject to the provisions of section 24-6-402, C.R.S.

(b) Confidentiality. Each member of the state review team, each member of a local or regional review team, and each invited participant at a meeting shall sign a statement indicating an understanding of and adherence to confidentiality requirements. A person who knowingly violates confidentiality requirements commits a petty offense and, upon conviction, shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-503.

(c) Release of information.

(I) Members of the state review team, members of the local or regional review teams, a person who attends a review team meeting, and a person who presents information to a review team may release information to governmental agencies as necessary to fulfill the requirements of this part 4, including section 25-20.5-405 (2)(d) and section 19-3.3-103.4 (1)(b).

(II) Members of the state review team, members of the local or regional review teams, a person who attends a review team meeting, and a person who presents information to a review team shall not be subject to examination, in any civil or criminal proceeding, concerning information presented to members of the review team or opinions formed by the review team based on that information. A person may, however, be examined concerning information reviewed by the state review team or a local or regional review team that is otherwise available to the public or that is required to be revealed by that person in another official capacity.

(III) Information, documents, and records of the state review team and the local or regional review teams shall not be subject to subpoena, discovery, or introduction into evidence in any civil or criminal proceeding; except that information, documents, and records that would otherwise be available from a person serving on the state review team or a local or regional review team or that would otherwise be required to be revealed by law shall not be immune from subpoena, discovery, or introduction into evidence solely because the information was presented at or became available due to a proceeding of the state review team or a local or regional review team.

(IV) Information received by the state review team or a local or regional review team that contains information exculpatory to a person charged with a criminal offense shall be subject to release pursuant to the rules of criminal procedure.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 981, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1036, § 8, effective May 14. L. 2017: (1)(c) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1326, § 196, effective May 25. L. 2018: (1)(a) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 442, § 105, effective August 8. L. 2021: (2)(c)(I) amended, (HB 21-1272), ch. 324, p. 1986, § 3, effective June 24; (2)(b) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3240, § 477, effective March 1, 2022. L. 2025: (2)(c)(I) amended, (HB 25-1200), ch. 270, p. 1397, § 9, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-20.5-409. Administration - funding - cash fund.

(1) To the extent moneys are available, the state review team and the local or regional review teams may hire staff or consultants to assist them in completing their duties.

(2) Staff and consultants of the state review team or the local or regional review teams shall receive reimbursement for travel and expenses to offset the costs incurred in fulfilling their duties, which shall be paid from moneys appropriated to implement this part 4 and within the limits of those moneys.

(3) The division of prevention services in the department of public health and environment, on behalf of the state review team, is authorized to receive contributions, grants, services, and donations from any public or private entity for any direct or indirect costs associated with the duties of the state review team set forth in this part 4.

(4) All private and public funds received by the state review team through grants, contributions, and donations pursuant to this part 4 shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the child fatality prevention cash fund, which fund is hereby created and referred to in this section as the "fund". The moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs associated with the implementation of this part 4. All moneys in the fund not expended for the purpose of this part 4 may be invested by the state treasurer as provided by law. All interest and income derived from the investment and deposit of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. Any unexpended and unencumbered moneys remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or another fund.

Source: L. 2005: Entire part added, p. 982, § 1, effective June 2. L. 2013: (1) and (2) amended, (SB 13-255), ch. 222, p. 1037, § 9, effective May 14.

PART 5

SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH CENTER GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-501. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds that:

(a) Access to school-based primary health care for children and adolescents has been shown to increase the use of primary care, reduce the use of emergency rooms, and result in fewer hospitalizations;

(b) High-risk students who use school-based health centers are more likely to stay in school and be available for instruction;

(c) School-based health centers are effective at managing health conditions, such as asthma;

(d) School-based health centers serve primarily low-income schools. The majority of students who attend schools with on-site health centers are from low-income families, are medically uninsured or underinsured, and qualify for free or reduced-cost school lunch.

(e) For students from populations primarily served through school-based health centers who do not have access to school-based health care, increasing access to school-linked health-care services will help improve health outcomes for these medically underserved students and their families; and

(f) School-based health centers and school-linked health-care services complement existing school health services and school nursing programs.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1595, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2024: IP(1) amended and (1)(e) and (1)(f) added, (SB 24-034), ch. 404, p. 2773, § 1, effective August 7.

25-20.5-502. Definitions.

As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Grant program" means the school-based health center grant program created in section 25-20.5-503 (1).

(1.5) "Local education provider" means a school district, a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22, a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of title 22, or a board of cooperative services created and operating pursuant to article 5 of title 22.

(2) "School-based health center" means a clinic established within a public school building, through state-sanctioned high school equivalency examination programs associated with a local education provider, on public school property by the local education provider, or through school-linked health-care services. School-based health centers are operated, in partnership with local education providers, by medical entities, including hospitals, public or private health-care organizations, licensed medical providers, public health nurses, community health centers, and community mental health centers, to provide primary health-care services, behavioral health-care services, oral heath-care services, or preventive health-care services to students and youth within a school or schools of a local education provider regardless of ability to pay, insurance coverage, or immigration status. The term "school-based health center" includes clinics or facilities authorized to provide clinic services pursuant to section 25.5-5-301 or authorized to apply for and receive medical assistance payments under a contract entered into pursuant to section 25.5-5-318 and school-linked health-care services.

(3) "School-linked health-care services" means primary health-care services, behavioral health-care services, oral health-care services, or preventive health-care services. School-linked health-care services may be delivered through telehealth, mobile services, or referrals for health-care services at a clinic located near school grounds.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1596, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2014: (1) amended, (SB 14-058), ch. 102, p. 384, § 18, effective April 7. L. 2015: Entire section amended, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 962, § 77, effective August 5. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-034), ch. 404, p. 2773, § 2, effective August 7. L. 2025: (1) amended and (1.5) added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2080, § 219, effective August 6.

25-20.5-503. School-based health center grant program - creation - funding - grants.

(1) There is hereby created, in the prevention services division of the department of public health and environment, the school-based health center grant program for the purpose of assisting the establishment, expansion, and ongoing operations of school-based health centers in Colorado. The grant program shall be funded by moneys annually appropriated by the general assembly specifically for said program.

(2) (a) (I) Operators of school-based health centers may apply for grants for the benefit of school-based health centers. The grant program shall provide grants for school-based health centers selected by the division. The division, in consultation with school-based health centers, shall develop criteria under which the grants are distributed and evaluated. In developing the criteria for grants, the division shall give priority to centers that serve a disproportionate number of uninsured children, a low-income population, or both. The division may award grants to: Establish new school-based health centers; expand primary health services, behavioral health services, including education, intervention, and prevention services for opioid, alcohol, and marijuana, and other substance use disorders, or oral health-care services offered by existing school-based health centers; expand enrollment in the children's basic health plan; provide support for ongoing operations of school-based health centers; or provide support for innovations in school-based health care, including school-linked health-care services.

(II) Subject to available appropriations, money awarded through the grant program may also be directed to evidence-informed school-linked health-care services models, including telehealth services by a provider located in this state and mobile health units, to expand access to primary health-care services, behavioral health-care services, oral health-care services, and preventive health-care services, unless the division determines that adequate school-linked health-care services proposals have not been submitted for the grant cycle.

(III) The division shall not award grants to provide abortion services in violation of section 50 of article V of the state constitution.

(b) (I) On or before July 1, 2018, the general assembly shall appropriate seven hundred seventy-five thousand dollars to the department from the marijuana tax cash fund created in section 39-28.8-501 for the purposes of expanding behavioral health therapy, intervention, and prevention services for opioid, alcohol, and marijuana, and other substance use disorders pursuant to this subsection (2). The department shall prioritize funding to school-based health centers that serve communities with high-risk factors for substance abuse combined with limited access to treatment services according to state needs assessments, Colorado health indicator data, and national best practice trends.

(II) Any unencumbered and unexpended money from an appropriation made pursuant to this subsection (2)(b) remains available for expenditure by the department in the next two fiscal years without further appropriation.

(c) (I) For the 2022-23 budget year, the general assembly shall appropriate one million five hundred thousand dollars from the behavioral and mental health cash fund created pursuant to section 24-75-230 to the department to fund the grant program for the benefit of school-based health centers to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative public health impacts. The department or the grantees awarded money must spend or obligate any money in accordance with section 24-75-226 (4)(d).

(II) The department and the grantees shall comply with the compliance, reporting, record-keeping, and program evaluation requirements established by the office of state planning and budgeting and the state controller in accordance with section 24-75-226 (5).

(3) The division shall engage with and assist communities interested in becoming grantees and shall consider how to support improving access to school-based health care. The division shall specify and provide to potential grant recipients the following information:

(a) Procedures and timelines by which an operator of a school-based health center may apply for a grant;

(b) Grant application contents;

(c) Criteria for selection, reporting, evaluation, and other criteria as necessary;

(d) Criteria for determining the amount and duration of the grants;

(e) Reporting requirements for grant recipients; and

(f) Any other information the division deems necessary.

(4) Grant recipients shall submit reports to the division as outlined in the reporting requirements summarizing the use of the grant moneys.

(5) A grant awarded by the division shall be used for the school-based health center for the purposes stated in this part 5. The grants shall supplement existing funding sources for the school-based health center, such as federal funds, patient fees, public and private insurance, and grants and donations, including in-kind donations received from community hospitals, foundations, local governments, and private sources.

Source: L. 2006: Entire part added, p. 1596, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2018: (2) amended, (HB 18-1003), ch. 224, p. 1427, § 3, effective May 21. L. 2022: (2)(c) added, (SB 22-147), ch. 175, p. 1166, § 4, effective May 17; (2)(c)(I) amended, (HB 22-1411), ch. 271, p. 1959, § 14, effective May 27. L. 2024: (2)(a) and IP(3) amended, (SB 24-034), ch. 404, p. 2774, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2080, § 220, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-147, see section 1 of chapter 175, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

PART 6

PRIMARY CARE OFFICE

25-20.5-601 to 25-20.5-605. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire part repealed, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 491, § 7, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This part 6 was added in 2009. For amendments to this part 6 prior to its repeal in 2013, consult the 2012 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 7

STATE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM

25-20.5-701 to 25-20.5-706. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire part repealed, (HB 13-1074), ch. 150, p. 491, § 7, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This part 7 was added in 2009. For amendments to this part 7 prior to its repeal in 2013, consult the 2012 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 8

COMMUNITY CRIME VICTIMS GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-800.3. Definitions.

As used in this part 8, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Grant program" means the community crime victims grant program created in section 25-20.5-801 (1).

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2080, § 221, effective August 6.

25-20.5-801. Community crime victims grant program - created - cash fund.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, on and after July 1, 2018, the department shall develop and implement the community crime victims grant program to provide funding to eligible entities that provide support services to crime victims, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (5), and a victim's immediate family, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (6), and other interventions that are intended to reduce repeat victimization. The department shall administer the grant program in accordance with policies developed by the executive director of the department pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(2) On or before July 1, 2018, the executive director of the department shall develop policies for the administration of the grant program, including but not limited to the following:

(a) A competitive process for the selection of a third-party grant administrator;

(b) The content and timing of status reports provided by the third-party grant administrator to the department; and

(c) Grant guidelines and eligibility criteria for applicants, including criteria that prioritize underserved crime victims, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (5), and a victim's immediate family, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (6), including people of color, young adults, and men.

(3) The third-party grant administrator must be selected on or before September 2, 2018, and the contract between the department and the third-party grant administrator must be finalized on or before January 1, 2019. The third-party grant administrator must:

(a) Be a nonprofit organization in good standing with the secretary of state's office;

(b) Have experience as a third-party administrator for a state, multistate, or federal grant program;

(c) Be capable of providing a unified case management, financial, and data collection system related to services and payments received under the grant program;

(d) Be capable of providing technical assistance and other organizational development to grantees to improve delivery of services, financial management, or data collection; and

(e) Have experience and competency in working in underserved communities, particularly communities of color.

(4) In awarding grants from the grant program each fiscal year, the department shall release as much as one-quarter of the amount annually appropriated to the grant program to the third-party grant administrator at the time the initial contract is executed and at the beginning of each fiscal year.

(5) On or before January 15, 2019, the third-party grant administrator shall develop the following, subject to approval by the department:

(a) A competitive request for proposal process and timeline whereby an eligible entity may apply for a grant consistent with the policies developed by the department;

(b) A process for determining the amount of each grant that is awarded; and

(c) Performance metrics and data collection to be required of grantees.

(6) The grant administrator shall make recommendations to the department on whether to award or deny a grant and shall provide written rationale each grant cycle to the department. After the review of the recommendations, the department shall award or deny a grant.

(7) Permissible uses of grant money provided pursuant to the grant program include direct services to crime victims, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (5), and a victim's immediate family, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (6), restorative justice, and other interventions intended to reduce repeat victimization.

(8) (a) To be eligible to receive a grant from the grant program, an entity must be:

(I) A nonprofit organization in good standing and registered with the federal internal revenue service and the Colorado secretary of state's office;

(II) A school;

(III) A tribal agency or program; or

(IV) A professional who is regulated by the department of regulatory agencies.

(b) A grantee may not decline to serve a victim based upon:

(I) Whether the victim reported the crime to law enforcement or cooperated in any prosecution;

(II) The length of time that has elapsed since the victimization; or

(III) The location of the victimization.

(c) A grant applicant shall demonstrate that it has or will have a screening tool or screening process in place so that a credible determination can be made that the person seeking services has been a victim of crime, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (5).

(9) (a) The community crime victims grant program cash fund, referred to in this subsection (9) as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund. The fund is exempt from section 24-75-402.

(b) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(c) Money in the fund is annually appropriated to the department for the grant program developed pursuant to this section.

(c.5) Any money appropriated to the department that is not expended prior to July 1, 2023, is further appropriated to the department for the 2023-24 state fiscal year for the same purpose.

(c.7) The state treasurer shall transfer four million dollars from the general fund to the fund on March 1, 2024.

(d) Repealed.

(e) The state treasurer shall transfer all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund on September 1, 2029, to the general fund.

(10) Repealed.

Source: L. 2018: Entire part added, (HB 18-1409), ch. 244, p. 1512, § 2, effective May 24. L. 2019: (9) added, (SB 19-064), ch. 179, p. 2037, § 2, effective May 14. L. 2022: (9)(e) amended and (10) added, (SB 22-183), ch. 194, p. 1305, § 14, effective May 19. L. 2023: (9)(c.5) added and (9)(e) amended, (SB 23-160), ch. 214, p. 1106, § 3, effective August 7. L. 2024: (9)(a) and (9)(c) amended and (9)(c.7) added, (HB 24-1214), ch. 10, p. 23, § 1, effective February 27. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-275), ch. 377, p. 2080, § 222, effective August 6.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (9)(d)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (9)(d), effective July 1, 2021. (See L. 2019, p. 2037.)

(2) Subsection (10)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (10), effective July 1, 2023. (See L. 2022, p. 1305.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1409, see section 1 of chapter 244, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-20.5-802. Repeal of part - sunset review.

This part 8 is repealed, effective September 1, 2028. Before the repeal, this part 8 is scheduled for review in accordance with section 24-34-104.

Source: L. 2018: Entire part added, (HB 18-1409), ch. 244, p. 1514, § 2, effective May 24. L. 2023: Entire section amended, (SB 23-160), ch. 214, p. 1105, § 1, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1409, see section 1 of chapter 244, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

PART 9

COLORADO CHILD ABUSE RESPONSE AND EVALUATION NETWORK (CARENETWORK)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1133, see section 1 of chapter 259, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-20.5-901. Short title.

The short title of this part 9 is the "Colorado Child Abuse Response and Evaluation Network (CARENetwork) Act".

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1133), ch. 259, p. 2471, § 2, effective May 23.

25-20.5-902. Definitions.

As used in this part 9, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Colorado child abuse response and evaluation network" or "CARENetwork" means a network composed of a resource center, designated providers, and other community partners, including children's advocacy centers, that collaborate to develop and maintain a standardized, coordinated health-care response to the prevention and treatment of suspected physical or sexual abuse or neglect.

(2) "Designated provider" means a physician, nurse, advanced practice provider, or behavioral health provider who is licensed in this state and who meets the criteria established to be a designated provider in the CARENetwork.

(3) "Resource center" means a nationally recognized organization with board-certified specialists in the field of child abuse pediatrics and with expertise to establish standards of medical and behavioral health care for the CARENetwork and provide education and training for designated providers.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1133), ch. 259, p. 2471, § 2, effective May 23.

25-20.5-903. CARENetwork - structure - resource center.

(1) There is created in the department of public health and environment the Colorado child abuse response and evaluation network to provide medical exams and behavioral health assessments to children under six years of age for suspected cases of physical or sexual abuse or neglect and children under thirteen years of age for suspected sexual abuse. In implementing the CARENetwork, the department shall coordinate with the department of human services, existing advisory committees, and interested stakeholders to align the work of the CARENetwork with other state and local efforts focused on preventing child abuse and neglect and addressing the health and social needs of families at risk of experiencing child abuse or neglect.

(2) On or before November 1, 2019, the department shall award a contract to a resource center to establish the CARENetwork. The resource center shall:

(a) Work to increase local capacity of health-care and behavioral health providers to perform medical and behavioral health assessments for suspected cases of physical or sexual abuse or neglect by using current or by building appropriate infrastructure for and providing technical assistance to the CARENetwork;

(b) Develop best practice standards across the state for the CARENetwork, including a review of current national accreditation standards, for medical exams and behavioral health assessments for children described in subsection (1) of this section;

(c) Develop a streamlined medical and behavioral health referral process to designated providers for children to receive appropriate care, including coordinated hand-offs to available resources;

(d) Establish an efficient structure, considering geography and identified community needs, to ensure a coordinated response to suspected cases of physical or sexual abuse or neglect;

(e) Encourage participation and enhance the role of medical providers in multidisciplinary teams in local communities to provide input for the CARENetwork;

(f) Collaborate with existing programs in local communities to provide education and training, collaborative mentorship, and support for designated providers serving children in their communities, including education and training about risks and protective factors associated with child abuse and neglect and resources for families to address their health and social needs;

(g) Collect and analyze data to identify and monitor outcomes of the CARENetwork and to guide ongoing program analyses, resulting in the development of best practices that encourage continuous improvement and fidelity of the CARENetwork's standard of care; and

(h) Report annually to the executive directors of the department and the department of human services on activities of the CARENetwork.

(3) Nothing in this section supersedes the authority of the department of human services or a county department of human or social services to receive reports and coordinate the official investigation and response to reports of child abuse or neglect. Nothing in the section relieves the participants in the CARENetwork from mandated reporting requirements pursuant to section 19-3-304.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (HB 19-1133), ch. 259, p. 2471, § 2, effective May 23.

PART 10

MAKING OPIOID ANTAGONISTS AVAILABLE

25-20.5-1001. Making opioid antagonists available - bulk purchasing - immunity.

(1) A person that is not a private entity and that makes a defibrillator or AED, as defined in section 13-21-108.1, available to aid the general public may also make available an opioid antagonist to aid an individual believed to be suffering an opioid-related drug overdose event or to an individual who is in a position to assist the individual at risk of experiencing an opioid-related drug overdose event.

(2) A person making an opioid antagonist available in accordance with subsection (1) of this section is eligible to purchase opioid antagonists from the department in accordance with section 25-1.5-115.

(3) A person who acts in good faith to furnish or administer an opioid antagonist to an individual the person believes to be suffering an opioid-related drug overdose event or to an individual who is in a position to assist the individual at risk of experiencing an opioid-related drug overdose event is not subject to civil liability or criminal prosecution, as specified in sections 13-21-108.7 (3) and 18-1-712 (2), respectively.

(4) This section does not apply to an elementary or secondary public or nonpublic school.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (SB 19-227), ch. 273, p. 2582, § 12, effective May 23. L. 2024: (1), (2), and (3) amended, (HB 24-1037), ch. 458, p. 3172, § 21, effective June 6.

PART 11

HARM REDUCTION GRANT PROGRAM

25-20.5-1101. Harm reduction grant program - creation - application - permissible uses - department duties.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall develop and implement a harm reduction grant program, referred to in this section as the "grant program", to prevent overdose deaths and reduce health risks associated with drug use. The department may contract with an independent entity for the administration of the grant program.

(2) (a) To be eligible to receive grant funding pursuant to this part 11, an entity must be:

(I) A nonprofit organization that is in good standing and registered with the federal internal revenue service and the Colorado secretary of state's office;

(II) A local public health agency established pursuant to section 25-1-506;

(III) A tribal agency or program;

(IV) A federally qualified health center, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4);

(V) A rural health clinic, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(2);

(VI) A behavioral health entity, as defined in section 25-27.6-102 (6); or

(VII) A law enforcement agency.

(b) An eligible entity may submit a proposal on behalf of a group of eligible entities, and apportion grant funds accordingly, to foster community collaboration and collective impact.

(c) Grantees must be willing to provide services to individuals who may not be ready to seek addiction treatment services or who are in recovery.

(3) On or before November 1, 2019, the department shall develop:

(a) Eligibility criteria for the entities described in subsection (2) of this section;

(b) The grant application process and schedule;

(c) A process for determining the amount of each grant that is awarded; and

(d) The performance metrics and data collection required of grantees.

(4) Permissible uses of funding provided pursuant to this grant program include general operating expenses and direct and indirect project costs including, but not limited to:

(a) Trainings relevant to the field of harm reduction that may include overdose prevention, safer substance use practices, safe disposal, and access to and administration of opiate antagonists and non-laboratory synthetic opiate detection tests;

(b) Purchasing and providing sterile equipment, non-laboratory synthetic opiate detection tests, and syringe disposal equipment;

(c) Providing direct services to persons who have come into contact with or who are at risk of coming into contact with the criminal justice system, which may include accessing treatment and health-care services, overdose prevention activities, and recovery support services;

(d) Outreach and engagement to people who come into contact with or who are at risk of coming into contact with the criminal justice system and who are in need of mental health or substance use disorder treatment, overdose prevention, harm reduction, or recovery support services;

(e) Facilitating communication, training, and technical assistance among law enforcement agencies, public health agencies, and community-based harm reduction agencies in order to divert people from the criminal justice system;

(f) Auricular acudetox training and services;

(g) Public education and outreach about synthetic opiates, overdose risks, and recognizing an overdose event; resources for addiction treatment and services; access to and administration of opiate antagonists and non-laboratory synthetic opiate detection tests; and laws regarding synthetic opiates, including criminal penalties and immunity for reporting an overdose event pursuant to section 18-1-711;

(h) Local conventions for the purpose of developing community-based approaches for overdose prevention, early intervention, and harm reduction services;

(i) Developing, or expanding existing, community-based organizations that provide overdose prevention, early intervention, and harm reduction services;

(j) Evidence-based research concerning best or promising practices in overdose prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, and medication-assisted treatment protocols;

(k) Developing strategies for serving populations who are at a higher risk of overdose and live in underserved areas; and

(l) Support for a liaison with experience collaborating with community-based organizations and local public health agencies.

(5) The department shall not award any grant money in excess of the amount in the harm reduction grant program cash fund created pursuant to section 25-20.5-1102.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (SB 19-008), ch. 275, p. 2597, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2022: (1), (2), (3)(a), and (4) amended, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1647, § 24, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1326 stating the purpose of, and the provision directing legislative staff agencies to conduct, a post-enactment review pursuant to § 2-2-1201 scheduled in 2025, see sections 1 and 55 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. To obtain a copy of the review, once completed, go to "Legislative Resources and Requirements" on the Colorado General Assembly's website.

25-20.5-1102. Harm reduction grant program cash fund - creation.

(1) The harm reduction grant program cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(3) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department for the implementation of this part 11.

(4) and (5) Repealed.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (SB 19-008), ch. 275, p. 2598, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2021: (3) amended and (4) repealed, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2364, § 8, effective June 28. L. 2022: (5) added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1649, § 25, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (5), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2022, p. 1649.)

Cross references: (1) For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

(2) For the legislative declaration in HB 22-1326 stating the purpose of, and the provision directing legislative staff agencies to conduct, a post-enactment review pursuant to § 2-2-1201 scheduled in 2025, see sections 1 and 55 of chapter 225, Session Laws of Colorado 2022. To obtain a copy of the review, once completed, go to "Legislative Resources and Requirements" on the Colorado General Assembly's website.

25-20.5-1103. Rules.

The department may promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this part 11.

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (SB 19-008), ch. 275, p. 2598, § 5, effective August 2.

25-20.5-1104. Repeal of part - sunset review. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire part added, (SB 19-008), ch. 275, p. 2598, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2021: Entire section repealed, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2387, § 36, effective June 28.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

PART 12

OFFICE OF GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION

25-20.5-1201. Definitions.

As used in this part 12, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Director" means the director of the office of gun violence prevention described in section 25-20.5-1202 (1)(b).

(3) "Office" means the office of gun violence prevention established in section 25-20.5-1202.

(4) "Resource bank" means the resource bank of materials and resources pertaining to gun violence in Colorado described in section 25-20.5-1204.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1559, § 1, effective June 19.

25-20.5-1202. Office of gun violence prevention - created - director - staff - collaboration.

(1) (a) There is created in the department the office of gun violence prevention to coordinate and promote effective efforts to reduce gun violence and related traumas and promote research regarding causes of, and evidence-based responses to, gun violence.

(b) The executive director of the department shall appoint the director of the office of gun violence prevention pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the state constitution.

(c) The director shall appoint staff necessary to carry out the responsibilities of the office. At a minimum, the office must have, in addition to the director, one full-time equivalent employee in state fiscal year 2021-22 and two full-time equivalent employees in state fiscal year 2022-23.

(2) In order to effectively carry out its responsibilities, the office may collaborate with other state agencies, including the address confidentiality program created in section 24-30-2104; the office of suicide prevention established in section 25-1.5-101 (1)(w); the safe2tell program created in section 24-31-606; the school safety resource center created in section 24-33.5-1803; the department of education; the behavioral health administration in the department of human services; the office of the attorney general; and the division of criminal justice in the department of public safety. The office may also collaborate with individuals, educational institutions, health-care providers, and organizations with expertise in gun violence prevention and gun safety, including gun dealers, shooting ranges, and firearms safety instructors.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1560, § 1, effective June 19. L. 2022: (2) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1509, § 60, effective July 1.

25-20.5-1203. Gun violence prevention awareness and education - violence intervention grant program - rules.

(1) The office shall increase the awareness of, and educate the general public about, state and federal laws and existing resources relating to gun violence prevention, including the following:

(a) The availability of, and the process for requesting, an extreme risk protection order pursuant to article 14.5 of title 13;

(b) The availability of, and the process for requesting, a protection order pursuant to article 14 of title 13;

(c) How to report a lost or stolen firearm, including reporting requirements in state law;

(d) Best practices for safe storage of firearms, including safe storage requirements described in section 18-12-114;

(e) Accessing available mental health and substance use resources and how to refer people to needed mental health and substance use treatment services, including suicide prevention; and

(f) Safe and responsible gun ownership, including increasing awareness of compliance with state and federal law.

(2) (a) To promote awareness and education as described in subsection (1) of this section, the office shall:

(I) Conduct awareness campaigns directed toward gun owners, parents and legal guardians of children, and professions that provide services to people and communities disproportionately affected by gun violence; and

(II) Develop and provide materials and training resources to local law enforcement agencies, health-care providers, and educators to assist those agencies, providers, and educators with educating the public about the laws and resources described in subsection (1) of this section and other effective gun violence prevention strategies.

(b) The office may focus public awareness campaigns in communities identified by the office as disproportionately affected by gun violence.

(c) The office shall conduct awareness and education campaigns in a culturally competent way, including by providing materials and resources in multiple languages.

(d) The office may use television messaging, radio broadcasts, print media, digital strategies, or any other form of messaging deemed effective and appropriate by the office to achieve the goals of this section.

(e) The office shall post the materials developed pursuant to subsection (2)(a)(II) of this section in an accessible manner on the office's website for local education providers, as defined in section 22-1-150, to access and distribute to parents, guardians, and legal custodians of elementary or secondary school students.

(3) At the request of the executive director of the department, the office shall support and provide assistance for other education campaigns and programs conducted by the department that are related to gun violence, including education and programs relating to firearms safe storage and suicide prevention.

(4) (a) Subject to available money, the office may establish and administer a grant program to award grants to organizations to conduct community-based gun violence intervention initiatives that are primarily focused on interrupting cycles of gun violence, trauma, and retaliation by providing culturally competent intervention services.

(b) To be eligible for a grant award, an organization must demonstrate the ability to conduct effective community-based gun violence intervention initiatives that meet the criteria described in this section. The office shall prioritize awarding grants to organizations that conduct gun violence intervention initiatives with individuals and in communities identified as having the highest risk of perpetrating or being victimized by gun violence in the near future.

(c) An initiative conducted with a grant award must use strategies that are evidence-informed and have demonstrated promise at reducing gun violence without contributing to mass incarceration, such as hospital-based violence intervention programs, group violence interventions, evidence-based street outreach programs, violence interruption and crisis management programs, and individualized wraparound services. To improve the effectiveness of a gun violence intervention initiative, a grant recipient shall conduct regular evaluations of each initiative, including facilitating community input and engagement.

(d) The department may promulgate rules necessary for the administration of the grant program, including grant application procedures, criteria for determining the amount and duration of the grants, and reporting requirements for organizations that receive grants.

(e) In administering the grant program, the office shall collaborate with stakeholders as needed to ensure equity in the distribution of grants. The office shall consult with stakeholders to develop grant priorities, set criteria for determining the amount and duration of grants, select grantees, and determine reporting requirements. Stakeholders must include individuals and families impacted by gun violence; organizations with expertise in gun violence prevention and gun safety, including gun dealers, shooting ranges, and firearms safety instructors; and communities of color.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1560, § 1, effective June 19. L. 2025: (2)(e) added, (HB 25-1250), ch. 351, p. 1889, § 1, effective August 6.

25-20.5-1204. Resource bank - duties.

(1) The office shall create and maintain a resource bank of regularly updated and accurate materials and resources as a repository for data, research, and statistical information regarding gun violence in Colorado.

(2) As part of maintaining the resource bank, the office shall:

(a) Assist researchers who are seeking information about gun violence in Colorado;

(b) Collaborate with researchers, including organizations that conduct gun violence research, to:

(I) Identify gaps in available data needed for gun violence prevention research and develop strategies to improve relevant data collection in Colorado;

(II) Use existing available research to enhance evidence-based gun violence prevention tools and resources available to Colorado communities; and

(III) Improve the understanding of the disproportionate barriers to safety from gun violence by encouraging disaggregation of data by race and ethnicity when research is conducted; and

(c) Promote new and relevant research regarding gun violence prevention and, if possible, make this research accessible to researchers and the public.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1562, § 1, effective June 19.

25-20.5-1205. Federal grants - other funds - gifts, grants, and donations.

(1) The office shall identify and apply for available federal grants and other funding to further its work to prevent gun violence. When the office determines it is appropriate, the office may work in collaboration with other state departments and partners to identify and apply for federal grants and other funding.

(2) The office may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this part 12.

(3) The office shall expend funds annually on a public education campaign regarding the availability of, and the process for requesting, an extreme risk protection order pursuant to article 14.5 of title 13 and as described in section 25-20.5-1203 (2)(a).

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1563, § 1, effective June 19. L. 2023: (3) added, (SB 23-170), ch. 124, p. 481, § 3, effective April 28.

25-20.5-1206. Rules - report.

(1) The department may promulgate rules as needed for the effective implementation of this part 12.

(2) (a) On or before November 30 of each year, the office shall report to the department on the activities it has conducted in the preceding twelve months. The report must include:

(I) Information about the awareness and education campaigns conducted by the office;

(II) Effective gun violence intervention programs identified and conducted by the office;

(III) Any federal grants or other funding the office applied for and whether the office received those grants or other funds; and

(IV) A general summary of new and relevant research included in the office's resource bank and the nature of research assistance provided by the office.

(b) The office shall make the report publicly available on its website or, if the office does not have a dedicated website, on a web page of the department's website.

(c) In its annual report before the house and senate committees of reference pursuant to section 2-7-203, the department shall include a summary of the office's annual report, including instruction for accessing any new and relevant gun violence prevention research identified by the office. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the report required in this subsection (2)(c) continues indefinitely.

(3) On or before December 31, 2027, and on or before December 31 every fifth year thereafter, the office shall issue a report to the general assembly summarizing gun violence prevention measures adopted by local jurisdictions pursuant to article 11.7 of title 29 or section 18-12-214. The office shall make the report publicly available on its website or, if the office does not have a dedicated website, on a web page of the department's website. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the report required pursuant to this subsection (3) continues indefinitely.

(4) Beginning in January 2026, and in January every year thereafter, the department shall include, as part of its presentation during its "SMART Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203, information concerning the materials developed pursuant to section 25-20.5-1203 (2)(a)(II).

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1299), ch. 270, p. 1563, § 1, effective June 19. L. 2025: (4) added, (HB 25-1250), ch. 351, p. 1889, § 2, effective August 6.

PART 13

COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE PROGRAM

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1281, see section 1 of chapter 361, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

25-20.5-1301. Definitions.

As used in this part 13, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response program" or "program" means the community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response program created in section 25-20.5-1302.

(2) "Community behavioral health disaster response coordinator" or "response coordinator" means an individual who is designated by a community mental health center or other behavioral health provider to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the response coordinator pursuant to section 25-20.5-1302.

(3) "Disaster" has the same meaning as set forth in section 24-33.5-703.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1281), ch. 361, p. 2357, § 2, effective June 28.

25-20.5-1302. Community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response program - creation - department duties - rules.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall implement the community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response program using existing initiatives and activities to ensure that behavioral health is adequately represented within disaster preparedness and response efforts across the state.

(2) The program is intended to enhance, support, and formalize behavioral health disaster preparedness and response activities conducted by community behavioral health organizations; except that the activities must not replace or supersede any disaster plans prepared or maintained by a local or interjurisdictional emergency management agency, as established in section 24-33.5-707. The activities may include but are not limited to:

(a) Preparedness activities, such as:

(I) Risk assessment, hazard vulnerability assessments, and disaster planning;

(II) Development of policies and procedures for disaster preparedness and response planning;

(III) Implementing disaster communication plans;

(IV) Training on and practicing existing disaster preparedness and response plans; and

(V) Engaging with local and state partners for disaster preparedness and medical surge planning;

(b) Response activities, such as:

(I) Coordination and response with local and state partners;

(II) Supporting emergency functions, such as health and medical resource requests for behavioral health services;

(III) Triaging psychological or psycho-social care for affected individuals;

(IV) Providing immediate and ongoing support and care for individuals in crisis impacted by emergencies and disasters, including professionals who respond to emergencies and disasters and others on the scene of such incidences; and

(V) Providing ongoing follow-up, referrals, and services for affected individuals; and

(c) Recovery activities, such as:

(I) Providing ongoing debriefing opportunities for affected individuals and communities; and

(II) Maintaining connections to ongoing care for affected individuals.

(3) The department shall:

(a) Promulgate rules as necessary for the oversight and management of the program, including allowable uses for funding allocated from the community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response cash fund created in section 25-20.5-1303. The rules promulgated pursuant to this subsection (3)(a) must encourage geographic and socioeconomic diversity of providers.

(b) Work collaboratively with community behavioral health organizations, including community mental health centers, to:

(I) Develop and monitor the expected duties and responsibilities of response coordinators;

(II) Develop measures for preparedness capabilities and a methodology for reporting on outcomes of utilized funding and report on the outcomes of utilized funding to the general assembly, as necessary; and

(III) Decide on and annually review and update, if necessary, allowable uses for the community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response cash fund created in section 25-20.5-1303;

(c) Create, define, and publish eligibility criteria for community behavioral health organizations to participate in the program, which at a minimum must consider capabilities and capacity in the following programmatic elements:

(I) Service capacity;

(II) Planning;

(III) Response strike team availability;

(IV) Training; and

(V) Culturally and linguistically appropriate services; and

(d) Provide funding to community behavioral health organizations on an annual or as-needed basis for the activities outlined in subsection (2) of this section; except that funding must not be provided to reimburse expenses incurred prior to June 28, 2021.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1281), ch. 361, p. 2357, § 2, effective June 28. L. 2022: IP(2) amended, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1593, § 230, effective July 1, 2024.

25-20.5-1303. Community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response cash fund.

(1) The community behavioral health disaster preparedness and response cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of gifts, grants, and donations and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(3) Any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year remains in the fund and must not be transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(4) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department for the purposes described in section 25-20.5-1302.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1281), ch. 361, p. 2359, § 2, effective June 28.

PART 14

HEALTH-CARE WORKFORCE RESILIENCE AND RETENTION PROGRAM

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 22-226, see section 1 of chapter 179, Session Laws of Colorado 2022.

25-20.5-1401. Definitions.

As used in this part 14, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Community partners" means health-care providers, health-care provider trade associations, and health-care-focused nonprofit organizations.

(2) "Peer support" means programs and services that match a person with lived or occupational experience to an individual with a similar lived or occupational experience.

(3) "Pre-clinical" means nonemergency programs or services that do not require a formal referral from a primary care provider.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1185, § 2, effective May 18.

25-20.5-1402. Health-care workforce resilience and retention program - implementation - duties.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall implement the health-care workforce resilience and retention program, referred to in this section as the "program", using existing initiatives to ensure that Colorado's health-care workforce is supported in order to meet the health-care demands of Coloradans.

(2) The program is intended to support the resilience, well-being, and retention of health-care workers. Activities may include:

(a) Providing technical assistance, guidance, and funding support to community partners specific to the development of programs and services aimed at retaining health-care workers, such as best practices and strategies:

(I) That promote healthy work cultures;

(II) That promote the adoption of internal employee assistance programs;

(III) That promote external third-party support and resilience programs; and

(IV) For greater partnerships between care providers and facility and system executive leadership;

(b) Collaborative partnerships with community partners, such as the development, implementation, and evaluation of:

(I) Peer support programs and services;

(II) Pre-clinical in-person and telehealth services;

(III) Training programs; and

(IV) Recovery and resilience coaching for staff and leadership;

(c) Planning, research, and evaluation that supports the resilience, well-being, and retention of health-care workers.

(3) The department may use gifts, grants, or donations to support the program or matching funds from health-care employers.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1185, § 2, effective May 18.

25-20.5-1403. Health-care workforce resilience and retention cash fund.

(1) The health-care workforce resilience and retention cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The general assembly shall appropriate two million dollars to the fund from the economic recovery and relief cash fund created in section 24-75-228. The fund consists of gifts, grants, and donations and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(3) Any unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year remains in the fund and is not transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(4) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated to the department for the purposes described in section 25-20.5-1402.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1186, § 2, effective May 18.

25-20.5-1404. Exemption from the procurement code.

Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the program and the expenditure of money from the fund are not subject to the provisions of the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-226), ch. 179, p. 1186, § 2, effective May 18.

PART 15

HOUSE BILL 22-1326 INDEPENDENT STUDY

Editor's note: (1) Section 25-20.5-1501 (7) provided for the repeal of this part 15, effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2022, p. 1652.)

(2) This part 15 was added in 2022. For amendments to this part 15 prior to its repeal in 2025, consult the 2024 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

25-20.5-1501. (Repealed)

PART 16

OVERDOSE DETECTION MAPPING APPLICATION PROGRAM

25-20.5-1601. Overdose detection mapping application program.

On or before January 1, 2023, emergency medical service providers, emergency departments, state and local law enforcement agencies, sheriffs' offices, and coroners may participate in the web-based overdose detection mapping application program to report incidences of fatal and nonfatal drug overdoses and synthetic opiate poisonings. Emergency departments, state and local law enforcement agencies, sheriffs' offices, and coroners are encouraged to report data not more than twenty-four hours after the incident or after receiving the incident toxicology report. All incident data must be made available to the department. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, law enforcement shall not use data from the overdose detection mapping application program for welfare checks, warrant checks, or criminal investigations.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1669, § 48, effective July 1.

PART 17

OVERDOSE TRENDS REVIEW COMMITTEE

25-20.5-1701. Colorado overdose trends review committee - recommendations - report.

(1) The department shall convene interested stakeholders for the purpose of developing recommendations for the establishment of an overdose trends review committee that would be responsible for:

(a) Identifying and reviewing certain cases of nonfatal and fatal drug-related overdoses that occur in Colorado;

(b) Identifying the causes of overdoses and overdose-related deaths and conducting a review of other factors including, but not limited to, housing status or criminal justice system involvement;

(c) Developing evidence-based recommendations to address preventable overdose-related deaths, including legislation, policies, areas for scientific research, rules, training, and best practices that support the health and safety of individuals who use substances that may cause overdoses in Colorado and prevent overdose-related deaths;

(d) Making annual policy-related and funding-related recommendations to the governor and the general assembly about drug trends, including synthetic drugs that may impact the health and well-being of Coloradans and that present a high risk for causing overdose-related deaths; and

(e) Establishing a process for data sharing between state departments, counties, and other relevant entities in order to access necessary data concerning nonfatal and fatal drug-related overdoses in Colorado.

(2) In convening the interested stakeholders pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the department shall invite a variety of interested stakeholders, including public health experts, physicians, law enforcement, coroners, and persons who have experienced an overdose.

(3) On or before September 1, 2023, the department shall submit a report of its recommendations regarding the establishment of an overdose trends review committee to the joint budget committee and any substance use interim committee existing at that time.

(4) The department shall establish an overdose trends review committee by September 1, 2024.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1326), ch. 225, p. 1670, § 49, effective July 1.

PART 18

COMMUNITY PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAMS

Editor's note: This part 18 was added with relocations in 2022. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 18 see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

25-20.5-1801. Transfer of functions - employees - property - records.

(1) As of July 1, 2022, the department of public health and environment shall execute, administer, perform, and enforce the rights, powers, duties, functions, and obligations of the community prevention and early intervention programs authorized pursuant to sections 27-80-103 (2)(d), 27-80-106, 27-80-117, and 27-80-124 previously administered by the department of human services.

(2) (a) As of July 1, 2022, all employees of the department of human services whose duties and functions concerned the duties and functions assumed by the department of public health and environment pursuant to this section, and whose employment in the department of public health and environment is deemed necessary to carry out the purposes of the community prevention and early intervention programs for the department, are transferred to the department of public health and environment and become employees of the department of public health and environment.

(b) Any employees transferred to the department of public health and environment pursuant to this section who are classified employees in the state personnel system retain all rights to the personnel system and retirement benefits pursuant to the laws of this state, and their service is deemed to have been continuous. All transfers and any abolishment of positions in the state personnel system must be made and processed in accordance with state personnel system laws and rules.

(3) As of July 1, 2022, all items of property, real and personal, including office furniture and fixtures, books, documents, and records of the department of human services pertaining to the duties and functions transferred pursuant to this section, are transferred to the department of public health and environment and shall become the property of the department of public health and environment.

(4) As of July 1, 2022, whenever the department of human services or department is referred to or designated by any contract or other document in connection with the duties and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment, such reference or designation is deemed to apply to the department of public health and environment. All contracts entered into by the departments prior to July 1, 2022, in connection with the duties and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment are hereby validated, with the department of public health and environment succeeding to all rights and obligations under such contracts. As of July 1, 2022, any cash funds, custodial funds, trusts, grants, and appropriations of funds from prior state fiscal years open to satisfy obligations incurred under such contracts are transferred and appropriated to the department of public health and environment for the payment of such obligations.

(5) On and after July 1, 2022, unless otherwise specified, whenever any provision of law refers to the department of human services in connection with the duties and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment, such law must be construed as referring to the department of public health and environment.

(6) As of July 1, 2022, all rules and orders of the department of human services adopted in connection with the powers, duties, and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment shall continue to be effective until revised, amended, repealed, or nullified pursuant to law.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1484, § 2, effective July 1.

25-20.5-1802. Colorado substance use disorders prevention collaborative - created - mission - administration - report - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added with relocations, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1486, § 2, effective July 1.

Editor's note: (1) Prior to its repeal, this section was similar to former § 27-80-124 as it existed prior to 2022.

(2) Subsection (6) provided for the repeal of this section, effective September 30, 2025. (See L. 2022, p. 1486.)

PART 19

ECONOMIC MOBILITY PROGRAM

25-20.5-1901. Economic mobility program - creation - fund - reporting - legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating economic and health consequences across the state;

(b) The COVID-19 pandemic has specifically disproportionately impacted families and individuals earning low or no income and exacerbated pre-existing disparities;

(c) Economic mobility activities, such as tax credits and other investments in financial well-being, improve family resiliency and long-term health and educational outcomes for Coloradans and their families;

(d) Tax credits for families and individuals earning low or no income are associated with fewer adverse childhood events, reduced infant mortality, reduced child maltreatment, reduced trauma, and better childhood nutrition. Income from tax credits leads to benefits at virtually every stage of life, and children in families receiving the tax credits are healthier, do better in school, are more likely to attend college, and can be expected to earn more as adults.

(e) Tax credits also support local economies;

(f) Programs and services to increase awareness and uptake of assistance programs, such as tax credits available to low or no income families and individuals, will respond to the COVID-19 pandemic's negative impact in all communities; and

(g) The program created in this section and services described in this section are important government services.

(2) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall develop and implement the economic mobility program, referred to in this section as the "program", to improve health and educational outcomes associated with reduced poverty and improved economic mobility for Coloradans.

(3) (a) The economic mobility program fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is hereby created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money transferred to the fund pursuant to subsection (3)(d) of this section, all private and public money received through gifts, grants, or donations that is transmitted to the state treasurer and credited to the fund, and any other money that the general assembly may appropriate or transfer to the fund.

(b) The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.

(c) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department may expend money from the fund for implementation of the program and for the following purposes:

(I) Outreach and engagement of and by partners who have direct connections with families and low-wage individuals and with historically disadvantaged communities to promote awareness and uptake of economic supports, including tax credits;

(II) Facilitating communication, training, and technical assistance among state agency partners, public health agencies, and community-based organizations supporting economic mobility;

(III) Grants to nonprofits, local public health agencies, and other community-based organizations who assist individuals with accessing economic supports, including those providing free low-income tax filing services through internal revenue service certified volunteer income tax assistance sites;

(IV) Grants to support enhanced infrastructure to improve access to free tax filing assistance and other economic supports through development of online platforms that provide linkages to services;

(V) Development and dissemination of communications materials related to economic mobility providing information on eligibility and directing Coloradans to resources to be able to access economic supports, including tax credits;

(VI) General operating expenses and direct and indirect program costs; and

(VII) Evaluation of evidenced-based and promising practices in economic mobility strategies.

(d) On July 1, 2022, the state treasurer shall transfer four million dollars from the economic recovery and relief cash fund created in section 24-75-228 (2)(a) to the fund. Money transferred to the fund pursuant to this subsection (3)(d) is subject to the requirements for obligating and expending money received under the federal "American Rescue Plan Act of 2021", Pub.L. 117-2, as amended, and as defined in the federal treasury final rule.

(4) The department and any entity that receives money from the department shall comply with the compliance, reporting, record-keeping, and program evaluation requirements established by the office of state planning and budgeting and the state controller in accordance with section 24-75-226 (5).

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (SB 22-182), ch. 356, p. 2542, § 2, effective June 3.

PART 20

REGIONAL HEALTH CONNECTOR PROGRAM

25-20.5-2001. Regional health connector program - creation - third-party contract - department duties - rules - definitions.

(1) As used in this part 20, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Locally based host organization" means a regional organization chosen to hire and support the regional health connector in the organization's region.

(b) "Program" means the regional health connector program created in subsection (2) of this section.

(c) "Regional health connector" means a designated person hired and supported by a locally based host organization to engage in the activities described in subsection (4) of this section.

(2) There is created in the division the regional health connector program for the purpose of convening and engaging local primary care practices, other health-care providers and partners, public health agencies, and community resources to identify and address specific health-related issues and health-related social needs in communities throughout the state. The division shall administer the program, and the department shall contract with a third-party entity to coordinate and oversee the program. The division shall promote alignment between division priorities, programs and partners, the contracted entity, and locally based host organizations.

(3) Contract applicants shall demonstrate how the applicant will:

(a) Engage and coordinate with local public health agencies, the department, and other agencies and organizations, including the department of health care policy and financing, the behavioral health administration, the division of insurance in the department of regulatory agencies, the Colorado health extension system, the primary care payment reform collaborative, health-related nonprofits, and health professional organizations;

(b) Establish and align statewide and regional health goals and priorities;

(c) Hold regional health connectors accountable for meeting objectives; and

(d) Collect and report data to the division on the effectiveness of regional health connectors.

(4) The contracted entity shall distribute money appropriated pursuant to subsection (7) of this section to each locally based host organization for the regional health connector to:

(a) Identify available resources and support existing partnerships by strengthening connections between primary care and community organizations, coordinating activities to reduce fragmentation in the health system, and integrating clinical and community-based strategies to address local priorities, health equity, and social determinants of health;

(b) Work with practice transformation organizations, practice facilitators, and clinical health information technology advisors in assisting primary care practices and other care organizations to improve care;

(c) Create and support partnership development activities among practices and local and regional community-based organizations;

(d) Collaborate with regional accountable entities, community mental health centers, local public health agencies, foundation partners, and statewide organizations;

(e) Identify and assist system navigators, including care coordinators, care managers, health navigators, and community health workers; and

(f) Align with state health priorities, programs, and partners.

(5) The contracted entity may retain a percentage of the money appropriated pursuant to subsection (7) of this section for the administration of the program, and the contracted entity may subcontract with other statewide organizations and collaborate with the division to help with setting priorities and evaluating programs.

(6) The department may promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this part 20.

(7) (a) For the 2023-24 state fiscal year, the general assembly shall appropriate one million five hundred thousand dollars from the general fund to the department of higher education for use by the regents of the university of Colorado for allocation to the school of medicine for the purposes of section 23-21-901.

(b) For the 2024-25 state fiscal year, and each state fiscal year thereafter, the general assembly shall annually appropriate one million five hundred thousand dollars from the general fund to the department for use by the division for the purposes of this section.

Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1244), ch. 436, p. 2568, § 2, effective August 7.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 23-1244, see section 1 of chapter 436, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

PART 21

DISORDERED EATING PREVENTION PROGRAM

25-20.5-2101 to 25-20.5-2104. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2025: Entire part repealed, (SB 25-250), ch. 104, p. 455, § 1, effective April 24.

Editor's note: This part 21 was added in 2023 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2025. For the text of this part 21 prior to 2025, consult the 2024 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

PART 22

HEALTHY FOOD INCENTIVES PROGRAM

25-20.5-2201. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) A recent survey found that one in three Coloradans are "food insecure", that is, lacking reliable access to nutritious food;

(b) In addition, more than one in three adults living with children have reported regularly cutting back or skipping meals to allow their children to have enough to eat;

(c) Childhood hunger can have lifelong impacts, such as interfering with developmental and educational progress;

(d) Certain communities, including communities of color, seniors, and lower-income Coloradans, are prone to higher-than-average rates of food insecurity;

(e) Food security and housing security are closely related issues: Both are basic needs that a family must account for, and the two can become competing priorities on a limited budget. A family's ability to pay for food is directly related to the family's ability to pay for housing, and improving one will necessarily improve the other.

(f) Improving the capacity of existing small, local retailers to store and sell nutritious food can improve access, lower prices, and reduce food insecurity, particularly for Colorado families most at risk of food insecurity, while keeping more of the proceeds of economic activity in the local community; and

(g) Expanding the number of retailers selling fresh produce may also create new market opportunities for Colorado agricultural producers.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly determines that enacting legislation to further support existing nutrition access efforts will improve access to nutritious food for Coloradans, assist small businesses, and foster Colorado's agricultural industry.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1416), ch. 135, p. 503, § 1, effective April 29.

25-20.5-2202. Healthy food incentives program - creation - nonprofit organization.

(1) There is created the healthy food incentives program in the department to be administered by the division.

(2) The division shall partner with a statewide nonprofit organization to provide healthy food incentives that benefit Colorado's low-income populations. The incentives provided pursuant to the healthy food incentives program must attempt to improve access to fresh Colorado-grown fruits and vegetables within Colorado's low-income communities.

(3) The statewide nonprofit organization selected by the division for the partnership described in subsection (2) of this section must have experience supporting programs that provide healthy food incentives, such as programs at local farmers' markets, and experience with coordinating healthy food programs and coordinating funding between local, state, and federal programs.

(4) In providing the program incentives, both the division and the nonprofit organization shall minimize administrative expenses. The division shall not use more than ten thousand dollars of, and the nonprofit organization shall not use more than five percent of, the amount appropriated for the program to pay for administrative expenses.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (HB 24-1416), ch. 135, p. 504, § 1, effective April 29.

PART 23

LOCAL OVERDOSE FATALITY REVIEW

Editor's note: This part 23 was numbered as part 22 of article 20.5 of this title 25 in SB 24-047 but was renumbered on revision as part 23 for ease of location.

25-20.5-2301. Definitions.

As used in this part 23, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Behavioral health entity" has the same meaning as set forth in section 27-50-101 (4).

(2) "Health-care facility" means a facility licensed or certified by the department pursuant to section 25-1.5-103.

(3) "Local team" means a multidisciplinary and multiagency drug overdose fatality review team established by a local or district public health agency.

(4) "Overdose fatality review" means a process in which a multidisciplinary team performs a series of individual overdose fatality reviews to effectively identify system gaps and innovative community-specific overdose prevention and intervention strategies.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3073, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2302. Establishment of overdose fatality review teams.

(1) County or district public health agencies within the state may establish a multidisciplinary and multiagency overdose fatality review local team. A local team must be created pursuant to this part 23.

(2) Two or more counties may agree to jointly establish a single multicounty team.

(3) Multicounty or multidistrict team members shall enter into a memorandum of understanding among the counties or districts regarding team membership, staffing, and operations.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3074, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2303. Composition of overdose fatality review teams - required members - additional members - responsibilities of the chair.

(1) Each local team must consist of at least five of the following individuals, organizations, agencies, and areas of expertise, if available; except that there shall not be more than one representative from law enforcement:

(a) The county or district health officer, or the officer's designee;

(b) The director of the local department of human services, or the director's designee;

(c) The local district attorney, or the district attorney's designee;

(d) The director of behavioral health services in the county, or the director's designee;

(e) A state, county, or municipal law enforcement officer;

(f) A representative of a local jail or detention center;

(g) The local medical examiner or coroner, or their designee;

(h) A health-care provider who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders;

(i) A mental health provider who specializes in substance use disorders;

(j) A representative of an emergency medical services provider in the county;

(k) A representative from parole, probation, and community corrections;

(l) A representative from a harm reduction provider;

(m) A representative with lived or living experience; and

(n) A recovery coach, peer support worker, or other representative of the recovery community.

(2) A local team may include the following additional individuals, organizations, agencies, and areas of expertise, if available, as either permanent or auxiliary members:

(a) The local superintendent of schools, or the superintendent's designee;

(b) A representative of a local hospital;

(c) A health-care provider who specializes in emergency medicine;

(d) A health-care provider who specializes in pain management;

(e) A pharmacist with a background in prescription drug misuse and diversion;

(f) A substance use disorder treatment provider from a licensed substance use disorder treatment program;

(g) A poison control center representative;

(h) A mental health provider who is a generalist;

(i) A prescription drug monitoring program administrator;

(j) A representative from a local drug court; and

(k) Any other individual necessary for the work of the local team, recommended by the local team and appointed by the chair.

(3) (a) (I) The chair of the local team must be the county or district public health director. If the county or district public health director is unable to participate, the director may designate a person employed by the county or district health agency that houses the local team to serve as the chair of the local team.

(II) If a local team is a multicounty or multidistrict team, the members of the team may vote to appoint one of the county or district public health directors to serve as chair, or appoint the director's designee, or the county or district public health directors or designees may serve as co-chairs.

(b) The chair of the local team is responsible for the following:

(I) Soliciting and recruiting the necessary and appropriate members to serve on the local team pursuant to subsections (1) and (2) of this section;

(II) Facilitating each local team meeting and implementing the protocols and procedures of the local team;

(III) Ensuring that all members of the local team and all guest observers sign confidentiality forms;

(IV) Requesting and collecting the information needed for the local team's case review;

(V) Filling vacancies on the local team when a member is no longer able to fulfill the member's duties and obligations to the local team. When a member leaves, the member should be replaced with an individual from the same or equivalent position or discipline.

(VI) Serving as a liaison for the local team when necessary.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3074, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2304. Purposes and duties of overdose fatality review teams.

(1) (a) The purpose of each local team is to:

(I) Promote cooperation and coordination among agencies involved in the investigation of drug overdose fatalities;

(II) Develop an understanding of the causes and incidence of drug overdose fatalities in the jurisdiction where the local team operates;

(III) Plan for and recommend changes within the agencies represented on the local team to prevent drug overdose fatalities; and

(IV) Advise local, regional, and state policymakers about potential changes to law, policy, funding, or practice to prevent drug overdoses.

(b) To achieve its purpose, each local team shall:

(I) Establish and implement protocols and procedures;

(II) Conduct a multidisciplinary review of information received pursuant to section 25-20.5-2305 regarding a decedent, which shall include, but not be limited to:

(A) Consideration of the decedent's points of contact with health-care systems, social services, educational institutions, child and family services, the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, and any other systems with which the decedent had contact prior to the decedent's death; and

(B) Identification of the specific factors and social determinants of health that put the decedent at risk for an overdose;

(III) Recommend prevention and intervention strategies to improve coordination of services and investigations among member agencies to reduce overdose deaths; and

(IV) Collect, analyze, interpret, and maintain local data on overdose deaths.

(c) The local team shall aggregate all information and may not share or otherwise disseminate personally identifiable information without a signed consent form from the decedent's next of kin.

(2) Each local team shall submit an annual report to the county or district public health agency or agencies served by the local team containing de-identified information specified in subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3076, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2305. Overdose fatality review access to information - fees - disclosure - no liability for sharing records.

(1) The chair of a local team may request information from a person, agency, or entity described in subsection (2) of this section as necessary to carry out the purposes and duties of the local team that are set forth in the order, agreement, or other document establishing the local team. Subject to subsection (4) of this section, but notwithstanding any other provision of state or local law to the contrary, upon written request of the chair of a local team, a person, agency, or entity shall provide the local team with the following:

(a) If the person, agency, or entity is a health-care provider, substance use disorder treatment provider, hospital, or other health-care facility or behavioral health entity, information and records maintained by the person, agency, or entity regarding the physical health, mental health, and substance use disorder treatment for a person whose death or near death is being reviewed by the local team; and

(b) If the agency or entity is a state or local government agency or entity that provided services to a person whose death or near death is being reviewed by the local team or provided services to the family of the person, information and records maintained by the agency or entity about the person, including death investigative information, medical examiner investigative information, law enforcement investigative information, emergency medical services reports, fire department records, prosecutorial records, parole and probation information and records, court records, school records, and information and records of a department of human or social services, including the local human services and public health agencies.

(2) The following persons, agencies, or entities shall comply with a records request by the chair of a local team made pursuant to subsection (1) of this section:

(a) A coroner or medical examiner;

(b) A fire department;

(c) A health-care facility;

(d) A hospital;

(e) A state or local law enforcement agency;

(f) A state or local governmental agency, including the department of human services, including the behavioral health administration; the department of public health and environment, so long as the department of public health and environment created or holds the records and the release does not violate any agreement not to release the records; the department of law; the office of state public defender; the department of corrections; and the state board of parole;

(g) A behavioral health entity;

(h) A health-care provider;

(i) A substance use disorder treatment provider;

(j) A school, including a public or private elementary, middle, junior high, or high school, or a public or private institution of postsecondary education described in title 23, including the Auraria higher education center created in article 70 of title 23;

(k) A social services provider;

(l) Ground or air ambulance service agencies; and

(m) Any other person or entity that is in possession of records that are, as determined by the local team, pertinent to the local team's investigation of an overdose fatality.

(3) (a) A person, agency, or entity shall provide requested information to the local team within ten business days after receipt of the written request, excluding weekends and holidays, unless an extension is granted by the chair of the local team. Written requests may include a request submitted via email or facsimile transmission.

(b) A person, agency, or entity that receives a records request from a local team pursuant to this section may charge the local team a reasonable fee for the service of duplicating any records requested by the local team.

(4) The disclosure or redisclosure, in accordance with this section, of a medical record developed in connection with the provision of substance use treatment services, without the authorization of a person in interest, is subject to any limitations that exist pursuant to applicable state or federal law, including a state law listed in section 25-1-1202, 42 U.S.C. sec. 290dd-2, and 42 CFR 2.

(5) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the local team does not need an administrative subpoena or other form of legal compulsion to receive requested records.

(6) The chair of a local team, or the chair's designee, may request a person whose overdose is under review or, if deceased, the person's next of kin to sign a consent form for the release of confidential information.

(7) So long as each individual present at a local team meeting has signed the confidentiality form described in section 25-20.5-2306, any information received by the chair of the local team in response to a request under this section may be shared at a local team meeting with local team members and any nonmember attendees.

(8) A person, agency, or entity that provides information or records to a local team pursuant to this part 23 is not subject to civil or criminal liability or any professional disciplinary action pursuant to state law as a result of providing the information or record.

(9) A member of the local team may contact, interview, or obtain information by request from a family member or friend of a person whose death is being reviewed by the local team.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3077, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2306. Confidentiality - closed meetings - records not open to inspection - civil liability.

(1) Local team meetings in which confidential information is discussed are exempt from the open meetings provisions of the "Colorado Sunshine Act of 1972", part 4 of article 6 of title 24, and must be closed to the public.

(2) (a) Upon request of a local team, a person who is not a member of a local team may attend and participate in a meeting at which a local team reviews confidential information and considers a plan, an intervention, or other course of conduct based on that review.

(b) A local team member and any nonmember in attendance at a local team meeting shall sign a confidentiality form and review the purpose and goal of the local team before the person may participate in the review of confidential information. The confidentiality form must set out the requirements for maintaining the confidentiality of any information disclosed during the meeting and any penalties associated with failure to maintain confidentiality.

(3) Information and records acquired by a local team are confidential and are not subject to subpoena, discovery, or introduction into evidence in a civil or criminal proceeding or disciplinary action. Information and records that are otherwise available from other sources are not immune from subpoena, discovery, or introduction into evidence through those sources solely because the information or record was presented to or reviewed by a local team.

(4) Information and records acquired or created by a local team are not subject to inspection pursuant to the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.

(5) Substance use disorder treatment records requested or provided to the local team are subject to any additional limitations on redisclosure of a medical record developed in connection with the provisions of substance use disorder treatment services pursuant to applicable state or federal law, including a state law listed in section 25-1-1202, 42 U.S.C. sec. 290dd-2, and 42 CFR 2.

(6) Local team members and a person who presents or provides information to a local team may not be questioned in any civil or criminal proceeding or disciplinary action regarding the information presented or provided. This subsection (6) does not prevent a person from testifying regarding information obtained independently of the local team or testifying as to public information.

(7) A local team and any nonmember participating in an overdose fatality review shall maintain the confidentiality of information provided to the local team as required by state and federal law. A member of a local team or a participating nonmember who shares confidential information in violation of this section is immune from civil and criminal liability if the person acted in good faith compliance with the provisions of this part 23.

(8) A person who knowingly violates the confidentiality provisions of this part 23 is subject to a civil penalty of up to one thousand dollars.

(9) This section does not prohibit a local team from requesting the attendance at a team meeting of a person who has information relevant to the team's exercise of its purpose and duties.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3080, § 7, effective June 6.

25-20.5-2307. Prohibition against any law enforcement use.

Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, law enforcement shall not use information from any overdose fatality review for any law enforcement purpose, including surveillance, increased law enforcement presence, welfare checks, warrant checks, or criminal investigations.

Source: L. 2024: Entire part added, (SB 24-047), ch. 440, p. 3081, § 7, effective June 6.

HEALTH CARE

ARTICLE 21

Dental Care

25-21-101 to 25-21-109. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article 21 was added in 1977. For amendments to this article 21 prior to its repeal in 2016, consult the 2015 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-21-109 provided for the repeal of this article 21, effective January 1, 2016. (See L. 2014, p. 1364.)

25-21.5 ARTICLE 21.5

Children's Dental Assistance and Fluoridation Program

25-21.5-101. Short title.

25-21.5-102. Legislative declaration.

25-21.5-103. Definitions.

25-21.5-104. Oral health community grants program - oral health screening pilot program - rules - repeal.

25-21.5-105. Copayment - eligibility - children's dental plan cash fund - payment schedule. (Repealed)

25-21.5-106. Dental advisory committee - creation - repeal. (Repealed)

25-21.5-107. Donated dental services - contract. (Repealed)

25-21.5-108. Fluoridation of community water supplies - grants - rules. (Repealed)

25-21.5-109. No general fund moneys. (Repealed)

25-21.5-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Oral Health Community Grants Program Act".

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1127, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2367, § 2, effective June 5.

25-21.5-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Statewide, students miss seven million eight hundred thousand school hours each year due to oral pain. Nationwide, workers miss one hundred sixty-four million work hours each year due to dental issues.

(a.5) Untreated dental decay in children adversely affects school performance and behavior and contributes to overall physical and mental health complications for affected children.

(b) Untreated dental decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and more than half of children six years of age and older but under nine years of age have had a cavity in at least one of their primary teeth.

(c) Children in low-income schools have twice as much untreated tooth decay and are twice as likely to have a history of cavities than children who are not in low-income schools.

(c.3) Screening and prevention are essential to breaking the cycle of dental decay.

(c.5) Improved dental screening and prevention could reduce treatment costs for families and state-financed programs like the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, and the "Children's Basic Health Plan Act", article 8 of title 25.5, which cover approximately one-third of Colorado kids.

(d) Among children, ninety percent of dental decay is in the pits and fissures of posterior permanent teeth.

(e) Children who have received dental sealants in a school-based program have, for a period of up to five years, sixty percent fewer new decayed pit and fissure surfaces in their posterior permanent teeth than children who have not received an application of dental sealants.

(e.5) Improved oral health screening and prevention, with referral for treatment, would reduce chronic absenteeism and improve the health and well-being of and learning outcomes for Colorado children.

(f) Fluoride is nature's cavity fighter. Fluoride occurs naturally in almost all water sources. Since 1948, scientific research has shown that community water fluoridation can reduce the incidence of dental cavities.

(g) Community water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the level of fluoride found naturally in water to a level recommended to protect against dental decay. The centers for disease control named community water fluoridation as one of ten great public health achievements of the twentieth century.

(h) Water fluoridation is safe and provides the most cost-effective means to prevent tooth decay for persons of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.

(i) Water fluoridation is one of the most researched and cost-effective oral health interventions available, as the average cost of one dental filling can fund a lifetime of fluoridation, which is known to prevent eighteen to forty percent of cavities in both children and adults.

(2) The general assembly further finds that improving access to oral health screening, oral health-care services, and fluoridated water for all Coloradans, particularly low-income Coloradans, will reduce the burden of oral disease. Therefore, the Colorado oral health community grants program dedicates itself to improving access to oral health-care screening and services by working with public schools, community stakeholders, professional organizations, and direct recipients of oral health care to remove barriers to access to oral health care.

(3) The purpose of this article 21.5 is to promote the public health and welfare of Coloradans by providing a grant program to:

(a) Conduct oral health screening for public school children in kindergarten and third grade;

(b) Provide oral health services, including sealants, to school children; and

(c) Assist communities in attaining optimal levels of fluoride in drinking water provided by community water systems as a means of preventing dental decay.

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1127, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2367, § 3, effective June 5. L. 2024: IP(1), (1)(b), (2), and (3) amended and (1)(a.5), (1)(c.3), (1)(c.5), and (1)(e.5) added, (SB 24-142), ch. 481, p. 3370, § 1, effective June 7.

25-21.5-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 21.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Department of education" means the department of education created in section 24-1-115.

(3) "Local education provider" means a school district, a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of title 22, a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of title 22, the Colorado school for the deaf and the blind described in section 22-80-102, or a board of cooperative services created and operating pursuant to article 5 of title 22.

(4) "Oral health screener" or "screener" means a person or persons selected by the department to provide oral health screening under the oral health screening pilot program.

(5) "Oral health screening pilot program" or "pilot program" means the program to award oral health community grants for oral health screening created in section 25-21.5-104 (3).

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1128, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2006: (1) repealed, p. 49, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2010: (3)(d) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2107, § 131, effective August 11. L. 2013: (3) repealed, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2369, § 4, effective June 5. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-142), ch. 481, p. 3371, § 2, effective June 7.

25-21.5-104. Oral health community grants program - oral health screening pilot program - rules - repeal.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department shall administer a grant program to assist communities with:

(a) Screening public schoolchildren in kindergarten and third grade for dental decay pursuant to the oral health screening pilot program;

(b) Implementing population-based, evidence-based strategies, including administering school dental sealant programs, to prevent dental decay in children;

(c) Assisting water systems, operators, and personnel, including water districts, with adjusting the level of fluoride in drinking water to optimal levels as a means of preventing dental decay in both children and adults; and

(d) Other oral health evidence-based programs that the department identifies and deems eligible for assistance.

(2) Subject to criteria that the department may establish, including the types of providers to whom the department may award grants, the department shall award grants in the following categories:

(a) Oral health services that target children who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunches under the "Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1751 et seq., or who attend school in a school district whose median household income is at or below two hundred thirty-five percent of the federal poverty line. Grants awarded in this category may support the following:

(I) School-based programs that are conducted completely within the school setting;

(II) School-linked programs that are connected with schools but deliver services off-site;

(III) School-linked programs that conduct dental screenings at schools; and

(IV) Hybrid programs that incorporate school-based and school-linked components.

(b) Fluoridation support services, including:

(I) Assistance in the design, purchase, installation, maintenance, and inspection of equipment designed to add fluoride to drinking water to achieve optimal levels for the prevention of tooth decay, as determined by the federal department of health and human services;

(II) Training of water treatment personnel in the proper operation of fluoridation equipment and current water fluoridation practices; and

(III) Monitoring of fluoride content by obtaining monthly samples of finished drinking water to assure the optimal level of fluoride to prevent dental decay.

(c) Oral health screening for public schoolchildren in kindergarten and third grade pursuant to the oral health screening pilot program.

(3) (a) There is created the oral health screening pilot program to award oral health community grants to implement oral health screening for children in kindergarten and third grade. Subject to available appropriations, the department shall award at least five oral health screening grants to screeners for oral health screening activities in schools of local education providers selected by the department from among interested local education providers. The purpose of the pilot program is to:

(I) Provide oral health screening to students of local education providers in kindergarten and third grade in a manner determined by the department in conjunction with a selected local education provider and an oral health screener;

(II) Provide a student's parent or legal guardian with the result of the oral health screening, including educational resources and, for a student with identified oral health concerns, a referral to services;

(III) Collect data and information relating to oral health screening of students in order to report on:

(A) The oral health status of students in kindergarten and third grade; and

(B) The efficacy of oral health screening activities in public schools; and

(IV) Identify best practices for implementing oral health screening activities in public schools and the financial resources necessary to implement oral health screening activities statewide to all students in kindergarten and third grade not already served by an oral health screening program.

(b) (I) The department of education shall provide to each local education provider information received from the department notifying the local education provider about the opportunity to participate in the pilot program. For each local education provider that demonstrates interest in the pilot program, the department of education shall provide the department with data and information concerning the local education provider, including:

(A) The total number of students of the local education provider, the number of students in kindergarten, the number of students in third grade, and the anticipated number of students in those grades during the pilot program period;

(B) The administrative address for the local education provider, the county or counties in which the local education provider is located, and whether the local education provider is located in whole or in part in a frontier area of the state; and

(C) Whether the local education provider is classified by the department of education by size and geographic location as a small rural, rural, suburban, or urban local education provider.

(II) The department shall select local education providers in the state to participate in the pilot program from among interested local education providers that do not already have an in-school oral screening program for primary grades in any school of the local education provider. A pilot program site may include a local education provider or a school or schools of the local education provider.

(III) In selecting local education providers, the department shall include, to the extent feasible, local education providers that represent a variety of school settings, including large and small local education providers in urban, suburban, rural, and frontier areas of the state, with priority given to schools with students who are likely to experience higher rates of undetected oral health concerns.

(c) The department, in consultation with a participating local education provider, shall approve the oral health screener or screeners for a participating local education provider. At a minimum, a screener must:

(I) Have a professional credential issued by the division of professions and occupations in the department of regulatory agencies that qualifies the individual to conduct an oral health screening;

(II) Register with the department according to school-based participation criteria, as determined by the department, or be an oral health services provider at a school-based health center;

(III) Conduct a visual and manual inspection of the mouth that is performed to identify probable oral disease or other oral conditions or risk factors that may require management by oral health professionals;

(IV) Have experience delivering and managing oral health screening with reliable and consistent results;

(V) Have the ability to report screening outcomes for students, including expedited referrals for emergent oral health concerns, and provide educational resources and referrals for identified oral health concerns; and

(VI) Collect and report relevant pilot program data to the department for purposes of oral health disease surveillance and pilot program evaluation.

(d) An oral health screening must:

(I) Be conducted at the participating local education provider in the manner prescribed by the department;

(II) Be conducted by a screener who meets the requirements of subsection (3)(c) of this section; and

(III) Utilize an evidence-based screening tool to conduct the oral health screening as described in subsection (3)(e) of this section.

(e) The department shall select one or more appropriate screening tools for use by screeners that:

(I) Ensure consistent and comparable data collection that supports the evaluation of pilot program effectiveness, longitudinal assessment of child oral health in the aggregate, and proposals for the design and financing of an expanded oral health school screening program;

(II) Accurately and reliably identify students at risk of dental decay;

(III) Are developmentally appropriate; and

(IV) Are economical to administer in time and cost.

(f) A participating local education provider shall provide written notice to a student's parent or legal guardian, as determined by the department and the local education provider, that oral health screening will be conducted at the school. At a minimum, the written notice must include:

(I) The purpose of the screening;

(II) The screener selected to conduct the oral health screening;

(III) A statement that the parent or legal guardian will be notified following any oral health screening if additional resources or service referrals are necessary to address any concerns regarding the student's oral health; and

(IV) A statement notifying the parent or legal guardian that the parent or legal guardian has the right to refuse participation by the student in the oral health screening, for no reason or because the student has received an oral health screening within the six-month period preceding the date of the oral health screening, and that provides information on how to refuse participation by the student in the oral health screening.

(g) If, after conducting the oral health screening, the screener believes that a student is in need of immediate attention from an oral health professional, the screener shall promptly notify the student's parent or legal guardian and the local education provider.

(h) Personally identifiable information collected for or by the screener is subject to the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended. The screener is the custodian of all records associated with the oral health screening. The screener shall not disclose records or information without written consent from a student's parent or legal guardian. All parties subject to the requirements of this section shall comply with all applicable requirements of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 794, as amended; Title VI of the federal "Civil Rights Act of 1964", 42 U.S.C. sec. 2000d et seq., as amended; and the federal "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1232g, as amended.

(i) The department shall work with the department of health care policy and financing to identify a process for reimbursement, as provided under state and federal law, for an oral health screening provided to a student covered by the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5.

(j) After completing oral health screening at a pilot program site during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years, no later than July 31, 2025, and July 31, 2026, respectively, a screener shall provide the department with the following data and information for purposes of evaluating the effectiveness of the pilot program during the applicable school year in achieving the purposes of the pilot program identified in subsection (3)(a) of this section:

(I) (A) The grades screened at each school;

(B) The number of students screened at each school;

(C) The number of students that were not screened due to refusal by the student's parent or legal guardian and the reason for the refusal, if specified;

(D) The total hours of oral health screening at each school of the local education provider and the associated cost of the screening;

(E) Oral health screening data from each school, by student; and

(F) Any other data or information, as determined by the department, that is relevant to the evaluation of the pilot program; and

(II) Any other data or information provided by the screener concerning best practices identified during implementation of the pilot program and relating to statewide implementation of oral health screening in kindergarten and third grade.

(k) The department shall promulgate rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24 as necessary to implement the pilot program.

(l) No later than January 15, 2027, the department shall submit a written report to the health and human services committees and the education committees of the house of representatives and of the senate, or their successor committees, and to the department of education concerning the implementation and outcomes of the pilot program and best practices for expanding future oral health screening activities in kindergarten and third grade based on the data collected through the pilot program, as well as other relevant information that the department has collected through other oral health screening activities.

(m) This subsection (3) is repealed, effective July 1, 2031.

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1128, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2006: (2) amended, p. 49, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2009: (3) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1972, § 91, effective August 5. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2369, § 5, effective June 5. L. 2024: (1) amended and (2)(c) and (3) added, (SB 24-142), ch. 481, p. 3372, § 3, effective June 7.

25-21.5-105. Copayment - eligibility - children's dental plan cash fund - payment schedule. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1129, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2006: (3) amended, p. 49, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2370, § 6, effective June 5.

25-21.5-106. Dental advisory committee - creation - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1129, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2006: Entire section repealed, p. 49, § 4, effective July 1.

25-21.5-107. Donated dental services - contract. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1130, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2370, § 6, effective June 5.

25-21.5-108. Fluoridation of community water supplies - grants - rules. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1130, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2370, § 6, effective June 5.

25-21.5-109. No general fund moneys. (Repealed)

Source: L. 97: Entire article added, p. 1131, § 1, effective May 28. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (SB 13-261), ch. 404, p. 2370, § 6, effective June 5.

ARTICLE 22

State Loan Repayment Program

25-22-101 to 25-22-104. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire article repealed, p. 2109, § 3, effective June 4.

Editor's note: This article was added in 1991 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2007. For the text of this article prior to 2007, consult the 2006 Colorado Revised Statutes.

ARTICLE 23

Dental Loan Repayment Program

25-23-101. Legislative declaration.

25-23-102. Definitions.

25-23-103. State loan repayment program for dentists and dental hygienists serving underserved populations - creation - conditions.

25-23-104. State dental loan repayment and oral health programs fund - acceptance of grants and donations.

25-23-105. Board - rule-making authority.

25-23-106. Reporting - repeal.

25-23-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) As resolved in the 2000 legislative session, children's oral health remains a priority for health equity in Colorado;

(b) Oral health equity for children can be advanced by improved access to care, but also through evidenced-based prevention activities;

(c) Dentists and dental hygienists are critical partners in addressing the oral health-care needs of children and underserved Coloradans in rural and low-income communities;

(d) However, Colorado communities often encounter difficulty recruiting and retaining dental professionals to serve these communities;

(e) Many dental health professionals, particularly dentists, graduate with large education loans needed to finance their professional education;

(f) Further, dental care is provided predominantly through individual and small group practices, which can limit the opportunity for dental health professionals to provide a substantial volume of oral heath services at reduced cost while still maintaining revenues necessary to support the fixed costs of operating a dental practice; and

(g) When partnered with the state, dental health professionals provide access to oral health care for people in need of services, and reducing the education loan debt of these professionals ensures they have more resources to care for underserved children and communities.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that Colorado will continue its commitment to provide support to dental health professionals who request education loan repayment and to also use funds to support children's oral health through community public health interventions.

Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 923, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2022: Entire section R&RE, (HB 22-1292), ch. 186, p. 1247, § 1, effective May 18.

25-23-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 23, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Board" means the state board of health.

(2) "Eligible dental professional" means a person who is:

(a) A dentist licensed in Colorado pursuant to article 220 of title 12; or

(b) A dental hygienist licensed in Colorado pursuant to article 220 of title 12.

(3) "Loan repayment assistance" means financial assistance in paying all or part of the principal, interest, and other related expenses of a loan for professional education in either dentistry or dental hygiene, whichever is appropriate.

(4) "Master settlement agreement" means the master settlement agreement, the smokeless tobacco master settlement agreement, and the consent decree approved and entered by the court in the case denominated State of Colorado, ex rel. Gale A. Norton, Attorney General v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.; American Tobacco Co., Inc.; Brown &Williamson Tobacco Corp.; Liggett & Myers, Inc.; Lorillard Tobacco Co., Inc.; Philip Morris, Inc.; United States Tobacco Co.; B.A.T. Industries, P.L.C.; The Council For Tobacco Research--U.S.A., Inc.; and Tobacco Institute, Inc., Case No. 97 CV 3432, in the district court for the city and county of Denver.

(5) "Underserved population" includes but is not limited to:

(a) Individuals eligible for medical assistance under articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S.;

(b) Individuals enrolled in the children's basic health plan pursuant to article 8 of title 25.5, C.R.S.;

(c) Repealed.

(d) Individuals who are provided services by a dental professional and who are charged fees on a sliding scale based upon income or who are served without charge.

Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 924, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2006: (5)(a) to (5)(c) amended, p. 2015, § 92, effective July 1. L. 2019: IP and (2) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1705, § 169, effective October 1. L. 2024: (5)(c)(II) added by revision, (HB 24-1399), ch. 76, pp. 256, 260 §§ 19, 33.

Editor's note: Subsection (5)(c)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (5)(c), effective July 1, 2025. (See L. 2024, pp. 256, 260.)

25-23-103. State loan repayment program for dentists and dental hygienists serving underserved populations - creation - conditions.

(1) Subject to available appropriations, the department of public health and environment shall develop and maintain a state dental loan repayment program in which the state agrees to pay all or part of the principal, interest, and related expenses of the educational loans of each eligible dental professional. The department of public health and environment shall operate the program in cooperation with other health professional loan repayment programs.

(2) A dental professional is eligible for loan repayment assistance if the dental professional meets at least one of the following criteria:

(a) The dental professional is employed by a federally qualified health center, as defined in the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395x (aa)(4);

(b) The dental professional owns or is employed by a practice that remains open to new clients enrolled in the medicaid program or the children's basic health plan program;

(c) The dental professional owns or is employed by a practice that provides a significant level of service to underserved populations as defined in rule by the board; or

(d) The dental professional provides, on a pro bono basis, a significant level of service to underserved populations.

(3) Loan repayments shall be available to eligible dental professionals on an annual basis, however, an eligible dental professional shall enter into a contract, as a condition of qualifying for the loan repayment assistance, in which the dental professional agrees to provide care to underserved populations for a minimum of two years. The department of public health and environment shall enter into contracts with eligible dental professionals on or after April 1, 2002.

(4) The board may establish the total amount of annual financial assistance available under the loan repayment program to any dental professional in order to promote recruitment and retention of a dental professional. Any contracts for loan repayment shall include reasonable penalties for breach of contract. In the event of a breach of contract for a loan repayment entered into pursuant to this article, the department of public health and environment shall be responsible for enforcing the contract and collecting any damages or other penalties owed.

(5) Nothing in this article shall be interpreted to create a legal entitlement to loan repayment assistance. The amount of assistance available is limited by available appropriations.

(6) The department of public health and environment may apply for any available matching federal funds on behalf of an eligible dental professional and shall use such federal funds to provide all or part of the financing for loan repayment for an eligible dental professional.

(7) Repealed.

Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 925, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2003: (7) amended, p. 2008, § 86, effective May 22. L. 2005: (7) repealed, p. 288, § 37, effective August 8. L. 2020: (2)(a) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 288, § 25, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-23-104. State dental loan repayment and oral health programs fund - acceptance of grants and donations.

(1) (a) The state dental loan repayment and oral health programs fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is hereby created in the state treasury.

(b) The fund consists of money appropriated by the general assembly to the fund, money transferred to the fund pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, and any matching funds or contributions received from public or private sources. Matching funds or contributions received from public or private sources shall be transmitted to the treasurer, who shall credit the money to the fund.

(c) At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund remains in the fund and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(d) Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the department of public health and environment may expend money from the fund to provide loan repayment assistance to eligible dental professionals and to fund oral health programs administered by the department of public health and environment. Money in the fund may also be used to pay for the administrative costs of the department of public health and environment to implement the loan repayment program and oral health programs administered by the department of public health and environment; except that administrative costs shall not exceed ten percent of the money in the fund.

(2) (a) Pursuant to section 24-75-1104.5 (1.7)(m), for fiscal year 2016-17 and for each fiscal year thereafter so long as the state receives money pursuant to the master settlement agreement, the state treasurer shall transfer to the state dental loan repayment and oral health programs fund one percent of the money received by the state pursuant to the master settlement agreement for the preceding fiscal year.

(b) The state treasurer shall transfer to the fund the amount specified in subsection (2)(a) of this section from money credited to the tobacco litigation settlement cash fund created in section 24-22-115. Money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the purposes of this article 23 and oral health programs administered by the department of public health and environment. The amount appropriated pursuant to this subsection (2) is in addition to and not in replacement of any general fund money appropriated to the fund.

(3) The department of public health and environment is authorized to receive contributions, grants, and services from public and private sources to carry out the purposes of this article.

Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 926, § 1, effective June 4. L. 2003: (2) amended, p. 464, § 8, effective March 5; (2) amended, p. 2564, § 6, effective June 5. L. 2004: (2) amended, p. 1711, § 10, effective June 4. L. 2006: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1037, § 7, effective May 25. L. 2015: (1) amended, (SB 15-264), ch. 259, p. 962, § 78, effective August 5. L. 2016: (2) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 468, § 17, effective July 1. L. 2020: (2) amended, (HB 20-1380), ch. 170, p. 782, § 3, effective June 29. L. 2022: (1) and (2) amended, (HB 22-1292), ch. 186, p. 1248, § 3, effective May 18.

25-23-105. Board - rule-making authority.

The board is authorized to promulgate rules necessary to implement the loan repayment program authorized in this article, including determining the amount of financial assistance available; establishing the criteria in section 25-23-103 (2) for loan repayment assistance and the criteria for determining what constitutes a significant level of service to underserved populations for purposes of qualifying for loan repayment assistance; and establishing criteria for prioritizing the repayment of loans if there are insufficient moneys in the state dental loan repayment fund.

Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 927, § 1, effective June 4.

25-23-106. Reporting - repeal.

(1) On or before October 1, 2023, and on or before each October 1 thereafter through October 1, 2028, the department of public health and environment shall report to the joint budget committee for the preceding state fiscal year:

(a) (I) The money allocated to the state dental loan repayment program;

(II) The number of qualified dental professionals who applied to the dental loan repayment program; and

(III) The number of qualified dental professionals who received a contract for loan repayment assistance; and

(b) The proportion of money appropriated from the state dental loan repayment and oral health programs fund for oral health programs, reported by, as applicable:

(I) Use;

(II) County;

(III) Patients served, including payer source; and

(IV) The process for allocating funding.

(2) The October 1, 2023, report must also include the information required in subsection (1) of this section for the 2021-22 state fiscal year.

(3) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2029.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (HB 22-1292), ch. 186, p. 1249, § 4, effective May 18.

ARTICLE 25

Colorado Health Facilities Authority

25-25-101. Short title.

25-25-102. Legislative declaration.

25-25-103. Definitions.

25-25-104. Colorado health facilities authority - creation - membership - appointment - terms - vacancies - removal.

25-25-105. Organization meeting - chair - executive director - surety bond - conflict of interest.

25-25-106. Meetings of board - quorum - expenses.

25-25-107. General powers of authority.

25-25-108. Acquisition of property.

25-25-109. Notes.

25-25-110. Bonds.

25-25-111. Negotiability of bonds.

25-25-112. Security for bonds and notes.

25-25-113. Personal liability.

25-25-114. Purchase.

25-25-115. Procedure concerning issuance of bonds.

25-25-116. Trust agreement to secure bonds.

25-25-117. Payment of bonds - nonliability of state.

25-25-118. Exemption from taxation - securities law.

25-25-119. Rents and charges.

25-25-120. Fees.

25-25-121. Conveyance of title - release of lien.

25-25-122. Investment of funds.

25-25-123. Proceeds as trust funds.

25-25-124. Agreement of state not to limit or alter rights of obligees.

25-25-125. Enforcement of rights of bondholders.

25-25-126. Bonds eligible for investment.

25-25-127. Account of activities - receipts for expenditures - report - audit.

25-25-128. Federal social security act.

25-25-129. Powers of authority not restricted - law complete in itself.

25-25-130. Powers in addition to those granted by other laws.

25-25-131. Annual report.

25-25-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Health Facilities Authority Act".

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1304, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that, for the benefit of the people of the state of Colorado and the improvement of their health, welfare, and living conditions:

(a) It is essential that the people of this state have adequate medical care and health facilities;

(b) It is important that medical care and health facilities are made readily available by networks and organizations of health institutions, whether such networks and organizations are located within the state of Colorado or have facilities located both within and outside the state of Colorado;

(c) It is a benefit to the people of the state of Colorado to serve such multistate institutions, as such service will create health-care-related employment opportunities;

(d) It is essential that health institutions that have headquarters in Colorado or that operate or manage health facilities in Colorado, and affiliates of such health institutions, be provided with appropriate additional means to assist in the development and maintenance of public health, health care, hospitals, and related facilities wherever such health institutions are located in order that they can provide more adequate medical care and health facilities to the people of Colorado;

(e) It is the purpose of this article to provide a measure of assistance to enable health institutions in the state to refund or refinance outstanding indebtedness incurred for health facilities and to provide additional facilities and structures that are greatly needed to accomplish the purposes of this article; and

(f) The exemption of bonds and notes issued pursuant to this article from all taxation and assessments in the state of Colorado benefit only the residents of the state of Colorado.

(2) It is the intent of the general assembly to create the Colorado health facilities authority to lend money to health institutions and to authorize the authority to acquire, construct, reconstruct, repair, alter, improve, extend, own, lease, and dispose of properties so that the authority may be able to promote the health and welfare of the people of this state and develop health-care-related employment opportunities for the people of this state. In enacting this article, it is the intent of the general assembly to vest the authority with the powers necessary to accomplish these purposes. However, it is not the intent of the general assembly to authorize the authority to operate a health facility.

(3) This article shall be liberally construed to accomplish the intentions expressed in this section.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1304, § 1, effective July 1. L. 97: Entire section amended, p. 418, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 410, § 1, effective August 3.

25-25-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Authority" means the Colorado health facilities authority created by this article.

(2) "Board" means the board of directors of the authority.

(3) "Bond", "note", "bond anticipation note", or "other obligation" means any bond, note, debenture, interim certificate, or other evidence of financial indebtedness issued by the authority pursuant to this article, including refunding bonds.

(4) "Bond resolution" means the resolution authorizing the issuance of, or providing terms and conditions related to, bonds issued under the provisions of this article and includes any trust agreement, trust indenture, indenture of mortgage, or deed of trust providing terms and conditions for such bonds.

(5) "Costs", as applied to facilities financed in whole or in part under the provisions of this article, means and includes the sum total of all reasonable or necessary costs incidental to:

(a) The acquisition, construction, reconstruction, repair, alteration, equipment, enlargement, improvement, and extension of such facilities; and

(b) The acquisition of all lands, structures, real or personal property, rights, rights-of-way, franchises, easements, and interest acquired, necessary, or used for, or useful for or in connection with, a facility; and

(c) All other undertakings that the authority deems reasonable or necessary for the development of a facility, including, without limitation, the cost of or for:

(I) Studies and surveys;

(II) Land title and mortgage guaranty policies;

(III) Plans, specifications, and architectural and engineering services;

(IV) Legal, accounting, organization, marketing, or other special services;

(V) Financing, acquisition, demolition, construction, equipment, and site development of new and rehabilitated buildings;

(VI) Rehabilitation, reconstruction, repair, or remodeling of existing buildings; and

(VII) All other necessary and incidental expenses, including working capital and an initial bond and interest reserve funds, together with interest on bonds issued to finance such facilities to the extent permitted under applicable federal tax law.

(6) (a) "Health facility" or "facility", in the case of a participating health institution, means any structure or building, whether such structure or building is located within the state or whether such structure or building is located outside the state if an out-of-state health institution that operates or manages such structure or building, or an affiliate of such institution, also operates or manages a health facility within this state, suitable for use as a hospital, clinic, nursing home, home for the aged or infirm, or other health-care facility; laboratory; pharmacy; laundry; nurses', doctors', or interns' residences; administration building; research facility; maintenance, storage, or utility facility; auditorium; dining hall; food service and preparation facility; mental or physical health-care facility; dental care facility; nursing school; medical or dental teaching facility; mental or physical health facilities related to any such structure or facility; or any other structure or facility required or useful for the operation of a health institution, including but not limited to offices, parking lots and garages, and other supporting service structures; and any equipment, furnishings, appurtenances, or other assets, tangible or intangible, including but not limited to assets related to the medical practice of a health-care professional, that are necessary or useful in the development, establishment, or operation of a participating health institution; and the acquisition, preparation, and development of all real and personal property necessary or convenient as a site or sites for any such structure or facility.

(b) "Health facility" or "facility" does not include the following:

(I) Food, fuel, supplies, or other items that are customarily considered as a current operating expense or charges;

(II) Property used or to be used primarily for sectarian instruction or study or as a place for devotional activities or religious worship; or

(III) Property used or to be used primarily in connection with any part of a program of a school or department of divinity of any religious denomination.

(7) (a) "Health institution" means a limited liability company controlled directly or indirectly by one or more nonprofit entities, a private nonprofit hospital, corporation, association, or institution, or a public hospital or institution authorized or permitted by law, whether directly or indirectly through one or more affiliates, to provide, operate, or manage one or more health facilities in this state or outside this state if such entity, or an affiliate of such entity, also operates or manages a health facility within this state.

(b) "Health institution" also includes a cooperative hospital service organization, as described in section 501 (e) of the "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended, or a similar corporation, whether or not such corporation is exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to said section 501 (e).

(c) (I) "Health institution" also includes a network of health-care providers, however organized; an integrated health-care delivery system; a joint venture or partnership between or among health-care providers; a health-care purchasing alliance; health insurers and third-party administrators that are participants in a system, network, joint venture, or partnership that provides health services; an organization whose primary purpose is to provide supporting services to one or more health institutions; or a health-care provider or such other health-care-related organization, or an affiliate of such organization, whose regional or national headquarters are located in this state.

(II) In order to be a health institution, a network, system, joint venture, partnership, alliance, provider, or organization described in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (c) shall be a nonprofit entity or controlled by one or more nonprofit entities.

(7.5) "Participating health institution" means a health institution that undertakes the financing and construction or acquisition of health facilities or undertakes the refunding or refinancing of outstanding obligations in accordance with this article.

(8) "Refinancing of outstanding obligations" means liquidation, with the proceeds of bonds or notes issued by the authority, of any indebtedness of a participating health institution incurred prior to, on, or after July 1, 1977, to finance or aid in financing a lawful purpose of such health institution not financed pursuant to this article which would constitute a facility had it been undertaken and financed by the authority, or consolidation of such indebtedness with indebtedness of the authority incurred for a facility related to the purpose for which the indebtedness of the health institution was initially incurred.

(9) "Revenues" means, with respect to facilities, the rents, fees, charges, interest, principal repayments, and other income received or to be received by the authority from any source on account of such facilities.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1305, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (5), (6)(a), and (7)(a) amended, p. 1075, § 1, effective May 25. L. 95: (6)(a) and (7)(a) amended, p. 573, § 1, effective July 1. L. 97: (6)(a) and (7)(a) amended, p. 419, § 2, effective August 6. L. 2007: (5) to (7) amended and (7.5) added, p. 411, § 2, effective August 3.

25-25-104. Colorado health facilities authority - creation - membership - appointment - terms - vacancies - removal.

(1) There is hereby created an independent public body politic and corporate to be known as the Colorado health facilities authority. Said authority is constituted a public instrumentality, and its exercise of the powers conferred by this article shall be deemed and held to be the performance of an essential public function. The authority shall be a body corporate and a political subdivision of the state and shall not be an agency of state government and shall not be subject to administrative direction by any department, commission, board, or agency of the state.

(2) The governing body of the authority is a board of directors, which consists of seven members appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate. The members shall be residents of the state. No more than four of the members may be affiliated with the same political party. Members of the board shall be appointed for terms of four years; except that the terms shall be staggered so that no more than three members' terms expire in the same year. Each member shall serve until the member's resignation or, in the case of a member whose term has expired, until a successor has been appointed. Any member shall be eligible for reappointment. The governor shall fill any vacancy by appointment for the remainder of an unexpired term.

(3) (a) Any member of the board may be removed by the governor for misfeasance, malfeasance, willful neglect of duty, or other cause.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (3), a member shall be removed by the governor if such member fails, for reasons other than temporary mental or physical disability or illness, to attend three regular meetings of the board during any twelve-month period without the board having entered upon its minutes an approval for any of such absences.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1306, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (3) amended, p. 1076, § 2, effective May 25. L. 83: (2) amended, p. 1109, § 1, effective May 25. L. 87: (2) amended, p. 911, § 23, effective June 15. L. 2022: (2) and (3)(a) amended, (SB 22-013), ch. 2, p. 61, § 84, effective February 25.

Cross references: For limitation on issuance of private activity bonds, see part 17 of article 32 of title 24; for the provisions which designate the Colorado health facilities authority as a "special purpose authority" for the purposes of § 20 of article X of the state constitution, see § 24-77-102 (15).

25-25-105. Organization meeting - chair - executive director - surety bond - conflict of interest.

(1) A member of the board, designated by the governor, shall call and convene the initial organizational meeting of the board and shall serve as its chair pro tempore. At such meeting, appropriate bylaws shall be presented for adoption. The board's bylaws may provide for the election or appointment of officers, the delegation of certain powers and duties, and such other matters as the authority deems proper. At such meeting and annually thereafter, the board shall elect one of its members as chair and one as vice-chair. It shall appoint an executive director and, if desired, an associate executive director and any other officer designated by the board, who shall not be members of the board and who shall serve at its pleasure. They shall receive such compensation for their services as shall be fixed by the board.

(2) The executive director, the associate executive director, or any other person designated by the board shall keep a record of the board's proceedings and shall be custodian of all books, documents, and papers filed with the board, the minute books or journal, and the official seal of the authority. This person may make copies of the minutes and other records and documents of the board and may certify under the official seal of the authority that such copies are true copies. All persons dealing with the authority may rely on such certifications.

(3) The board may delegate, by resolution, to one or more of its members or to its executive director, associate executive director, or any other officer designated by the board, such powers and duties as it may deem proper.

(4) (a) Before the issuance of any bonds under this article, the executive director, associate executive director, and any other officer designated by the board shall each execute a surety bond in the penal sum of one hundred thousand dollars, and each member of the board shall execute a surety bond in the penal sum of fifty thousand dollars.

(b) In lieu of the surety bonds required by paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the chair of the board may execute a blanket bond covering each member, the executive director, the associate executive director, and the employees or other officers of the authority.

(c) Each surety bond shall be conditioned upon the faithful performance of the duties of the office or offices covered and shall be executed by a surety authorized to transact business in this state as surety. The cost of each such bond shall be paid by the authority.

(5) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, it shall not constitute a conflict of interest for a trustee, director, officer, or employee of any health institution, financial institution, investment banking firm, brokerage firm, commercial bank or trust company, architecture firm, insurance company, or other firm, person, or corporation to serve as a member of the board; except that such trustee, director, officer, or employee shall disclose such interest to the board and shall abstain from deliberation, action, and voting by the board in each instance where the business affiliation of any such trustee, director, officer, or employee is involved.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1307, § 1, effective July 1. L. 78: (5) R&RE, p. 435, § 1, effective April 28. L. 79: (1) amended and (5) R&RE, p. 1076, 1079, §§ 3, 1, effective May 25. L. 2007: (1) to (4) amended, p. 413, § 3, effective August 3.

25-25-106. Meetings of board - quorum - expenses.

(1) Four members of the board shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of conducting business and exercising its powers. Action may be taken by the board upon the affirmative vote of at least four of its members. A vacancy in the membership of the board shall not impair the right of a quorum of the board to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the board.

(2) Each meeting of the board for any purpose whatsoever shall be open to the public. Notice of meetings shall be as provided in the bylaws of the authority. One or more members of the board may participate in a meeting of the board or a committee of the board and may vote on resolutions presented at the meeting through the use of telecommunications devices, including, but not limited to, a conference telephone or similar communications equipment. Participation through telecommunications devices shall constitute presence in person at the meeting. The use of telecommunications devices shall not supersede any requirements for public hearing otherwise provided by law. Resolutions need not be published or posted, but resolutions and all proceedings and other acts of the board shall be a public record.

(3) Members of the board shall receive no compensation for services but shall be entitled to the necessary expenses, including traveling and lodging expenses, incurred in the discharge of their official duties. Any payments for expenses shall be paid from funds of the authority.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1308, § 1, effective July 1. L. 91: (2) amended, p. 901, § 1, effective April 19. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 414, § 4, effective August 3.

25-25-107. General powers of authority.

(1) In addition to any other powers granted to the authority by this article, the authority shall have the following powers:

(a) To have perpetual existence and succession as a body politic and corporate;

(b) To adopt and from time to time amend or repeal bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business, consistent with the provisions of this article;

(c) To sue and be sued;

(d) To have and to use a seal and to alter the same at pleasure;

(e) To maintain an office at such place or places as it may designate;

(f) To determine, in accordance with the provisions of this article, the location and character of any facility to be financed under the provisions of this article; to acquire, construct, reconstruct, renovate, improve, alter, replace, maintain, repair, operate, and lease as lessee or lessor; to enter into contracts for any and all of such purposes and for the management and operation of a facility; and to designate a participating health institution as its agent to determine the location and character of a facility undertaken by such participating health institution under the provisions of this article and, as agent of the authority, to acquire, construct, reconstruct, renovate, replace, alter, improve, maintain, repair, operate, lease as lessee or lessor, and regulate the same, and, as agent of the authority, to enter into contracts for any and all of such purposes including contracts for the management and operation of such facility;

(g) To lease to a participating health institution any or all of the facilities upon such terms and conditions as the authority shall deem proper; to charge and collect rent therefor and to terminate any such lease upon the failure of the lessee to comply with any of the obligations thereof; and to include in any such lease, if desired, provisions that the lessee thereof shall have options to renew the term of the lease for such period or periods, at such rent, and upon such terms or conditions as shall be determined by the authority or to purchase any or all of the facilities, or provisions that, upon payment of all of the indebtedness incurred by the authority for the financing of such facilities, the authority will convey any or all of the facilities to the lessee or lessees thereof with or without consideration;

(h) To borrow money and to issue bonds, notes, bond anticipation notes, or other obligations for any of its corporate purposes and to fund or refund the same, all as provided for in this article;

(i) To establish rules and regulations and to designate a participating health institution as its agent to establish such rules and regulations, for the use of the facilities undertaken or operated by such participating health institution; to employ or contract for consulting engineers, architects, attorneys, accountants, construction and financial experts, superintendents, managers, and such other employees and agents as may be necessary in its judgment and to fix their compensation;

(j) To receive and accept from the federal government, the state of Colorado, or any other public agency loans, grants, or contributions for or in aid of the construction of facilities or any portion thereof, or for equipping the same, and to receive and accept grants, gifts, or other contributions from any source; and to use such funds only for the purposes for which they were loaned, contributed, or granted;

(k) To mortgage or pledge all or any portion of the facilities and the site or sites thereof, whether then owned or thereafter acquired, for the benefit of the holders of bonds issued to finance such facilities or any portion thereof;

(l) To make mortgage or other secured or unsecured loans to any participating health institution for the cost of the facilities in accordance with an agreement between the authority and such participating health institution; but no such loan shall exceed the total cost of such facilities as determined by such participating health institution and approved by the authority;

(m) To make mortgage loans or other secured or unsecured loans to a participating health institution; to refund outstanding obligations, mortgages, or advances issued, made, or given by such institution for the cost of its facilities, including the issuance of bonds and the making of loans to a participating health institution; and to refinance outstanding obligations and indebtedness incurred for facilities undertaken and completed prior to, on, or after July 1, 1977, when the authority makes a finding consistent with section 25-25-115 (1);

(n) To obtain, or aid in obtaining, from any department or agency of the United States or of this state or any private company, any insurance or guarantee as to, or of, or for the payment or repayment of interest or principal, or both, or any part thereof, on any loan, lease, or obligation or any instrument evidencing or securing the same, made or entered into pursuant to the provisions of this article; and, notwithstanding any other provisions of this article, to enter into any agreement, contract, or any other instrument whatsoever with respect to any such insurance or guarantee, to accept payment in such manner and form as provided therein in the event of default by a participating health institution, and to assign any such insurance or guarantee as security for the authority's bonds;

(o) To do all things necessary and convenient to carry out the purposes of this article;

(p) To charge to and equitably apportion among participating health institutions its administrative costs and expenses incurred in the exercise of the powers granted and duties conferred by this article;

(q) To make and execute contracts and all other instruments necessary or convenient for the exercise of its powers and functions under this article;

(r) To assist, coordinate, and participate with other issuers of tax-exempt bonds and public officials in other states in connection with financing on behalf of a multistate health institution;

(s) In connection with financing on behalf of a multistate health institution:

(I) To determine or agree upon who will be assisting, coordinating, or participating issuers of tax-exempt bonds in other states;

(II) To determine or agree upon what the terms or conditions of the financing will be with assisting, coordinating, or participating issuers of tax-exempt bonds in other states; and

(III) To charge fees to, apportion fees among, or agree upon fees with assisting, coordinating, or participating issuers of tax-exempt bonds in other states.

(2) The authority shall not have the power to operate the facilities as a business other than as a lessee or lessor. Notwithstanding anything contained in this subsection (2) to the contrary, the authority shall have the power to enter into leases which are annually renewable with a public hospital or institution. Any lease of the facilities entered into pursuant to the provisions of this article shall provide for rentals adequate to pay principal and interest on any bonds issued to finance such facilities as the same fall due and to create and maintain such reserves and accounts for depreciation as the authority shall determine to be necessary.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1308, § 1, effective July 1. L. 81: (2) amended, p. 1363, § 1, effective July 1. L. 83: (2) amended, p. 1110, § 2, effective May 25. L. 97: (1)(r) and (1)(s) added, p. 420, § 3, effective August 6. L. 2007: (1)(m) amended, p. 415, § 5, effective August 3.

25-25-108. Acquisition of property.

The authority may, directly or by or through a participating health institution as its agent, acquire by purchase, lease, gift, devise, or otherwise such lands, structures, real or personal property, rights-of-way, franchises, easements, and other interests in lands, including lands lying under water and riparian rights which are located within or without the state, as it may deem necessary or convenient for the construction, acquisition, or operation of facilities, upon such terms as may be considered by the authority to be reasonable, and may take title thereto in the name of the authority or in the name of such participating health institution as its agent.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1310, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-109. Notes.

The authority may issue from time to time its negotiable notes for any corporate purpose, including the payment of all or any part of the cost of any facility, and may renew from time to time any notes by the issuance of new notes, whether the notes to be renewed have or have not matured. The authority may issue notes partly to renew notes or to discharge other obligations then outstanding and partly for any other purpose. The notes may be authorized, sold, executed, and delivered in the same manner as bonds. Any resolution or resolutions authorizing notes of the authority or any issue thereof may contain any provisions which the authority is authorized to include in any resolution or resolutions authorizing bonds of the authority or any issue thereof, and the authority may include in any notes any terms, covenants, or conditions which it is authorized to include in any bonds. All such notes shall be payable from the proceeds of bonds or renewal notes or from the revenues of the authority or other moneys available therefor and not otherwise pledged, subject only to any contractual rights of the holders of any of its notes or other obligations then outstanding.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1310, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-110. Bonds.

(1) The authority may issue from time to time its bonds in such principal amount as the authority shall determine for the purpose of financing all or a part of the cost of any health institutions or any facilities authorized by this article or for the refinancing of outstanding obligations. In anticipation of the sale of such bonds, the authority may issue bond anticipation notes and may renew the same from time to time. Such notes shall be paid from any revenues of the authority or other moneys available therefor and not otherwise pledged, or from the proceeds of the sale of the bonds of the authority in anticipation of which they were issued. The notes shall be issued in the same manner as bonds. Such notes and the resolution or resolutions authorizing them may contain any provisions, conditions, or limitations which a bond resolution of the authority may contain.

(2) The bonds may be issued as serial bonds, as term bonds, or as a combination of both types. All bonds issued by the authority shall be payable solely out of the revenues and receipts derived from the leasing, mortgaging, or sale by the authority of the facilities concerned or of any part thereof as designated in the resolutions of the authority under which the bonds are authorized to be issued or as designated in a trust indenture authorized by the authority, which trust indenture shall name a bank or trust company in Colorado, or outside of Colorado if it is determined by the authority to be in the best interests of the financing, such determination to be conclusive, as trustee, or out of other moneys available therefor and not otherwise pledged. Such bonds may be issued and delivered by the authority at such times and in such manner, may be in such form and denominations and include such terms and maturities, may be in fully registered form or in bearer form registerable either as to principal or interest or both, may bear such conversion privileges, may be payable in such installments and at such time or times not exceeding forty years after the date thereof, may be payable at such place or places whether within or without the state of Colorado, may bear interest at such rate or rates per annum as shall be determined by the authority or as shall be determined by any formula prescribed by the authority or as may be determined from time to time by a designated agent of the authority in accordance with specified standards and procedures and without regard to any interest rate limitation appearing in any other law, may be evidenced in such manner, may be in the form of coupon bonds that have attached thereto interest coupons bearing the facsimile signature of an authorized officer of the authority, and may contain such provisions not inconsistent with this article, all as shall be provided in the resolutions of the authority under which the bonds are authorized to be issued or as is provided in a trust indenture authorized by the authority. Notwithstanding anything in this subsection (2) to the contrary, in the case of short-term notes or other obligations maturing not later than one year after the date of issuance thereof, the board may authorize the executive director, associate executive director, or any officer of the board to fix principal amounts, maturity dates, interest rates, and purchase prices of any particular issue of such short-term notes or obligations, subject to such limitations as to maximum term, maximum principal amount outstanding, and maximum net effective interest rates as the board shall prescribe by resolution, and such authorization shall remain effective for the period of time designated in the initial resolution regardless of whether the composition of the board changes in the interim unless sooner rescinded by the board.

(3) If deemed advisable by the authority, there may be retained in the resolutions or the trust indenture under which any bonds of the authority are authorized to be issued an option to redeem all or any part thereof as may be specified in such resolutions or in such trust indenture, at such price or prices, after such notice or notices, and on such terms and conditions as may be set forth in such resolutions or in such trust indenture and as may be briefly recited on the face of the bonds; but nothing in this article shall be construed to confer on the authority the right or option to redeem any bonds except as may be provided in the resolutions or in such trust indenture under which they are issued.

(4) The bonds or notes of the authority may be sold at public or private sale for such price or prices, in such manner, and at such times as may be determined by the authority, and the authority may pay all expenses, premiums, and commissions that it may deem necessary or advantageous in connection with the issuance thereof. The power to fix the date of sale of bonds and notes, to receive bids or proposals, to award and sell bonds and notes, and to take all other necessary action to sell and issue bonds and notes may be delegated to the executive director, associate executive director, or any officer of the board of the authority by resolution of the authority. Pending preparation of the definitive bonds, the authority may issue interim receipts or certificates, which shall be exchanged for the definitive bonds.

(5) (a) Issuance by the authority of one or more series of bonds for one or more purposes shall not preclude it from issuing other bonds in connection with the same facilities, any other facilities, or any other purpose under this article, but the resolutions or trust indenture under which any subsequent bonds may be issued shall recognize the terms and provisions of any prior pledge or mortgage made for any prior issue of bonds and the terms upon which such additional bonds may be issued and secured. Any outstanding bonds of the authority may at any time and from time to time be refunded or advance refunded by the authority by the issuance of its bonds for such purpose and in a principal amount as may be determined by the authority, which may include interest accrued or to accrue thereon with or without giving effect to investment income thereon and other expenses necessary to be paid in connection therewith. If deemed advisable by the authority, such bonds may be refunded or advance refunded for the additional purpose of paying all or any part of the cost of constructing and acquiring additions, improvements, extensions, or enlargements of a facility or any portion thereof.

(b) Any such refunding may be effected whether the bonds to be refunded shall have then matured or shall thereafter mature either by sale of the refunding bonds and the application of the proceeds thereof for the payment of the bonds to be refunded thereby or by the exchange of the refunding bonds for the bonds to be refunded thereby with the consent of the holders of the bonds to be so refunded, regardless of whether or not the bonds to be refunded were issued in connection with the same facilities or separate facilities or for any other purpose under this article and regardless of whether or not the bonds proposed to be refunded shall be payable on the same date or different dates or shall be due serially or otherwise. The proceeds of any such bonds issued for the purpose of refunding outstanding bonds may, in the discretion of the authority, be applied to the purchase or retirement at maturity or redemption of such outstanding bonds either on their earliest or any subsequent redemption date or upon the purchase or at the maturity thereof and may, pending such application, be placed in escrow to be applied to such purchase or retirement at maturity or redemption on such date as may be determined by the authority. Any such escrowed proceeds, pending such use, may be invested or deposited in securities or depositories meeting the requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S. The interest, income, and profit, if any, earned or realized on any such investment may also, in the discretion of the authority, be applied to the payment of the outstanding bonds or notes to be so refunded or to the payment of principal and interest on the refunding bonds or for any other purpose under this article. After the terms of the escrow have been fully satisfied and carried out, any balance of such proceeds and interest, income, and profits, if any, earned or realized on the investments thereof may be returned to the authority for use by it in any lawful manner. The portion of the proceeds of any such bonds issued for the additional purpose of paying all or any part of the cost of constructing and acquiring additions, improvements, extensions, or enlargements of a facility may be invested or deposited in securities or depositories meeting the requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S. The interest, income, and profits, if any, earned or realized on such investment may be applied to the payment of all or any part of such cost or may be used by the authority in any lawful manner. All such bonds shall be subject to the provisions of this article in the same manner and to the same extent as other bonds issued pursuant to this article.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1310, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (2) amended, p. 1076, § 4, effective May 25. L. 83: (2) and (4) amended, p. 1110, § 3, effective May 25. L. 84: (2) amended, p. 787, § 1, effective April 5. L. 85: (1) and (5)(b) amended, p. 922, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: (5)(b) amended, p. 1112, § 19, effective July 1. L. 2007: (2) and (4) amended, p. 415, § 6, effective August 3.

25-25-111. Negotiability of bonds.

All bonds and the interest coupons applicable thereto are hereby declared and shall be construed to be negotiable instruments.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-112. Security for bonds and notes.

(1) The principal of and interest on any bonds or notes issued by the authority may be secured by a pledge of, or security interest in, the revenues, rentals, and receipts out of which the same may be made payable or from other moneys available therefor and not otherwise pledged or used as security and may be secured by a trust indenture, mortgage, or deed of trust (including assignment of leases or other contract rights of the authority thereunder) covering all or any part of the facilities from which the revenues, rentals, or receipts so pledged or used as security may be derived, including any enlargements of and additions to any such facility thereafter made. The resolution under which the bonds are authorized to be issued and any such trust indenture, mortgage, or deed of trust may contain any agreements and provisions which shall be a part of the contract with the holders of the bonds or notes to be authorized as to:

(a) Pledging or providing a security interest in all or any part of the revenues of a facility or any revenue-producing contract or contracts made by the authority with any individual, partnership, corporation, or association or other body, public or private, to secure the payment of the bonds or notes or of any particular issue of bonds, subject to such agreements with noteholders or bondholders as may then exist;

(b) Maintenance of the properties covered thereby;

(c) Fixing and collection of mortgage payments, rents, fees, and other charges to be charged and the amounts to be raised in each year thereby, and the use and disposition of the revenues;

(d) Setting aside, creation, and maintenance of special and reserve funds and sinking funds and the use and disposition of the revenues;

(e) Limitations on the right of the authority or its agent to restrict and regulate the use of the facilities;

(f) Limitations on the purpose to which the proceeds of sale of any issue of bonds or notes then or thereafter to be issued may be applied, and pledging or providing a security interest in such proceeds to secure the payment of the bonds or notes or any issue of the bonds or notes;

(g) Limitations on the issuance of additional bonds, the terms upon which additional bonds may be issued and secured, and the refunding of outstanding bonds;

(h) The procedure, if any, by which the terms of any contract with bondholders or noteholders may be amended or abrogated, the amount of bonds or notes the holders of which must consent thereto, and the manner in which such consent may be given;

(i) Limitations on the amount of moneys derived from a facility to be expended for operating, administrative, or other expenses of the authority;

(j) Defining the acts or omissions to act which shall constitute a default in the duties of the authority to holders of its obligations and providing the rights and remedies of such holders in the event of a default;

(k) Mortgaging of a facility and the site thereof for the purpose of securing the bondholders or noteholders;

(l) Such other additional covenants, agreements, and provisions as are judged advisable or necessary by the authority for the security of the holders of such bonds or notes.

(2) Any pledge made by the authority shall be valid and binding from the time when the pledge is made. The revenues, moneys, or property so pledged and thereafter received by the authority shall immediately be subject to the lien of such pledge without any physical delivery thereof or further act, and the lien of such pledge shall be valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the authority, irrespective of whether such parties have notice thereof. Neither the resolution nor any other instrument by which a pledge is created need be recorded. Each pledge, agreement, lease, indenture, mortgage, and deed of trust made for the benefit or security of any of the bonds of the authority shall continue to be effective until the principal of and interest on the bonds for the benefit of which the same were made shall have been fully paid or provision for such payment duly made. In the event of default in such payment or in any agreements of the authority made as a part of the contract under which the bonds were issued, whether contained in the resolutions authorizing the bonds or in any trust indenture, mortgage, or deed of trust executed as security therefor, said payment or agreement may be enforced by suit, mandamus, the appointment of a receiver in equity, foreclosure of any mortgage and deed of trust, or any one or more of said remedies.

(3) In addition to the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section, bonds of the authority may be secured by a pooling of leases, loans, or mortgages whereby the authority may assign its rights, as lessor, lender, or mortgagee, and pledge rents, loan payments, or mortgage payments under two or more leases, loans, or mortgages, with two or more participating health institutions as lessees, borrowers, or mortgagors, respectively, upon such terms as may be provided for in the resolutions of the authority or as may be provided for in a trust indenture or mortgage or deed of trust authorized by the authority.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1313, § 1, effective July 1. L. 81: (3) amended, p. 1363, § 2, effective February 27.

25-25-113. Personal liability.

Neither the members of the authority nor any person executing the bonds or notes shall be liable personally on bonds or notes or be subject to any personal liability or accountability by reason of the issuance thereof.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1314, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-114. Purchase.

The authority may purchase its bonds or notes out of any funds available therefor. The authority may hold, pledge, cancel, or resell such bonds or notes, subject to and in accordance with agreements with bondholders or noteholders.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1314, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-115. Procedure concerning issuance of bonds.

(1) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this article, the authority may not undertake any facility authorized by this article unless, prior to the issuance of any bonds or notes, the board finds that the facility will enable or assist a health institution to fulfill its obligation to provide health facilities.

(2) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 416, § 7, effective August 3, 2007.)

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1314, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (1)(b) amended, p. 1077, § 5, effective May 25. L. 81: Entire section R&RE, p. 1363, § 3, effective February 27. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 416, § 7, effective August 3.

25-25-116. Trust agreement to secure bonds.

(1) In the discretion of the authority, any bonds issued under this article may be secured by a trust agreement between the authority and a corporate trustee or trustees. A corporate trustee may be any trust company or bank in Colorado. If the authority determines it to be in the best interests of the financing, a trust company or bank outside of Colorado may be a corporate trustee. The trust agreement or the resolution providing for the issuance of the bonds may pledge or assign the revenues to be received or the proceeds of any contract or contracts pledged and may convey or mortgage the facilities or any portion of the facilities. The trust agreement or resolution providing for the issuance of the bonds may contain provisions for protecting and enforcing the rights and remedies of the bondholders that are reasonable, proper, and not in violation of law, including provisions that have been specifically authorized to be included in any resolution or resolutions of the authority authorizing the bonds.

(2) Any bank or trust company incorporated under the laws of this state that may act as depository of the proceeds of bonds or of revenues or other moneys may furnish such indemnifying bonds or pledge such securities as may be required by the authority. A trust agreement may set forth the rights and remedies of the bondholders and of the trustee or trustees and may restrict the individual right of action by bondholders. In addition, the trust agreement or resolution may contain such other provisions as the authority may deem reasonable and proper for the security of the bondholders. All expenses incurred in carrying out such trust agreement or resolution may be treated as a part of the cost of the operation of a facility.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1315, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 417, § 8, effective August 3.

25-25-117. Payment of bonds - nonliability of state.

Bonds and notes issued by the authority shall not constitute or become an indebtedness, a debt, or a liability of the state, the general assembly, or any county, city, city and county, town, school district, or other subdivision of the state, or of any other political subdivision or body corporate and politic within the state, and neither the state, the general assembly, nor any county, city, city and county, town, school district, or other subdivision of the state shall be liable thereon; nor shall such bonds or notes constitute the giving, pledging, or loaning of the faith and credit of the state, the general assembly, or any county, city, city and county, town, school district, or other subdivision of the state, or of any other political subdivision or body corporate and politic within the state but shall be payable solely from the funds provided for in this article. The issuance of bonds or notes under the provisions of this article shall not, directly, indirectly, or contingently, obligate the state or any subdivision thereof nor empower the authority to levy or collect any form of taxes or assessments therefor, or to create any indebtedness payable out of taxes or assessments therefor or make any appropriation for their payment, and such appropriation or levy is prohibited. Nothing in this section shall prevent or be construed to prevent the authority from pledging its full faith and credit or the full faith and credit of a participating health institution to the payment of bonds or notes authorized pursuant to this article. Nothing in this article shall be construed to authorize the authority to create a debt of the state within the meaning of the constitution or statutes of Colorado or to authorize the authority to levy or collect taxes or assessments; and all bonds issued by the authority pursuant to the provisions of this article are payable and shall state that they are payable solely from the funds pledged for their payment in accordance with the resolution authorizing their issuance or with any trust indenture, mortgage, or deed of trust executed as security therefor and are not a debt or liability of the state of Colorado. The state shall not in any event be liable for the payment of the principal of or interest on any bonds of the authority or for the performance of any pledge, mortgage, obligation, or agreement of any kind whatsoever which may be undertaken by the authority. No breach of any such pledge, mortgage, obligation, or agreement shall impose any pecuniary liability upon the state or any charge upon its general credit or against its taxing power.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1315, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-118. Exemption from taxation - securities law.

The authority is hereby declared to be a public instrumentality of the state, performing a public function for the benefit of the people of the state for the improvement of their health and living conditions. Accordingly, the income or other revenues of the authority, all properties at any time owned by the authority, any bonds, notes, or other obligations issued under this article, the transfer thereof and the income therefrom, including any profit made on the sale thereof, and all mortgages, leases, trust indentures, and other documents issued in connection therewith shall be exempt at all times from all taxation and assessments in the state of Colorado. Bonds issued by the authority shall also be exempt from the "Colorado Securities Act", article 51 of title 11, C.R.S.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1316, § 1, effective July 1. L. 90: Entire section amended, p. 741, § 7, effective July 1.

25-25-119. Rents and charges.

A sufficient amount of the revenues derived in respect of a facility, except such part of such revenues as may be necessary to pay the cost of maintenance, repair, and operation and to provide reserves and for renewals, replacements, extensions, enlargements, and improvements as may be provided for in the resolution authorizing the issuance of any bonds or notes of the authority or in the trust agreement securing the same, shall be set aside at such regular intervals as may be provided in such resolution or trust agreement in a sinking or other similar fund, which is hereby pledged to and charged with the payment of the principal of and the interest on such bonds or notes as the same shall become due and the redemption price or the purchase price of bonds retired by call or purchase as therein provided. Such pledge shall be valid and binding from the time when the pledge is made; and the rates, rents, fees, charges, and other revenues or other moneys so pledged and thereafter received by the authority shall immediately be subject to the lien of such pledge without any physical delivery thereof or further act, and the lien of any such pledge shall be valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the authority, irrespective of whether such parties have notice thereof. Neither the resolution, any trust agreement, any other agreement, nor any lease by which a pledge is created need be filed or recorded except in the records of the authority. The use and disposition of moneys to the credit of such sinking or other similar fund shall be subject to the resolution authorizing the issuance of such bonds or notes or of such trust agreement. Except as may otherwise be provided in such resolution or such trust agreement, such sinking or other similar fund may be a fund for all such bonds or notes issued to finance facilities at a particular health institution without distinction or priority of one over another; except that the authority in any such resolution or trust agreement may provide that such sinking or other similar fund shall be the fund for a particular facility at a health institution and for the bonds issued to finance a particular facility and may, additionally, permit and provide for the issuance of bonds having a lien in respect of the security authorized which is subordinate to other bonds of the authority, and, in such case, the authority may create separate sinking or other similar funds in respect of such subordinate lien bonds.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1316, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-120. Fees.

(1) All expenses of the authority incurred in carrying out the provisions of this article shall be payable solely from funds provided under the authority of this article, and no liability shall be incurred by the authority beyond the moneys which are provided pursuant to this article; except that, for the purposes of meeting the necessary expenses of initial organization and operation until such date as the authority derives moneys from funds provided pursuant to this article, the authority may borrow such moneys as may be required for the necessary expenses of organization and operation. Such borrowed moneys shall be repaid within a reasonable time after the authority receives funds provided pursuant to this article.

(2) An initial planning service fee in an amount determined by the authority shall be paid to the authority by each health institution that applies for financial assistance to provide for its facilities. Such initial planning service fees shall be included in the cost of the facilities to be financed and shall not be refundable by the authority, whether or not any such application is approved, or, if approved, whether or not such financial assistance is accomplished. In addition to such initial fee, an annual planning service fee shall be paid to the authority by each participating health institution in an amount determined by the authority. Such fees shall be paid on dates or in installments as may be satisfactory to the authority. Such fees may be used for:

(a) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2007, p. 417, § 9, effective August 3, 2007.)

(b) Necessary administrative and operating expenses; and

(c) Reserves for anticipated future expenses.

(3) In addition, the authority may retain the services of any other public or private person, firm, partnership, association, or corporation to furnish services and data to be used by the authority in determining the financial feasibility of any facilities for which application is being made or for such other services or surveys as the authority deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this article. The authority may negotiate the fee to be paid to a person or entity that provides these services to the authority.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1317, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: IP(2) amended, p. 1077, § 6, effective May 25. L. 2007: IP(2), (2)(a), (2)(b), and (3) amended, p. 417, § 9, effective August 3.

25-25-121. Conveyance of title - release of lien.

When the principal of and interest on bonds issued by the authority to finance the cost of facilities or to refinance outstanding indebtedness of one or more participating health institutions, including any refunding bonds issued to refund and refinance such bonds, have been fully paid and retired or when adequate provision has been made to fully pay and retire the same, and all other conditions of the resolution, the lease, the trust indenture, and the mortgage, deed of trust, or other form of security arrangement, if any, authorizing and securing the same have been satisfied, the authority shall promptly do all things and execute such deeds, conveyances, and other documents as are necessary and required to release the lien of such mortgage, deed of trust, or other form of security arrangement in accordance with the provisions thereof and to convey its right, title, and interest in such facilities so financed, and any other facilities leased or mortgaged or subject to deed of trust or any other form of security arrangement to secure the bonds, to such participating health institution or institutions.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1317, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-122. Investment of funds.

(1) The authority may invest the proceeds from the sale of a series of bonds or any funds related to the series in securities and other investments as may be provided in the proceedings under which the series of bonds are authorized to be issued, whether or not the investment or reinvestment is authorized under any other provision of law. Such investment or reinvestment may include, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) Bonds or other obligations of the United States;

(b) Bonds or other obligations, the payment of the principal and interest of which is unconditionally guaranteed by the United States;

(c) Obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by any agency or person controlled or supervised by and acting as an instrumentality of the United States pursuant to authority granted by the congress of the United States;

(d) Obligations issued or guaranteed by any state of the United States or any political subdivision of any such state;

(e) Prime commercial paper;

(f) Prime finance company paper;

(g) Bankers acceptances drawn on and accepted by commercial banks;

(h) Repurchase agreements fully secured by obligations issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States or by any person controlled or supervised by and acting as an instrumentality of the United States pursuant to authority granted by the congress of the United States;

(i) Certificates of deposit or time deposits issued by commercial banks or savings and loan associations that are insured by the federal deposit insurance corporation or its successor; or

(j) Such other securities and investments as may be authorized by resolution of the board if such securities and investments are rated within one of the three highest rating categories by a nationally recognized rating agency.

(2) The authority may invest any other funds in the securities as provided in this section and with such maturities as the authority shall determine if such maturities are on a date or dates prior to the time that, in the judgment of the authority, the funds so invested will be required for expenditure. The express judgment of the authority as to the time that any funds will be required for expenditure or be redeemable is final and conclusive.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1318, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 1078, § 7, effective May 25. L. 83: Entire section R&RE, p. 1111, § 4, effective May 25. L. 2004: Entire section amended, p. 155, § 71, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 418, § 10, effective August 3.

25-25-123. Proceeds as trust funds.

All moneys received pursuant to this article, whether as proceeds from the sale of bonds, notes, or other obligations or as revenues or receipts, shall be deemed to be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in this article. Any officer, bank, or trust company with which such moneys are deposited shall act as trustee of such moneys and shall hold and apply the same for the purposes of this article, subject to such regulations as this article and the resolution authorizing the bonds, notes, or other obligations of any issue or the trust agreement securing such obligations shall provide.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1318, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-124. Agreement of state not to limit or alter rights of obligees.

The state hereby pledges to and agrees with the holders of any bonds, notes, or other obligations issued under this article, and with those parties who may enter into contracts with the authority pursuant to the provisions of this article, that the state will not limit, alter, restrict, or impair the rights hereby vested in the authority to acquire, construct, reconstruct, maintain, and operate any facility or to establish, revise, charge, and collect rates, rents, fees, and other charges as may be convenient or necessary to produce sufficient revenues to meet the expenses of maintenance and operation thereof and to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the holders of bonds, notes, or other obligations authorized and issued pursuant to this article and with the parties who may enter into contracts with the authority pursuant to this article. The state further agrees that it will not in any way impair the rights or remedies of the holders of such bonds, notes, or other obligations of such parties until such bonds, notes, and other obligations, together with interest thereon, with interest on any unpaid installment of interest and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of such holders, are fully met and discharged and such contracts are fully performed on the part of the authority. Nothing in this article precludes such limitation or alteration if and when adequate provision is made by law for the protection of the holders of such bonds, notes, or other obligations of the authority or those entering into such contracts with the authority. The authority may include this pledge and undertaking for the state in such bonds, notes, or other obligations and in such contracts.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1318, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-125. Enforcement of rights of bondholders.

Any holder of bonds issued pursuant to this article or any trustee under a trust agreement, trust indenture, indenture of mortgage, or deed of trust entered into pursuant to this article, except to the extent that their rights are restricted by any bond resolution, may, by any suitable form of legal proceedings, protect and enforce any rights under the laws of this state or granted by the bond resolution. Such rights include the right to compel the performance of all duties of the authority required by this article or the bond resolution; to enjoin unlawful activities; and, in the event of default with respect to the payment of any principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on any bond or in the performance of any covenant or agreement on the part of the authority in the bond resolution, to apply to a court having jurisdiction of the cause to appoint a receiver to administer and operate the project or projects, the revenues of which are pledged to the payment of principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on such bonds, with full power to pay, and to provide for payment of, principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on such bonds, and with such powers, subject to the direction of the court, as are permitted by law and are accorded receivers in general equity cases, but excluding any power to pledge additional revenues of the authority to the payment of such principal, premium, and interest.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1319, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-126. Bonds eligible for investment.

All banks, bankers, trust companies, savings and loan associations, investment companies, and insurance companies and associations and all executors, administrators, guardians, trustees, and other fiduciaries may legally invest any sinking funds, moneys, or other funds belonging to them or within their control in any bonds issued pursuant to this article. Public entities, as defined in section 24-75-601 (1), C.R.S., may invest public funds in such bonds only if said bonds satisfy the investment requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1319, § 1, effective July 1. L. 89: Entire section amended, p. 1130, § 67, effective July 1.

25-25-127. Account of activities - receipts for expenditures - report - audit.

(1) The authority shall keep an accurate account of its activities, receipts, and expenditures and shall annually make a report of its activities, receipts, and expenditures to the board, the governor, and the state auditor. The report shall be submitted within six months after the close of the authority's fiscal year and shall be in a form prescribed by the recipients of the report.

(2) The state auditor may investigate the affairs of the authority, severally examine the properties and records of the authority, and prescribe methods of accounting and the rendering of periodical reports in relation to facilities undertaken by the authority. This article and the expenditures of the authority shall be reviewed by the legislative audit committee every odd-numbered year.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1319, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 1078, § 8, effective May 25. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 419, § 11, effective August 3.

25-25-128. Federal social security act.

The authority may take such action as it deems appropriate to enable its employees to come within the provisions and obtain the benefits of the federal "Social Security Act", as from time to time amended.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1319, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-129. Powers of authority not restricted - law complete in itself.

This article shall not be construed as a restriction or limitation upon any powers which the authority might otherwise have under any laws of this state but shall be construed as cumulative of any such powers. No proceedings, referendum, notice, or approval shall be required for the creation of the authority or the issuance of any bonds or any instrument as security therefor, except as provided in this article; but nothing in this article shall be construed to deprive the state and its political subdivisions of their respective police powers over properties of the authority or to impair any power thereover of any official or agency of the state and its governmental subdivisions which may be otherwise provided by law.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1320, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-130. Powers in addition to those granted by other laws.

The powers conferred by this article are in addition and supplementary to, and the limitations imposed by this article do not affect the powers conferred by, any other law, except as provided in this article. Facilities may be acquired, purchased, constructed, reconstructed, improved, bettered, and extended, and bonds may be issued under this article for said purposes notwithstanding that any other law may provide for the acquisition, purchase, construction, reconstruction, improvement, betterment, and extensions of like facilities or the issuance of bonds for like purposes, and without regard to the requirements, restrictions, limitations, or other provisions contained in any other law.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1320, § 1, effective July 1.

25-25-131. Annual report.

The authority shall submit to the governor within six months after the end of the fiscal year a report which shall set forth a complete and detailed operating and financial statement of the authority during such year. Also included in the report shall be any recommendations with reference to additional legislation or other action that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the authority.

Source: L. 77: Entire article added, p. 1320, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 95, § 12, effective March 16.

ARTICLE 26

Multiphasic Health Screening

25-26-101. Short title.

25-26-102. Legislative declaration.

25-26-103. Definitions.

25-26-104. Immunity.

25-26-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as "The Multiphasic Health Screening Act".

Source: L. 81: Entire article added, p. 1365, § 1, effective May 27.

25-26-102. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly declares it to be in the interests of public health, safety, and welfare to protect the people of this state from the danger of uncertainty and confusion as to the responsibility for, and the rendering of, professional health care. The general assembly further declares that multiphasic health screening units provide to people certain health testing services which do not include diagnosis or treatment. Unless persons are aware of the nature and extent of such services, a false and injurious sense of security relating to personal health may result. Therefore, the general assembly finds that the protection of the public requires that multiphasic health screening units comply with certain minimum standards and practices.

Source: L. 81: Entire article added, p. 1365, § 1, effective May 27.

25-26-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Multiphasic health screening unit" means any fixed or mobile facility where diagnostic testing is performed, where specimens are taken from the human body for laboratory analyses, or where certain measurements such as height and weight determination, blood pressure determination, audio and visual tests, and electrocardiograms are made. The term does not include a facility licensed or certified in this state as a hospital, a home health agency, a clinical laboratory, or the office of a physician licensed to practice medicine in this state.

Source: L. 81: Entire article added, p. 1365, § 1, effective May 27.

25-26-104. Immunity.

No cause of action in tort or contract shall accrue against any person on account of receipt by such person of an unsolicited referral arising from a test performed by a multiphasic health screening unit.

Source: L. 81: Entire article added, p. 1366, § 1, effective May 27.

ARTICLE 27

Assisted Living Residences

25-27-101. Legislative declaration.

25-27-102. Definitions.

25-27-103. License required - criminal and civil penalties.

25-27-104. Minimum standards for assisted living residences - rules - definition.

25-27-104.3. Involuntary discharge - notice - grievance process - appeal - hearing - rules - definition.

25-27-104.5. Requirements governing forfeiture of security deposits and rent.

25-27-105. License - application - inspection - issuance - definitions.

25-27-105.5. Compliance with local government zoning regulations - notice to local governments - provisional licensure.

25-27-106. License denial, suspension, or revocation.

25-27-107. License fees - rules.

25-27-107.5. Assisted living residence cash fund created - repeal.

25-27-108. Enforcement - ability to contract.

25-27-109. List of licensed residences maintained by department.

25-27-110. Advisory committee.

25-27-111. Rules.

25-27-112. Treatment - religious belief.

25-27-113. Fees for providers with high medicaid utilization and disproportionate low-income residences.

25-27-114. Direct care workers in assisted living residences - training - portability - rules.

25-27-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) In order to promote the public health and welfare of the people of Colorado, it is declared to be in the public interest to establish minimum standards and rules for assisted living residences in the state of Colorado and to provide the authority for the administration and enforcement of such minimum standards and rules. These standards and rules shall be sufficient to assure the health, safety, and welfare of assisted living residents.

(2) The general assembly further finds that the department of public health and environment, as the executive branch agency assigned to administer and enforce minimum standards for assisted living residences, is in a position to provide technical assistance, educational materials, and training information to residences. The general assembly determines that a proactive approach by the department, acting as a mentor and educator for residences, will enhance the quality of care of residents of assisted living residences. Additionally, the general assembly finds that the department should explore whether risk-based inspections may be implemented to allocate resources more effectively and at the same time adequately protect the health and safety of the residents.

(3) Further, the general assembly determines and declares that, in administering and enforcing standards for assisted living residences, the department of public health and environment should focus on the outcome related to measures and treatment of residents.

Source: L. 84: Entire article added, p. 789, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 924, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1316, § 1, effective July 1.

25-27-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 27, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) Repealed.

(1.3) "Assisted living residence" or "residence" means a residential facility that makes available to three or more adults not related to the owner of such facility, either directly or indirectly through an agreement with the resident, room and board and at least the following services: Personal services; protective oversight; social care due to impaired capacity to live independently; and regular supervision that shall be available on a twenty-four-hour basis, but not to the extent that regular twenty-four-hour medical or nursing care is required. The term "assisted living residence" does not include any facility licensed in this state as a residential care facility for individuals with developmental disabilities, or any individual residential support services that are excluded from licensure requirements pursuant to rules adopted by the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment of the state of Colorado.

(2.5) "Direct care worker" means an employee who provides hands-on care, services, and support to residents of an assisted living residence.

(2.7) "Fit test" means a test protocol conducted to verify that a respirator or mask is both comfortable and provides the wearer with the expected protection.

(3) to (5) Repealed.

(6) "Local board of health" means any county, district, or municipal board of health.

(6.5) "Local ombudsman" has the same meaning as set forth in section 26-11.5-103 (2).

(7) Repealed.

(8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2002, p. 1317, § 2, effective July 1, 2002.)

(9) "Personal services" means those services that the operator and employees of an assisted living residence provide for each resident, including, but not limited to:

(a) An environment that is sanitary and safe from physical harm;

(b) Individualized social supervision;

(c) Assistance with transportation; and

(d) Assistance with activities of daily living, including but not limited to bathing, dressing, and eating.

(9.3) "Portable test" means the following tests for which, when successfully completed by an individual, the individual is provided a certification of completion that may be transferred from one assisted living residence to another in accordance with this section:

(a) A fit test; and

(b) A tuberculosis test.

(9.5) "Portable training" means the following training for which, when successfully completed by an individual, the individual is provided a certification of completion that may be transferred from one assisted living residence to another in accordance with this section:

(a) Hand hygiene and infection control;

(b) Basic first aid;

(c) Resident rights;

(d) Person-centered care;

(e) Fall prevention;

(f) Lift assistance; and

(g) Food safety.

(10) "Protective oversight" means guidance of a resident as required by the needs of the resident or as reasonably requested by the resident, including the following:

(a) Being aware of a resident's general whereabouts, although the resident may travel independently in the community; and

(b) Monitoring the activities of the resident while on the premises to ensure the resident's health, safety, and well-being, including monitoring the resident's needs and ensuring that the resident receives the services and care necessary to protect the resident's health, safety, and well-being.

(10.5) "Qualified medication administration personnel" means an individual who has passed a competency evaluation administered by the department before July 1, 2017, or has passed a competency evaluation administered by an approved training entity on or after July 1, 2017, and whose name appears on the department's list of individuals who have passed the requisite competency evaluation.

(11) "State board" means the state board of health.

(12) "State long-term care ombudsman" has the same meaning as set forth in section 26-11.5-103 (7).

Source: L. 84: Entire article added, p. 789, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) and (5) repealed and (9) amended, p. 1362, §§ 23, 24, effective June 28; (3), (4), and (7) repealed and (8) and (9) amended, pp. 928, 924, §§ 7, 2, effective July 1. L. 90: (8) R&RE, p. 1354, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: (8) amended, p. 1398, § 59, effective July 1. L. 94: (2) and (8) amended, p. 2794, § 542, effective July 1. L. 2001: (8) amended, p. 106, § 3, effective March 21. L. 2002: (1.3) added and (8), (9), and (10) amended, p. 1317, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2010: (6) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2107, § 132, effective August 11. L. 2022: IP amended and (6.5) and (12) added, (SB 22-154), ch. 323, p. 2290, § 4, effective June 2. L. 2024: (2.5), (2.7), (9.3), (9.5), and (10.5) added, (SB 24-167), ch. 447, p. 3121, § 1, effective January 1, 2025. L. 2025: (10.5) amended, (HB 25-1022), ch. 1, p. 1, § 1, effective February 27.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsections (2) and (8), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-27-103. License required - criminal and civil penalties.

(1) On or after July 1, 2002, it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to conduct or maintain an assisted living residence without having obtained a license therefor from the department of public health and environment. Any person who violates this provision:

(a) Commits a civil infraction;

(b) May be subject to a civil penalty assessed by the department of not less than fifty dollars nor more than one hundred dollars for each day the residence violates this section. The assessed penalty shall accrue from the date the residence is found by the department to be in violation of this section. The assessment, enforcement, and collection of the penalty shall be by the department in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., for credit to the assisted living residence cash fund created pursuant to section 25-27-107.5. Enforcement and collection of the penalty shall occur following the decision reached in accordance with procedures set forth in section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

Source: L. 84: Entire article added, p. 790, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 925, § 3, effective July 1. L. 90: Entire section amended, p. 1354, § 2, effective July 1. L. 94: IP(1) amended, p. 2795, § 543, effective July 1. L. 2002: IP(1) and (1)(b) amended, p. 1318, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2021: (1)(a) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3240, § 478, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-27-104. Minimum standards for assisted living residences - rules - definition.

(1) On or before November 1, 2002, the state board shall promulgate rules pursuant to section 24-4-103, C.R.S., providing minimum standards for the location, sanitation, fire safety, adequacy of facilities, adequacy of diet and nutrition, equipment, structure, operation, provision of personal services and protective oversight, and personnel practices of assisted living residences within the state of Colorado. Such rules shall differentiate between homes of different sizes. In formulating such rules, the state board shall seek recommendations from the advisory committee established pursuant to section 25-27-110.

(2) State board rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (1) of this section must include, at a minimum, rules requiring the following:

(a) Compliance with all applicable zoning, housing, fire, sanitary, and other codes and ordinances of the city, city and county, or county where the residence is situated, to the extent that such codes and ordinances are consistent with the federal "Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988", as amended, 42 U.S.C. sec. 3601 et seq.;

(b) Annual inspection of assisted living residences by the department or its designated representative;

(c) That the premises to be used are in fit, safe, and sanitary condition and properly equipped to provide good care to the residents;

(d) That the Colorado long-term care ombudsman, designated by the department of human services, have access to the premises and residents during reasonable hours for the purposes set out in the federal "Older Americans Act of 1965";

(e) Protection of the individual rights of residents either through a written board and care plan or by means of contracts executed with the residents, which board and care plan or contract shall meet the requirements stated in section 25-27-104.5;

(f) Responsibility of the assisted living residences for social supervision, personal services, and coordination with community resources as needed by the residents;

(g) That the administrator and staff of a residence:

(I) (A) Meet minimum educational, training, and experience standards established by the state board.

(B) On and after January 1, 2024, the state board's minimum standards for administrators must require, at a minimum, that each administrator, regardless of the administrator's hire date, have at least one year experience supervising the delivery of personal care services that includes activities of daily living or has attained the education or experience established by the state board in lieu of that supervisory experience.

(II) Are of good, moral, and responsible character. In making the determination, the owner or licensee of a residence shall have access to and shall obtain any criminal history record information from a criminal justice agency, subject to any restrictions imposed by the agency for any person responsible for the care and welfare of residents of the residence and shall obtain a check of the Colorado adult protective services data system pursuant to section 26-3.1-111 for any person who is an employee of the residence, as defined in section 26-3.1-111 (2), who will provide direct care to residents.

(h) Intermediate enforcement remedies as authorized by section 25-27-106 (2);

(i) Written plans, to be submitted by residences to the department for approval, detailing the measures that will be taken to correct violations found as a result of inspections;

(j) The definition for high medicaid utilization facility as a basis for a modified fee schedule. A high medicaid utilization residence shall be a residence in which no less than thirty-five percent of the available beds are occupied by medicaid enrollees as indicated by the most complete claims data available.

(k) A modified fee schedule for residences that serve a disproportionate share of low-income residents. The board may adopt a standard for determining residences that serve a disproportionate share of low-income residents. Such standard may require a residence to submit documentation determined appropriate by the department for verification.

(l) That the assisted living residence comply with the provisions of section 25-27-104.3 concerning the involuntary discharge of residents; and

(m) That the state board establish, not later than January 1, 2024, a range of fines for violations, which amounts may vary based on the size of the assisted living residence and the potential for harm to one or more persons, and shall permit the department to consider factors set forth in section 25-27-106 (4) in determining the amount of the fine. Prior to the board's adoption of rules concerning the range of fines for violations, the department shall make recommendations to the board, including a proposed schedule of fines that vary the range of fines by the severity and frequency of the violations and that may include a different range of fines based on the size of the residence. The department shall first present the recommendations to and seek feedback from the advisory committee established in section 25-27-110.

(3) (a) Rules adopted by the state board pursuant to subsection (1) of this section must exempt an assisted living residence from complying with the facility guideline institute (FGI) guidelines, except in the case of new construction or major renovations. An assisted living residence must still comply with all other fire and local building codes and the standards outlined in this section.

(b) As used in subsection (3)(a) of this section, "major renovations" means additions to a building's structure or changes that affect the structural integrity of the building. "Major renovations" does not include changing the functional operation of a space if no construction is completed and the floor plan of the building remains the same. It also does not include adding beds to accommodate more residents or upgrades to the heating or cooling systems and electrical systems if those improvements do not require construction.

Source: L. 84: Entire article added, p. 791, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 925, § 4, effective July 1. L. 90: (2)(a) amended and (2)(g) added, p. 1355, § 3, effective July 1. L. 94: (2)(d) amended, p. 2703, § 259, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1), IP(2), (2)(a), (2)(b), (2)(f), and (2)(g) amended and (2)(h) to (2)(k) added, p. 1318, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2003: (2)(k) amended, p. 1998, § 47, effective May 22. L. 2006: (2)(e) amended, p. 254, § 2, effective January 1, 2007. L. 2022: IP(2) and (2)(g) amended and (2)(l) and (2)(m) added, (SB 22-154), ch. 323, p. 2287, § 2, effective June 2. L. 2025: (3) added, (HB 25-1213), ch. 276, p. 1434, § 2, effective August 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending subsection (2)(d), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

25-27-104.3. Involuntary discharge - notice - grievance process - appeal - hearing - rules - definition.

(1) (a) (I) Except as provided in subsection (1)(c) of this section, an assisted living residence shall provide written notice of any involuntary discharge of a resident at least thirty calendar days in advance of the discharge to:

(A) The resident;

(B) The resident's legal representative; and

(C) Any relative or other person listed as a contact person for the resident or designated to receive notice of a discharge.

(II) Within five days after providing written notice to the resident, the residence shall send the discharge notice to the state long-term care ombudsman and the local ombudsman.

(b) (I) At a minimum, the notice of discharge must include a detailed explanation of the reason or reasons for the involuntary discharge, including:

(A) Facts and evidence supporting each reason given by the residence;

(B) A recounting of events leading to the involuntary discharge, including interactions with the resident over a period of time prior to the notice, and actions taken to avoid discharge and the timing of those actions;

(C) A statement that the resident or a person listed in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section has the right to file a grievance with the residence challenging the involuntary discharge within fourteen days after the written notice, that the residence's designee must provide a response to the grievance within five business days after receiving the grievance, and, if the resident or person filing the grievance is dissatisfied with the response, that the resident or person filing the grievance may appeal to the executive director of the department or the executive director's designee pursuant to subsection (3) of this section; and

(D) Names and contact information, including telephone numbers, addresses, and email addresses, for the state long-term care ombudsman, the local ombudsman, and the department.

(II) If the residence's involuntary discharge of the resident is due to a medical or physical condition resulting in a required level of care that cannot be treated with medication or services routinely provided by the residence's staff or an external service provider, the notice must also include an assessment by the resident's physician or applicable health-care or behavioral health provider of the resident's current needs in relation to the resident's medical and physical condition.

(c) If the stated reason for the involuntary discharge is because the resident requires a level of care that cannot be met by the residence or the resident has demonstrated that the resident is a danger to the resident or others, thirty days' notice is not required. However, the residence shall give as much advance notice as is reasonable under the circumstances prior to the resident's removal from the residence. The residence must still provide written notice of the involuntary discharge pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section as soon as possible to the resident, other persons listed in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section, and the state long-term care ombudsman and the local ombudsman. Notwithstanding the resident's removal from the residence pursuant to this subsection (1)(c), the resident may file a grievance relating to the involuntary discharge within fourteen days after the resident's receipt of the written notice of involuntary discharge required pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(2) (a) (I) Each assisted living residence shall designate an individual to receive grievances, pursuant to subsection (2)(a)(II) of this section, relating to the involuntary discharge of a resident.

(II) A resident or any person listed in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section may file a grievance with the designee within fourteen days after written notice is given to the resident pursuant to subsection (1)(b) or (1)(c) of this section challenging the involuntary discharge of the resident and the reasons for the discharge.

(III) A resident or a person listed in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section filing a grievance shall submit the grievance in writing, cause it to be written, or state it orally to the designee, with the person filing the grievance providing some evidence of the oral submission of the grievance or a witness attesting to the oral submission.

(b) No later than five business days after a grievance has been submitted pursuant to subsection (2)(a) of this section, the designee shall provide a written response to the grievance to the resident, the persons listed in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section, and the state long-term care ombudsman and the local ombudsman. The designee's written response must be accompanied by an oral explanation to the resident or person filing the grievance if appropriate because of the mental or physical condition of the resident or person filing the grievance.

(c) The state long-term care ombudsman or the local ombudsman may provide assistance to a resident or person filing a grievance in investigating, preparing, and filing the grievance pursuant to this subsection (2) or investigating, preparing, and filing an appeal of the designee's response to the grievance pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.

(3) If the resident or person filing the grievance is dissatisfied with the designee's written response, the resident or the person filing the grievance may appeal to the department for review of the designee's response to the grievance by filing the same grievance, the original notice and supporting documentation given to the resident pursuant to subsection (1)(b) or (1)(c) of this section, and the designee's written response pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section, including supporting documentation, along with any additional information or documentation, to the executive director of the department for the department's review. An appeal to the executive director of the department must be filed within five business days after the resident or person filing the grievance receives the designee's written response. The department shall review the grievance and response as soon as possible, but no later than sixty days after receiving the appeal, to determine whether the involuntary discharge complies with the law and the process established in this section. The department may confer with or receive information from the resident, the residence, and the state long-term care ombudsman and the local ombudsman concerning the involuntary discharge.

(4) (a) The assisted living residence shall not take any punitive or retaliatory action against a resident due to the resident filing a grievance or appeal pursuant to this section and shall continue to assist with planning a discharge or transfer of the resident while the grievance or appeal to the department is pending.

(b) If the stated reason for the involuntary discharge is for nonpayment of monthly services or room and board, the residence may discharge the resident on the thirty-first day after the written notice of discharge has been provided to the resident. If it is determined through the grievance and appeal process that the resident substantially complied with payments due to the residence, the residence shall allow the resident to return to the residence.

(5) If the resident, the person filing the grievance or the appeal, or the assisted living residence is dissatisfied with the findings and recommendations of the department, that resident, person, or residence may request a hearing conducted by the department pursuant to section 24-4-105.

(6) (a) No later than January 1, 2024, the state board shall promulgate rules necessary to implement the grievance process set forth in this section.

(b) Prior to the board's adoption of rules for the implementation of the grievance process, the department shall confer with the advisory committee established in section 25-27-110 for the purpose of making recommendations to the board concerning rules relating to the grievance process.

(7) As used in this section, "designee" means the individual designated by the assisted living residence to receive grievances relating to an involuntary discharge of a resident pursuant to subsection (2)(a)(I) of this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire section added, (SB 22-154), ch. 323, p. 2284, § 1, effective June 2.

25-27-104.5. Requirements governing forfeiture of security deposits and rent.

If a lease provision in a resident care plan or in a contract signed by a resident of an assisted living residence results in or requires forfeiture of more than thirty days of rent if a resident moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of the plan, then the plan shall be deemed to be against public policy and shall be void; except that inclusion of such a provision shall not render the remainder of the plan or contract void. A lease provision in a written board and care plan or in a contract that requires forfeiture of rent for thirty days after the resident moves due to a medical condition or dies does not violate this section. The provisions regarding forfeiture of rent shall appear on the front page of the plan or contract and shall be printed in no less than twelve-point bold-faced type. The provisions shall read as follows:

​

This lease agreement is for a month-to-month tenancy. The lessor shall not require the forfeiture of rent beyond a thirty-day period if the lessee moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of the lease.

​

In circumstances in which the resident moves due to a medical condition or dies during the term of a plan or contract, the assisted living residence shall return that part of rent paid in excess of thirty days' rent after a patient moves or dies to the resident or the resident's estate. The assisted living residence may assess daily rental charges for any days in which the former or deceased resident's personal possessions remain in the resident's room after the time period for which the resident has paid rent and for the usual time to clean the room after the resident's personal possessions have been removed. For purposes of this section, "daily rental charges" means an amount not to exceed one-thirtieth of thirty days' rental amount plus reasonable expenses.

Source: L. 2006: Entire section added, p. 254, § 3, effective January 1, 2007.

25-27-105. License - application - inspection - issuance - definitions.

(1) An application for a license to operate an assisted living residence shall be submitted to the department annually upon such form and in such manner as prescribed by the department.

(2) The department shall investigate and pass on each original application and each renewal application for a license. The department shall inspect or cause to be inspected the residences to be operated by an applicant for an original license before the license is granted and shall annually thereafter inspect or cause to be inspected the residences of all licensees. The department shall make such other inspections as it deems necessary to ensure that the health, safety, and welfare of the residents are being protected. The residence shall submit in writing, in a form prescribed by the department, a plan detailing the measures that will be taken to correct any violations found by the department as a result of inspections undertaken pursuant to this subsection (2).

(2.5) (a) When submitting an application for a license pursuant to this section, or within ten days after a change in ownership or a change in the licensee, each owner, applicant, or licensee shall submit a complete set of the owner's, applicant's, or licensee's fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the fingerprints to the federal bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the results of the criminal history record checks to the department.

(a.5) The department may require that an administrator submit a complete set of the administrator's fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the fingerprints to the federal bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the results of the criminal history record checks to the department.

(a.7) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an applicant performed pursuant to this section reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that applicant to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d), performed using state judicial department records.

(b) The information shall be used by the department in ascertaining whether the person applying for licensure has been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor, which felony or misdemeanor involves moral turpitude or involves conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of residents of the assisted living residence. Information obtained in accordance with this section shall be maintained by the department.

(c) All costs of obtaining any information from a criminal justice agency pursuant to this section shall be borne by the individual who is the subject of such check.

(2.8) No license shall be issued or renewed by the department if the owner, applicant, or licensee of the assisted living residence has been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor, which felony or misdemeanor involves moral turpitude or involves conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the assisted living residence.

(3) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, the department shall issue or renew a license when it is satisfied that the applicant or licensee is in compliance with the requirements set out in this article and the rules promulgated thereunder. Except for provisional licenses issued in accordance with subsection (4) of this section, a license issued or renewed pursuant to this section shall expire one year from the date of issuance or renewal.

(4) The department may issue a provisional license to an applicant for the purpose of operating an assisted living residence for a period of ninety days if the applicant is temporarily unable to conform to all the minimum standards required under this article; except that no license shall be issued to an applicant if the operation of the applicant's residence will adversely affect the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of such residence. As a condition of obtaining a provisional license, the applicant shall show proof to the department that attempts are being made to conform and comply with applicable standards. No provisional license shall be granted prior to the submission of a criminal background check in accordance with subsection (2.5) of this section. A provisional license shall not be renewed.

(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Administrator" means an individual who controls and supervises or attempts to control and supervise the day-to-day operations of an assisted living residence, including an individual considered an interim administrator for the purposes of section 25-27-106 (4)(b).

(b) "Applicant" means an individual who is seeking a license to operate an assisted living residence.

(c) (I) "Owner" means an individual who:

(A) Is a sole proprietor, a shareholder in a for-profit or nonprofit corporation, a partner in a partnership or limited partnership, or a member in a limited liability company; and

(B) Has a financial or equity interest of fifty percent or more in the entity to which the license to operate an assisted living residence is issued.

(II) "Owner" includes a licensee.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 926, § 5, effective July 1. L. 90: (2.5), (2.8), and (4) added and (3) amended, p. 1355, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1), (2), (2.5)(a), (2.5)(b), (2.8), (3), and (4) amended and (2.5)(a.5) added, p. 1319, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2.5)(a.7) added, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 554, § 40, effective April 18. L. 2022: (2.5)(a.7) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 527, § 42, effective April 21. L. 2025: (2.5)(a), (2.5)(a.5), and (2.5)(a.7) amended and (5) added, (SB 25-146), ch. 342, p. 1857, § 10, effective June 2.

25-27-105.5. Compliance with local government zoning regulations - notice to local governments - provisional licensure.

(1) The department shall require any assisted living residence seeking licensure pursuant to this article to comply with any applicable zoning regulations of the municipality, city and county, or county where the residence is situated. Failure to comply with applicable zoning regulations shall constitute grounds for the denial of a license to a residence; except that nothing in this section shall be construed to supersede the provisions of sections 30-28-115 (2), 31-23-301 (4), and 31-23-303 (2), C.R.S.

(2) The department shall assure that timely written notice is provided to the municipality, city and county, or county where an assisted living residence is situated, including the address of the residence and the population and number of persons to be served by the residence, when any of the following occurs:

(a) An application for a license to operate an assisted living residence pursuant to section 25-27-105 is made;

(b) A license is granted to an assisted living residence pursuant to section 25-27-105;

(c) A change in the license of an assisted living residence occurs; or

(d) The license of an assisted living residence is revoked or otherwise terminated for any reason.

(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 25-27-105 (4), in the event of a zoning or other delay or dispute between an assisted living residence and the municipality, city and county, or county where the residence is situated, the department may grant a provisional license to the residence for up to one hundred twenty days pending resolution of the delay or dispute.

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 1516, § 3, effective June 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1321, § 6, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 2000 act enacting this section, see section 1 of chapter 319, Session Laws of Colorado 2000.

25-27-106. License denial, suspension, or revocation.

(1) When an application for an original license has been denied by the department, the department shall notify the applicant in writing of such denial by mailing a notice to the applicant at the address shown on his or her application. Any applicant believing himself or herself aggrieved by such denial may pursue the remedy for review provided in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., if the applicant, within thirty days after receiving such notice, petitions the department to set a date and place for hearing, affording the applicant an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel. All hearings on the denial of original licenses shall be conducted in conformity with the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) (a) The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license of any residence that is out of compliance with the requirements of this article or the rules promulgated thereunder. Such suspension, revocation, or refusal shall be done after a hearing thereon and in conformance with the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(b) (I) The department may impose intermediate restrictions or conditions on a licensee that may include at least one of the following:

(A) Retaining a consultant to address corrective measures;

(B) Monitoring by the department for a specific period;

(C) Providing additional training to employees, owners, or operators of the residence;

(D) Complying with a directed written plan, to correct the violation; or

(E) Paying a civil fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars per violation; except that the department may exceed the cap for an egregious violation that results in death or serious injury to a resident after considering the circumstances surrounding the violation and the factors set forth in subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(II) (A) If the department imposes an intermediate restriction or condition that is not a result of a life-threatening situation or due to serious injury or harm to a resident, the licensee shall receive written notice of the restriction or condition. No later than ten days after the date the notice is received from the department, the licensee shall submit a written plan that includes the time frame for completing the plan and addresses the restriction or condition specified.

(B) If the department imposes an intermediate restriction or condition that is the result of a life-threatening situation or is due to serious injury or harm to a resident, the department shall notify the licensee in writing, by telephone, or in person during an on-site visit. The licensee shall implement the restriction or condition immediately upon receiving notice of the restriction or condition. If the department provides notice of a restriction or condition by telephone or in person, the department shall send written confirmation of the restriction or condition to the licensee within two business days.

(III) (A) After submission of an approved written plan, a licensee may first appeal any intermediate restriction or condition on its license to the department through an informal review process as established by the department.

(B) If the restriction or condition requires payment of a civil fine pursuant to this paragraph (b), the licensee may request that the informal review be conducted in person. In addition, the licensee may request and the department shall grant a stay in payment of the fine until final disposition of the restriction or condition.

(C) In the event a licensee is not satisfied with the result of the informal review or chooses not to seek informal review, no intermediate restriction or condition on the licensee shall be imposed until after an opportunity for a hearing has been afforded the licensee pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(IV) (A) In the event that the department assesses a civil fine pursuant to this paragraph (b), moneys received by the department shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the assisted living residence improvement cash fund, which fund is hereby created.

(B) The general assembly shall make annual appropriations from the assisted living residence improvement cash fund for expenditures of the department pursuant to subparagraph (V) of this paragraph (b).

(C) Notwithstanding any provision of section 24-36-114, C.R.S., to the contrary, all interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys from the assisted living residence improvement cash fund created in sub-subparagraph (A) of this subparagraph (IV) shall remain in the assisted living residence improvement cash fund.

(V) Civil fines collected pursuant to this subsection (2)(b) shall be used for expenses related to:

(A) Continuing monitoring required pursuant to this paragraph (b);

(B) Education for licensees to avoid restrictions or conditions or facilitate the application process or the change of ownership process;

(C) Education for residents and their families about resolving problems with a residence, rights of residents, and responsibilities of residences;

(D) Providing technical assistance to any residence for the purpose of complying with changes in rules or state or federal law;

(E) Relocating residents to other facilities or residences;

(F) Maintaining the operation of a residence pending correction of violations, as determined necessary by the department;

(G) Closing a residence;

(H) Reimbursing residents for personal funds lost, as determined necessary by the department; or

(I) Creating a dementia care services information form and adopting rules related to the form, pursuant to section 25-1-124.3 (2).

(3) The department shall revoke or refuse to renew the license of a facility where the owner or licensee has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or involving conduct which the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of such facility. Such revocation or refusal shall be made only after a hearing is provided in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(4) (a) (I) Notwithstanding the department's discretion pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(I) of this section concerning the imposition of intermediate restrictions or conditions on a licensee, the department shall impose a fine, in an amount per violation that is calculated to deter further violations, for any violation resulting in actual harm or injury to a resident. Consistent with state board rules pursuant to section 25-27-104 (2), the amount of the fine may vary depending on the size of the residence, the potential for harm or injury to one or more residents, and whether there is a pattern of potential or actual harm or injury to residents.

(II) In determining the amount of a fine, the department shall consider:

(A) The history of harm or injury at the residence;

(B) The number of injuries to residents for which the cause of the injury is unknown;

(C) The adequacy of the residence's occurrence investigations and reporting;

(D) The adequacy of the administrator's supervision of employees to ensure employees are keeping residents safe from harm or injury; and

(E) The residence's compliance with required mandatory reporting of the mistreatment of residents.

(b) Notwithstanding the department's discretion pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(I) of this section, the department shall impose a fine, in an amount determined by the department, for any residence that is found to be without an administrator, or an interim administrator, as defined by the state board by rule, on or after January 1, 2024, who meets the requirements established by the state board pursuant to section 25-27-104 (2)(g)(I)(B).

(5) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b)(III) of this section, the department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license of a residence if:

(a) A resident is subject to mistreatment, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (7), that causes injury to the resident;

(b) The residence's owner or administrator directly caused the mistreatment or the mistreatment resulted from the administrator's failure to adequately train or supervise employees; and

(c) A directed written plan required by the department pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(I)(D) of this section to correct the violation, in addition to the assessment of civil fines, has not corrected or is not reasonably expected to correct the violations.

(6) On and after January 1, 2024, the department may refuse to renew the license of a residence if the residence's administrator does not meet the requirements established by the state board pursuant to section 25-27-104 (2)(g)(I)(B).

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 926, § 5, effective July 1. L. 90: (3) added, p. 1356, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2002: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1321, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2022: (2)(b)(I)(E) and (2)(b)(II) amended and (4), (5), and (6) added, (SB 22-154), ch. 323, p. 2288, § 3, effective June 2. L. 2026: IP(2)(b)(V), (2)(b)(V)(G), and (2)(b)(V)(H) amended and (2)(b)(V)(I) added, (HB 26-1107), ch. 92, p. 374, § 2, effective August 12.

25-27-107. License fees - rules.

(1) Repealed.

(1.5) (a) No later than January 1, 2009, the state board shall promulgate rules establishing a schedule of fees sufficient to meet the direct and indirect costs of administration and enforcement of this article 27. The rules shall set a lower fee for facilities with a high medicaid utilization rate as defined by the state board. The rules shall be adopted in accordance with article 4 of title 24. On or after August 1, 2019, but before July 1, 2025, fees established pursuant to this section are subject to the limitations specified in section 25-3-105 (1)(a)(I)(B). The state board may increase a fee on the schedule established pursuant to this section that is in effect on August 1, 2019, only in accordance with section 25-3-105 (1)(a)(I).

(b) Prior to setting a fee by rule pursuant to this subsection (1.5), the department shall hold public stakeholder meetings on behalf of the state board to discuss issues pertaining to setting fees, including, without limitation, a phased-in fee schedule based upon expected licensing program costs, maximum yearly fee increases, risk-based assessments, and technical assistance that may be met by or in collaboration with the private sector.

(c) The department shall assess and collect, from assisted living residences subject to licensure, fees in accordance with the fee schedule established by the state board.

(d) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2108, § 133, effective August 11, 2010.)

(1.7) For state fiscal year 2025-26 and each state fiscal year thereafter, the schedule of fees adopted by the state board pursuant to section 25-3-105 (1)(a)(I)(A) must be updated and published by March 1 of the year that the fees will take effect. The fees are not subject to rule-making by the state board. The fees must increase:

(a) For state fiscal year 2025-26, eight percent from the fees on the schedule of fees established pursuant to subsection (1.5)(a) of this section;

(b) For each of state fiscal years 2026-27, 2027-28, and 2028-29, six percent; and

(c) For state fiscal year 2029-30 and for each state fiscal year thereafter, an amount that is equal to the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index, or a successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by urban consumers.

(2) The fees collected pursuant to this section shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the assisted living residence cash fund created in section 25-27-107.5.

(3) Notwithstanding the amount specified for any fee in this section, the state board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may reduce the amount of one or more of the fees if necessary pursuant to section 24-75-402 (3), C.R.S., to reduce the uncommitted reserves of the fund to which all or any portion of one or more of the fees is credited. After the uncommitted reserves of the fund are sufficiently reduced, the state board by rule or as otherwise provided by law may increase the amount of one or more of the fees as provided in section 24-75-402 (4), C.R.S.

(4) Fees collected pursuant to subsection (1.5) of this section shall be used by the department, in addition to regulatory and administrative functions, to provide technical assistance and education to assisted living residences related to compliance with Colorado law. The department may contract with private entities to assist the department in providing such technical assistance and education.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 926, § 5, effective July 1. L. 90: Entire section amended, p. 1356, § 6, effective July 1. L. 98: (3) added, p. 1337, § 55, effective June 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1324, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2008: (1)(f) and (1.5) added, p. 662, §§ 2, 3, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1.5)(b) and (4) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1972, § 92, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1.5)(d) and (4) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2108, § 133, effective August 11. L. 2018: (1.5)(a) amended, (SB 18-054), ch. 16, p. 260, § 1, effective August 8. L. 2024: (1.5)(a) amended and (1.7) added, (HB 24-1417), ch. 136, p. 507, § 3, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (1)(f) provided for the repeal of subsection (1), effective January 1, 2009. (See L. 2008, p. 662.)

25-27-107.5. Assisted living residence cash fund created - repeal.

(1) The fees collected pursuant to section 25-27-107, plus any civil penalty collected pursuant to section 25-27-103 (1)(b), shall be transmitted to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the assisted living residence cash fund, which fund is hereby created. The moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs of the department in performing its duties under this article. Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, at the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered moneys in the fund shall remain therein and shall not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, on July 1, 2013, any moneys remaining in the fund from fees collected by the department for assisted living residence building and structure code plan reviews and inspections are transferred to the health facility construction and inspection cash fund created in section 24-33.5-1207.8, C.R.S.

(3) (a) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, on July 1, 2026, the state treasurer shall transfer one hundred thousand dollars from the assisted living residence cash fund created in subsection (1) of this section to the cottage foods cash fund created in section 25-4-1614.5.

(b) This subsection (3) is repealed, effective July 1, 2028.

Source: L. 90: Entire section added, p. 1357, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1325, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1268), ch. 234, p. 1026, §4, effective July 1, 2013. L. 2026: (3) added, (HB 26-1033), ch. 375, p. 2332, § 5, effective June 4.

Cross references: For the short title ("Tamale Act") in HB 26-1033, see section 1 of chapter 375, Session Laws of Colorado 2026.

25-27-108. Enforcement - ability to contract.

(1) The department is responsible for the enforcement of the provisions of this article and the regulations adopted thereunder.

(2) The department may contract with a local board of health to investigate and inspect the facilities to be licensed under this article and may accept reports on such investigations or inspections as a basis for licensing. The department may also contract with local boards of health to enforce the provisions of this article and the regulations adopted thereunder and is required to transfer license fees and additional fees collected in this article to the local boards of health if a contract is so negotiated.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 927, § 5, effective July 1.

25-27-109. List of licensed residences maintained by department.

The department shall maintain a current list of assisted living residences that have been licensed and shall make such list available to individuals upon request.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 927, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1326, § 10, effective July 1.

25-27-110. Advisory committee.

(1) There is hereby established an advisory committee to the department for the purposes of making recommendations to the department and reporting to the house and senate committees on health and human services, or any successor committees, concerning the rules promulgated by the state board pursuant to this article, implementation of the licensing program, the impact of the program, and the effectiveness of enforcement. The advisory committee shall consist of not fewer than nine members to be appointed by the executive director of the department. The committee shall elect its own chairperson. Such members shall be representatives from assisted living residences, the Colorado commission on the aging, county, district, or municipal public health agencies, or local boards of health, and consumer and other agencies and organizations providing services to or concerned with residents of assisted living residences. Members of the advisory committee shall serve on a voluntary basis and shall serve without compensation.

(2) and (3) Repealed.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 927, § 5, effective July 1. L. 86: (3) amended, p. 421, § 44, effective March 26. L. 88: (2) and (3)(a) amended, p. 317, § 12, effective April 14. L. 90: (3) repealed, p. 334, § 24, effective April 3. L. 96: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1261, § 166, effective August 7. L. 2002: (1) and (2) amended, p. 1326, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2003: (1) and IP(2)(a) amended, p. 2008, § 87, effective May 22. L. 2004: (2) repealed, p. 203, § 22, effective August 4. L. 2007: (1) amended, p. 2042, § 69, effective June 1. L. 2010: (1) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2108, § 134, effective August 11.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1996 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 237, Session Laws of Colorado 1996.

25-27-111. Rules.

The state board shall promulgate such rules as are necessary to implement this article pursuant to the provisions of article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 927, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1327, § 12, effective July 1.

25-27-112. Treatment - religious belief.

Nothing in this article shall authorize the department to impose any mode of treatment inconsistent with the religious faith or belief of any person.

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 927, § 5, effective July 1.

25-27-113. Fees for providers with high medicaid utilization and disproportionate low-income residences.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that assisted living residences provide necessary services to many residents who receive medicaid benefits pursuant to articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S. Because so many Coloradans benefit from assisted living centers that serve medicaid recipients, the general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that assisted living residences that have high medicaid utilization should receive a modified fee schedule for fees required by this article.

(2) Residences identified as high medicaid utilization residences by the department shall be subject to a modified fee schedule as determined by the board.

(3) Residences identified as servicing a disproportionate number of low-income residents may be subject to a modified fee schedule as determined by the board.

Source: L. 2002: Entire section added, p. 1327, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 2016, § 93, effective July 1.

25-27-114. Direct care workers in assisted living residences - training - portability - rules.

(1) (a) If an operator of an assisted living residence provides or pays for a portable test for a direct care worker or for qualified medication administration personnel employed by the assisted living residence, the operator shall make the results of the test available to the direct care worker or qualified medication administration personnel upon completion of the test.

(b) If, upon hire by an assisted living residence, a new employee provides proof of completion of a portable test, the operator of the assisted living residence may determine that the individual has satisfied related testing requirements or require the individual to complete new testing.

(c) The results of a tuberculosis test may be accepted for purposes of new employment records if presented to the new employer within two years after the testing date. Notwithstanding any provision of this section, the department may require additional testing as determined through administrative action, notice, rule, or state law.

(2) If an operator of an assisted living residence provides or pays for portable training for a direct care worker or qualified medication administration personnel employed by the operator, upon completion of the portable training, the operator or the entity that provides the portable training shall provide the individual who completes the portable training with a certificate of completion. The certificate of completion must include:

(a) The portable topic covered;

(b) The date of the portable training;

(c) The individual or entity that provided the portable training;

(d) Documentation of competency in the specific portable topic of the portable training; and

(e) Additional elements as determined by rule.

(3) (a) If, upon hire by an assisted living residence, a new direct care worker provides proof of completion of portable training, the assisted living residence shall ensure, in a form and manner determined by the operator, that the direct care worker has satisfied the related portable training requirements in order to ensure that each direct care worker can safely carry out the duties and responsibilities for the care and provision of services to residents.

(b) In addition to portable training, the operator of an assisted living residence shall ensure that each direct care worker receives any training required by rules adopted by the state board, or as set forth in state law, within the timelines set by state law or rule.

(4) The state board shall accept proof of a portable test or a certificate for portable training that is deemed sufficient by an assisted living residence operator as proof of completion of a portable test or portable training. The state board may, but is not required to, promulgate rules to define other portable tests or portable trainings as portable.

(5) If an assisted living residence operator accepts proof of portable training conducted by another entity, the assisted living residence operator shall ensure competency in a form and manner to be determined by the operator in order to ensure prior education and portable training are sufficient for the direct care worker to safely carry out the direct care worker's duties and responsibilities. An assisted living residence that currently employs a direct care worker is liable for any acts or omissions by the direct care worker employee that are directly related to the employee's previous portable training and the acceptance of the certification of completion of that training by the assisted living residence.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-167), ch. 447, p. 3122, § 2, effective January 1, 2025.

25-27.5 ARTICLE 27.5

Home Care Agencies

25-27.5-101. Legislative declaration.

25-27.5-102. Definitions.

25-27.5-103. Home care agency license required - home care placement agency registration required - civil and criminal penalties.

25-27.5-104. Minimum standards for home care agencies and home care placement agencies - rules - advisory committee.

25-27.5-105. Home care agency cash fund - created.

25-27.5-106. License or registration - application - inspection - issuance - rules.

25-27.5-107. Employee or referred service provider criminal history record check - rules.

25-27.5-108. License or registration denial - suspension - revocation.

25-27.5-109. Enforcement.

25-27.5-110. Repeal of article - sunset review.

25-27.5-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) In order to promote the public health and welfare of the people of Colorado, it is declared to be in the public interest to establish minimum standards and rules for home care agencies in the state of Colorado and to provide the authority for the administration and enforcement of such minimum standards and rules. These standards and rules shall be sufficient to assure the health, safety, and welfare of home care consumers.

(2) The general assembly further finds that the department of public health and environment, as the executive branch agency assigned to administer and enforce minimum standards for home care agencies, should explore whether risk-based inspections may be implemented to allocate resources more effectively and at the same time adequately protect the health and safety of the home care consumers. Risk shall be evaluated based on the home care agency's compliance history, quality performance measures, and other relevant factors set forth in rules promulgated by the state board of health.

(3) Further, the general assembly determines and declares that, in administering and enforcing standards for home care agencies, the inspections by the department should focus on home care consumer safety and outcomes.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2233, § 3, effective August 5.

25-27.5-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 27.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Certified home care agency" means an agency that is certified by either the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services or the Colorado department of health care policy and financing to provide skilled home health or personal care services.

(1.3) "CMS" means the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services in the United States department of health and human services.

(1.5) Repealed.

(2) "Department" means the Colorado department of public health and environment.

(3) (a) "Home care agency" means any sole proprietorship, partnership, association, corporation, government or governmental subdivision or agency subject to the restrictions in section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(II), not-for-profit agency, or any other legal or commercial entity that manages and offers, directly or by contract, skilled home health services or personal care services to a home care consumer in the home care consumer's temporary or permanent home or place of residence. A residential facility that delivers skilled home health or personal care services which the facility is not licensed to provide shall either be licensed as a home care agency or require the skilled home health or personal care services to be delivered by a licensed home care agency.

(b) "Home care agency" does not include:

(I) Organizations that provide only housekeeping services;

(II) Community and rural health networks that furnish home visits for the purpose of public health monitoring and disease tracking;

(III) An individual who is not employed by or affiliated with a home care agency and who acts alone, without employees or contractors;

(IV) Outpatient rehabilitation agencies and comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facilities certified pursuant to Title XVIII or XIX of the "Social Security Act", as amended;

(V) Consumer-directed attendant programs administered by the Colorado department of health care policy and financing;

(VI) Licensed dialysis centers that provide in-home dialysis services, supplies, and equipment;

(VII) Subject to the requirements of section 25-27.5-103 (3), a facility otherwise licensed by the department;

(VIII) A home care placement agency as defined in subsection (5) of this section;

(IX) Services provided by a qualified early intervention service provider and overseen jointly by the department of education and the department of human services; or

(X) A program of all-inclusive care for the elderly established in section 25.5-5-412, C.R.S., and regulated by the department of health care policy and financing and the CMS; except that PACE home care services are subject to regulation in accordance with section 25-27.5-104 (4).

(4) "Home care consumer" means a person who receives skilled home health services or personal care services in his or her temporary or permanent home or place of residence from a home care agency or from a provider referred by a home care placement agency.

(5) "Home care placement agency" means an organization that, for a fee, provides only referrals of providers to home care consumers seeking services. A home care placement agency does not provide skilled home health services or personal care services to a home care consumer in the home care consumer's temporary or permanent home or place of residence directly or by contract. Such organizations shall follow the requirements of sections 25-27.5-103 (2), 25-27.5-104 (1)(c), and 25-27.5-107.

(5.3) "Manager" or "administrator" means any person who controls and supervises or offers or attempts to control and supervise the day-to-day operations of a home care agency or home care placement agency.

(5.5) "Owner" means a shareholder in a for-profit or nonprofit corporation, a partner in a partnership or limited partnership, a member in a limited liability company, a sole proprietor, or a person with a similar interest in an entity, who has at least a fifty-percent ownership interest in the business entity.

(5.7) "PACE home care services" means skilled home health services or personal care services:

(a) Offered as part of a comprehensive set of medical and nonmedical benefits, including primary care, day services, and interdisciplinary team care planning and management, by PACE providers to an enrolled participant in the program of all-inclusive care for the elderly established in section 25.5-5-412, C.R.S., and regulated by the department of health care policy and financing and the CMS; and

(b) Provided in the enrolled participant's temporary or permanent place of residence.

(6) "Personal care services" means assistance with activities of daily living, including but not limited to bathing, dressing, eating, transferring, walking or mobility, toileting, and continence care. It also includes housekeeping, personal laundry, medication reminders, and companionship services furnished to a home care consumer in the home care consumer's temporary or permanent home or place of residence, and those normal daily routines that the home care consumer could perform for himself or herself were he or she physically capable, which are intended to enable that individual to remain safely and comfortably in the home care consumer's temporary or permanent home or place of residence.

(6.3) "Qualified early intervention service provider" has the meaning set forth in section 26.5-3-402.

(6.7) "Service agency" means a service agency, as defined in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S., that has received certification from the department of health care policy and financing as a developmental disabilities service agency under rules promulgated by the medical services board and is providing services pursuant to the supported living services waiver or the children's extensive support waiver of the home- and community-based services waivers administered by the department of health care policy and financing under part 4 of article 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S.

(7) "Skilled home health services" means health and medical services furnished to a home care consumer in the home care consumer's temporary or permanent home or place of residence that include wound care services; use of medical supplies including drugs and biologicals prescribed by a physician; in-home infusion services; nursing services; home health aide or certified nurse aide services that require the supervision of a licensed or certified health-care professional acting within the scope of his or her license or certificate; occupational therapy; physical therapy; respiratory care services; dietetics and nutrition counseling services; medication administration; medical social services; and speech-language pathology services. "Skilled home health services" does not include the delivery of either durable medical equipment or medical supplies.

(8) "State board" means the state board of health.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2234, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1.5), (3)(b)(IX), (6.3), and (6.7) added and (3)(b)(VII) and (3)(b)(VIII) amended, (SB 10-194), ch. 251, p. 1121, §§ 1, 2, effective May 21. L. 2013: (1.5) and (6.7) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1807, § 40, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2014: (1.3), (3)(b)(X), (5.3), (5.5), and (5.7) added and (1.5), (3)(b)(VIII), (3)(b)(IX), (4), and (6.7) amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1771, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2021: IP amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 330, § 18, effective July 1, 2024; (1.5)(b) added by revision, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, pp. 330, 354 §§ 18, 70. L. 2022: (6.3) amended, (HB 22-1295), ch. 123, p. 847, § 72, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (1.5)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (1.5), effective July 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, pp. 330, 354.)

Cross references: For Title XVIII or XIX of the "Social Security Act", see Pub.L. 89-97.

25-27.5-103. Home care agency license required - home care placement agency registration required - civil and criminal penalties.

(1) On or after June 1, 2009, it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to conduct or maintain a home care agency that provides skilled home health services without having submitted a completed application for licensure as a home care agency to the department. On or after January 1, 2010, it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to conduct or maintain a home care agency that provides skilled home health services without having obtained a license therefor from the department. On or after January 1, 2010, it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to conduct or maintain a home care agency that provides in-home personal care services without having submitted a completed application for licensure as a home care agency to the department. On or after January 1, 2011, it is unlawful for any person, partnership, association, or corporation to conduct or maintain a home care agency that provides in-home personal care services without having obtained a license therefor from the department. Any person who violates this provision:

(a) Is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars; and

(b) May be subject to a civil penalty assessed by the department of up to ten thousand dollars for each violation of this section. The department shall assess, enforce, and collect the penalty in accordance with article 4 of title 24 for credit to the general fund. The department shall enforce and collect each penalty following a decision reached in accordance with procedures set forth in section 24-4-105.

(1.5) It is unlawful for a service agency that is directly providing home care services to conduct or maintain a home care agency that provides in-home personal care services without having obtained a license from the department. Any person who violates this subsection (1.5) is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to the civil and criminal penalties described in subsections (1)(a) and (1)(b) of this section. Nothing in this section relieves an entity that contracts or arranges with a service agency and that meets the definition of a home care agency from the entity's obligation to apply for and operate under a license in accordance with this article.

(2) (a) (I) On or after June 1, 2015, it is unlawful for a person to conduct or maintain a home care placement agency unless the person has submitted a completed application for registration as a home care placement agency to the department, including evidence of general liability insurance coverage as required in subparagraph (II) of this paragraph (a). On or after January 1, 2016, it is unlawful for a person to conduct or maintain a home care placement agency without a valid, current home care placement agency registration issued by the department. The department shall maintain a registry of all registered home care placement agencies and shall make the registry accessible to the public. While a home care placement agency must be registered by the department, a home care placement agency is not licensed or certified by the department and shall not claim or assert that the department licenses or certifies the home care placement agency.

(II) As a condition of obtaining an initial or renewal home care placement agency registration pursuant to this subsection (2), a person applying for initial or renewal registration shall submit to the department, in the form and manner required by the department, proof that the person has obtained and is maintaining general liability insurance coverage that covers the home care placement agency and the providers it refers to home care consumers in an amount determined by the state board by rule pursuant to section 25-27.5-104 (1)(h).

(b) A home care placement agency shall provide to its home care consumer clients, before referring a provider to the client, a written disclosure containing the information required in section 25-27.5-104 (1)(c) and in state board rules adopted pursuant to that section.

(c) A person who violates this subsection (2):

(I) Is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars; and

(II) May be subject to a civil penalty assessed by the department of up to ten thousand dollars for each violation. The department shall assess, enforce, and collect the penalty in accordance with article 4 of title 24. The department shall transfer any money it collects as such a penalty to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the general fund.

(3) If a facility that is licensed pursuant to this title provides skilled home health or personal care services also provides the services outside the premises of the licensed facility, the facility license shall be amended to include the services, and the facility shall meet the requirements promulgated by the state board.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2235, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2010: (1.5) added, (SB 10-194), ch. 251, p. 1122, § 3, effective May 21. L. 2012: (2) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1259, § 10, effective June 4. L. 2013: (1.5)(a)(I) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1807, § 41, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2014: (1.5) and (2) amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1772, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2019: (1)(b) and (2)(c)(II) amended, (SB 19-146), ch. 314, p. 2820, § 4, effective August 2. L. 2021: (1.5) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 330, § 19, effective July 1, 2024.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending subsection (2), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.

25-27.5-104. Minimum standards for home care agencies and home care placement agencies - rules - advisory committee.

(1) The state board shall promulgate rules pursuant to section 24-4-103 providing minimum standards for the operation of home care agencies and home care placement agencies within the state of Colorado that apply regardless of the source of payment for the home care services or the diagnosis of the home care consumer. In promulgating these rules, the state board shall establish different requirements appropriate to the various types of skilled home health and personal care services, including differentiating requirements for providers that are substantially funded through medicare and medicaid reimbursement, providers for the program of all-inclusive care for the elderly established in section 25.5-5-412, providers that are already licensed under this title 25, and providers that are solely or substantially privately funded. This differentiation must include consideration of the requirements already imposed by other federal and state regulatory agencies and must require the department of health care policy and financing and the department to work jointly to resolve differing requirements. The rules must include the following:

(a) Inspection of home care agencies by the department or its designated representative;

(b) Minimum educational, training, and experience standards for the administrator and staff of an agency, including a requirement that such persons be of good, moral, and responsible character;

(c) Requirements for disclosure notices to be provided by home care agencies and home care placement agencies to home care consumers concerning the duties and employment status of the individual providing services. With regard to home care placement agencies, the rules must require a home care placement agency to disclose in writing, at a minimum, the following to each home care consumer client in the form and manner prescribed by the department before referring a provider to the client:

(I) That the home care placement agency is not the employer of any provider it refers to a home care consumer; and

(II) That the home care placement agency does not direct, control, schedule, or train any provider it refers;

(d) Intermediate enforcement remedies as authorized by section 25-27.5-108;

(e) A requirement and form for written plans, to be submitted by agencies to the department for approval, detailing the measures that will be taken to correct violations found as a result of inspections;

(f) Establishing occurrence reporting requirements pursuant to section 25-1-124;

(g) Fees for home care agency licensure.

(I) Home care agency fees are payable to the home care agency cash fund. The annual fee must include a component that reflects whether a survey is planned for the year based on the agency's compliance history. For state fiscal year 2024-25, the state board shall develop a methodology for establishing differentiating fees for licensure of home care agencies to reflect the differences in type, scope, and volume of services provided by the various types of home care agencies, including their volume of medicaid and medicare services, and that allows for reduced fees for home care agencies that are certified prior to initial license application. The department shall not charge a duplicate fee for survey work conducted pursuant to its role as state survey agency for the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services or the Colorado department of health care policy and financing.

(II) For state fiscal year 2025-26 and each state fiscal year thereafter, the schedule of fees adopted by the state board pursuant to section 25-3-105 (1)(a)(I)(A) must be updated and published by March 1 of the year that the fees will take effect. The fees are not subject to rule-making by the state board. The licensure fees for home care agencies must be increased as follows:

(A) For state fiscal year 2025-26, eight percent from the fees on the schedule of fees established pursuant to subsection (1)(g)(I) of this section;

(B) For each of state fiscal years 2026-27, 2027-28, and 2028-29, six percent; and

(C) For state fiscal year 2029-30 and for each state fiscal year thereafter, an amount that is equal to the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index, or a successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by urban consumers.

(h) Requirements for home care agencies to provide evidence of and maintain either liability insurance coverage or a surety bond in lieu of liability insurance coverage and for home care placement agencies to provide evidence of and maintain liability insurance coverage as required in section 25-27.5-103 (2)(a)(II) in amounts set through rules of the state board;

(i) Factors for home care agencies and home care placement agencies to consider when determining whether an applicant's conviction of or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to an offense disqualifies the applicant from employment or a referral. The state board may determine which offenses require consideration of the factors.

(j) Requirements for home care placement agencies to retain their records for a length of time determined by the state board to be available for inspection by the department pursuant to section 25-27.5-106 (2)(a)(III); and

(k) Fees for the registration of home care placement agencies to cover the direct and indirect costs associated with implementing the department's oversight of home care placement agencies.

(1.5) To the extent the state board rules adopted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section address supervision requirements for home care agencies, the rules must allow for supervision in person or by telemedicine or telehealth. Any rules adopted by the state board pursuant to this subsection (1.5) shall be in conformity with applicable federal law and must take into consideration the appropriateness, suitability, and necessity of the method of supervision permitted.

(2) Rules promulgated by the state board are subject to judicial review in accordance with the requirements of section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

(3) There is hereby established a home care advisory committee, which shall make recommendations to the department and the state board concerning the rules promulgated pursuant to this article 27.5 and implementation of the licensing of home care agencies. The executive director of the department shall appoint the members of the advisory committee. The advisory committee must, at a minimum, include representatives from skilled home health services agencies, personal care services agencies, members of the disabled community who are home care consumers, seniors or representatives of seniors who are home care consumers, providers of medicaid services, providers of in-home support services, representatives of home care placement agencies, and representatives of the departments of health care policy and financing and human services. Members of the advisory committee serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority on a voluntary basis without compensation.

(4) The department shall regulate a provider of PACE home care services for minimum standards for the operation of home care agencies as follows:

(a) For a PACE provider that serves only medicaid or medicare clients, if a full federal recertification survey required by the department of health care policy and financing is conducted at least every three years, the department shall accept the federal recertification survey in lieu of a separate survey for relicensure;

(b) The department shall not impose any requirement on a PACE provider that is more stringent than the federal and state medicaid PACE regulations, the three-way agreement entered into by the provider, CMS, and the department of health care policy and financing, and the PACE provider's policies and procedures;

(c) In reviewing a PACE provider's compliance with home care licensure, the department shall coordinate with the department of health care policy and financing regarding both license and certification requirements to ensure that the departments' similar regulations are congruently met;

(d) At the time that a PACE provider enrolls a PACE participant in a PACE program, the PACE provider shall give the client the department's contact information in writing to allow the client to report any complaints that may arise out of the client's PACE home care services. The department shall undertake any investigation arising from a complaint, other than a complaint alleging matters that are outside of the department's licensing authority.

(e) Under the department's licensing authority, the department has complete authority to enforce all home care requirements applicable to a PACE provider. If the department is unable to take corrective action congruently with the department of health care policy and financing, the department shall forward the proposed corrective action to and consult with the department of health care policy and financing before taking final action against a PACE provider.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2236, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2012: IP(1) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1259, § 11, effective June 4. L. 2014: IP(1), (1)(c), (1)(g), and (1)(h) amended and (1)(i), (1)(j), (1)(k), and (4) added, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1774, § 3, effective July 1. L. 2019: (3) amended, (SB 19-146), ch. 314, p. 2821, § 5, effective August 2. L. 2020: (1.5) added, (SB 20-212), ch. 235, p. 1140, § 3, effective July 6. L. 2021: IP(1) and (1)(g)(I) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 330, § 20, effective July 1, 2024. L. 2024: (1)(g) amended, (HB 24-1417), ch. 136, p. 508, § 4, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending the introductory portion to subsection (1), see section 1 of chapter 252, Session Laws of Colorado 2012. For the legislative declaration in SB 20-212, see section 1 of chapter 235, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-27.5-105. Home care agency cash fund - created.

The department shall transmit the fees collected pursuant to section 25-27.5-104 (1) to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fees to the home care agency cash fund, which fund is hereby created. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs of the department in performing its duties under this article 27.5. At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund remains in the fund and must not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2238, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1777, § 4, effective July 1. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (SB 19-146), ch. 314, p. 2821, § 6, effective August 2.

25-27.5-106. License or registration - application - inspection - issuance - rules.

(1) A person applying for a home care agency license or a home care placement agency registration shall submit an application to the department annually upon a form and in a manner prescribed by the department.

(2) (a) (I) The department shall investigate and review each original application and each renewal application for a home care agency license or home care placement agency registration. The department shall determine an applicant's compliance with this article and the rules adopted pursuant to section 25-27.5-104 before the department issues a license or registration.

(II) The department shall make inspections as it deems necessary to ensure that the health, safety, and welfare of the home care agency's or home care placement agency's home care consumers are being protected. Inspections of a home care consumer's home are subject to the consent of the home care consumer to access the property. The home care agency or home care placement agency shall submit in writing, in a form prescribed by the department, a plan detailing the measures that will be taken to correct any violations found by the department as a result of inspections undertaken pursuant to this subsection (2).

(III) The department may inspect, as it deems necessary, a home care placement agency's records on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to ensure that the home care placement agency is in compliance with the criminal history record check, general liability insurance, and disclosure requirements set forth in sections 25-27.5-103 (2)(b), 25-27.5-104 (1)(c) and (1)(h), and 25-27.5-107.

(a.5) Repealed.

(b) The department shall keep all medical information or documents obtained during an inspection or investigation of a home care agency, home care placement agency, or home care consumer's home confidential. All records, information, or documents so obtained are exempt from disclosure pursuant to sections 24-72-204, C.R.S., and 25-1-124.

(3) (a) With the submission of an application for a license or registration granted pursuant to this article 27.5, or within ten days after a change in the owner, manager, or administrator, each owner of a home care agency or home care placement agency and each manager or administrator of a home care agency or home care placement agency shall submit a complete set of the individual's fingerprints to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. The Colorado bureau of investigation shall forward the fingerprints to the federal bureau of investigation for the purpose of conducting a fingerprint-based criminal history record check. Each owner and each manager or administrator is responsible for paying the fee established by the Colorado bureau of investigation for conducting the fingerprint-based criminal history record check to the bureau.

(a.5) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an individual performed pursuant to this subsection (3) reveal a record of arrest without a disposition, the department shall require that individual to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d), performed using state judicial department records.

(b) The department shall use the information from the record check in ascertaining whether the person applying for licensure or registration has been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor, which felony or misdemeanor involves conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of home care consumers of the home care agency or home care placement agency. The department shall maintain information obtained in accordance with this section.

(4) The department shall not issue a license or registration if the owner, manager, or administrator of the home care agency or home care placement agency has been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor, which felony or misdemeanor involves conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the home care consumers of the home care agency or home care placement agency.

(5) Except as otherwise provided in subsections (6) and (7) of this section, the department shall issue or renew a license or registration when it is satisfied that the applicant, licensee, or registrant is in compliance with the requirements set out in this article and the rules promulgated pursuant to this article. Except for provisional licenses issued in accordance with subsections (6) and (7) of this section, a license or registration issued or renewed pursuant to this section expires one year after the date of issuance or renewal.

(6) The department may issue a provisional license to an applicant for the purpose of operating a home care agency for a period of ninety days if the applicant is temporarily unable to conform to all of the minimum standards required under this article 27.5; except that no license shall be issued to an applicant if the operation of the applicant's home care agency will adversely affect the health, safety, or welfare of the home care consumers of such home care agency. As a condition of obtaining a provisional license, the applicant shall show proof to the department that attempts are being made to conform and comply with applicable standards. No provisional license shall be granted prior to the completion of a background check in accordance with subsection (3) of this section and a finding in accordance with subsection (4) of this section. A second provisional license may be issued, for a like term and fee, to effect compliance. No further provisional licenses may be issued for the current year after the second issuance.

(7) If requested by the Colorado department of health care policy and financing, the department may issue a provisional license for a period of ninety days to an agency that has applied to be a certified home care agency as defined in section 25-27.5-102. A provisional license shall not be granted prior to the completion of a record check in accordance with subsection (3) of this section and a finding in accordance with subsection (4) of this section. A second provisional license may be issued, for a like term and fee, to effect compliance. No further provisional licenses may be issued for the current year after the second issuance.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2238, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2014: (1) to (5) amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1777, § 5, effective July 1. L. 2019: (3)(a.5) added and (7) amended, (HB 19-1166), ch. 125, p. 554, § 41, effective April 18. L. 2020: (2)(a)(II) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1055, § 59, effective June 30. L. 2022: (3), (6), and (7) amended, (HB 22-1270), ch. 114, p. 527, § 43, effective April 21. L. 2025: (3)(a) and (3)(a.5) amended, (SB 25-146), ch. 342, p. 1858, § 11, effective June 2.

Editor's note: Subsection (2)(a.5)(IV) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(a.5), effective July 1, 2017. (See L. 2014, p. 1777.)

25-27.5-107. Employee or referred service provider criminal history record check - rules.

The home care agency or home care placement agency shall require a person seeking employment or placement to submit to a criminal history record check before employment or referral to a consumer. The home care agency or home care placement agency or the person seeking employment with the home care agency shall pay the costs of the criminal history record check. The criminal history record check shall be conducted not more than ninety days before the employment or placement of the applicant.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2240, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1781, § 6, effective July 1.

25-27.5-108. License or registration denial - suspension - revocation.

(1) Upon denial of an application for an original license or registration, the department shall notify the applicant in writing of the denial by mailing a notice to the applicant at the address shown on his or her application. Any applicant aggrieved by the denial may pursue the remedy for review provided in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., if the applicant, within thirty days after receiving the notice of denial, petitions the department to set a date and place for hearing, affording the applicant an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel. All hearings on the denial of original licenses or registrations must be conducted in conformity with the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) (a) The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license or registration of a home care agency or home care placement agency that is out of compliance with the requirements of this article or the rules promulgated pursuant to this article. Before taking final action to suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license or registration, the department shall conduct a hearing on the matter in conformance with the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.; except that the department may implement a summary suspension prior to a hearing in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S. If the department suspends, revokes, or refuses to renew a home care placement agency registration, the department shall remove the home care placement agency from the registry maintained by the department pursuant to section 25-27.5-103 (2)(a)(I).

(b) (I) The department may impose intermediate restrictions or conditions on a licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency that may include at least one of the following:

(A) Retaining a consultant to address corrective measures;

(B) Monitoring by the department for a specific period;

(C) Providing additional training to employees, owners, or operators of the home care agency or home care placement agency;

(D) Complying with a directed written plan to correct the violation; or

(E) Paying a civil fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars per calendar year for all violations.

(II) (A) If the department imposes an intermediate restriction or condition that is not a result of a serious and immediate threat to health or welfare, the department shall provide written notice of the restriction or condition to the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency. No later than ten days after the date the notice is received from the department, the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency shall submit a written plan that includes the time frame for completing the plan and addresses the restriction or condition specified.

(B) If the department imposes an intermediate restriction or condition that is the result of a serious and immediate threat to health, safety, or welfare, the department shall notify the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency in writing, by telephone, or in person during an on-site visit. The licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency shall remedy the circumstances creating harm or potential harm immediately upon receiving notice of the restriction or condition. If the department provides notice of a restriction or condition by telephone or in person, the department shall send written confirmation of the restriction or condition to the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency within two business days.

(III) (A) After submission of an approved written plan, a licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency may first appeal any intermediate restriction or condition on its license or registration to the department through an informal review process as established by the department.

(B) If the restriction or condition requires payment of a civil fine, the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency may request, and the department shall grant, a stay in payment of the fine until final disposition of the restriction or condition.

(C) If a licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency is not satisfied with the result of the informal review or chooses not to seek informal review, the department shall not impose an intermediate restriction or condition on the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency until after the licensed home care agency or registered home care placement agency is afforded an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to section 24-4-105, C.R.S.

(IV) If the department assesses a civil fine pursuant to this subsection (2)(b), the department shall transmit the fines to the state treasurer, who shall credit the fines to the general fund.

(V) Repealed.

(3) The department shall revoke or refuse to renew the license of a home care agency or the registration of a home care placement agency where the owner, licensee, or registrant has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving conduct that the department determines could pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the home care consumers of the home care agency or home care placement agency. The department may revoke or refuse to renew a license or registration only after conducting a hearing on the matter in accordance with article 4 of title 24, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2240, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1781, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2)(b)(IV) amended and (2)(b)(V) repealed, (SB 19-146), ch. 314, p. 2820, § 3, effective August 2.

25-27.5-109. Enforcement.

The department is responsible for the enforcement of this article and the rules adopted pursuant to this article.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2242, § 3, effective August 5.

25-27.5-110. Repeal of article - sunset review.

(1) This article 27.5 is repealed, effective September 1, 2028.

(2) Before repeal, the department of regulatory agencies shall review the licensing of home care agencies and the registering of home care placement agencies as provided in section 24-34-104, C.R.S. In conducting its review and compiling its report pursuant to section 24-34-104 (5), C.R.S., the department of regulatory agencies shall segregate the data in the report based on the type of agency, specifying whether the agency is:

(a) A home care agency that provides skilled home health services;

(b) A home care agency that only provides personal care services; or

(c) A home care placement agency.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2242, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1360), ch. 373, p. 1784, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2016: IP(2) amended, (HB 16-1192), ch. 83, p. 235, § 21, effective April 14. L. 2019: (1) amended, (SB 19-146), ch. 314, p. 2820, § 2, effective August 2.

25-27.6 ARTICLE 27.6

Behavioral Health Entities

25-27.6-101 to 25-27.6-112. (Repealed)

ARTICLE 28

Colorado Health Data Commission

25-28-101 to 25-28-111. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 1985. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1995, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-28-111 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 1995. (See L. 91, p. 1009.)

ARTICLE 29

Denver Health and Hospital Authority

25-29-101. Legislative declaration.

25-29-102. Definitions.

25-29-103. Denver health and hospital authority.

25-29-104. Mission of authority - action of board of directors.

25-29-105. Transfer of health system assets and liabilities to authority.

25-29-106. Relationship between authority and city and county of Denver.

25-29-107. Personnel.

25-29-108. Retirement benefits - rights of former city employees.

25-29-109. Records of board of directors.

25-29-110. Meetings of board of directors.

25-29-111. Disclosure of interests required.

25-29-112. General powers of authority.

25-29-113. Bonds and notes.

25-29-114. Remedies.

25-29-115. Negotiable instruments.

25-29-116. Bonds eligible for investment.

25-29-117. Refunding bonds.

25-29-118. Nonliability of state for bonds.

25-29-119. Members of authority not personally liable on bonds.

25-29-120. Annual report.

25-29-121. Powers of authority - investments.

25-29-122. Agreement of this state.

25-29-123. This article not a limitation of powers.

25-29-124. Exemption from property taxation.

25-29-125. General assembly retains authority to enact laws governing Denver health and hospital authority.

25-29-126. Severability.

25-29-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The city and county of Denver department of health and hospitals:

(I) Provides access to quality preventive, acute, and chronic health care for all the citizens of Denver regardless of ability to pay;

(II) Provides high quality emergency medical services to the citizens of Denver and the Rocky Mountain region;

(III) Fulfills public health functions as dictated by the Denver charter and the needs of the citizens of Denver;

(IV) Provides health education for patients and participates in the education of the next generation of health-care professionals; and

(V) Engages in research which enhances its ability to meet the health-care needs of patients of the Denver health system.

(b) In order to carry out its patient care and community service mission in an era of health-care reform, it is necessary that the Denver health system be able to take whatever actions are necessary to enable its continuation as a system which provides the finest possible quality of health care.

(c) It is essential that the Denver health system be able to maximize its economic viability and productivity in order to avoid becoming increasingly dependent on city, state, and other governmental subsidies.

(d) Both the quality and economic viability of the Denver health system will be difficult to maintain in the future under the present constraints imposed by government policy and regulation.

(e) The needs of the citizens of the state of Colorado and of the city and county of Denver will therefore be best served if the Denver health system is operated by a political subdivision charged with carrying out the mission and programs of the Denver health system.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that, after the transfer date, all new employees of the Denver health system shall be employees of the authority.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 655, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Authority" means the political subdivision and body corporate known as the Denver health and hospital authority created by this article.

(2) "Board" or "Board of directors" means the board of directors of the authority.

(3) "City" means the city and county of Denver as constituted under article XX of the state constitution.

(4) "City employee" means a person employed by the city and county of Denver, whether or not a classified employee.

(5) "Denver health system" means the programs, services, and facilities operated by the Denver department of health and hospitals prior to the transfer date.

(6) "Department" means the Denver department of health and hospitals.

(7) "Health system" means the Denver health system or the programs, services, and facilities operated by the authority after the transfer date.

(8) "Health system assets" means all property or rights in property, real and personal, tangible and intangible existing on the transfer date, used by or accruing to the department in the normal course of operations.

(9) "Health system liabilities" means all debts or other obligations, contingent or certain, owing on the transfer date, to any person or other entity, arising out of the operation of the Denver health system and including, without limitation, all debts for the purchase of goods and services, whether or not delivered, and obligations for the delivery of services, whether or not performed.

(10) "Mayor" means the mayor of the city and county of Denver.

(11) "Transfer date" means a date agreed to by the city and the authority for the transfer of Denver health system assets to and the assumption of health system liabilities by such authority.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 656, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-103. Denver health and hospital authority.

(1) There is hereby created the Denver health and hospital authority, which shall be a body corporate and a political subdivision of the state, which shall not be an agency of the state or local government, and which shall not be subject to administrative direction or control by any department, commission, board, bureau, or agency of state or local government.

(2) Prior to July 1, 2016, the authority shall be governed by a nine-member board of directors, and on and after July 1, 2016, the authority shall be governed by an eleven-member board of directors. The board shall be responsible for the operation of the health system. The mayor shall appoint the members of the board whose appointments shall be conditioned upon confirmation by the Denver city council. Of the nine members first appointed, four shall serve a term of two years and five shall serve a term of five years. Thereafter, all members, including the two members first appointed for terms beginning on July 1, 2016, shall serve five-year terms. Actions of the board shall require the affirmative vote of the majority of the total membership of the board. The board shall annually elect a chairperson from among its members. Any member may be elected to serve successive terms as chairperson.

(3) Each member of the board of directors shall hold office until a successor is appointed and qualified. Any member shall be eligible for reappointment, but voting members shall not be eligible to serve more than two consecutive full terms. Members of the board shall receive no compensation for such services but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses while serving on the board. Any vacancy in office shall be filled in the same manner provided for original appointments.

(4) (a) Repealed.

(b) On and after July 1, 2015, any member may be removed upon a unanimous vote of the board, excluding the member to be removed, and approval of the mayor. The decision to remove a board member pursuant to this paragraph (b) shall be based on the board's determination that the member to be removed has failed to perform his or her duties as a board member or has engaged in conduct detrimental to the hospital authority or the board. Prior to the removal of the member, the board shall provide written notice to the member. A member removed from the board pursuant to this paragraph (b) does not have the right to appeal the board's decision to remove the member from the board.

(5) No part of the revenues or assets of the authority shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, members of the board of directors, officers of the authority, or any other private person or entity; except that the authority may make reasonable payments for expenses incurred on its behalf relating to any of its lawful purposes and the authority is also authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for its benefit relating to any of its lawful purposes.

(6) The authority and its corporate existence shall continue until terminated by law; except that no such law shall take effect so long as the authority has outstanding bonds, notes, or other obligations unless adequate provisions have been made for the payment of such outstanding debt.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 657, § 1, effective April 19. L. 2015: (2) and (4) amended, (HB 15-1059), ch. 36, p. 85, § 1, effective March 20.

Editor's note: Subsection (4)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (4)(a), effective July 1, 2015. (See L. 2015, p. 85.) However, subsection (4)(a) was amended in HB 15-1059, effective March 20, 2015. For the amendments in effect from March 20, 2015, to July 1, 2015, see chapter 36, p. 85, Session Laws of Colorado 2015.

25-29-104. Mission of authority - action of board of directors.

(1) The mission of the authority is to:

(a) Provide access to quality preventive, acute, and chronic health care for all the citizens of Denver regardless of ability to pay;

(b) Provide high quality emergency medical services to Denver and the Rocky Mountain region;

(c) Fulfill public health functions in accordance with the agreement entered into with the city pursuant to the authority granted in section 25-29-105 and the needs of the citizens of Denver;

(d) Provide for the health education of patients and to participate in the education of the next generation of health-care professionals; and

(e) Engage in research to the extent that it enhances the ability of the authority to meet the health-care needs of its patients.

(2) The board of directors shall not transfer assets of the authority or of the health system to any person or entity except for such grants or transfers as may be incidental to health system programs and which are consistent with the purposes of this article.

(3) Upon the dissolution of the authority, all assets of the authority, after the satisfaction of creditors, shall revert to the city.

(4) The business activities of the authority, including any joint ventures, shall be primarily in furtherance or in support of the duties and responsibilities of the health system as specified in subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 658, § 1, effective April 19.

ANNOTATION

Providing access to health care services is different from the actual provision of such services; this section does not create a statutory exception to the common law corporate practice of medicine doctrine. Since the Denver health and hospital authority is neither explicitly authorized or required to practice medicine, nor can it control the independent medical judgment of its employees, it is not exposed to vicarious liability. Estate of Harper ex rel. Al-Hamim v. Denver Health & Hosp. Auth., 140 P.3d 273 (Colo. App. 2006).

25-29-105. Transfer of health system assets and liabilities to authority.

(1) The authority is authorized to enter into agreements with the city for the purpose of leasing, conveying, or otherwise acquiring Denver's health system assets. Any such lease, conveyance, transfer, or other agreement to acquire such assets shall be on such terms as may be agreed upon by the parties and shall include consideration of the authority's agreement to assume Denver's health system liabilities.

(2) Any transfer of health system assets to the authority shall be conditioned upon the existence of a binding agreement between the city and the authority transferring management and operation of some or all of the Denver health system to the authority and by which the authority shall accept and agree to fulfill the mission specified in section 25-29-104 and the provisions of section 25-29-107 concerning personnel.

(3) Any transfer of health system assets to the authority pursuant to this section shall be further conditioned upon the existence of a binding agreement between the authority and the city which provides that, effective on the transfer date and thereafter, the authority shall assume responsibility for and shall defend, indemnify, and hold the city harmless with respect to:

(a) All liabilities and duties of the city pursuant to contracts, agreements, and leases for commodities, services, and supplies utilized by the Denver health system, including real property leases;

(b) All claims related to the employment relationship between employees of the authority and the authority on and after the transfer date;

(c) All claims for breach of contract resulting from the authority's action or failure to act on and after the transfer date; and

(d) All claims related to the authority's errors and omissions including but not limited to medical malpractice; director and officer liability; workers' compensation; automobile liability; and premises, completed operations, and products liability.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 659, § 1, effective April 19.

Editor's note: The introductory portion to subsection (3) and subsections (3)(a) to (3)(d) were enacted as the introductory portion to subsection (3)(a) and subsections (3)(a)(I) to (3)(a)(IV) by Senate Bill 94-99, Session Laws of Colorado 1994, chapter 126, section 1, but have been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-29-106. Relationship between authority and city and county of Denver.

(1) On and after the transfer date, except for the power of the city and the mayor to appoint and remove members of the authority's board of directors, the city shall have no further control over the operation of the health system.

(2) The authority may enter into any agreement with the city including but not limited to contracts for:

(a) The provision of goods, services, and facilities in support of Denver's health system; and

(b) Insurance coverage for the authority and its employees for medical malpractice liability from any self-insurance trust fund controlled or maintained by the city.

(3) The authority shall comply with all of city regulatory laws, ordinances, and rules and regulations generally applicable to entities and property holders in the city.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 660, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-107. Personnel.

(1) Any employee of the Denver health system who is an employee of the city on the transfer date may elect to remain a city employee or may elect to become an employee of the authority. An employee may elect to become an employee of the authority at any time on or after the transfer date but may not thereafter return to the city's personnel system while employed by the authority. No city employee shall be discriminated against in training, promotion, retention, assignment of duties, granting of rights and benefits, or any other personnel action. Promotion or a change in position shall not be contingent upon the employee becoming an employee of the authority.

(2) Any employee of the authority who elects to remain a city employee shall retain all rights and privileges which are applicable to such employee's position.

(3) In the case of any dispute involving a city employee who is a member of the city personnel system, the authority shall agree to accept resolution of all disciplinary appeals or other employment disputes governed by the city's system according to the rules and procedures applicable to members of the city's personnel system.

(4) Any city employee who elects to become an employee of the authority shall receive credit from the authority for sick leave and annual leave accrued while employed by the city, the cash equivalent of all or part of such leave, or a combination of credit or cash equivalent, all in accordance with a written agreement between the city and the authority.

(5) The authority shall establish and administer its own personnel program, including a wage and benefit structure, for authority employees.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 660, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-108. Retirement benefits - rights of former city employees.

(1) Any former city employee who elects to become an employee of the authority shall be eligible for membership in the authority's retirement plan.

(2) The authority shall qualify its retirement plan under section 401 (a) of the "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended, as a governmental plan under section 414 (d) of such code.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 661, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-109. Records of board of directors.

All resolutions shall be recorded and authenticated by the signature of the secretary of the board of directors. The resolutions and other proceedings of the board of directors, minutes of the board meetings, annual reports and financial statements, certificates, contracts and financial agreements, employee salaries, and bonds given by officers, employees, and any other agents of the authority, and any personnel reports, guidelines, manuals, or handbooks, other than individual personnel files, are a public record as defined in section 24-72-202 (6) and subject to part 2 of article 72 of title 24. The account of all money received by and disbursed on behalf of the authority is also a public record. Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, the content of an electronic medical record system and individual medical records or medical information is not a public record, and all writings and other records concerning the modification, initiation, or cessation of patient care and authority health-care programs or initiatives shall not be deemed to be a public record if premature disclosure of information contained in such writings or other records would give an unfair competitive or bargaining advantage to any person or entity.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 661, § 1, effective April 19. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-149), ch. 144, p. 928, § 1, effective August 8.

25-29-110. Meetings of board of directors.

(1) All meetings of the board of directors of the authority shall be subject to the provisions of section 24-6-402, C.R.S. No business of the board of directors shall be transacted except at a regular or special meeting at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the total membership of the board is present. Any action of the board shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of the total membership of the board.

(2) The board may elect to hold an executive session for the consideration of any documents or data protected from disclosure pursuant to section 25-29-109.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 661, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-111. Disclosure of interests required.

Any member of the board of directors and any employee or other agent or advisor of the authority, who has a direct or indirect interest in any contract or transaction with the authority, shall disclose this interest to the authority. This interest shall be set forth in the minutes of the authority, and no director, employee, or other agent or advisor having such interest shall participate on behalf of the authority in the authorization of any such contract or transaction; except that the provisions of this section shall not be construed to prohibit any city employee who is a member of the board of directors who has no personal interest in the matter at hand from voting on the authorization of any such contract or transaction between the authority and the city. The status of a board member as a member of the department board, in and of itself, shall not be a conflicting interest.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 661, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-112. General powers of authority.

(1) In addition to any other powers granted to the authority in this article, the authority shall have the following powers:

(a) To have the duties, privileges, immunities, rights, liabilities, and disabilities of a body corporate and political subdivision of the state;

(b) To have perpetual existence and succession;

(c) To adopt, have, and use a seal and to alter the seal at its pleasure;

(d) To sue and be sued;

(e) To enter into any contract or agreement not inconsistent with this article or the laws of this state and to authorize the chief executive officer to enter into contracts, execute all instruments, and do all things necessary or convenient in the exercise of the powers granted in this article and to secure the payment of bonds;

(f) To borrow money and to issue bonds evidencing the same;

(g) To purchase, lease, trade, exchange, or otherwise acquire, maintain, hold, improve, mortgage, lease, sell, and dispose of personal property, whether tangible or intangible, and any interest therein; and to purchase, lease, trade, exchange, or otherwise acquire real property or any interest therein, and to maintain, hold, improve, mortgage, lease, and otherwise transfer such real property, so long as such transactions do not interfere with the mission of the authority as specified in section 25-29-104;

(h) To acquire space, equipment, services, supplies, and insurance necessary to carry out the purposes of this article;

(i) To deposit any moneys of the authority in any banking institution within or without the state or in any depository authorized in section 24-75-603, C.R.S., and to appoint, for the purpose of making such deposits, one or more persons to act as custodians of the moneys of the authority, who shall give surety bonds in such amounts and form and for such purposes as the board of directors requires;

(j) To contract for and to accept any gifts, grants, and loans of funds, property, or any other aid in any form from the federal government, the state, any state agency, or any other source, or any combination thereof, and to comply, subject to the provisions of this article, with the terms and conditions thereof;

(k) To have and exercise all rights and powers necessary or incidental to or implied from the specific powers granted in this article, which specific powers shall not be considered as a limitation upon any power necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes and intent of this article;

(l) To fix the time and place or places at which its regular and special meetings are to be held. Meetings shall be held on the call of the presiding officer, but no less than six meetings shall be held annually.

(m) To adopt and from time to time amend or repeal bylaws and rules and regulations consistent with the provisions of this article; except that article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., shall not apply to the promulgation of any policies, procedures, rules, or regulations of the authority;

(n) To appoint one or more persons as secretary and treasurer of the board and such other officers as the board of directors may determine and provide for their duties and terms of office;

(o) To appoint the authority's chief executive officer and such agents, employees, and professional and business advisers as may from time to time be necessary in its judgment to accomplish the purposes of this article, and to fix the compensation of such chief executive officer, employees, agents, and advisers, and to establish the powers and duties of all such agents, employees, and other persons contracting with the authority;

(p) To waive, by such means as the authority deems appropriate, the exemption from federal income taxation of interest on the authority's bonds, notes, or other obligations provided by the "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended, or any other federal statute providing a similar exemption;

(q) To make and execute agreements, contracts, and other instruments necessary or convenient in the exercise of the powers and functions of the authority under this article, including but not limited to contracts with any person, firm, corporation, municipality, state agency, county, or other entity. All municipalities, counties, and state agencies are hereby authorized to enter into and do all things necessary to perform any such arrangement or contract with the authority.

(r) To arrange for guaranties or insurance of its bonds, notes, or other obligations by the federal government or by any private insurer, and to pay any premiums therefor;

(s) To engage in joint ventures, or to participate in alliances, purchasing consortia, health insurance pools, or other cooperative arrangements, with any public or private entity;

(t) To authorize officers or employees of the authority to incorporate a nonprofit corporation to be capitalized and controlled by the authority, or to serve in their official capacities on the governing body of a governmental or nongovernmental entity.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 661, § 1, effective April 19. L. 2015: (1)(l) amended, (HB 15-1059), ch. 36, p. 86, § 2, effective March 20.

25-29-113. Bonds and notes.

(1) (a) The authority has the power and is authorized to issue from time to time its notes and bonds in such principal amounts as the authority determines to be necessary to provide sufficient funds for achieving any of its corporate purposes, including the payment of interest on notes and bonds of the authority, the establishment of reserves to secure such notes and bonds, and all other expenditures of the authority incident to and necessary or convenient to carry out its corporate purposes and powers.

(b) (I) The authority has the power, from time to time, to issue:

(A) Notes to renew notes;

(B) Bonds to pay notes, including the interest thereon, and, whenever it deems refunding expedient, to refund any bonds whether the bonds to be refunded have or have not matured; and

(C) Bonds partly to refund bonds then outstanding and partly for any of its corporate purposes.

(II) Refunding bonds issued pursuant to this paragraph (b) may be exchanged for the bonds to be refunded or sold and the proceeds applied to the purchase, redemption, or payment of such bonds.

(c) The authority has the power to provide for the replacement of lost, destroyed, or mutilated bonds or notes.

(d) Except as may otherwise be expressly provided by the authority, every issue of its notes and bonds shall be general obligations of the authority payable out of any revenues or moneys of the authority, subject only to any agreements with the holders of particular notes or bonds pledging any particular revenues.

(2) The notes and bonds shall be authorized by a resolution adopted by an affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the board of directors.

(3) Any resolution authorizing any notes or bonds or any issue thereof may contain provisions, which shall be a part of the contract with the holders thereof, as to:

(a) Pledging all or any part of the revenues of the authority to secure the payment of the notes or bonds or of any issue thereof, subject to such agreements with noteholders or bondholders as may then exist;

(b) Pledging all or any part of the assets of the authority to secure the payment of the notes or bonds or of any issue of notes or bonds, subject to such agreements with noteholders or bondholders as may then exist, such assets to include any grant or contribution from the federal government or any corporation, association, institution, or person;

(c) The setting aside of reserves or sinking funds and the regulation and disposition thereof;

(d) Limitations on the purpose to which the proceeds of sale of notes or bonds may be applied and pledging such proceeds to secure the payment of the notes or bonds or of any issue thereof;

(e) Limitations on the issuance of additional notes or bonds, the terms upon which additional notes or bonds may be issued and secured, and the refunding of outstanding or other notes or bonds;

(f) The procedure, if any, by which the terms of any contract with noteholders or bondholders may be amended or abrogated, the amount of notes or bonds the holders of which must consent thereto, and the manner in which such consent may be given;

(g) Limitations on the amount of moneys to be expended by the authority for operating expenses of the authority;

(h) Vesting in a trustee such property, rights, powers, and duties in trust as the authority may determine, which may include any or all of the rights, powers, and duties of the trustee appointed by the bondholders pursuant to this article, and limiting or abrogating the right of the bondholders to appoint a trustee under this article or limiting the rights, powers, and duties of such trustee;

(i) Defining the acts or omissions to act which shall constitute a default in the obligations and duties of the authority to the holders of the notes or bonds and providing for the rights and remedies of the holders of the notes or bonds in the event of such default, including as a matter of right the appointment of a receiver; except that such rights and remedies shall not be inconsistent with the general laws of this state and the other provisions of this article;

(j) Any other matters, of like or different character, which in any way affect the security or protection of the holders of the notes or bonds.

(4) The bonds or notes of each issue may, in the discretion of the board of directors, be made redeemable before maturity at such prices and under such terms and conditions as may be determined by the board of directors. Notes shall mature at such time as may be determined by the board of directors, and bonds shall mature at such time, not exceeding thirty-five years from their date of issue, as may be determined by the board. The bonds may be issued as serial bonds payable in annual installments or as term bonds or as a combination thereof. The notes and bonds shall bear interest at such rate, be in such denominations, be in such form, either coupon or registered, carry such registration privileges, be executed in such manner, be payable in such medium of payment and at such place, and be subject to such terms of redemption as such resolution may provide. The notes and bonds of the authority may be sold by the authority, at public or private sale, at such price as the board of directors shall determine.

(5) In case any officer whose signature or a facsimile of whose signature appears on any bonds or notes or coupons attached thereto ceases to be such officer before the delivery thereof, such signature or such facsimile shall nevertheless be valid and sufficient for all purposes the same as if the officer had remained in office until such delivery. The board of directors may also provide for the authentication of the bonds or notes by a trustee or fiscal agent.

(6) Prior to the preparation of definitive bonds or notes, the authority may, under like restrictions, issue interim receipts or temporary bonds or notes until such definitive bonds or notes have been executed and are available for delivery.

(7) The authority, subject to such agreements with noteholders or bondholders as may then exist, has the power out of any funds available therefor to purchase notes or bonds of the authority, which shall thereupon be canceled at a price not exceeding:

(a) If the notes or bonds are then redeemable, the redemption price then applicable plus accrued interest to the next interest payment thereon; or

(b) If the notes or bonds are not then redeemable, the redemption price applicable on the first date after such purchase upon which the notes or bonds become subject to redemption plus accrued interest to such date.

(8) In the discretion of the authority, the bonds may be secured by a trust indenture by and between the authority and a corporate trustee, which may be any trust company or bank having the power of a trust company within or without this state. Such trust indenture may contain such provisions for protecting and enforcing the rights and remedies of the bondholders as may be reasonable and proper and not in violation of law, including covenants setting forth the duties of the authority in relation to the exercise of its corporate powers and the custody, safeguarding, and application of all moneys. The authority may provide by such trust indenture for the payment of the proceeds of the bonds and the revenues to the trustee under such trust indenture or other depository and for the method of disbursement thereof, with such safeguards and restrictions as it may determine. All expenses incurred in carrying out such trust indenture may be treated as a part of the operating expenses of the authority. If the bonds are secured by a trust indenture, the bondholders shall have no authority to appoint a separate trustee to represent them.

(9) The authority shall not have outstanding, at any one time, bonds, not including bond anticipation notes, or bonds which have been refunded, in an aggregate principal amount exceeding one hundred twenty million dollars without the approval of the city acting by formal resolution of the Denver city council; however, this limitation shall not apply to bonds which are unsecured or secured solely by a pledge of the revenues of the authority and are not in any way secured by a pledge of any of the authority's other assets, including, without limitation, any buildings or real property, and which contain a statement that the bondholders shall not have any recourse against the authority's other assets for repayment of the bonds. Under no circumstances shall the city be liable for any indebtedness incurred by the authority. The general assembly specifically finds there is a substantial public purpose in limiting the indebtedness of the authority in the event the authority assets or the hospital assets are transferred back to or revert to the city.

(10) The authority has the power and is authorized to issue from time to time notes, bonds, and other securities which may be collateralized or otherwise secured in whole or in part by loans or participations or other interests in such loans or which may evidence loans or participations or other interests in such loans to provide net funds that are to be dedicated in whole or in part by resolution of the authority to the carrying out of one or more of the purposes of the authority. The interest on or from such notes, bonds, and other securities may be subject to or exempt from federal income taxation.

(11) Any notes, bonds, or other securities issued pursuant to this section, and the income therefrom, including any profit from the sale thereof, shall at all times be free from taxation by the state or any agency, political subdivision, or instrumentality of the state.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 663, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-114. Remedies.

Any holder of bonds issued under the provisions of this article, or any coupons appertaining thereto and the trustee under any trust agreement or resolution authorizing the issuance of such bonds, except to the extent the rights under this article may be restricted by such trust agreement or resolution, may, either at law or in equity by suit, action, mandamus, or other proceeding, protect and enforce any and all rights under the laws of the state or granted under this article or under such agreement or resolution, or under any other contract executed by the authority pursuant to this article, and may enforce and compel the performance of all duties required by this article or by such trust agreement or resolution to be performed by the authority or by an officer thereof.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 667, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-115. Negotiable instruments.

Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions of this article or any recitals in any bonds issued under the provisions of this article, all such bonds and interest coupons appertaining thereto shall be negotiable instruments under the laws of this state, subject only to any applicable provisions for registration.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 667, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-116. Bonds eligible for investment.

Bonds issued under the provisions of this article are hereby made securities in which all insurance companies, trust companies, banking associations, savings and loan associations, investment companies, executors, administrators, trustees, and other fiduciaries may properly and legally invest funds, including capital in their control or belonging to them. Public entities, as defined in section 24-75-601 (1), C.R.S., may invest public funds in such bonds only if said bonds satisfy the investment requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S. Such bonds are hereby made securities which may properly and legally be deposited with and received by any state or municipal officer or any agency or political subdivision of the state for any purpose for which the deposit of bonds, notes, or obligations of the state is authorized by law.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 667, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-117. Refunding bonds.

(1) The board of directors may provide for the issuance of refunding obligations of the authority for the purpose of refunding any obligations then outstanding which have been issued under the provisions of this article, including the payment of any redemption premium thereon and any interest accrued or to accrue to the date of redemption of such obligations, and for any corporate purpose of the authority.

(2) Refunding obligations issued as provided in subsection (1) of this section may be sold or exchanged for outstanding obligations issued under this article, and, if sold, the proceeds thereof may be applied, in addition to any other authorized purposes, to the purchase, redemption, or payment of such outstanding obligations. Pending the application of the proceeds of any such refunding obligations, with any other available funds, to the payment of the principal, the accrued interest, and any redemption premium on the obligations being refunded and, if so provided or permitted in the resolution authorizing the issuance of such refunding obligations or in the trust agreement securing the same, to the payment of any interest on such refunding obligations and any expenses in connection with such refunding, such proceeds may be invested in securities meeting the investment requirements established in part 6 of article 75 of title 24, C.R.S., which shall mature or which shall be subject to redemption by the holders thereof, at the option of such holders, not later than the respective dates when the proceeds, together with the interest accruing thereon, will be required for the purposes intended.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 668, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-118. Nonliability of state for bonds.

Neither the state of Colorado nor the city shall be liable for bonds of the authority, and such bonds shall not constitute a debt of the state or the city. The bonds shall contain on the face thereof a statement to such effect.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 668, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-119. Members of authority not personally liable on bonds.

Neither the members of the board of directors nor any authorized person executing bonds issued pursuant to this article shall be personally liable for such bonds by reason of the execution or issuance thereof.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 668, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-120. Annual report.

The authority shall submit to the mayor of the city within six months after the end of the fiscal year a report which shall set forth a complete and detailed operating and financial statement of the authority during such year. Also included in the report shall be any recommendations with reference to additional legislation or other action that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the authority.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 669, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-121. Powers of authority - investments.

(1) The authority has the power:

(a) To invest any funds not required for immediate disbursement in property or in securities which meet the standard for investments established in section 15-1-304, C.R.S., provided such investment assists the authority in carrying out its public purposes; and to sell from time to time such securities thus purchased and held; and to deposit any securities in any trust bank within or without the state. Any funds deposited in a banking institution or in any depository authorized in section 24-75-603, C.R.S., shall be secured in such manner and subject to such terms and conditions as the board may determine, with or without payment of any interest on such deposit, including, without limitation, time deposits evidenced by certificates of deposit. Any commercial bank incorporated under the laws of this state which may act as depository of any funds of the authority may issue indemnifying bonds or may pledge such securities as may be required by the board of directors.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (1), to contract with the holders of any of its notes or bonds as to the custody, collection, securing, investment, and payment of any moneys of the authority and of any moneys held in trust or otherwise for the payment of notes or bonds and to carry out such contract. Moneys held in trust or otherwise for the payment of notes or bonds or in any way to secure notes or bonds and deposits of such moneys may be secured in the same manner as moneys of the authority, and all banks and trust companies are authorized to give such security for such deposits.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 669, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-122. Agreement of this state.

This state does hereby pledge to and agree with the holders of any notes or bonds issued under this article that this state will not limit or alter the rights hereby vested in the authority to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the said holders thereof or in any way impair the rights and remedies of such holders until such notes and bonds, together with the interest thereon, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of such holders are fully met and discharged. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of this state in any agreement with the holders of such notes or bonds.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 669, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-123. This article not a limitation of powers.

Nothing in this article shall be construed as a restriction or limitation upon any other powers which the authority might otherwise have under any other law of this state, and this article is cumulative to any such powers. This article does and shall be construed to provide a complete, additional, and alternative method for the doing of the things authorized thereby and shall be regarded as supplemental and additional to powers conferred by other laws. However, the issuance of bonds, notes, and other obligations and refunding bonds under the provisions of this article need not comply with the requirements of any other state law applicable to the issuance of bonds, notes, and other obligations. No proceedings, notice, or approval shall be required for the issuance of any bonds, notes, or other obligations or any instrument as security therefor, except as is provided in this article.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 670, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-124. Exemption from property taxation.

The authority shall be exempt from any general ad valorem taxes upon any property of the authority acquired and used for its public purposes. The authority may enter into agreements to pay annual sums in lieu of taxes to any county, municipality, or other taxing entity with respect to any real property which is owned by the authority and is located in such county, municipality, or other taxing entity.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 670, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-125. General assembly retains authority to enact laws governing Denver health and hospital authority.

The general assembly expressly reserves its plenary legislative authority relating to the Denver health and hospital authority, including but not limited to the authority to enact laws relating thereto. Nothing in this part 5 or part 6 of this article or in section 11 of article II of the state constitution or in section 10 of article I of the federal constitution, relating to impairment of the obligation of contract, shall be construed to limit said legislative authority. Any contract or other obligation of the authority is expressly subject to the provisions of this section, and the parties to such contract or obligation shall not assert such contract or obligation as a bar to the general assembly's exercise of legislative authority relating to the Denver health and hospital authority.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 670, § 1, effective April 19.

25-29-126. Severability.

Any provision of this article declared to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid shall not impair the remaining provisions of this article.

Source: L. 94: Entire article added, p. 670, § 1, effective April 19.

ARTICLE 30

Female Genital Mutilation Outreach

25-30-101 to 25-30-104. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 1999 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2004. For the text of this article prior to 2004, consult the 2003 Colorado Revised Statutes.

(2) Section 25-30-104 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2004. (See L. 1999, p. 803.)

ARTICLE 31

Colorado Nurse Home Visitor Program

25-31-101 to 25-31-108. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire article repealed, (HB 13-1117), ch. 169, p. 584, § 6, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This article was added in 2000. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2013, consult the 2012 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. This article was relocated to article 6.4 of title 26. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this article, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in the 2013 act repealing this article 31, see section 1 of chapter 169, Session Laws of Colorado 2013.

ARTICLE 32

Poison Control Act

25-32-101. Short title.

25-32-102. Legislative declaration.

25-32-103. Definitions.

25-32-104. Poison control services - statewide poison control oversight board - duties. (Repealed)

25-32-105. Department - poison control services - duties - contract.

25-32-106. Release of medical information.

25-32-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Poison Control Act".

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 423, § 1, effective July 1.

25-32-102. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly hereby declares that it is in the interest of the public's health and well-being to continue to provide quality poison control services to the people of this state and that the provision of such services is a matter of statewide concern. It is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this article that such services be made available throughout the state on a consistent and prompt basis, by means of a toll-free telephone network, in order that illness or death that may result from the exposure of an individual to poisonous substances may be avoided. The general assembly finds that the provision of such poison control services may be accomplished on a more cost-efficient basis, at a savings to the taxpayer, if the duty of providing such services is placed with the department of public health and environment with authority to contract with a competitively priced service provider for the entire state.

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 423, § 1, effective July 1.

25-32-103. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) Repealed.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Poison control services" shall include the following services provided by an entity certified by the American association of poison control centers or its successor organization:

(a) Twenty-four-hour toll-free telephone service dedicated to disseminating information on prevention of poisoning and the care and treatment of individuals exposed to poisonous substances;

(b) Dissemination of poison information by persons who are trained in poison control education, and the prevention, triage, and treatment of poisoning and who meet the criteria established by and are certified by the American association of poison control centers, or its successor organization; and

(c) Supervision of poison control centers by a person who meets the criteria established by the American association of poison control centers, or its successor organization, and who shall be available twenty-four hours each day for consultation.

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 424, § 1, effective July 1; (3)(b) amended, p. 946, § 7, effective August 7. L. 2005: (3) amended, p. 323, § 1, effective April 20. L. 2013: (1) repealed, (HB 13-1139), ch. 120, p. 407, § 1, effective August 7.

Editor's note: Subsection (3)(b) was originally numbered as § 25.5-2-103 (2)(b), and the amendments to it in House Bill 02-1403 were harmonized with subsection (3)(b) as relocated to this section by House Bill 02-1348.

25-32-104. Poison control services - statewide poison control oversight board - duties. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 424, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: Entire section repealed, (HB 13-1139), ch. 120, p. 407, § 1, effective August 7.

25-32-105. Department - poison control services - duties - contract.

(1) The department has the following powers and duties with respect to the provision of poison control services on a statewide basis and for the dissemination of information as provided in this article 32:

(a) To solicit, receive, and review contract bids for the provision of poison control services and the dissemination of poison control information by means of a toll-free telephone network;

(b) (I) To contract with private, nonprofit, or public entities for the continuing provision of statewide poison control services and the continuing dissemination of poison control information to the citizens of the state by means of a toll-free telephone network, the provision of which services initially commenced on July 1, 1995. The department shall review the contract at least once each year and shall solicit and receive bids on the provision of poison control services no less than once every five years. This paragraph (b) shall apply to contract years commencing July 1, 1995, and thereafter.

(II) On or after January 1, 2016, to contract with private, nonprofit, or public entities for the continuing provision of statewide poison control services and the continuing dissemination of poison control information to the citizens of the state by means other than a toll-free telephone network, such as text messaging, instant messaging, and email. The entity or entities shall coordinate these services with the toll-free telephone network described in subsection (1)(b)(I) of this section. The general assembly shall appropriate at least one million dollars for the fiscal year 2015-16 to the department for it to contract with an entity to build the infrastructure necessary for the services identified in this subsection (1)(b)(II), and any unexpended and unencumbered money from the appropriation remains available for expenditure by the department in the next fiscal year without further appropriation. In addition, the general assembly may annually appropriate money from the marijuana tax cash fund created in section 39-28.8-501 to the department for the services identified in this subsection (1)(b)(II).

(c) To provide, by contract and for adequate reimbursement, poison control services and the dissemination of poison control information to the citizens of other states by this state;

(d) To contract with an auditor for a performance or financial audit at the discretion of the department. A copy of such audit, when performed, shall be sent to the joint budget committee.

(2) Whenever the department of health care policy and financing is referred to or designated by any contract or other document in connection with the duties and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment, such reference or designation shall be deemed to apply to the department of public health and environment. All contracts entered into by the department of health care policy and financing prior to July 1, 2002, in connection with the duties and functions transferred to the department of public health and environment, are hereby validated, with the department of public health and environment succeeding to all the rights and obligations of such contracts. Any appropriation of funds from prior fiscal years open to satisfy obligations incurred under such contracts are hereby transferred and appropriated to the department of public health and environment for the payment of such obligations.

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 426, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: IP(1), (1)(a), and (1)(d) amended, (HB 13-1139), ch. 120, p. 409, § 8, effective August 7. L. 2015: (1)(b) amended, (HB 15-1367), ch. 271, p. 1076, § 14, effective January 1, 2016. L. 2018: IP(1) and (1)(b)(II) amended, (HB 18-1369), ch. 253, p. 1555, § 6, effective August 8.

Editor's note: (1) Section 23(2) of chapter 271 (HB 15-1367), Session Laws of Colorado 2015, provides that changes to this section by the act take effect only if a majority of voters approve the ballot issue referred in accordance with section 39-28.8-603 (1) at the November 2015 statewide election, and, if the voters approve the ballot measure, the changes to this section are effective on the date of the official declaration of the vote by the governor, or January 1, 2016, whichever is later.

(2) The ballot issue was approved by voters on November 3, 2015. The governor's proclamation was issued on December 28, 2015, establishing an effective date of January 1, 2016, for changes to this section. The vote count for the measure was as follows:

FOR: 847,380

AGAINST: 373,734

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 15-1367, see section 1 of chapter 271, Session Laws of Colorado 2015. For the legislative declaration in HB 18-1369, see section 1 of chapter 253, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-32-106. Release of medical information.

Notwithstanding any other provisions to the contrary, when a poison control service provider selected pursuant to section 25-32-105 determines that a medical emergency exists and that information concerning the patient's medical history is necessary to assist in the diagnosis or treatment of such patient, the patient's physician shall release to the poison control service provider such medical information concerning the patient as may be necessary to aid in the diagnosis or treatment of the patient. The poison control service provider receiving such information shall maintain the confidentiality of the information received.

Source: L. 2002: Entire article added, p. 427, § 1, effective July 1.

ARTICLE 33

Farmers' Market Nutrition Program Women, Infants, and Children

25-33-101 to 25-33-104. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 2002 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2006. For the text of this article prior to 2006, consult the 2005 Colorado Revised Statutes.

(2) Section 25-33-104 (1) provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2006, if the program was not implemented due to insufficient funds. On June 20, 2006, the revisor of statutes received notice from the joint budget committee staff director that the conditions in § 25-33-104 (1) had not been met.

ARTICLE 34

Colorado Stroke Advisory Board

25-34-101 to 25-34-107. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 2002. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2004, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-34-107 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2004. (See L. 2002, p. 781.)

25-34.1 ARTICLE 34.1

Stroke Prevention and Treatment Cash Fund Transfer

25-34.1-101. Transfer of balance of stroke prevention and treatment cash fund - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire article added, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 626, § 29, effective April 20.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2009. (See L. 2009, p. 626.)

ARTICLE 35

Colorado Cancer Drug Repository Program

25-35-101 to 25-35-105. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire article repealed, (SB 19-081), ch. 33, p. 105, § 2, effective August 2.

Editor's note: (1) This article 35 was added in 2005. For amendments to this article 35 prior to its repeal in 2019, consult the 2018 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Sections 25-35-102 IP, (3), and (8) and 25-35-103 (3)(d) were amended in HB 19-1172, effective October 1, 2019. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of this article 35 in SB 19-081, effective August 2, 2019.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 19-081, see section 1 of chapter 33, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ARTICLE 36

Short-term Grants for Innovative Health Programs

25-36-101. Short-term grants for innovative health programs - grant fund - creation - appropriation from fund - transfer of moneys for fiscal years 2007-08 through 2011-12 - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire article added, p. 148, § 8, effective March 22; (8) added, p. 1356, § 6, effective May 29; (3) added, p. 1383, § 2, effective May 30; (9) added, p. 1398, § 3, effective May 30; (4) added, p. 1673, § 2, effective May 31; (7) added, p. 2081, § 2, effective June 4; (10) added, p. 2108, § 2, effective June 4; (5) and (6) added, p. 893, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2008: (3) amended, p. 1908, § 107, effective August 5. L. 2009: (5) amended, (SB 09-210), ch. 124, p. 533, § 6, effective April 16; (2) amended, (SB 09-208), ch. 149, p. 626, § 30, effective April 20; (10) amended, (HB 09-1111), ch. 396, p. 2142, § 5, effective June 2. L. 2010: (3) and (7) amended, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 799, § 63, effective April 29; (10)(b) amended, (HB 10-1138), ch. 142, p. 485, § 11, effective July 1. L. 2011: (10)(b) amended, (HB 11-1281), ch. 180, p. 689, § 12, effective May 19. L. 2012: (1), (2)(b), (3) to (7), (9) and (10) repealed and (2)(a) amended, (HB 12-1247), ch. 53, p. 194, § 5, effective March 22.

Editor's note: (1) Subsection (8)(b) provided for the repeal of subsection (8), effective July 1, 2008. (See L. 2007, p. 1356.)

(2) Subsection (2)(a)(II) provided for the repeal of subsection (2)(a), effective December 31, 2012. (See L. 2012, p. 194.)

ARTICLE 37

Contracts with Health-care Providers

25-37-101. Applicability of article.

25-37-102. Definitions.

25-37-103. Health-care contracts - required provisions - permissible provision.

25-37-103.5. Pharmacy benefit managers - contracts with pharmacies - maximum allowable cost pricing. (Repealed)

25-37-104. Material change in health-care contract - written advance notice.

25-37-105. Contract modification by operation of law.

25-37-106. Clean claims - development of standardized payment rules and code edits - task force to develop - legislative recommendations - short title - applicability. (Repealed)

25-37-107. Claim adjudication information - balance owing.

25-37-108. Assignment of rights - requirements.

25-37-109. Waiver of rights prohibited.

25-37-110. Provider declining service to new patients - notice - definition.

25-37-111. Termination of contract - effect on payment terms - right to terminate - termination of pharmacy contracts.

25-37-112. Disclosure to third parties - confidentiality.

25-37-113. Article inapplicable - when.

25-37-114. Enforcement.

25-37-115. Providers obligated to comply with law.

25-37-116. Copyrights protected.

25-37-101. Applicability of article.

A person or entity that contracts with a health-care provider shall comply with this article and shall include the provisions required by this article in the contract.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1413, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2016: Entire section amended, (SB 16-127), ch. 68, p. 173, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (1) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 37, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Category of coverage" means one of the following types of coverage offered by a person or entity:

(a) Health maintenance organization plans;

(b) Any other commercial plan or contract that is not a health maintenance organization plan;

(c) Medicare;

(d) Medicaid; or

(e) Workers' compensation.

(2) "CMS" means the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services in the United States department of health and human services.

(3) "CPT code set" means the current procedural terminology code, or its successor code, as developed and copyrighted by the American medical association, or its successor entity, and adopted by the CMS as a HIPAA code set.

(4) Repealed.

(5) "HCPCS" means the "Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System" developed by the CMS for identifying health-care services in a consistent and standardized manner.

(6) "Health-care contract" or "contract" means a contract entered into or renewed between a person or entity and a health-care provider for the delivery of health-care services to others.

(7) "Health-care provider" means a person licensed or certified in this state to practice medicine, pharmacy, chiropractic, nursing, physical therapy, podiatry, dentistry, optometry, occupational therapy; to practice as a certified midwife; or to practice other healing arts. "Health-care provider" also means an ambulatory surgical center, a licensed pharmacy or provider of pharmacy services, and a professional corporation or other corporate entity consisting of licensed health-care providers as permitted by the laws of this state.

(8) "HIPAA code set" means any set of codes used to encode elements, such as tables of terms, medical concepts, medical diagnostic codes, or medical procedure codes, that have been adopted by the secretary of the United States department of health and human services pursuant to the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", as amended. "HIPAA code set" includes the codes and the descriptors of the codes.

(9) (a) "Material change" means a change to a contract that decreases the health-care provider's payment or compensation, changes the administrative procedures in a way that may reasonably be expected to significantly increase the provider's administrative expense, replaces the maximum allowable cost list used with a new and different maximum allowable cost list by a person or entity for reimbursement of generic prescription drug claims, or adds a new category of coverage.

(b) "Material change" does not include:

(I) A decrease in payment or compensation resulting solely from a change in a published fee schedule upon which the payment or compensation is based and the date of applicability is clearly identified in the contract;

(II) A decrease in payment or compensation resulting from a change in the fee schedule specified in a contract for pharmacy services such as a change in a fee schedule based on average wholesale price or maximum allowable cost;

(III) A decrease in payment or compensation that was anticipated under the terms of the contract, if the amount and date of applicability of the decrease is clearly identified in the contract;

(IV) An administrative change that may significantly increase the provider's administrative expense, the specific applicability of which is clearly identified in the contract;

(V) Changes to an existing prior authorization, precertification, notification, or referral program that do not substantially increase the provider's administrative expense; or

(VI) Changes to an edit program or to specific edits; however, the person or entity shall provide notice of the changes to the health-care provider in accordance with paragraph (c) of this subsection (9), and the notice shall include information sufficient for the health-care provider to determine the effect of the change.

(c) If a change to the contract is administrative only and is not a material change, the change shall be effective upon at least fifteen days' notice to the health-care provider. All other notices shall be provided pursuant to the contract.

(10) "National correct coding initiative" or "NCCI" means the system developed by the CMS to promote consistency in national correct coding methodologies and to control improper coding leading to inappropriate payment in medicare part B claims for professional services.

(11) "National initiative" means a collaborative effort led by or occurring under the direction of the secretary of the United States department of health and human services, which includes a diverse group of stakeholders, to create a level of understanding of the impact of coding edits on the industry and a uniform, standardized set of claim edits that meets the needs of the stakeholders in the industry.

(12) "Person or entity" means a person or entity that has a primary business purpose of contracting with health-care providers for the delivery of health-care services.

(13) "Pharmacy benefit manager" means an entity doing business in this state that contracts to administer or manage prescription drug benefits on behalf of any carrier that provides prescription drug benefits to residents of this state. "Pharmacy benefit manager" does not include the department of health care policy and financing created in section 25.5-1-104, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1413, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2014: (13) added, (HB 14-1213), ch. 362, p. 1702, § 1, effective January 1, 2015. L. 2016: (4) repealed, (SB 16-127), ch. 68, p. 173, § 2, effective July 1. L. 2023: IP and (7) amended, (SB 23-167), ch. 261, p. 1549, § 61, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (2) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-103. Health-care contracts - required provisions - permissible provision.

(1) (a) A person or entity shall provide, with each health-care contract, a summary disclosure form disclosing, in plain language, the following:

(I) The terms governing compensation and payment;

(II) Any category of coverage for which the health-care provider is to provide service;

(III) The duration of the contract and how the contract may be terminated;

(IV) The identity of the person or entity responsible for the processing of the health-care provider's claims for compensation or payment;

(V) Any internal mechanism required by the person or entity to resolve disputes that arise under the terms or conditions of the contract; and

(VI) The subject and order of addenda, if any, to the contract.

(b) The summary disclosure form required by paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) shall be for informational purposes only and shall not be a term or condition of the contract; however, such disclosure shall reasonably summarize the applicable contract provisions.

(c) If the contract provides for termination for cause by either party, the contract shall state the reasons that may be used for termination for cause, which terms shall not be unreasonable, and the contract shall state the time by which notice of termination for cause shall be provided and to whom the notice shall be given.

(d) The person or entity shall identify any utilization review or management, quality improvement, or similar program the person or entity uses to review, monitor, evaluate, or assess the services provided pursuant to a contract. The policies, procedures, or guidelines of such program applicable to a provider shall be disclosed upon request of the health-care provider within fourteen days after the date of the request.

(e) (I) The summary disclosure form required by subsection (1)(a) of this section must include a disclosure that a person or entity shall not terminate a health-care contract with a health-care provider solely for the provision of, or assistance in the provision of, a legally protected health-care activity, as defined in section 12-30-121 (1)(d).

(II) A person or entity that is a religious organization is not subject to the requirements of this subsection (1)(e) if the provision of, or assistance in the provision of, a legally protected health-care activity, as defined in section 12-30-121 (1)(d), conflicts with the religious organization's bona fide religious beliefs and practices.

(2) (a) The disclosure of payment and compensation terms pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall include information sufficient for the health-care provider to determine the compensation or payment for the health-care services and shall include the following:

(I) The manner of payment, such as fee-for-service, capitation, or risk sharing;

(II) (A) The methodology used to calculate any fee schedule, such as relative value unit system and conversion factor, percentage of medicare payment system, or percentage of billed charges. As applicable, the methodology disclosure shall include the name of any relative value system; its version, edition, or publication date; any applicable conversion or geographic factor; and any date by which compensation or fee schedules may be changed by such methodology if allowed for in the contract.

(B) The fee schedule for codes reasonably expected to be billed by the health- care provider for services provided pursuant to the contract, and, upon request, the fee schedule for other codes used by or which may be used by the health-care provider. Such fee schedule shall include, as may be applicable, service or procedure codes such as current procedural terminology (CPT) codes or health care common procedure coding system (HCPCS) codes and the associated payment or compensation for each service code.

(C) The fee schedule required in sub-subparagraph (B) of this subparagraph (II) may be provided electronically.

(D) A fee schedule for the codes described by sub-subparagraph (B) of this subparagraph (II) shall be provided when a material change related to payment or compensation occurs. Additionally, a health-care provider may request that a written fee schedule be provided up to twice per year, and the person or entity must provide such fee schedule promptly.

(III) The person or entity shall state the effect of edits, if any, on payment or compensation. A person or entity may satisfy this requirement by providing a clearly understandable, readily available mechanism, such as through a website, that allows a health-care provider to determine the effect of edits on payment or compensation before service is provided or a claim is submitted.

(b) Notwithstanding any provision of this subsection (2) to the contrary, disclosure of a fee schedule or the methodology used to calculate a fee schedule is not required:

(I) From a person or entity if the fee schedule is for a plan for dental services, its providers include licensed dentists, the fee schedule is based upon fees filed with the person or entity by dental providers, and the fee schedule is revised from time to time based upon such filings. Specific numerical parameters are not required to be disclosed.

(II) If the fee schedule is for pharmacy services or drugs such as a fee schedule based on use of national drug codes.

(3) When a proposed contract is presented by a person or entity for consideration by a health-care provider, the person or entity shall provide in writing or make reasonably available the information required in subsections (1) and (2) of this section. If the information is not disclosed in writing, it shall be disclosed in a manner that allows the health-care provider to timely evaluate the payment or compensation for services under the proposed contract. The disclosure obligations in this article shall not prevent a person or entity from requiring a reasonable confidentiality agreement regarding the terms of a proposed contract.

(4) Nothing in this article shall be construed to require the renegotiation of a contract in existence before the applicable compliance date in this article, and any disclosure required by this article for such contracts may be by notice to the health-care provider.

(5) A contract subject to this article may include an agreement for binding arbitration.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1416, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2023: (1)(e) added, (SB 23-188), ch. 68, p. 251, § 25, effective April 14.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (3), (4), (6), (9), and (19) as they existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 23-188, see section 1 of chapter 68, Session Laws of Colorado 2023.

25-37-103.5. Pharmacy benefit managers - contracts with pharmacies - maximum allowable cost pricing. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1213), ch. 362, p. 1702, § 2, effective January 1, 2015. L. 2023: Entire section repealed, (HB 23-1227), ch. 160, p. 698, § 9, effective August 7.

Editor's note: This section was relocated to § 10-16-122.6 in 2023.

25-37-104. Material change in health-care contract - written advance notice.

(1) A material change to a contract shall occur only if the person or entity provides in writing to the health-care provider the proposed change and gives ninety days' notice before the effective date of the change. The writing shall be conspicuously entitled "notice of material change to contract".

(2) If the health-care provider objects in writing to the material change within fifteen days and there is no resolution of the objection, either party may terminate the contract upon written notice of termination provided to the other party not later than sixty days before the effective date of the material change.

(3) If the health-care provider does not object to the material change pursuant to subsection (2) of this section, the change shall be effective as specified in the notice of material change to the contract.

(4) If a material change is the addition of a new category of coverage and the health-care provider objects, the addition shall not be effective as to the health-care provider, and the objection shall not be a basis upon which the person or entity may terminate the contract.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1418, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (7) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-105. Contract modification by operation of law.

Notwithstanding section 25-37-103 (3), a contract may be modified by operation of law as required by any applicable state or federal law or regulation, and the person or entity may disclose this change by any reasonable means.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1418, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (8) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-106. Clean claims - development of standardized payment rules and code edits - task force to develop - legislative recommendations - short title - applicability. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1418, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2013: (2)(d)(III)(B), (2)(d)(V), and (6)(a) amended and (7) repealed, (SB 13-166), ch. 281, p. 1461, § 1, effective May 24. L. 2014: IP(2)(b), (2)(c)(II), (2)(d)(III), and (2)(d)(V) amended, (2)(c)(I), (2)(d)(I), and (2)(d)(II) repealed, and (2)(d)(IV.5) and (8) added, (SB 14-159), ch. 270, p. 1084, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2015: (2)(d)(III)(C), (2)(d)(III)(D), and (8) amended, (SB 15-057), ch. 34, p. 82, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2016: Entire section repealed, (SB 16-127), ch. 68, p. 174, § 3, effective July 1.

25-37-107. Claim adjudication information - balance owing.

Upon completion of processing of a claim, the person or entity shall provide information to the health-care provider stating how the claim was adjudicated and the responsibility for any outstanding balance of any party other than the person or entity.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1423, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (5) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-108. Assignment of rights - requirements.

(1) A person or entity shall not assign, allow access to, sell, rent, or give the person's or entity's rights to the health-care provider's services pursuant to the person's or entity's contract unless the person or entity complies with the requirements of this section.

(2) A person or entity may assign, allow access to, sell, rent, or give his, her, or its rights to the health-care provider's services pursuant to the person's or entity's contract if one of the following situations exists:

(a) The third party accessing the health-care provider's services under the contract is an employer or other entity providing coverage for health-care services to its employees or members and such employer or entity has, with the person or entity contracting with the health-care provider, a contract for the administration or processing of claims for payment or service provided pursuant to the contract with the health-care provider;

(b) The third party accessing the health-care provider's services under the contract is an affiliate of, subsidiary of, or is under common ownership or control with the person or entity; or, is providing or receiving administrative services from the person or entity or an affiliate of, or subsidiary of, or is under common ownership or control with the person or entity; or

(c) The health-care contract specifically provides that it applies to network rental arrangements and states that it is for the purpose of assigning, allowing access to, selling, renting, or giving the person's or entity's rights to the health-care provider's services.

(3) In addition to satisfying the requirements of subsection (2) of this section, a person or entity may assign, allow access to, sell, rent, or give his, her, or its rights under the contract to the services of the health-care provider only if:

(a) The individuals receiving services under the health-care provider's contract are provided with appropriate identification stating where claims should be sent and where inquiries should be directed; and

(b) The third party accessing the health-care provider's services through the health-care provider's contract is obligated to comply with all applicable terms and conditions of the contract; except that a self-funded plan receiving administrative services from the person or entity or its affiliates shall be solely responsible for payment to the provider.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1423, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (10) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-109. Waiver of rights prohibited.

Except as permitted by this article, a person or entity shall not require, as a condition of contracting, that a health-care provider waive or forego any right or benefit to which the health-care provider may be entitled under state or federal law, rule, or regulation that provides legal protections to a person solely based on the person's status as a health-care provider providing services in this state.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1424, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (11) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-110. Provider declining service to new patients - notice - definition.

(1) Upon sixty days' notice, a health-care provider may decline to provide service pursuant to a contract to new patients covered by the person or entity. The notice shall state the reason or reasons for this action.

(2) As used in this section, "new patients" means those patients who have not received services from the health-care provider in the immediately preceding three years. A patient shall not become a "new patient" solely by changing coverage from one person or entity to another person or entity.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1424, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (12) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-111. Termination of contract - effect on payment terms - right to terminate - termination of pharmacy contracts.

(1) A term for compensation or payment shall not survive the termination of a contract, except for a continuation of coverage required by law or with the agreement of the health-care provider.

(2) In addition to the right to terminate a contract in accordance with section 25-37-104 (2) based on a material change to the contract, a contract with a duration of less than two years shall provide to each party a right to terminate the contract without cause, which termination shall occur with at least ninety days' written notice. For contracts with a duration of two or more years, termination without cause may be as specified in the contract.

(3) A contract between a pharmacist or a pharmacy and a pharmacy benefit manager, such as a pharmacy benefit management firm as defined in section 10-16-102, C.R.S., shall be terminated if the federal drug enforcement agency or other federal law enforcement agency ceases the operations of the pharmacist or pharmacy due to alleged or actual criminal activity.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1424, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (13), (15), and (17) as they existed prior to 2010.

25-37-112. Disclosure to third parties - confidentiality.

A contract shall not preclude its use or disclosure to a third party for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this article or enforcing other state or federal law. The third party shall be bound by the confidentiality requirements set forth in the contract or otherwise.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1425, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (14) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-113. Article inapplicable - when.

(1) This article 37 does not apply to:

(a) An exclusive contract with a single medical group in a specific geographic area to provide or arrange for health-care services; however, this article shall apply to contracts for health-care services between the medical group and other medical groups;

(b) A contract or agreement for the employment of a health-care provider or a contract or agreement between health-care providers;

(c) A contract or arrangement entered into by a hospital or health-care facility that is licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-3-101;

(d) A contract between a health-care provider and the state or federal government or their agencies for health-care services provided through a program for workers' compensation, medicaid, medicare, or the children's basic health plan provided for in article 8 of title 25.5;

(e) Contracts for pharmacy benefit management, such as with a pharmacy benefit management firm as defined in section 10-16-102, C.R.S.; except that this exclusion shall not apply to a contract for health-care services between a person or entity and a pharmacy, pharmacist, or professional corporation or corporate entity consisting of pharmacies or pharmacists as permitted by the laws of this state; or

(f) A contract or arrangement entered into by a hospital or health-care facility that is licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-3-101, or any outpatient service provider that has entered into a joint venture with the hospital or is owned by the hospital or health-care facility.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1425, § 1, effective May 26. L. 2024: IP(1) and (1)(d) amended, (HB 24-1399), ch. 76, p. 256, § 20, effective July 1, 2025.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (16) and (18) as they existed prior to 2010.

25-37-114. Enforcement.

(1) With respect to the enforcement of this article, including arbitration, there shall be available:

(a) Private rights of action at law and in equity;

(b) Equitable relief, including injunctive relief;

(c) Reasonable attorney fees when the health-care provider is the prevailing party in an action to enforce this article, except to the extent that the violation of this article consisted of a mere failure to make payment pursuant to a contract;

(d) The option to introduce as persuasive authority prior arbitration awards regarding a violation of this article.

(2) Arbitration awards related to the enforcement of this article may be disclosed to those who have a bona fide interest in the arbitration.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1426, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (20) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-115. Providers obligated to comply with law.

No provision of this article shall be used to justify any act or omission by a health-care provider that is prohibited by any applicable professional code of ethics or state or federal law prohibiting discrimination against any person.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1426, § 1, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-37-101 (21) as it existed prior to 2010.

25-37-116. Copyrights protected.

Nothing in this article, including the designation of standards, code sets, rules, edits, or related specifications, divests copyright holders of their copyrights in any work referenced in this article.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 10-1332), ch. 300, p. 1426, § 1, effective May 26.

ARTICLE 38

Physician and Dentist Designation and Disclosure

25-38-101. Short title.

25-38-102. Legislative declaration.

25-38-103. Definitions.

25-38-104. Minimum requirements for designations - disclaimer required.

25-38-105. Disclosure required upon request - information not proprietary.

25-38-106. Notice of use or change of designation required - appeal process.

25-38-107. Enforcement.

25-38-108. Severability.

25-38-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Physician and Dentist Designation Disclosure Act".

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2012, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: Entire section amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 270, § 1, effective August 5.

25-38-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds, determines, and declares that:

(a) Health-care entities have instituted or are instituting quantitative and qualitative designations of physicians and dentists;

(b) Physician and dentist designations are disclosed and represented to consumers and others as part of marketing, sales, and other efforts, and such designations may be used by consumers in selecting the physicians and dentists from whom they receive care;

(c) Designations are based on claims data, practice criteria or guidelines, and other criteria, not all of which are made known to consumers or to the physicians and dentists designated;

(d) Health-care entities differ in the extent to which they provide access to some or all of the data, criteria, and methodologies;

(e) Regulatory agencies in other states have taken action against health-care entities to require disclosure of designation information and to set certain criteria by which designations may be used;

(f) For the protection of consumers, physicians, and dentists and to avoid improper profiling of physicians and dentists, health-care entities must ensure that they are using designations that are fair and accurate and must accord physicians and dentists the right to challenge and correct erroneous designations, data, and methodologies;

(g) Full disclosure of the data and methodologies by which physicians and dentists are designated will encourage, to the fullest extent possible, the accuracy, fairness, and usefulness of such designations. Disclosures will help keep patients from being exposed to inaccurate, misleading, and incorrect information about the nature and quality of the care of physicians and dentists. The disclosure required by this article will encourage the use of guidelines and criteria from well-recognized professional societies and groups using evidence-based and consensus practice recommendations. Disclosure will allow health-care consumers and physicians and dentists an opportunity to better understand the criteria, basis, and methods by which physicians and dentists are evaluated, and disclosure will foster competition among health-care entities to improve the way in which designations are used. Accordingly, the general assembly finds that requiring full disclosure of designation data and methodologies and setting certain minimum standards for making such designations will help improve the quality and efficiency of health care delivered in Colorado.

(h) The general assembly intends this article to serve as the initial stage of a multipart process to increase transparency of information about health-care quality and costs in Colorado. Future actions may include, but are not limited to, creation of a multistakeholder work group, comprised of health-care entities, health plans, businesses, consumer groups, and others as identified, to develop a system for aggregating cost and quality information across health-care entities and consumers. The ultimate goal is to develop standardized quality reporting arrangements, consistent with national standards and subject to evaluation by an independent entity, that are accessible and meaningful to consumers and other stakeholders.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2012, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: (1)(a), (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(f), and (1)(g) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 270, § 2, effective August 5.

25-38-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 38, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Carrier" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-102, C.R.S.

(2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of insurance.

(3) "Consumer" includes members of the public, health-care consumers and potential health-care consumers, purchasers of health insurance plans, or patients.

(3.5) "Dentist" means a dentist licensed under the "Dental Practice Act", article 220 of title 12.

(4) "Designation" means an award, assignment, characterization, or representation of the cost efficiency, quality, or other assessment or measurement of the care or clinical performance of any physician or dentist that is disclosed or intended for disclosure to the public or persons actually or potentially covered by a health plan, by use of a grade, star, tier, rating, profile, or any other form of designation. "Designation" does not include:

(a) Information that is derived solely from health plan member feedback such as satisfaction ratings; or

(b) Information for programs designed to assist health plan members with estimating a physician's or dentist's routine fees or costs.

(5) "Health-care entity" means any carrier or other entity that provides a plan of health-care coverage to beneficiaries under a plan.

(6) "Methodology" means the method by which a designation is determined, including, but not limited to, the use of algorithms or studies, evaluation of data, application of guidelines, or performance measures.

(7) "Physician" means any physician licensed under the "Colorado Medical Practice Act", article 240 of title 12.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2013, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: (3.5) added and IP(4) and (4)(b) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 271, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2019: IP, (3.5), and (7) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1706, § 172, effective October 1.

25-38-104. Minimum requirements for designations - disclaimer required.

(1) Any designation of a physician or dentist shall include, at a minimum, the following:

(a) A quality of care component that may be satisfied by incorporating a practice guideline or performance measure pursuant to paragraph (f) of this subsection (1), and a clear representation of the weight given to quality of care in comparison with other designation factors;

(b) Statistical analyses that are accurate, valid, and reliable and, where reasonably possible, that appropriately adjust for patient population, case mix, severity of patient condition, comorbidity, outlier events, or other known statistical anomalies;

(c) A period of assessment of data, pertinent to the designation, that shall be updated by the health-care entity at appropriate intervals;

(d) If claims data are used in the designation process, accurate claims data appropriately attributed to the physician or dentist. When reasonably available, the health-care entity shall use aggregated data to supplement its own claims data.

(e) The physician's or dentist's responsibility for health-care decisions and the financial consequences of those decisions, which shall be fairly and accurately attributed to the physician or dentist;

(f) If practice guidelines or performance measures are used in the designation process:

(I) Practice guidelines or performance measures that are promulgated or endorsed by nationally recognized health-care organizations that establish or promote guidelines and performance measures emphasizing quality of health care, such as the national quality forum or the AQA alliance, or their successors, or other such national physician or dentist specialty organizations, or the Colorado clinical guidelines collaborative or its successor;

(II) Practice guidelines or performance measures that are:

(A) Evidence-based, whenever possible;

(B) Consensus-based, whenever possible; and

(C) Pertinent to the area of practice, location, and characteristics of the patient population of the physician or dentist being designated.

(2) (a) Any disclosure of a designation to a physician, dentist, or consumer shall be accompanied by a conspicuous disclaimer written in bold-faced type. The disclaimer shall state that designations are intended only as a guide to choosing a physician or dentist, that designations should not be the sole factor in selecting a physician or dentist, that designations have a risk of error, and that consumers should discuss designations with a physician or dentist before choosing him or her.

(b) Failure to include the disclaimer makes the use of the designation a violation of this article.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2014, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: IP(1), (1)(d), (1)(e), (1)(f)(I), (1)(f)(II)(C), and (2)(a) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 271, § 4, effective August 5.

25-38-105. Disclosure required upon request - information not proprietary.

(1) Upon request by or on behalf of the designated physician or dentist or the commissioner, a health-care entity shall disclose to the requesting person a description of the methodology upon which the health-care entity's designation is based and all data upon which the designation was based within forty-five days after receiving the request. The description shall be sufficiently detailed to allow the designated physician or dentist or the commissioner to determine the effect of the methodology on the data being reviewed. The disclosure of the data shall be made in a manner that is reasonably understandable and allows the physician, dentist, or commissioner to verify the data against his or her records. Where law or the health-care entity's contractual obligations with a bona fide third party prevents disclosure of any of the data required to be disclosed by this section, the health-care entity shall nonetheless provide sufficient information to allow the physician or dentist to determine how the withheld data affected the physician's or dentist's designation.

(2) After the disclosure of the description of the methodology provided for in subsection (1) of this section and upon further request by or on behalf of the designated physician or dentist or the commissioner, the health-care entity shall provide the complete methodology within thirty days after such further request.

(3) The "Uniform Trade Secrets Act", article 74 of title 7, C.R.S., shall not be used by a health-care entity to prevent it from complying with this section.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2015, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: (1) and (2) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 272, § 5, effective August 5.

25-38-106. Notice of use or change of designation required - appeal process.

(1) At least forty-five days before using, changing, or declining to award a designation in an existing program of designation, a health-care entity shall provide the physician or dentist with written notice of the designation decision. The written notice shall describe the procedures by which the physician or dentist may:

(a) Obtain the information pursuant to section 25-38-105, including all of the data upon which the designation was based or declined; and

(b) Request an appeal of the designation decision, including the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting pursuant to subparagraph (IV) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section.

(2) (a) Any health-care entity providing designations of physicians or dentists shall establish procedures for the designated physician or dentist to appeal the designation, including a change in designation or a declination to award a designation in an existing program of designation. The procedures, in addition to the written notice provided for in subsection (1) of this section, shall provide for the following:

(I) A reasonable method by which the designated physician or dentist shall provide notice of his or her desire to appeal;

(II) If requested by the designated physician or dentist, disclosure of the methodology and data upon which the health-care entity's decision is based;

(III) The name, title, qualifications, and relationship to the health-care entity of the person or persons responsible for the appeal of the designated physician or dentist;

(IV) An opportunity to submit or have considered corrected data relevant to the designation decision and to have considered the applicability of the methodology used in the designation decision. If requested by the designated physician or dentist, the opportunity may be afforded by the health-care entity in a face-to-face meeting with those responsible for the appeal decision at a location reasonably convenient to the physician or dentist or by teleconference. All data submitted to the entity by a designated physician or dentist is presumed valid and accurate. However, this presumption does not permit a health care entity to unreasonably withhold consideration of corrected or supplemented data pursuant to this subparagraph (IV).

(V) The right of the physician or dentist to be assisted by a representative;

(VI) An opportunity, if so desired, to be considered as part of the appeal, an explanation of the designation decision that is the subject of the appeal by a person or persons deemed by the health-care entity as responsible for the designation decision;

(VII) A written decision regarding the physician's or dentist's appeal that states the reasons for upholding, modifying, or rejecting the physician's or dentist's appeal.

(b) The appeal shall be made to a person or persons with the authority granted by the designating health-care entity to uphold, modify, or reject the designation decision or to require additional action to ensure that the designation is fair, reasonable, and accurate.

(c) The appeal process shall be complete within forty-five days from the date upon which the data and methodology are disclosed unless otherwise agreed to by the parties to the appeal.

(3) No change or modification of a designation that is the subject of an appeal shall be implemented or used by the health-care entity until the appeal is final.

(4) With respect to any designation previously disclosed publicly, the health-care entity shall update any changes to such designation within thirty days after the appeal is final.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2016, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2009: (2)(a)(IV) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1973, § 93, effective August 5. L. 2015: IP(1) and (2)(a) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 273, § 6, effective August 5.

25-38-107. Enforcement.

(1) A health-care entity shall not limit, by contract or other means, the right of a physician or dentist to enforce this article.

(2) This article may be enforced in a civil action, and any remedies at law and in equity shall be available.

(3) A violation of this article by a health-care entity shall constitute an unfair or deceptive act or practice under part 11 of article 3 of title 10, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2017, § 1, effective September 1. L. 2015: (1) amended, (HB 15-1191), ch. 95, p. 273, § 7, effective August 5.

25-38-108. Severability.

If any provision of this article or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this article that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this article are severable.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2017, § 1, effective September 1.

ARTICLE 39

Colorado Alzheimer's Coordinating Council

25-39-101 to 25-39-108. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 2008 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2012. For the text of this article prior to 2012, consult the 2011 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-39-108 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2012. (See L. 2008, p. 881.)

ARTICLE 40

Umbilical Cord Blood Collection and Awareness

25-40-101. Short title.

25-40-102. Legislative declaration.

25-40-103. Adult stem cells cure fund - creation.

25-40-104. Standards for cord blood collection and donation - administrative costs.

25-40-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Cures Act".

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2070, § 1, effective June 3.

25-40-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that:

(a) The national marrow donor program reports that researchers are studying umbilical cord blood, also known as cord blood, as a source of adult blood stem cells that can be used to treat leukemia, lymphoma, and other life-threatening diseases;

(b) For many patients with a life-threatening disease, a cord blood transplant may be the best and only hope for a cure;

(c) Cord blood is desirable for use in stem cell transplants because it has a large number of adult blood stem cells;

(d) Blood from each donated umbilical cord is frozen and made available for transplant, and if it cannot be used for transplant, the cord blood stem cells may be used for research;

(e) Cord blood donations are urgently needed to keep up with the demand for transplants and research; and

(f) Many women in good health may be eligible to voluntarily donate their children's cord blood but are unaware of its unique value or of the existence of donation programs.

(2) Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to create the adult stem cells cure fund for the purpose of advancing umbilical cord blood collection for public blood banks and promoting awareness across the state.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2070, § 1, effective June 3.

25-40-103. Adult stem cells cure fund - creation.

(1) There is hereby created in the state treasury the adult stem cells cure fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". The fund shall consist of gifts, grants, and donations transferred to the fund, which the department of public health and environment is authorized to accept, and any voluntary contributions to the fund pursuant to part 35 of article 22 of title 39, C.R.S.

(2) The department of public health and environment shall transfer any gifts, grants, and donations to the fund to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the fund. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the fund shall be credited to the fund. All moneys remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be deposited into any other fund. The moneys in the fund shall be annually appropriated by the general assembly to the department for the purposes of this article.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2071, § 1, effective June 3.

25-40-104. Standards for cord blood collection and donation - administrative costs.

(1) The department of public health and environment shall set standards for hospitals for the voluntary donation and collection of umbilical cord blood for hospitals that volunteer to participate in umbilical cord donation. The department is encouraged to take part in efforts to increase the number of umbilical cord donations to public blood banks and to promote public awareness of the availability of umbilical cord donation as an option for new mothers.

(2) The department may use up to five percent of the moneys appropriated from the adult stem cells cure fund, created in section 25-40-103, for administrative costs incurred in the implementation of this article. The department may use up to twenty-five percent of the moneys appropriated to the department from the fund for umbilical cord collection awareness. The department shall work with public cord blood banks and shall use the remaining moneys appropriated to the department from the fund for activities in connection with umbilical cord blood collection for public cord blood banks.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 2071, § 1, effective June 3.

ARTICLE 41

Restroom Access Act

25-41-101. Restroom access - retail establishments - liability - penalty - short title - definitions.

25-41-101. Restroom access - retail establishments - liability - penalty - short title - definitions.

(1) This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Restroom Access Act".

(2) As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Customer" means an individual who is lawfully on the premises of a retail establishment.

(b) "Eligible medical condition" means Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, any other inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or any other medical condition that requires immediate access to a toilet facility.

(c) "Retail establishment" means a place of business open to the general public for the sale of goods or services. "Retail establishment" does not include a filling station or service station that has an enclosed floor area of eight hundred square feet or less and that has an employee toilet facility located within that enclosed floor area.

(3) A retail establishment that has a toilet facility for its employees shall allow a customer to use the toilet facility during normal business hours if the toilet facility is reasonably safe and all of the following conditions are met:

(a) The customer requesting the use of the employee toilet facility suffers from an eligible medical condition or utilizes an ostomy device and offers a physician's note indicating the eligible medical condition or device;

(b) Three or more employees of the retail establishment are working at the time the customer requests use of the employee toilet facility;

(c) The employee toilet facility is not located in an area where providing access would create an obvious health or safety risk to the customer or an obvious security risk to the retail establishment; and

(d) A public restroom is not immediately accessible to the customer.

(4) A retail establishment or an employee of a retail establishment is not civilly liable for any act or omission in allowing a customer that has an eligible medical condition to use an employee toilet facility that is not a public restroom if the act or omission:

(a) Is not willful or grossly negligent;

(b) Occurs in an area of the retail establishment that is not accessible to the public; and

(c) Results in injury to or death of the customer or any individual other than an employee accompanying the customer.

(5) This article shall not be construed to require a retail establishment to make any physical changes to an employee toilet facility.

(6) A retail establishment or an employee of a retail establishment that violates this article 41 is guilty of a petty offense.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1233, § 3, effective May 27. L. 2021: (6) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3240, § 479, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

ARTICLE 42

Taxing Authority of Unit of Government Hospital Care Providers

25-42-101. Legislative declaration.

25-42-102. Definitions.

25-42-103. Grant of taxing authority.

25-42-104. Use of revenues derived from sales tax.

25-42-105. Preservation of enterprise status of certain providers and activities.

25-42-106. Call, notice, conduct, and determination of results of tax elections.

25-42-107. Authority granted supplemental to other authority.

25-42-101. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) State and local governmental hospital care providers form a critical part of the health-care delivery system in Colorado; and

(b) Federal programs require the state to further define a unit of government for certain state and local governmental hospital care providers.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective May 22.

25-42-102. Definitions.

As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Eligible elector" means an eligible elector as defined in section 32-1-103 (5)(a)(I), C.R.S., of the taxing area of a unit of government hospital provider.

(2) "Qualified purchaser" means a person domiciled in Colorado who has been issued a direct payment permit number pursuant to section 39-26-103.5, C.R.S.

(3) "Taxing area" means:

(a) In the case of the Denver health and hospital authority, the city and county of Denver;

(b) In the case of a county hospital, the county in which the hospital is located;

(c) In the case of a hospital within a health service district, the health service district;

(d) In the case of the university of Colorado hospital authority, the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Douglas, and Jefferson and the city and county of Broomfield; and

(e) In the case of a municipal hospital, the county in which the hospital is located.

(4) "Unit of government hospital care provider" means:

(a) The Denver health and hospital authority created pursuant to section 25-29-103;

(b) The board of any county hospital created pursuant to section 25-3-301;

(c) A health service district within the meaning of section 32-1-103 (9), C.R.S.;

(d) The university of Colorado hospital authority created pursuant to part 5 of article 21 of title 23, C.R.S.; or

(e) A municipally owned hospital created pursuant to section 31-15-711 (1)(e), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1181, § 1, effective May 22.

25-42-103. Grant of taxing authority.

(1) Each unit of government hospital care provider, upon the affirmative action of its governing body, shall have the authority to levy and collect a sales tax as follows:

(a) Upon the approval of the eligible electors of the unit of government hospital care provider's taxing area at an election held in accordance with section 20 of article X of the state constitution and this article, the unit of government hospital care provider may levy a uniform sales tax throughout its entire taxing area upon every transaction or other incident with respect to which a sales tax is levied by the state pursuant to the provisions of article 26 of title 39, C.R.S.

(b) A sales tax imposed pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) shall not be levied on:

(I) The sale of tangible personal property delivered by a retailer or a retailer's agent or to a common carrier for delivery to a destination outside the taxing area; or

(II) The sale of tangible personal property on which a specific ownership tax has been paid or is payable when such sale meets the following conditions:

(A) The purchaser does not reside in the taxing area or the purchaser's principal place of business is outside the taxing area; and

(B) The personal property is registered or required to be registered outside the taxing area under the laws of this state.

(c) The sales tax imposed pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (1) shall be in addition to any other sales or use tax imposed pursuant to law.

(2) (a) The collection, administration, and enforcement of a sales tax imposed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be performed by the executive director of the department of revenue in the same manner as that for the collection, administration, and enforcement of the state sales tax imposed pursuant to article 26 of title 39, C.R.S., including, without limitation, the retention by a vendor of the percentage of the amount remitted to cover the vendor's expense in the collection and remittance of the sales tax as provided in section 39-26-105, C.R.S. The executive director of the department of revenue shall make monthly distributions of sales tax collections to the unit of government hospital care provider. The unit of government hospital care provider shall pay the net incremental cost incurred by the department of revenue in the administration and collection of the sales tax.

(b) (I) A qualified purchaser may provide a direct payment permit number issued pursuant to section 39-26-103.5, C.R.S., to a vendor or retailer that is liable and responsible for collecting and remitting any sales tax levied on a sale made to the qualified purchaser pursuant to the provisions of this article. A vendor or retailer that has received a direct payment permit number in good faith from a qualified purchaser shall not be liable or responsible for collection and remittance of any sales tax imposed on the sale that is paid for directly from the qualified purchasers' funds and not the personal funds of any individual.

(II) A qualified purchaser that provides a direct payment permit number to a vendor or retailer shall be liable and responsible for the amount of sales tax levied on a sale made to the qualified purchaser pursuant to the provisions of this article in the same manner as liability would be imposed on a qualified purchaser for state sales tax pursuant to section 39-26-105 (3), C.R.S.

(3) A sales tax shall not be levied by a unit of government hospital care provider without first complying with this section and section 25-42-106.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1182, § 1, effective May 22. L. 2009: (1)(c) amended, (SB 09-292), ch. 369, p. 1973, § 94, effective August 5.

25-42-104. Use of revenues derived from sales tax.

The revenues derived by a unit of government hospital care provider from the levy and collection of the sales tax authorized by this article shall be in addition to and shall not be used to replace any state funding that the unit of government hospital care provider or any other state or local government entity would otherwise be entitled to receive from the state. The unit of government hospital care provider may use said revenues for any purpose permitted by law or by the terms of its organizational documents.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1184, § 1, effective May 22.

25-42-105. Preservation of enterprise status of certain providers and activities.

The authority granted in this article shall be subject to affirmative action of the governing body of a unit of government hospital care provider to avail itself of this authority and shall be contingent upon electoral approval at an election held pursuant to sections 25-42-103 (1)(a) and 25-42-106. The enactment of this article shall not affect the treatment of any existing or future activity of a unit of government hospital care provider as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1184, § 1, effective May 22.

25-42-106. Call, notice, conduct, and determination of results of tax elections.

An election held pursuant to this article may be conducted under the provisions of either the "Uniform Election Code of 1992", articles 1 to 13 of title 1, C.R.S., or the "Colorado Municipal Election Code of 1965", article 10 of title 31, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1184, § 1, effective May 22.

25-42-107. Authority granted supplemental to other authority.

The authority granted by this article shall be in addition and supplemental to, and not in lieu of, the authority granted by other laws.

Source: L. 2008: Entire article added, p. 1184, § 1, effective May 22.

ARTICLE 43

Required Head Trauma Guidelines

PART 1
YOUTH ATHLETIC COACH CONCUSSION EDUCATION

25-43-101. Short title.

25-43-102. Definitions.

25-43-103. Organized school athletic activities - concussion guidelines required.

PART 2
YOUTH ATHLETIC COACH MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION

25-43-201. Short title.

25-43-202. Definitions.

25-43-203. Organized school athletic activities - mental health guidelines required.

PART 1

YOUTH ATHLETIC COACH CONCUSSION EDUCATION

25-43-101. Short title.

This part 1 shall be known and may be cited as the "Jake Snakenberg Youth Concussion Act".

Source: L. 2011: Entire article added, (SB 11-040), ch. 67, p. 176, § 1, effective January 1, 2012. L. 2026: Entire section amended, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 432, § 2, effective August 12.

25-43-102. Definitions.

As used in this part 1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Health-care provider" means a:

(a) Doctor of medicine;

(b) Doctor of osteopathic medicine;

(c) Licensed nurse practitioner;

(d) Licensed physician assistant;

(e) Licensed physical therapist with training in pediatric neurology or concussion evaluation and management; or

(f) Licensed doctor of psychology with training in neuropsychology or concussion evaluation and management.

(2) "Public recreation facility" means a recreation facility owned or leased by the state of Colorado or a political subdivision thereof.

(3) "Youth athletic activity" means an organized athletic activity where the majority of the participants are eleven years of age or older and under nineteen years of age, and are engaging in an organized athletic game or competition against another team, club, or entity or in practice or preparation for an organized game or competition against another team, club, or entity. A "youth athletic activity" does not include college or university activities. "Youth athletic activity" does not include an activity that is entered into for instructional purposes only, an athletic activity that is incidental to a nonathletic program, or a lesson.

Source: L. 2011: Entire article added, (SB 11-040), ch. 67, p. 176, § 1, effective January 1, 2012. L. 2019: IP and (1) amended, (HB 19-1208), ch. 146, p. 1762, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2026: IP amended, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 432, § 3, effective August 12.

25-43-103. Organized school athletic activities - concussion guidelines required.

(1) (a) Each public and private middle school, junior high school, and high school shall require each coach of a youth athletic activity that involves interscholastic play to complete an annual concussion recognition education course.

(b) Each private club or public recreation facility and each athletic league that sponsors youth athletic activities shall require each volunteer coach for a youth athletic activity and each coach with whom the club, facility, or league directly contracts, formally engages, or employs who coaches a youth athletic activity to complete an annual concussion recognition education course.

(2) (a) The concussion recognition education course required by subsection (1) of this section shall include the following:

(I) Information on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion;

(II) The necessity of obtaining proper medical attention for a person suspected of having a concussion; and

(III) Information on the nature and risk of concussions, including the danger of continuing to play after sustaining a concussion and the proper method of allowing a youth athlete who has sustained a concussion to return to athletic activity.

(b) An organization or association of which a school or school district is a member may designate specific education courses as sufficient to meet the requirements of subsection (1) of this section.

(3) If a coach who is required to complete concussion recognition education pursuant to subsection (1) of this section suspects that a youth athlete has sustained a concussion following an observed or suspected blow to the head or body in a game, competition, or practice, the coach shall immediately remove the athlete from the game, competition, or practice.

(4) (a) If a youth athlete is removed from play pursuant to subsection (3) of this section and the signs and symptoms cannot be readily explained by a condition other than concussion, the school coach or private or public recreational facility's designated personnel shall notify the athlete's parent or legal guardian and shall not permit the youth athlete to return to play or participate in any supervised team activities involving physical exertion, including games, competitions, or practices, until he or she is evaluated by a health-care provider and receives written clearance to return to play from the health-care provider. The health-care provider evaluating a youth athlete suspected of having a concussion or brain injury may be a volunteer.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), a doctor of chiropractic with training and specialization in concussion evaluation and management may evaluate and provide clearance to return to play for an athlete who is part of the United States Olympic training program.

(c) After a concussed athlete has been evaluated and received clearance to return to play from a health-care provider, an organization or association of which a school or school district is a member, a private or public school, a private club, a public recreation facility, or an athletic league may allow a licensed athletic trainer with specific knowledge of the athlete's condition to manage the athlete's graduated return to play.

(5) Nothing in this part 1 abrogates or limits the protections applicable to public entities and public employees pursuant to the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of title 24; volunteers and board members pursuant to sections 13-21-115.7 and 13-21-116; or ski area operators pursuant to sections 33-44-112 and 33-44-113.

Source: L. 2011: Entire article added, (SB 11-040), ch. 67, p. 177, § 1, effective January 1, 2012. L. 2019: (4)(c) amended, (HB 19-1083), ch. 61, p. 220, § 13, effective August 2. L. 2026: (5) amended, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 432, § 4, effective August 12.

PART 2

YOUTH ATHLETIC COACH MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION

25-43-201. Short title.

The short title of this part 2 is "Alyssa's Youth Concussion and Mental Health Protection Act" or "Alyssa's Act".

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 430, § 1, effective August 12.

25-43-202. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Public recreation facility" has the meaning set forth in section 25-43-102.

(2) "Youth athletic activity" has the meaning set forth in section 25-43-102.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 430, § 1, effective August 12.

25-43-203. Organized school athletic activities - mental health guidelines required.

(1) (a) Each public and private middle school, junior high school, and high school shall require each coach of a youth athletic activity to complete a biennial mental health education course.

(b) Each private club or public recreation facility and each athletic league that sponsors youth athletic activities shall require each coach with whom a club, facility, or league directly contracts with, formally engages, or employs to coach a youth athletic activity to complete a biennial mental health education course.

(2) (a) The mental health education course required by subsection (1) of this section must include information regarding the following:

(I) A coach's impact on the mental health of youth athletes;

(II) A wellness framework for youth athletes;

(III) Stress, anxiety disorders, and depression;

(IV) Trauma;

(V) Substance abuse; and

(VI) Suicide prevention.

(b) The mental health education course may be held in conjunction with the concussion recognition education course required pursuant to section 25-43-103 (1)(a).

(c) An organization or association that a school or school district is a member of may designate specific education courses as sufficient to meet the requirements described in subsection (1) of this section.

(3) If a youth athlete is removed from play for a suspected concussion, the youth athlete's coach or the club's, league's, or public recreation facility's other designated personnel shall notify the athlete's parent or legal guardian and advise that the athlete seek evaluation from a licensed health-care provider for appropriate medical and behavioral health guidance regarding potential physical, cognitive, or psychological symptoms associated with a concussion.

(4) Nothing in this part 2 abrogates or limits the protections applicable to public entities and public employees established pursuant to the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of title 24; volunteers and board members and nonprofit directors, officers, and trustees described pursuant to sections 13-21-115.7 and 13-21-116; or ski area operators protected pursuant to sections 33-44-112 and 33-44-113.

(5) An athletic coach of a youth athletic activity who is not entitled to any of the protections preserved in subsection (4) of this section and who acts in good faith to comply with the requirements of this part 2 is not subject to civil liability for any act or omission related to the implementation of this part 2 unless the act or omission constitutes gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.

Source: L. 2026: Entire part added, (SB 26-060), ch. 105, p. 431, § 1, effective August 12.

ARTICLE 44

Comprehensive Human Sexuality Education Grant Program

25-44-101. Definitions.

25-44-102. Comprehensive human sexuality education grant program - creation - notification to schools - report - rules.

25-44-103. Comprehensive human sexuality education grant program - oversight entity - duties - application process.

25-44-104. Gifts, grants, and donations - uses.

25-44-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 44, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Age-appropriate" means topics, messages, and teaching methods suitable to a particular age or age group, based on developing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral capacity typical for the age or age group.

(2) Repealed.

(3) "Comprehensive human sexuality education" means medically accurate information about all methods to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the link between human papillomavirus and cancer, and other types of cancer involving the human reproductive systems, including prostate, testicular, ovarian, and uterine cancer. Methods must include information about the correct and consistent use of abstinence, contraception, condoms, other barrier methods, and other prevention measures. Additional contents of comprehensive human sexuality education must include:

(a) Encouraging family communication about sexuality;

(b) Teaching young people to avoid making unwanted verbal, physical, and sexual advances;

(c) Discussions and information on how to recognize and respond safely and effectively in situations where sexual or physical violence may be occurring or where there may be a risk for these behaviors to occur;

(d) Focusing on the development of safe relationships, including the prevention of sexual violence in dating; and

(e) Teaching young people how alcohol and drug use can affect responsible decision-making.

(4) "Culturally sensitive" means the integration of knowledge about individuals and groups of people into specific standards, requirements, policies, practices, and attitudes used to increase the quality of services. "Culturally sensitive" includes resources, references, and information that are meaningful to the experiences and needs of communities of color; immigrant communities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities; people with physical or intellectual disabilities; people who have experienced sexual victimization; and others whose experiences have traditionally been left out of sexual health education, programs, and policies.

(5) "Department" means the department of public health and environment, created and existing pursuant to section 25-1-101.5.

(6) "Evidence-based program" means a program that:

(a) Was evaluated using a rigorous research design, including:

(I) Measuring knowledge, attitude, and behavior;

(II) Having an adequate sample size;

(III) Using sound research methods and processes;

(IV) Replicating in different locations and finding similar evaluation results; and

(V) Publishing results in a peer-reviewed journal;

(b) Research has shown to be effective in changing at least one of the following behaviors that contribute to early pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and disease, and HIV infection:

(I) Delaying sexual initiation;

(II) Reducing the frequency of sexual intercourse;

(III) Reducing the number of sexual partners; or

(IV) Increasing the use of condoms and other contraceptives.

(6.5) "Medically accurate" has the same meaning as defined in section 22-1-128.

(7) "Oversight entity" means the interagency youth sexual health team created in section 25-44-103.

(8) "Positive youth development" means an approach that emphasizes the many positive attributes of young people and focuses on developing inherent strengths and assets to promote health. Positive youth development is culturally sensitive, age-appropriate, inclusive of all youth, collaborative, and strength-based.

(9) "Program" means the comprehensive human sexuality education grant program created in section 25-44-102.

(10) "Public school" means a school of a school district, a district charter school, an institute charter school, a facility school, or a board of cooperative services, as defined in section 22-5-103.

(11) "State board" means the state board of health created pursuant to section 25-1-103.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article added, (HB 13-1081), ch. 303, p. 1606, § 3, effective May 28. L. 2016: IP(3) amended, (SB 16-146), ch. 230, p. 922, § 24, effective July 1. L. 2019: (2) repealed and (6.5) added, (HB 19-1032), ch. 408, p. 3599, § 3, effective May 31.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1032, see section 1 of chapter 408, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-44-102. Comprehensive human sexuality education grant program - creation - notification to schools - report - rules.

(1) There is created in the department the comprehensive human sexuality education grant program. The purpose of the program is to provide money to public schools and school districts for use in the creation and implementation of comprehensive human sexuality education pursuant to section 22-1-128.

(2) Upon receipt of federal money or other appropriations, the department, in conjunction with the oversight entity, shall notify the school districts, the state charter school institute, and boards of cooperative services throughout the state of grants available through the program.

(3) Based on the recommendations of the oversight entity, the department shall award grants to public schools and school districts for periods of one to three years.

(4) Money distributed to public schools and school districts through the program must only be used for the provision of human sexuality instruction that complies with the content requirements for comprehensive human sexuality education set forth in section 22-1-128 and developed pursuant to section 22-25-104 (3).

(5) On or before December 1, 2019, or not more than ninety days after the department receives sufficient money to implement the program, whichever is later, the state board shall promulgate rules, if necessary, for the administration of this article 44, using the recommendations developed by the oversight entity pursuant to section 25-44-103 (2)(b).

(6) (a) On or before January 30, 2021, and every year thereafter in which grants have been awarded pursuant to this article 44, the department shall submit a report concerning the outcomes of the program to the state board of education, the department of education, and the education committees of the senate and house of representatives, the health and human services committee of the senate, and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committees. The report must include, at a minimum:

(I) The number of public schools and school districts that received a grant under the program;

(II) The number of students reached and the instruction utilized;

(III) The amount of each grant awarded;

(IV) The average amount of all grants awarded; and

(V) An analysis by the department of the impact of funding.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the report required in this subsection (6) continues indefinitely.

(7) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article 44, the department is not required to implement the provisions of this article 44 until sufficient money has been received or appropriated.

(8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2019.)

Source: L. 2013: Entire article added, (HB 13-1081), ch. 303, p. 1608, § 3, effective May 28. L. 2017: (6) amended, (SB 17-056), ch. 33, p. 96, § 13, effective March 16. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1032), ch. 408, p. 3599, § 4, effective May 31.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1032, see section 1 of chapter 408, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-44-103. Comprehensive human sexuality education grant program - oversight entity - duties - application process.

(1) On or before July 1, 2019, the department shall convene the interagency youth sexual health team, referred to in this article 44 as the "oversight entity". Membership of the oversight entity must include:

(a) The executive director of the department of public health and environment, or the executive director's designee;

(b) The executive director of the department of health care policy and financing, or the executive director's designee;

(c) The commissioner of education, or the commissioner's designee;

(d) The executive director of the department of human services, or the executive director's designee;

(e) A parent representative;

(f) A youth representative;

(g) A representative of kindergarten through twelfth-grade educators;

(h) A representative of school-based health centers or a school nurse;

(i) A representative of a statewide coalition for survivors of sexual assault;

(j) A representative of an organization serving the needs of youth of color;

(k) A representative of an organization serving the needs of immigrants;

(l) A representative of an organization serving the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth;

(m) A representative from an interfaith organization; and

(n) A representative of an organization serving the needs of intersex individuals.

(1.5) The members specified in subsections (1)(e) to (1)(n) of this section shall be appointed by the department. The membership of the oversight entity shall at all times represent diverse community perspective and make an effort to include committee members who are diverse with regards to disability, race, creed, color, gender, gender expression, immigration status, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, religion, age, English proficiency, income, and geographic region of the state, including both urban and rural areas.

(1.7) The parent representative and youth representative described in subsections (1)(e) and (1)(f) of this section are entitled to receive reimbursement for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of the member's duties, including dependent or attendant care.

(2) The oversight entity has the following duties:

(a) During the 2019-20 academic year and every academic year thereafter, to assess opportunities for available federal and state money for the program; except that the oversight entity shall not recommend applying for any federal or state money that promotes sexual abstinence as the sole acceptable preventive method for youth or money requiring adherence to the guidelines of section 510 of Title V of the federal "Social Security Act", 42 U.S.C. sec. 710, as amended, which are inconsistent with the provisions of section 22-1-128. The oversight entity shall provide information to the appropriate state departments concerning available federal and state money related to comprehensive human sexuality education for which a given department is eligible to apply.

(b) To develop policies and procedures for the implementation of the program and recommend such policies and procedures to the state board for adoption by rule pursuant to section 25-44-102. The policies and procedures must include but are not limited to:

(I) A process by which public schools and school districts are notified of available program money for comprehensive human sexuality education;

(II) The procedures by which public schools and school districts may apply for grants pursuant to this article 44. Each grant application must, at a minimum, describe:

(A) How the applicant public school or school district must use any awarded grant money to provide comprehensive human sexuality education to its student population;

(B) How the proposed comprehensive human sexuality education program complies with the content requirements of section 22-1-128 and article 25 of title 22 and is medically accurate, culturally sensitive, and represents positive youth development principles;

(C) How many students the public school or school district expects to reach through the comprehensive human sexuality education program;

(D) The length of time for which the applicant is requesting grant money; and

(E) Demonstrated evidence of the need for money needed for an applicant school district or public school to implement comprehensive human sexuality education pursuant to section 22-1-128;

(III) Criteria for the oversight entity to apply in selecting public schools and school districts that may receive grants and how to determine the amount of grant money to be awarded to each grant recipient. The criteria must include a requirement that the proposed comprehensive human sexuality education program complies with sections 22-1-128 and 22-25-104 and is medically accurate, culturally sensitive, and represents positive youth development principles. The criteria must also include a requirement that rural public schools or public schools that do not currently offer comprehensive human sexuality education receive priority when selecting grant recipients.

(c) In conjunction with the department, to solicit grant applications from public schools and school districts; and

(d) To review grant applications and, based on the criteria developed pursuant to subsection (2)(b) of this section, make recommendations to the department concerning which public schools or school districts should receive grants and in what amount.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article added, (HB 13-1081), ch. 303, p. 1609, § 3, effective May 28. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1032), ch. 408, p. 3601, § 5, effective May 31.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1032, see section 1 of chapter 408, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

25-44-104. Gifts, grants, and donations - uses.

(1) Repealed.

(2) The department may seek, accept, and expend public or private gifts, grants, and donations from public and private sources to implement this article 44; except that the department shall not accept a gift, grant, or donation that is subject to conditions that are inconsistent with the provisions of section 25-44-102 (2) or any other state law. The department is authorized to expend a reasonable amount of the money appropriated or received for the program for the direct and indirect costs associated with administering the program, unless otherwise provided by any provision related to the department's receipt of federal money that is applied to the program.

Source: L. 2013: Entire article added, (HB 13-1081), ch. 303, p. 1611, § 3, effective May 28. L. 2014: (3)(c) repealed, (HB 14-1363), ch. 302, p. 1269, § 28, effective May 31. L. 2019: Entire section R&RE, (HB 19-1032), ch. 408, p. 3603, § 6, effective May 31. L. 2026: (1) repealed, (HB 26-1389), ch. 176, p. 1017, § 1, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1032, see section 1 of chapter 408, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ARTICLE 45

Access to Treatments for Terminally Ill Patients

PART 1
INVESTIGATIONAL DRUGS, BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS, AND DEVICES

25-45-101. Short title.

25-45-102. Legislative declaration.

25-45-103. Definitions.

25-45-104. Drug manufacturers - availability of investigational drugs, biological products, or devices - costs - insurance coverage.

25-45-105. Action against health-care provider's license or medicare certification prohibited.

25-45-106. Access to investigational drugs, biological products, and devices.

25-45-107. No cause of action created.

25-45-108. Effect on health-care coverage.

PART 2
INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENTS

25-45-201. Legislative declaration.

25-45-202. Definitions.

25-45-203. Drug manufacturers - authorized access to and use of individualized investigational drugs, biological products, or devices - costs.

25-45-204. Action against health-care provider's license or medicare certification prohibited.

25-45-205. Access to individualized investigational drugs, biological products, and devices - prohibition on state action.

25-45-206. No cause of action created.

25-45-207. Effect on health-care coverage.

PART 1

INVESTIGATIONAL DRUGS, BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS, AND DEVICES

25-45-101. Short title.

This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Right to Try Act".

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 823, § 1, effective May 17.

25-45-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) For purposes of this part 1, the general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) The process of approval for investigational drugs, biological products, and devices in the United States protects future patients from premature, ineffective, and unsafe medications and treatments over the long run, but the process often takes many years;

(b) Patients who have a terminal illness do not have the luxury of waiting until an investigational drug, biological product, or device receives final approval from the United States food and drug administration;

(c) Patients who have a terminal illness have a fundamental right to attempt to pursue the preservation of their own lives by accessing available investigational drugs, biological products, and devices;

(d) The use of available investigational drugs, biological products, and devices is a decision that should be made by the patient with a terminal illness in consultation with the patient's health-care provider and the patient's health-care team, if applicable; and

(e) The decision to use an investigational drug, biological product, or device should be made with full awareness of the potential risks, benefits, and consequences to the patient and the patient's family.

(2) It is the intent of the general assembly for this part 1 to allow for terminally ill patients to use potentially life-saving investigational drugs, biological products, and devices.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 823, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2025: IP(1) and (2) amended, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 953, § 1, effective May 19.

25-45-103. Definitions.

As used in this part 1, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) "Eligible patient" means a person who has:

(I) A terminal illness, attested to by the patient's treating physician;

(II) Considered all other treatment options currently approved by the United States food and drug administration;

(III) Been unable to participate in a clinical trial for the terminal illness within one hundred miles of the patient's home address or not been accepted to the clinical trial within one week of completion of the clinical trial application process;

(IV) Received a recommendation from his or her physician for an investigational drug, biological product, or device;

(V) Given written, informed consent for the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device or, if the patient is a minor or lacks the mental capacity to provide informed consent, a parent or legal guardian has given written, informed consent on the patient's behalf; and

(VI) Documentation from his or her physician that he or she meets the requirements of this paragraph (a).

(b) "Eligible patient" does not include a person being treated as an inpatient in a hospital licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-3-101.

(2) "Investigational drug, biological product, or device" means a drug, biological product, or device that has successfully completed phase one of a clinical trial but has not yet been approved for general use by the United States food and drug administration and remains under investigation in a United States food and drug administration-approved clinical trial.

(3) "Terminal illness" means a disease that, without life-sustaining procedures, will soon result in death or a state of permanent unconsciousness from which recovery is unlikely.

(4) "Written, informed consent" means a written document signed by the patient and attested to by the patient's physician and a witness that, at a minimum:

(a) Explains the currently approved products and treatments for the disease or condition from which the patient suffers;

(b) Attests to the fact that the patient concurs with his or her physician in believing that all currently approved and conventionally recognized treatments are unlikely to prolong the patient's life;

(c) Clearly identifies the specific proposed investigational drug, biological product, or device that the patient is seeking to use;

(d) Describes the potentially best and worst outcomes of using the investigational drug, biological product, or device with a realistic description of the most likely outcome, including the possibility that new, unanticipated, different, or worse symptoms might result, and that death could be hastened by the proposed treatment, based on the physician's knowledge of the proposed treatment in conjunction with an awareness of the patient's condition;

(e) Makes clear that the patient's health insurer and provider are not obligated to pay for any care or treatments consequent to the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device;

(f) Makes clear that the patient's eligibility for hospice care may be withdrawn if the patient begins curative treatment and care may be reinstated if the curative treatment ends and the patient meets hospice eligibility requirements;

(g) Makes clear that in-home health care may be denied if treatment begins; and

(h) States that the patient understands that he or she is liable for all expenses consequent to the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device, and that this liability extends to the patient's estate, unless a contract between the patient and the manufacturer of the drug, biological product, or device states otherwise.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 824, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2025: IP amended, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 953, § 2, effective May 19.

25-45-104. Drug manufacturers - availability of investigational drugs, biological products, or devices - costs - insurance coverage.

(1) A manufacturer of an investigational drug, biological product, or device may make available the manufacturer's investigational drug, biological product, or device to eligible patients pursuant to this part 1. This part 1 does not require that a manufacturer make available an investigational drug, biological product, or device to an eligible patient.

(2) A manufacturer may:

(a) Provide an investigational drug, biological product, or device to an eligible patient without receiving compensation; or

(b) Require an eligible patient to pay the costs of, or the costs associated with, the manufacture of the investigational drug, biological product, or device.

(3) (a) Nothing in this part 1 expands the coverage provided in section 10-16-104 (20) or 10-16-104.6.

(b) A health insurance carrier may, but is not required to, provide coverage for the cost of an investigational drug, biological product, or device.

(c) An insurer may deny coverage to an eligible patient from the time the eligible patient begins use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device through a period not to exceed six months from the time the investigational drug, biological product, or device is no longer used by the eligible patient; except that coverage may not be denied for a preexisting condition and for coverage for benefits which commenced prior to the time the eligible patient begins use of such drug, biological product, or device.

(4) If a patient dies while being treated by an investigational drug, biological product, or device, the patient's heirs are not liable for any outstanding debt related to the treatment or lack of insurance due to the treatment.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 825, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2025: (1) and (3)(a) amended, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 953, § 3, effective May 19.

25-45-105. Action against health-care provider's license or medicare certification prohibited.

Notwithstanding any other law, a licensing board may not revoke, fail to renew, suspend, or take any action against a health-care provider's license issued pursuant to title 12, C.R.S., based solely on the health-care provider's recommendations to an eligible patient regarding access to or treatment with an investigational drug, biological product, or device, as long as the recommendations are consistent with medical standards of care. Action against a health-care provider's medicare certification based solely on the health-care provider's recommendation that a patient have access to an investigational drug, biological product, or device is prohibited.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 826, § 1, effective May 17.

25-45-106. Access to investigational drugs, biological products, and devices.

An official, employee, or agent of this state shall not block or attempt to block an eligible patient's access to an investigational drug, biological product, or device. Counseling, advice, or a recommendation consistent with medical standards of care from a licensed health-care provider is not a violation of this section.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 826, § 1, effective May 17.

25-45-107. No cause of action created.

This part 1 does not create a private cause of action against a manufacturer of an investigational drug, biological product, or device, or against any other person or entity involved in the care of an eligible patient using the investigational drug, biological product, or device, for any harm done to the eligible patient resulting from the investigational drug, biological product, or device, so long as the manufacturer or other person or entity is complying in good faith with the terms of this part 1, unless there was a failure to exercise reasonable care.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 827, § 1, effective May 17. L. 2025: Entire section amended, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 954, § 4, effective May 19.

25-45-108. Effect on health-care coverage.

Nothing in this section affects the mandatory health-care coverage for participation in clinical trials pursuant to section 10-16-106 (20), C.R.S.

Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1281), ch. 220, p. 827, § 1, effective May 17.

PART 2

INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENTS

25-45-201. Legislative declaration.

(1) For purposes of this part 2, the general assembly finds and determines that:

(a) Some public and private entities operating under federal standards for the protection of human subjects in research develop individualized investigational drugs, biological products, and devices that are unique and produced exclusively for use by an individual patient based on the patient's genetic profile, including individual gene therapy, antisense oligonucleotides, and individualized neoantigen vaccines; and

(b) A patient who has a life-threatening or severely debilitating illness may benefit from these individualized treatments.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly declares that, in accordance with the recommendation of the patient's treating physician and with the safeguards described in this part 2, a patient should have the right to try an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, and the treating physician and manufacturer that provides the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, acting in accordance with this part 2, should be protected from adverse consequences resulting from the patient's decision to try the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 954, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-202. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Eligible facility" means an institution operating under the federalwide assurance for the protection of human subjects in accordance with 45 CFR 46 and 42 U.S.C. sec. 289a.

(2) "Eligible patient" means an individual who has:

(a) A life-threatening or severely debilitating illness, as attested to by the patient's treating physician;

(b) In consultation with the treating physician, considered all other treatment options currently approved by the United States food and drug administration;

(c) Received a recommendation from the treating physician for use of an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device for treatment of the life-threatening or severely debilitating illness;

(d) Given written, informed consent for the use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, or, if the patient is a minor or lacks the mental capacity to provide informed consent, a parent or legal guardian has given written, informed consent on the patient's behalf; and

(e) Documentation from the treating physician that the patient meets the requirements of this subsection (2), including attestation from the treating physician that the treating physician was consulted in the creation of the written, informed consent given under this part 2.

(3) "Individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device" means a drug, biological product, or device that is unique and produced exclusively for use by an eligible patient, based on the patient's own genetic profile, including individualized gene therapy, antisense oligonucleotides, and individualized neoantigen vaccines.

(4) "Institution" has the meaning set forth in 45 CFR 46.102 (f).

(5) "Life-threatening or severely debilitating illness" has the meaning set forth in 21 CFR 312.81.

(6) "Minor" means an individual who is under eighteen years of age.

(7) "Written, informed consent" means a written document signed by an eligible patient; by a parent or legal guardian, if the patient is a minor; or by a designated health-care agent pursuant to a health-care power of attorney, if the patient is incapacitated, that, at a minimum:

(a) Explains the currently approved products and treatments for the life-threatening or severely debilitating illness from which the eligible patient suffers;

(b) Attests that the eligible patient concurs with the treating physician's belief that all currently approved treatments are unlikely to prolong the patient's life;

(c) Clearly identifies the specific individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device proposed for treatment of the eligible patient's life-threatening or severely debilitating illness;

(d) Describes the potential best and worst outcomes resulting from use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, with a realistic description of the most likely outcome, including the possibility that new, unanticipated, different, or worse symptoms might result and that death could be hastened by the proposed treatment, based on the physician's knowledge of the proposed treatment in conjunction with an awareness of the eligible patient's condition;

(e) Makes clear that the patient's eligibility for hospice care may be withdrawn if the eligible patient begins treatment of the life-threatening or severely debilitating illness with an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device and that hospice care may be reinstated if such treatment ends and the patient again meets hospice care eligibility requirements;

(f) Makes clear that in-home health care may be denied if treatment begins;

(g) Makes clear that the eligible patient's health insurance provider or health-care provider is not obligated to pay for any care or treatments consequent to the use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device unless specifically required by law or contract;

(h) States that the patient understands that they are liable for all expenses consequent to the use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, and that this liability extends to the patient's estate, unless a contract between the patient and the manufacturer of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device states otherwise; and

(i) States that the eligible patient, or, for an eligible patient who is a minor or who lacks capacity to provide informed consent, the parent or legal guardian, consents to the use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device for treatment of the life-threatening or severely debilitating illness.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 954, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-203. Drug manufacturers - authorized access to and use of individualized investigational drugs, biological products, or devices - costs.

(1) A manufacturer operating within an eligible facility and in accordance with applicable federal law may make available to an eligible patient, and an eligible patient may request, the manufacturer's individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device from the eligible facility or manufacturer operating within the eligible facility.

(2) A manufacturer of an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device may:

(a) Provide the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device to an eligible patient without receiving compensation; or

(b) Require an eligible patient to pay the costs of, or the costs associated with, the manufacture of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device.

(3) Nothing in this part 2 requires a manufacturer of an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device to make the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device available to an eligible patient.

(4) If a patient dies while being treated with an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, the patient's heirs are not liable for outstanding debt related to the treatment, including costs attributed to lack of insurance coverage for the treatment.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 956, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-204. Action against health-care provider's license or medicare certification prohibited.

Notwithstanding any other law, a licensing board shall not revoke, fail to renew, suspend, or take other action against a health-care provider's license issued pursuant to title 12 based solely on the health-care provider's recommendation to an eligible patient regarding access to or treatment with an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, so long as the recommendation is consistent with medical standards of care. Action against a health-care provider's medicare certification based solely on the health-care provider's recommendation that an eligible patient have access to an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device is prohibited.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 957, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-205. Access to individualized investigational drugs, biological products, and devices - prohibition on state action.

An official, employee, or agent of this state shall not block or attempt to block an eligible patient's access to an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device. Counseling, advice, or a recommendation consistent with medical standards of care from a licensed health-care provider is not a violation of this section.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 957, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-206. No cause of action created.

This part 2 does not create a private right of action against a manufacturer of an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, or against an individual or entity involved in the care of an eligible patient using an individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, for any harm caused to the eligible patient resulting from use of the individualized investigational drug, biological product, or device, so long as the manufacturer or individual or entity has made a good faith effort to comply with the provisions of this part 2 and has exercised reasonable care in actions taken pursuant to this part 2.

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 957, § 5, effective May 19.

25-45-207. Effect on health-care coverage.

Nothing in this part 2 affects a health insurance provider's obligation to provide coverage for an insured's participation in a clinical trial pursuant to section 10-16-104 (20).

Source: L. 2025: Entire part added, (HB 25-1270), ch. 211, p. 958, § 5, effective May 19.

ARTICLE 46

Colorado Commission on Affordable Health Care

25-46-101 to 25-46-106. (Repealed)

Editor's note: (1) This article was added in 2014. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2017, consult the 2016 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-46-106 provided for the repeal of this article, effective July 1, 2017. (See L. 2014, p. 1079.)

ARTICLE 47

Use of Epinephrine Auto-injectors by Authorized Entities

25-47-101. Definitions.

25-47-102. Stock supply of epinephrine auto-injectors - emergency administration.

25-47-103. Use of epinephrine auto-injectors.

25-47-104. Training.

25-47-105. Reporting.

25-47-106. Emergency public access stations - life-saving allergy medication.

25-47-107. Good samaritan protections - liability.

25-47-108. Health-care professionals - hospitals - obligations under state and federal law.

25-47-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 47:

(1) "Administer" means to directly apply an epinephrine auto-injector to the body of an individual.

(2) "Authorized entity" means an entity or organization, other than a school described in section 22-1-119.5, C.R.S., or a hospital licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(I)(A) or (1)(a)(II), at which allergens capable of causing anaphylaxis may be present. The term includes but is not limited to recreation camps, colleges and universities, day care facilities, youth sports leagues, amusement parks, restaurants, places of employment, ski areas, and sports arenas.

(3) "Emergency public access station" or "EPAS" means a locked, secure container used to store epinephrine auto-injectors for use under the general oversight of a medical professional, which allows a lay rescuer to consult with a medical professional in real time by audio, televideo, or other similar means of electronic communication. Upon authorization of the consulting medical professional, an EPAS may be unlocked to make an epinephrine auto-injector available.

(4) "Epinephrine auto-injector" means a single-use device used for the automatic injection of a premeasured dose of epinephrine into the human body.

(5) "Health-care practitioner" means a person authorized by law to prescribe any drug or device, acting within the scope of his or her authority.

(6) "Medical professional" means a physician or other person authorized by applicable law to prescribe drugs in this state or another state.

(7) "Pharmacist" has the meaning set forth in section 12-280-103 (35).

(8) "Provide" means to supply one or more epinephrine auto-injectors to an individual.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 628, § 1, effective May 14. L. 2019: IP and (7) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1706, § 173, effective October 1.

25-47-102. Stock supply of epinephrine auto-injectors - emergency administration.

(1) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary:

(a) Prescribing to an authorized entity permitted. A health-care practitioner may direct the distribution of epinephrine auto-injectors from an in-state prescription drug outlet to an authorized entity for use in accordance with this article, and health-care practitioners may distribute epinephrine auto-injectors to an authorized entity; and

(b) Authorized entities permitted to maintain supply. An authorized entity may acquire and stock a supply of epinephrine auto-injectors pursuant to a prescription issued in accordance with this section.

(2) Epinephrine auto-injectors must be stored:

(a) In a location that will be readily accessible in an emergency;

(b) According to the applicable instructions for use; and

(c) In compliance with any additional requirements that may be established by the department of public health and environment.

(3) An authorized entity shall designate employees or agents who have completed the training required by section 25-47-104 to be responsible for the storage, maintenance, control, and general oversight of epinephrine auto-injectors acquired by the authorized entity.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 629, § 1, effective May 14.

25-47-103. Use of epinephrine auto-injectors.

(1) An employee or agent of an authorized entity or other individual who has completed the training required by section 25-47-104 may use epinephrine auto-injectors prescribed pursuant to section 25-47-102 to provide or administer an epinephrine auto-injector to any individual whom the employee, agent, or other individual believes in good faith is experiencing anaphylaxis, regardless of whether the individual has a prescription for an epinephrine auto-injector or has previously been diagnosed with an allergy, or to provide an epinephrine auto-injector to a family member, friend, colleague, caregiver, or person with a similar relationship with the individual.

(2) The administration of an epinephrine auto-injector in accordance with this section is neither the practice of medicine nor of any other profession that requires licensure.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 629, § 1, effective May 14.

25-47-104. Training.

(1) An employee, agent, or other individual must complete an anaphylaxis training program before using an epinephrine auto-injector. The training must be conducted by a nationally recognized organization experienced in training laypersons in emergency health treatment or by an individual or entity approved by the department of public health and environment. The department of public health and environment may approve specific entities or individuals to conduct training or may approve specific classes by individuals or entities. The training may be conducted online or in-person and, at a minimum, must cover:

(a) How to recognize the signs and symptoms of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis;

(b) The standards and procedures for the storage and administration of an epinephrine auto-injector; and

(c) Emergency follow-up procedures.

(2) The individual or entity that conducts the anaphylaxis training program shall issue a certificate, on a form developed or approved by the department of public health and environment, to each person who successfully completes the anaphylaxis training program.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 630, § 1, effective May 14.

25-47-105. Reporting.

An authorized entity that possesses and makes available epinephrine auto-injectors shall submit to the department of public health and environment, on a form developed by the department of public health and environment, a report of each incident on the authorized entity's premises that involves the administration of an epinephrine auto-injector pursuant to section 25-47-103. The department of public health and environment shall annually publish a report that summarizes and analyzes all reports submitted to it under this section.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 630, § 1, effective May 14.

25-47-106. Emergency public access stations - life-saving allergy medication.

(1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary:

(a) A medical professional may prescribe a stock supply of epinephrine auto-injectors to any authorized entity for storage in an EPAS and may place a stock supply of epinephrine auto-injectors in an EPAS maintained by an authorized entity;

(b) A medical professional may consult the user of an EPAS and make the epinephrine auto-injectors stored in the EPAS available to the user; and

(c) Any person may use an EPAS to administer or provide an epinephrine auto-injector to an individual believed in good faith to be experiencing anaphylaxis or to provide an epinephrine auto-injector to a family member, friend, colleague, caregiver, or person with a similar relationship with the individual.

(2) The use of an EPAS in accordance with this article is neither the practice of medicine nor of any other profession that requires licensure.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 630, § 1, effective May 14.

25-47-107. Good samaritan protections - liability.

(1) The following individuals and entities are immune from criminal liability and from suit in any civil action brought by any person for injuries or related damages that result from an act or omission taken pursuant to this article:

(a) An authorized entity that possesses and makes available epinephrine auto-injectors or an EPAS and the entity's employees, agents, and other individuals;

(b) An authorized entity that does not possess or make available epinephrine auto-injectors or an EPAS and the entity's employees, agents, and other individuals;

(c) An individual or entity that conducts an anaphylaxis training program;

(d) An individual who prescribes or dispenses an epinephrine auto-injector;

(e) An individual who administers or provides an epinephrine auto-injector;

(f) A medical professional who consults the user of an EPAS and makes the epinephrine auto-injectors stored in the EPAS available to the user; or

(g) An individual who uses an EPAS.

(2) Immunity under subsection (1) of this section does not apply to acts or omissions that are grossly negligent or willful and wanton.

(3) This section does not eliminate, limit, or reduce any other immunity or defense that may be available under state law, including the protections set forth in section 13-21-108, C.R.S. Providing or administering an epinephrine auto-injector by an entity or individual is deemed emergency care or emergency assistance for purposes of section 13-21-108, C.R.S.

(4) An authorized entity located in this state that provides or administers an epinephrine auto-injector outside of this state is not liable for any resulting injuries or related damages if the authorized entity:

(a) Would not be liable for the injuries or related damages if the epinephrine auto-injector had been provided or administered in this state; or

(b) Is not liable for injuries or related damages under the law of the state where the authorized entity provided or administered the epinephrine auto-injector.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 631, § 1, effective May 14.

ANNOTATION

Law reviews. For article, "Colorado's Good Samaritan Laws", see 53 Colo. Law. 42 (Apr. 2024).

25-47-108. Health-care professionals - hospitals - obligations under state and federal law.

Nothing in this article limits the obligations of a health-care professional or hospital under state or federal law in prescribing, storing, or administering drugs or devices.

Source: L. 2015: Entire article added, (HB 15-1232), ch. 191, p. 632, § 1, effective May 14.

ARTICLE 48

End-of-life Options

25-48-101. Short title.

25-48-102. Definitions.

25-48-103. Right to request medical aid-in-dying medication.

25-48-104. Request process - witness requirements.

25-48-105. Right to rescind request - requirement to offer opportunity to rescind.

25-48-106. Attending provider responsibilities.

25-48-107. Consulting provider responsibilities.

25-48-108. Confirmation that individual is mentally capable - referral to mental health professional.

25-48-109. Death certificate.

25-48-110. Informed decision required.

25-48-111. Medical record documentation requirements - reporting requirements - department compliance reviews - rules.

25-48-112. Form of written request.

25-48-113. Standard of care.

25-48-114. Effect on wills, contracts, and statutes.

25-48-115. Insurance or annuity policies.

25-48-116. Immunity for actions in good faith - prohibition against reprisals.

25-48-117. No duty to prescribe or dispense.

25-48-118. Health-care facility permissible prohibitions - notice to the public - sanctions if provider violates policy.

25-48-119. Liabilities.

25-48-120. Safe disposal of unused medical aid-in-dying medications.

25-48-121. Actions complying with article not a crime.

25-48-122. Claims by government entity for costs.

25-48-123. No effect on advance medical directives.

25-48-124. Severability.

25-48-101. Short title.

The short title of this article is the "Colorado End-of-life Options Act".

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2802, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016.

25-48-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 48, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Adult" means an individual who is eighteen years of age or older.

(1.5) "Advanced practice registered nurse" has the same meaning as set forth in section 12-255-104 (1).

(2) "Attending provider" means a physician or advanced practice registered nurse who has primary responsibility for the care of a terminally ill individual and the treatment of the individual's terminal illness.

(3) "Consulting provider" means a physician or advanced practice registered nurse who is qualified by specialty or experience to make a professional diagnosis and prognosis regarding a terminally ill individual's illness.

(4) "Health-care provider" or "provider" means a person who is licensed, certified, registered, or otherwise authorized or permitted by law to administer health care or dispense medication in the ordinary course of business or practice of a profession.

(5) "Informed decision" means a decision by a mentally capable individual to request and obtain a prescription for medication pursuant to this article 48, that the qualified individual may self-administer to bring about death, after being fully informed by the attending provider and the consulting provider of:

(a) The individual's diagnosis and prognosis;

(b) The potential risks associated with taking the medication to be prescribed;

(c) The probable result of taking the medication to be prescribed;

(d) The feasible end-of-life care and treatment options for the individual's terminal disease, including comfort care, palliative care, hospice care, and pain control, and the risks and benefits of each of these options; and

(e) The individual's right to withdraw a request pursuant to this article 48 or withdraw consent for any other treatment at any time.

(6) "Licensed mental health professional" means a psychiatrist licensed under article 240 of title 12 or a psychologist licensed under part 3 of article 245 of title 12.

(7) "Medical aid-in-dying" means the practice of evaluating a request, the determining of qualification, the performing of the duties in sections 25-48-106 and 25-48-107, and the providing of a prescription to a qualified individual pursuant to this article 48.

(8) Repealed.

(9) "Medically confirmed" means a consulting provider has examined the terminally ill individual and the individual's relevant medical records and has confirmed the medical opinion of the attending provider.

(10) "Mental capacity" or "mentally capable" means that in the opinion of an individual's attending provider, consulting provider, psychiatrist, or psychologist, the individual has the ability to make and communicate an informed decision to health-care providers.

(11) "Physician" means a doctor of medicine or osteopathy licensed to practice medicine by the Colorado medical board.

(12) "Prognosis of six months or less" means a terminal illness will, within reasonable medical judgment, result in death within six months.

(13) (a) "Qualified individual" means a resident of the state who is a capable adult and who has satisfied the requirements of this article 48 in order to obtain a prescription for medication to bring about a death.

(b) An individual is not a "qualified individual" based solely on the individual's age or disability.

(14) "Resident" means an individual who is able to demonstrate residency in Colorado by providing any of the following documentation to his or her attending physician:

(a) A Colorado driver's license or identification card issued pursuant to article 2 of title 42, C.R.S.;

(b) A Colorado voter registration card or other documentation showing the individual is registered to vote in Colorado;

(c) Evidence that the individual owns or leases property in Colorado; or

(d) A Colorado income tax return for the most recent tax year.

(15) (a) "Self-administer" means when a qualified individual performs an affirmative, conscious, voluntary act to ingest medication prescribed pursuant to this article 48 to bring about the individual's death.

(b) "Self-administer" does not include administration by parenteral injection or infusion.

(16) "Terminal illness" means an incurable and irreversible disease that has been medically confirmed and will, within reasonable medical judgment, result in death within six months.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2802, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2019: IP and (6) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1706, § 174, effective October 1. L. 2023: (4) amended, (HB 23-1228), ch. 278, p. 1650, § 5, effective May 30. L. 2024: (1.5) added, (2), (3), (4), (5), (7), (9), (10), (12), (13), (15), and (16) amended, and (8) repealed, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2789, § 1, effective August 7.

25-48-103. Right to request medical aid-in-dying medication.

(1) An adult resident of Colorado may make a request, in accordance with sections 25-48-104 and 25-48-112, to receive a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication if:

(a) The individual's attending provider has diagnosed the individual with a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less;

(b) The individual's attending provider has determined the individual has mental capacity; and

(c) The individual has voluntarily expressed the wish to receive a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication.

(2) The right to request medical aid-in-dying medication does not exist because of age or disability.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2804, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2792, § 2, effective August 7.

25-48-104. Request process - witness requirements.

(1) (a) Except as provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section, in order to receive a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication pursuant to this article 48, an individual who satisfies the requirements in section 25-48-103 must make two oral requests, separated by at least seven days, and a valid written request to the individual's attending provider.

(b) If an individual's attending provider has determined that the individual will, within reasonable medical judgment, die within forty-eight hours after making the initial oral request under this section, the individual may satisfy the requirements of this section by reiterating the oral request to the attending provider at any time after making the initial oral request.

(2) (a) To be valid, a written request for medical aid-in-dying medication must be:

(I) Substantially in the same form as set forth in section 25-48-112;

(II) Signed and dated by the individual seeking the medical aid-in-dying medication; and

(III) Witnessed by at least two individuals who, in the presence of the individual, attest to the best of their knowledge and belief that the individual is:

(A) Mentally capable;

(B) Acting voluntarily; and

(C) Not being coerced to sign the request.

(b) Of the two witnesses to the written request, at least one must not be:

(I) Related to the individual by blood, marriage, civil union, or adoption;

(II) An individual who, at the time the request is signed, is entitled, under a will or by operation of law, to any portion of the individual's estate upon his or her death; or

(III) An owner, operator, or employee of a health-care facility where the individual is receiving medical treatment or is a resident.

(c) The individual's attending or consulting provider or a person authorized as the individual's qualified power of attorney or durable medical power of attorney shall not serve as a witness to the written request.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2805, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (1) and (2)(c) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2792, § 3, effective August 7.

25-48-105. Right to rescind request - requirement to offer opportunity to rescind.

(1) At any time, an individual may rescind his or her request for medical aid-in-dying medication without regard to the individual's mental state.

(2) An attending provider shall not write a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication under this article 48 unless the attending provider offers the qualified individual an opportunity to rescind the request for the medical aid-in-dying medication.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2805, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (2) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2792, § 4, effective August 7.

25-48-106. Attending provider responsibilities.

(1) The attending provider shall:

(a) Make the initial determination of whether an individual requesting medical aid-in- dying medication has a terminal illness, has a prognosis of six months or less, is mentally capable, is making an informed decision, and has made the request voluntarily;

(b) Request that the individual demonstrate Colorado residency by providing documentation as described in section 25-48-102 (14);

(c) Provide care that conforms to established medical standards and accepted medical guidelines;

(d) Refer the individual to a consulting provider for medical confirmation of the diagnosis and prognosis and for a determination of whether the individual is mentally capable, making an informed decision, and acting voluntarily;

(e) Provide full, individual-centered disclosures to ensure that the individual is making an informed decision by discussing with the individual:

(I) His or her medical diagnosis and prognosis of six months or less;

(II) The feasible alternatives or additional treatment opportunities, including comfort care, palliative care, hospice care, and pain control;

(III) The potential risks associated with taking the medical aid-in-dying medication to be prescribed;

(IV) The probable result of taking the medical aid-in-dying medication to be prescribed; and

(V) The possibility that the individual can obtain the medical aid-in-dying medication but choose not to use it;

(f) Refer the individual to a licensed mental health professional pursuant to section 25-48-108 if the attending provider observes signs that the individual may not be capable of making an informed decision;

(g) Confirm that the individual's request does not arise from coercion or undue influence by another person by discussing with the individual, outside the presence of other persons, whether the individual is feeling coerced or unduly influenced by another person;

(h) Educate the individual about the importance of:

(I) Having another person present when the individual self-administers the medical aid-in-dying medication prescribed pursuant to this article;

(II) Not taking the medical aid-in-dying medication in a public place;

(III) Safe-keeping and proper disposal of unused medical aid-in-dying medication in accordance with section 25-48-120; and

(IV) Notifying the individual's next of kin or any person who plays a significant role in the individual's life, which may include a person not legally related to the individual, of the request for medical aid-in-dying medication;

(i) Inform the individual that the individual may rescind the request for medical aid-in-dying medication at any time pursuant to this article 48;

(j) Verify, immediately prior to writing the prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication, that the individual is making an informed decision;

(k) Ensure that all appropriate steps are carried out in accordance with this article before writing a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication; and

(l) Either:

(I) Dispense medical aid-in-dying medications directly to the qualified individual, including ancillary medications intended to minimize the individual's discomfort, if the attending provider has a current drug enforcement administration certificate and complies with any applicable administrative rule; or

(II) Deliver the written prescription personally, by mail, or through authorized electronic transmission in the manner permitted under article 280 of title 12, to a licensed pharmacist, who shall dispense the medical aid-in-dying medication to the qualified individual, the attending provider, or an individual expressly designated by the qualified individual.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2806, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2019: (1)(l)(II) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1706, § 175, effective October 1. L. 2024: IP(1), (1)(d), (1)(f), IP(1)(h), (1)(h)(IV), (1)(i), and (1)(l) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2793, § 5, effective August 7.

25-48-107. Consulting provider responsibilities.

(1) Before an individual who is requesting medical aid-in-dying medication may receive a prescription for the medical aid-in-dying medication, a consulting provider must:

(a) Examine the individual and the individual's relevant medical records; and

(b) Confirm, in writing, to the attending provider that the individual:

(I) Has a terminal illness;

(II) Has a prognosis of six months or less;

(III) Is making an informed decision;

(IV) Is mentally capable, or provide documentation that the consulting provider has referred the individual for further evaluation in accordance with section 25-48-108; and

(V) Has requested a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2807, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2793, § 6, effective August 7.

25-48-108. Confirmation that individual is mentally capable - referral to mental health professional.

(1) If either the attending provider or the consulting provider has doubts as to whether an individual is mentally capable, the provider shall refer the individual to a licensed mental health provider for determination regarding mental capability.

(2) The licensed mental health provider to whom the individual is referred pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall submit to the requesting attending provider or the consulting provider who referred the individual a written determination of whether the individual is mentally capable.

(3) If the licensed mental health provider determines that the individual is not mentally capable, the individual is not a qualified individual and the attending provider shall not prescribe medication to the individual under this article 48.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2808, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section R&RE, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2794, § 7, effective August 7.

25-48-109. Death certificate.

(1) Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the attending provider or the hospice medical director shall sign the death certificate of a qualified individual who obtained and self-administered medical aid-in-dying medication.

(2) When a death has occurred in accordance with this article, the cause of death shall be listed as the underlying terminal illness and the death does not constitute grounds for post-mortem inquiry under section 30-10-606 (1), C.R.S.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2808, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (1) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2794, § 8, effective August 7.

25-48-110. Informed decision required.

(1) An individual with a terminal illness is not a qualified individual and may not receive a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication unless he or she has made an informed decision.

(2) Immediately before writing a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication under this article 48, the attending provider shall verify that the individual with a terminal illness is making an informed decision.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2808, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (2) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2795, § 9, effective August 7.

25-48-111. Medical record documentation requirements - reporting requirements - department compliance reviews - rules.

(1) The attending provider shall document in the individual's medical record the following information:

(a) Dates of all oral requests;

(b) A valid written request;

(c) The attending provider's diagnosis and prognosis, determination of mental capacity, and that the individual is making a voluntary request and an informed decision;

(d) The consulting provider's confirmation of diagnosis and prognosis, mental capacity, and that the individual is making an informed decision;

(e) If applicable, written confirmation of mental capacity from a licensed mental health professional;

(f) A notation of notification of the right to rescind a request made pursuant to this article; and

(g) A notation by the attending provider that all requirements under this article 48 have been satisfied and indicating steps taken to carry out the request, including a notation of the medical aid-in-dying medications prescribed and when.

(2) (a) The department of public health and environment shall annually review a sample of records maintained pursuant to this article to ensure compliance. The department shall adopt rules to facilitate the collection of information defined in subsection (1) of this section. Except as otherwise required by law, the information collected by the department is not a public record and is not available for public inspection. However, the department shall generate and make available to the public an annual statistical report of information collected under this subsection (2).

(b) The department shall require any health-care provider, upon dispensing a medical aid-in-dying medication pursuant to this article, to file a copy of a dispensing record with the department. The dispensing record is not a public record and is not available for public inspection.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2809, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: IP(1), (1)(c), (1)(d), and (1)(g) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2795, § 10, effective August 7.

25-48-112. Form of written request.

(1) A request for medical aid-in-dying medication authorized by this article 48 must be in substantially the following form:

Request for medication to end my life in a peaceful manner

I, _______________ am an adult of sound mind. I am suffering from _______________, which my attending provider has determined is a terminal illness and which has been medically confirmed. I have been fully informed of my diagnosis and prognosis of six months or less, the nature of the medical aid-in-dying medication to be prescribed and potential associated risks, the expected result, and the feasible alternatives or additional treatment opportunities, including comfort care, palliative care, hospice care, and pain control.

I request that my attending provider prescribe medical aid-in-dying medication that will end my life in a peaceful manner if I choose to take it, and I authorize my attending provider to contact any pharmacist about my request.

I understand that I have the right to rescind this request at any time.

I further understand that although most deaths occur within three hours, my death may take longer, and my attending provider has counseled me about this possibility. I make this request voluntarily, without reservation, and without being coerced, and I accept full responsibility for my actions.

Signed: _______________

Dated: ________________

Declaration of witnesses

We declare that the individual signing this request:

Is personally known to us or has provided proof of identity;

Signed this request in our presence;

Appears to be of sound mind and not under duress, coercion, or undue influence; and

I am not the attending provider for the individual.

_______________ witness 1/date

_______________ witness 2/date

Note: Of the two witnesses to the written request, at least one must not:

Be a relative (by blood, marriage, civil union, or adoption) of the individual signing this request; be entitled to any portion of the individual's estate upon death; or own, operate, or be employed at a health-care facility where the individual is a patient or resident.

And neither the individual's attending or consulting provider nor a person authorized as the individual's qualified power of attorney or durable medical power of attorney shall serve as a witness to the written request.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2809, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2795, § 11, effective August 7.

25-48-113. Standard of care.

(1) Physicians and health-care providers shall provide medical services under this act that meet or exceed the standard of care for end-of-life medical care.

(2) If a health-care provider is unable or unwilling to carry out an eligible individual's request and the individual transfers care to a new health-care provider, the health-care provider shall coordinate transfer of the individual's medical records to a new health-care provider.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2811, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016.

25-48-114. Effect on wills, contracts, and statutes.

(1) A provision in a contract, will, or other agreement, whether written or oral, that would affect whether an individual may make or rescind a request for medical aid in dying pursuant to this article is invalid.

(2) An obligation owing under any currently existing contract must not be conditioned upon, or affected by, an individual's act of making or rescinding a request for medical aid-in-dying medication pursuant to this article.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2811, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016.

25-48-115. Insurance or annuity policies.

(1) The sale, procurement, or issuance of, or the rate charged for, any life, health, or accident insurance or annuity policy must not be conditioned upon, or affected by, an individual's act of making or rescinding a request for medical aid-in-dying medication in accordance with this article.

(2) A qualified individual's act of self-administering medical aid-in-dying medication pursuant to this article does not affect a life, health, or accident insurance or annuity policy.

(3) An insurer shall not deny or otherwise alter health-care benefits available under a policy of sickness and accident insurance to an individual with a terminal illness who is covered under the policy, based on whether or not the individual makes a request pursuant to this article.

(4) An individual with a terminal illness who is a member of medical assistance under the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, shall not be denied benefits under the medical assistance program or have the member's benefits under the program otherwise altered based on whether or not the member makes a request pursuant to this article 48.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2811, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (4) amended, (SB 24-176), ch. 152, p. 675, § 103, effective August 7.

25-48-116. Immunity for actions in good faith - prohibition against reprisals.

(1) A person is not subject to civil or criminal liability or professional disciplinary action for acting in good faith under this article, which includes being present when a qualified individual self-administers the prescribed medical aid-in-dying medication.

(2) Except as provided for in section 25-48-118, a health-care provider or professional organization or association shall not subject an individual to any of the following for participating or refusing to participate in good-faith compliance under this article:

(a) Censure;

(b) Discipline;

(c) Suspension;

(d) Loss of license, privileges, or membership; or

(e) Any other penalty.

(3) A request by an individual for, or the provision by an attending provider of, medical aid-in-dying medication in good faith compliance with this article 48 does not:

(a) Constitute neglect or elder abuse for any purpose of law; or

(b) Provide the basis for the appointment of a guardian or conservator.

(4) This section does not limit civil or criminal liability for negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2812, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: IP(3) amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2796, § 12, effective August 7.

25-48-117. No duty to prescribe or dispense.

(1) A health-care provider may choose whether to participate in providing medical aid-in-dying medication to an individual in accordance with this article.

(2) If a health-care provider is unable or unwilling to carry out an individual's request for medical aid-in-dying medication made in accordance with this article 48, the provider shall inform the individual of the provider's inability or unwillingness.

(3) If the individual transfers the individual's care to a new health-care provider, the prior health-care provider shall transfer, upon request, a copy of the individual's relevant medical records to the new health-care provider.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2812, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (2) amended and (3) added, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2797, § 13, effective August 7.

25-48-118. Health-care facility permissible prohibitions - notice to the public - sanctions if provider violates policy.

(1) A health-care facility may prohibit a provider employed or under contract from writing a prescription for medical aid-in-dying medication for a qualified individual who intends to use the medical aid-in-dying medication on the facility's premises. The health-care facility must notify the providers and staff at the time of hiring, contracting with, or privileging and on a yearly basis thereafter in writing of its policy with regard to prescriptions for medical aid-in-dying medication. A health-care facility that fails to provide explicit advance notice to the providers and staff shall not enforce such a policy.

(2) A health-care facility or health-care provider shall not subject a physician, nurse, pharmacist, or other person to discipline, suspension, loss of license or privileges, or any other penalty or sanction for actions taken in good-faith reliance on this article or for refusing to act under this article.

(2.5) A health-care facility shall not prohibit a provider from providing information to an individual regarding the individual's health status, including diagnosis, prognosis, recommended treatment, and treatment alternatives, including the risks and benefits of the recommended treatment and each treatment alternative.

(2.7) A health facility that is a covered entity, as defined in section 25-58-103 (1), shall comply with section 25-58-105 (3) and rules promulgated pursuant to section 25-58-105 regarding the facility's availability of end-of-life health-care services.

(3) A health-care facility must notify patients in writing of its policy with regard to medical aid-in-dying. A health-care facility that fails to provide advance notification to patients shall not be entitled to enforce such a policy.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2812, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: (1) amended and (2.5) and (2.7) added, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2797, § 14, effective August 7.

25-48-119. Liabilities.

(1) A person commits a class 2 felony and is subject to punishment in accordance with section 18-1.3-401, C.R.S. if the person, knowingly or intentionally causes an individual's death by:

(a) Forging or altering a request for medical aid-in-dying medication to end an individual's life without the individual's authorization; or

(b) Concealing or destroying a rescission of a request for medical aid-in-dying medication.

(2) A person commits a class 2 felony and is subject to punishment in accordance with section 18-1.3-401, C.R.S. if the person knowingly or intentionally coerces or exerts undue influence on an individual with a terminal illness to:

(a) Request medical aid-in-dying medication for the purpose of ending the terminally ill individual's life; or

(b) Destroy a rescission of a request for medical aid-in-dying medication.

(3) Nothing in this article limits further liability for civil damages resulting from other negligent conduct or intentional misconduct by any person.

(4) The penalties specified in this article do not preclude criminal penalties applicable under the "Colorado Criminal Code", title 18, C.R.S., for conduct that is inconsistent with this article.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2813, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016.

25-48-120. Safe disposal of unused medical aid-in-dying medications.

(1) A person who has custody or control of medical aid-in-dying medication dispensed under this article 48 after a terminally ill individual's death shall dispose of the unused medical aid-in-dying medication either by:

(a) Returning the unused medical aid-in-dying medication to the attending provider who prescribed the medical aid-in-dying medication, who shall dispose of the unused medical aid-in-dying medication in the manner required by law; or

(b) Lawful means in accordance with section 25-15-328, or any other state or federally approved medication take-back program authorized under the federal "Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010", Pub.L. 111-273, and regulations adopted pursuant to the federal act.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2813, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2797, § 15, effective August 7.

25-48-121. Actions complying with article not a crime.

Nothing in this article 48 authorizes a provider or any other person to end an individual's life by lethal injection, mercy killing, or euthanasia. Actions taken in accordance with this article 48 do not, for any purpose, constitute suicide, assisted suicide, mercy killing, homicide, or elder abuse under the "Colorado Criminal Code", as set forth in title 18.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2814, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2798, § 16, effective August 7.

25-48-122. Claims by government entity for costs.

A government entity that incurs costs resulting from self-administration of medication prescribed under this article 48 in a public place has a claim against the estate of the individual to recover the costs and reasonable attorney fees related to enforcing the claim.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2814, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2798, § 17, effective August 7.

25-48-123. No effect on advance medical directives.

Nothing in this article shall change the legal effect of:

(1) A declaration made under article 18 of title 15, C.R.S., directing that life-sustaining procedures be withheld or withdrawn;

(2) A cardiopulmonary resuscitation directive executed under article 18.6 of title 15, C.R.S.; or

(3) An advance medical directive executed under article 18.7 of title 15, C.R.S.

Source: Initiated 2016: Entire article added, Proposition 106, L. 2017, p. 2814, § 1, effective upon proclamation of the Governor, December 16, 2016.

25-48-124. Severability.

If any part of this article 48 is found to be in conflict with federal requirements that are a prescribed condition for receipt of federal funds, the conflicting part of this section is inoperative solely to the extent of the conflict, and the conflict does not affect the operation of the remainder of this article 48.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-068), ch. 406, p. 2798, § 18, effective August 7.

ARTICLE 49

Transparency in Health-care Prices

25-49-101. Short title.

25-49-102. Definitions.

25-49-103. Transparency - charges for services rendered by health-care providers.

25-49-104. Transparency - health-care facility charges.

25-49-105. No review of health-care prices - no punishment for exercising rights - no impairment of contracts.

25-49-106. Required disclosure to self-pay recipients - estimate of total cost of health-care services upon request - unfair or deceptive trade practice - definition.

25-49-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 49 is the "Transparency in Health Care Prices Act".

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-065), ch. 113, p. 403, § 1, effective January 1, 2018.

25-49-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 49, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Agency" means a government department or agency or a government-created entity.

(2) "CPT code" means the current procedural terminology code, or its successor code, as developed and copyrighted by the American Medical Association or its successor entity.

(3) "Health-care facility" means a facility licensed or certified by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-1.5-103. The term does not include a nursing care facility, assisted living residence, or home care agency.

(4) (a) "Health-care price" means the price, before negotiating any discounts, that a health-care provider or health-care facility will charge a recipient for health-care services that will be rendered. "Health-care price" is the price charged for the standard service for the particular diagnosis and does not include any amount that may be charged for complications or exceptional treatment. The health-care price for a specific health-care service may be determined from any of the following:

(I) The price charged most frequently for the health-care service during the previous twelve months;

(II) The highest charge from the lowest half of all charges for the health-care service during the previous twelve months; or

(III) A range that includes the middle fifty percent of all charges for the health- care service during the previous twelve months.

(b) "Health-care price" does not mean the amount charged if a public or private third party will be paying or reimbursing the health-care provider or health-care facility for any portion of the cost of services rendered.

(5) "Health-care provider" means a person who is licensed, certified, or registered by this state to provide health-care services or a medical group, independent practice association, or professional corporation providing health-care services.

(6) (a) "Health-care services" or "services" means services included in, or incidental to, furnishing to an individual:

(I) Medical, mental, dental, or optometric care or hospitalization; or

(II) Other services for the purpose of preventing, alleviating, curing, or healing a physical illness, an injury, or a mental health disorder.

(b) "Health-care services" includes services rendered through the use of telemedicine.

(7) "Health insurer" means a carrier, as defined in section 10-16-102 (8), disability insurer, group disability insurer, or blanket disability insurer.

(8) (a) "Public or private third party" means a health insurer, self-insured employer, or other third party, including a third-party administrator or intermediary, responsible for paying all or a portion of the charges for health-care services.

(b) "Public or private third party" does not mean:

(I) An employer of the recipient of the health-care services that is not responsible for paying the charges for the health-care services provided to the recipient;

(II) A person paying money from a health savings account, flexible spending account, or similar account; or

(III) A family member, charitable organization, or other person who is not responsible for, but pays charges for, health-care services on behalf of the recipient of the services.

(9) "Punish" means to impose a penalty, surcharge, fee, or other additional cost or measure that has the same effect as a penalty or that discourages the exercise of rights under this article 49.

(10) "Recipient" means an individual who receives health-care services from a health-care provider or health-care facility.

(11) "Self-pay" means payment without the assistance of a public or private third party.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-065), ch. 113, p. 403, § 1, effective January 1, 2018. L. 2018: (6)(a)(II) amended, (SB 18-091), ch. 35, p. 388, § 24, effective August 8. L. 2023: (11) added, (SB 23-093), ch. 152, p. 647, § 7, effective May 4.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-091, see section 1 of chapter 35, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

25-49-103. Transparency - charges for services rendered by health-care providers.

(1) (a) (I) Except as provided in subsection (1)(a)(II) or (1)(a)(III) of this section, a health-care provider shall make available to the public, in a single document, either electronically or by posting conspicuously on the provider's website if one exists, the health-care prices for at least the fifteen most common health-care services the health-care provider provides. If the health-care provider, in the normal course of his or her practice, regularly provides fewer than fifteen health-care services, the health-care provider shall make available the health-care prices for the health-care services the provider most commonly provides.

(II) A health-care provider practicing in a solo practice or in a medical group, independent practice association, or professional corporation comprised of not more than six individual health-care providers with the same license type may comply with the requirements of this section by making the health-care prices described in subsection (1)(a)(I) of this section available in patient waiting areas.

(III) A health-care provider who is a member of a professional corporation that contracts with a single health maintenance organization, as defined in section 10-16-102 (35), complies with this section if the professional corporation or its contracting health maintenance organization makes available to the public, in a single document, either electronically or by posting conspicuously on its website, the health-care prices for at least the fifteen most common health-care services that the health-care provider or health maintenance organization would charge individuals who are not members of the health maintenance organization.

(b) The health-care provider shall identify the services by:

(I) A common procedural terminology code or other coding system commonly used by the health-care provider and accepted as a national standard for billing; and

(II) A plain English description.

(c) The health-care provider shall update the document as frequently as the health-care provider deems appropriate, but at least annually.

(2) The health-care provider shall include:

(a) A disclosure specifying that the health-care price for any given health-care service is an estimate and that the actual charges for the health-care service are dependent on the circumstances at the time the service is rendered; and

(b) The following statement or a statement containing substantially similar information:

If you are covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to consult with your health insurer to determine accurate information about your financial responsibility for a particular health-care service provided by a health-care provider at this office. If you are not covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to contact our billing office at (insert telephone number) to discuss payment options prior to receiving a health-care service from a health-care provider at this office since posted health-care prices may not reflect the actual amount of your financial responsibility.

(3) A hospital-based health-care provider that is not an employee of the hospital where the services are being delivered is not required to provide health-care prices in the manner specified in this section for the health-care services the health-care provider renders in the hospital setting.

(4) Nothing in this section precludes a health-care provider from informing a current or potential patient, upon request of the patient, of the health-care price for a health-care service that the health-care provider renders.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-065), ch. 113, p. 405, § 1, effective January 1, 2018.

25-49-104. Transparency - health-care facility charges.

(1) (a) A health-care facility shall make available to the public, in a single document, either electronically or by posting conspicuously on its website if one exists, the health-care prices for at least:

(I) The fifty most used, diagnosis-related group codes or other codes for in-patient health-care services used by the health-care facility for billing or, if those codes are not used, the codes under another coding system for in-patient health-care services commonly used by the facility and accepted as a national standard for billing; and

(II) The twenty-five most used out-patient CPT codes or health-care services procedure codes used for billing or, if those codes are not used, the codes under another coding system for out-patient health-care services commonly used by the facility and accepted as a national standard for billing.

(b) If a health-care facility did not use fifty codes for in-patient health-care services at least eleven times in the previous twelve months or did not use twenty-five codes for out-patient health-care services at least eleven times in the previous twelve months, the health-care facility shall make available the health-care price for only those most common in-patient and out-patient health-care services or procedure codes that the health-care facility used at least eleven times in the previous twelve months.

(c) A health-care facility shall include with the health-care price provided pursuant to this subsection (1) a plain English description of the service for which the health-care price is provided.

(d) The health-care facility shall update the document as frequently as it deems appropriate, but at least annually.

(2) The health-care facility shall include:

(a) A disclosure specifying that the health-care price for any given health-care service is an estimate and that the actual charges for the health-care service are dependent on the circumstances at the time the service is rendered; and

(b) The following statement or a statement containing substantially similar information:

If you are covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to consult with your health insurer to determine accurate information about your financial responsibility for a particular health-care service provided at this health-care facility. If you are not covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to contact (insert office name and telephone number) to discuss payment options prior to receiving a health-care service from this health-care facility since posted health-care prices may not reflect the actual amount of your financial responsibility.

(3) A health-care facility may disclose the basis for its health-care prices and may take into consideration all payer sources when determining a health-care price.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-065), ch. 113, p. 406, § 1, effective January 1, 2018.

25-49-105. No review of health-care prices - no punishment for exercising rights - no impairment of contracts.

(1) Nothing in this article 49 requires a health-care facility or health-care provider to report its health-care prices to any agency for review, filing, or other purposes, or for applications for health-care professional loan repayment submitted pursuant to section 25-1.5-503. This article 49 does not grant any agency the authority to approve, disapprove, or limit a health-care facility's or health-care provider's health-care prices or changes to its health-care prices. The department of public health and environment is not authorized to take any action regarding or pursuant to this article 49.

(2) This article 49 is intended to make health-care prices and payments, and participating in or exercising rights under this article 49, free from paperwork, punishment, reporting, and regulation to the fullest extent permissible under the state constitution and state and federal law. A person, entity, agency, or health insurer shall not punish a recipient, health-care provider, health-care facility, person, entity, or employer for participating directly in, exercising rights under, or complying with this article 49. The health-care price for a given health-care service that a health-care provider or health-care facility makes available to the public pursuant to this article 49 shall not be used as the basis for determining payment rates from a public or private third party for that health-care service.

(3) Nothing in this article 49 impairs contracts between private parties.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-065), ch. 113, p. 407, § 1, effective January 1, 2018. L. 2021: (1) amended, (HB 21-1198), ch. 435, p. 2885, § 5, effective September 7.

25-49-106. Required disclosure to self-pay recipients - estimate of total cost of health-care services upon request - unfair or deceptive trade practice - definition.

(1) (a) Upon the request of a person seeking a health-care service who intends to self-pay for the service, designated billing or patient services personnel representing a health-care provider or a health-care facility shall provide, prior to the provision of the health-care service, a self-pay estimate, pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, of the total estimated cost to the recipient of the anticipated health-care service, except as prohibited by 42 U.S.C. sec. 1395dd.

(b) (I) Except as provided in subsection (1)(b)(II) of this section, the final cost of the health-care service for which the self-pay estimate was made must be no more than fifteen percent higher than the total estimated cost indicated in the self-pay estimate or no more than four hundred dollars higher than the total estimated cost indicated in the self-pay estimate, whichever is less.

(II) The final cost of the health-care service for which the self-pay estimate was made may be more than fifteen percent higher or more than four hundred dollars higher than the self-pay estimate if a medical emergency occurs that is associated with the health-care service or if an additional, unforeseen, medically necessary health-care service is required during the provision of the health-care service. The health-care provider or health-care facility shall make all reasonable efforts to obtain the consent of the recipient or, if the recipient is incapacitated, the recipient's authorized agent prior to providing any emergency or unforeseen, medically necessary health-care service that will increase by more than fifteen percent or by more than four hundred dollars the total cost indicated in the self-pay estimate.

(2) The right of a person to request a self-pay estimate prior to the receipt of a health-care service must be clearly and conspicuously stated by the health-care provider and posted at the health-care facility in a manner, in a location, and at a time reasonably calculated to inform the person of the right.

(3) The self-pay estimate must:

(a) Be in writing or, if the health-care provider or health-care facility is unable to provide a written self-pay estimate, the self-pay estimate and the following information must be stated in a recorded telephone call:

(I) The date and time of the telephone call;

(II) The telephone number of the consumer receiving the self-pay estimate;

(III) The manner in which consent for the self-pay estimate amount must be provided by the intended recipient;

(IV) The name of the intended recipient of the health-care service;

(V) The name of the health-care provider or health-care facility employee providing the self-pay estimate; and

(VI) Any other information material to the determination of the self-pay estimate;

(b) Include the total estimated cost of the health-care service, including an itemization of all necessary components of the service, which components may include a facility fee and the cost of personnel, imaging, medical tools or devices, and medicine;

(c) Be easy to understand by a person without knowledge of medical or technical jargon and with limited proficiency in math, science, and written and oral communication skills;

(d) Be provided in English or Spanish, if requested by the consumer; and

(e) Be provided within the following time frames:

(I) Not later than one business day after the date the primary item or service is scheduled if a primary item or service is scheduled at least three days before the primary item or service is provided;

(II) Not later than three business days after the date the primary item or service is scheduled if the primary item or service is scheduled at least ten business days before the primary item or service is provided; or

(III) Not later than three days after a request for a self-pay estimate.

(4) A provider or health-care facility that is in compliance with section 112 of Title I of division BB of the federal "No Surprises Act", and rules promulgated and determined by the federal centers for medicare and medicaid services under that act in 45 CFR 149.610, or any successor laws and regulations, is in compliance with this section.

(5) A violation of this section is an unfair or deceptive trade practice in violation of article 1 of title 6.

(6) As used in this section, "federal 'No Surprises Act'" means the federal "No Surprises Act", Pub.L. 116-260, as amended.

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-093), ch. 152, p. 647, § 8, effective May 4. L. 2025: (1)(b) amended, (HB 25-1317), ch. 444, p. 2556, § 1, effective August 6. L. 2026: (5) amended, (HB 26-1426), ch. 334, p. 2027, § 102, effective August 12.

ARTICLE 50

Cancer Cure Control

25-50-101 to 25-50-112. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2019: Entire article repealed, (HB 19-1070), ch. 29, p. 92, § 2, effective August 2.

Editor's note: (1) This article 50 was added in 2017 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2019. For the text of this article 50 prior to 2019, consult the 2018 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

(2) Section 25-50-101 (3) and (4) were amended in HB 19-1172, effective October 1, 2019. However, those amendments were superseded by the repeal of this article 50 in HB 19-1070, effective August 2, 2019.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1070, see section 1 of chapter 29, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

ARTICLE 51

Communication and Resolution After an Adverse Health-care Incident

25-51-101. Short title.

25-51-102. Definitions.

25-51-103. Engaging in an open discussion.

25-51-104. Payment and financial resolution.

25-51-105. Confidentiality of open discussions and offers of compensation.

25-51-106. Patient safety research and education.

25-51-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 51 is the "Colorado Candor Act".

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1752, § 1, effective July 1.

25-51-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 51, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Adverse health-care incident" means an objective and definable outcome arising from or related to patient care that results in the death or physical injury of a patient.

(2) (a) "Health-care provider" means any person who is licensed, certified, registered, or otherwise permitted by state law to administer health care in the ordinary course of business or in the practice of a profession.

(b) "Health-care provider" includes a professional service corporation, limited liability company, or registered limited liability partnership organized pursuant to state law for the practice of a health-care profession.

(3) "Health facility" means a facility licensed or certified by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(4) (a) "Open discussion" means all communications that are made under section 25-51-103 and includes memoranda, work product, documents, and other materials that:

(I) Are prepared for, or submitted in the course of or in connection with, communications under section 25-51-103; and

(II) Are not materials described in subsection (4)(b) of this section.

(b) "Open discussion" does not include communications, memoranda, work product, documents, or other materials that are otherwise subject to discovery and that were not prepared specifically for use in an open discussion under section 25-51-103 as specified in section 25-51-105 (2).

(5) "Patient" means a person who receives health care from a health-care provider, or the person's legal representative if the person is an unemancipated minor under the age of eighteen, deceased, or incapacitated. If the patient is deceased, "patient" includes the parties recognized under section 13-21-201.

(6) "Public employee" has the same meaning as in section 24-10-103 (4).

(7) "Public entity" has the same meaning as in section 24-10-103 (5).

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1752, § 1, effective July 1.

25-51-103. Engaging in an open discussion.

(1) If an adverse health-care incident occurs, a health-care provider involved in the adverse health-care incident, or the health-care provider jointly with the health facility involved in the adverse health-care incident, may provide the patient with written notice of the desire of the health-care provider, or of the health-care provider jointly with the health facility, to enter into an open discussion under this article 51.

(2) A health-care provider or health facility that chooses to provide the notice specified in subsection (1) of this section shall send the notice within one hundred eighty days after the date on which the health-care provider knew, or through the use of diligence should have known, of the adverse health-care incident. The notice must include:

(a) An explanation of the patient's right to receive a copy of the medical records related to the adverse health-care incident and of the patient's right to authorize the release of the patient's medical records related to the adverse health-care incident to any third party;

(b) A statement regarding the patient's right to seek legal counsel and to have legal counsel present throughout the process specified in this article 51;

(c) A copy of sections 13-80-102.5 and 13-80-112 with notice that the time for a patient to bring a lawsuit is limited and will not be extended merely by engaging in an open discussion under this article 51;

(d) If the health-care provider or health facility is a public entity or a public employee, a copy of section 24-10-109, together with the statement that the deadline for filing the notice required under section 24-10-109 will not be extended by engaging in an open discussion under this article 51;

(e) Notice that if the patient chooses to engage in an open discussion with the health-care provider or health facility, all communications made in the course of the discussion under this article 51, including communications regarding the initiation of an open discussion, are:

(I) Privileged and confidential;

(II) Not subject to discovery, subpoena, or other means of legal compulsion for release; and

(III) Not admissible as evidence in a proceeding arising directly out of the adverse health-care incident, including a judicial, administrative, or arbitration proceeding; and

(f) An advisement that communications, memoranda, work product, documents, and other materials that are otherwise subject to discovery and not prepared specifically for use in an open discussion under this section are not confidential.

(3) (a) If the patient agrees in writing to engage in an open discussion under this article 51, the patient, health-care provider, or health facility engaged in the open discussion may include additional parties in the open discussion.

(b) The health-care provider, or the health-care provider jointly with the health facility, involved in the adverse health-care incident shall advise all additional parties in writing of the nature of communications made in accordance with this article 51 as specified in section 25-51-105.

(c) Additional parties shall acknowledge the advisement in subsection (3)(b) of this section in writing.

(d) The advisement provided in accordance with this subsection (3) must indicate that communications, memoranda, work product, documents, and other materials that are otherwise subject to discovery and not prepared specifically for use in an open discussion under this section are not confidential.

(4) The health-care provider or health facility that agrees to engage in an open discussion may:

(a) Investigate how the adverse health-care incident occurred and gather information regarding the medical care or treatment provided;

(b) Disclose the results of the investigation to the patient;

(c) Openly communicate to the patient the steps the health-care provider or health facility will take to prevent future occurrences of the adverse health-care incident;

(d) Determine either of the following:

(I) That no offer of compensation for the adverse health-care incident is warranted; or

(II) That an offer of compensation for the adverse health-care incident is warranted.

(5) If a health-care provider or health facility determines that no offer of compensation is warranted, the health-care provider or health facility shall orally communicate that decision with the patient. If a health-care provider or health facility determines that an offer of compensation is warranted, the health-care provider or health facility shall provide the patient with a written offer of compensation.

(6) If a health-care provider or health facility makes an offer of compensation under subsection (5) of this section and the patient is not represented by legal counsel, the health-care provider or health facility shall:

(a) Advise the patient of the patient's right to seek legal counsel regarding the offer of compensation; and

(b) Provide notice that the patient may be legally required to repay medical and other expenses that were paid by a third party, including private health insurance, medicare, or medicaid.

(7) Except for an offer of compensation under subsection (5) of this section, open discussions between the health-care provider or health facility and the patient about the compensation offered under subsection (5) of this section shall not be in writing.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1753, § 1, effective July 1.

25-51-104. Payment and financial resolution.

(1) If a patient accepts an offer of compensation made pursuant to section 25-51-103 (5) and receives the compensation, the payment of compensation to the patient is not a payment resulting from:

(a) A written claim or demand for payment;

(b) A final judgment, settlement, or arbitration award against a health-care professional or health-care institution for medical malpractice for purposes of section 13-64-303;

(c) A malpractice claim settled or in which judgment is rendered against a professional for purposes of reporting by malpractice insurance companies under section 10-1-120, 10-1-120.5, 10-1-121, 10-1-124, 10-1-125, 10-1-125.3, 10-1-125.5, or 10-1-125.7;

(d) A final judgment against, settlement entered into by, or arbitration award paid on behalf of an applicant for malpractice under section 12-30-102 (4)(h); or

(e) A judgment, administrative action, settlement, or arbitration award involving malpractice under section 12-200-106 (5), 12-210-105 (5), 12-215-115 (1)(i), 12-220-201 (1)(q) or (1)(r), 12-235-111 (1)(i), 12-240-125 (4)(b)(III), 12-245-226 (7), 12-250-116, 12-255-119 (3)(b)(II), 12-255-120 (1)(dd), 12-275-120 (1)(p) or (1)(v), 12-275-129, 12-280-126 (1)(t), 12-285-120 (1)(o), 12-285-127 (1)(a), 12-285-211 (1)(k), 12-285-216 (1)(a), or 12-290-113 (2)(b)(III).

(2) As a condition of an offer of compensation under section 25-51-103 (5), a health-care provider or health facility may require a patient to execute all documents and obtain any necessary court approval to resolve an adverse health-care incident. The parties shall negotiate the form of the documents or obtain court approval as necessary.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1755, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2020: (1)(e) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1056, § 60, effective June 30; (1)(c) and (1)(e) amended, (HB 20-1216), ch. 190, p. 867, § 9, effective July 1; (1)(c) amended, (HB 20-1219), ch. 300, p. 1498, § 10, effective September 1; (1)(e) amended, (HB 20-1056), ch. 64, p. 263, § 8, effective September 14. L. 2021: (1)(c) and (1)(e) amended, (SB 21-094), ch. 314, p. 1945, § 34, effective September 1.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (1)(c) by HB 20-1216 and HB 20-1219 were harmonized. Amendments to subsection (1)(e) by HB 20-1056, HB 20-1216, and HB 20-1402 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 20-1216, see section 1 of chapter 190, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

25-51-105. Confidentiality of open discussions and offers of compensation.

(1) Open discussion communications and offers of compensation made under section 25-51-103 and in substantial compliance with this article 51:

(a) Do not constitute an admission of liability;

(b) Are privileged and confidential and shall not be disclosed;

(c) Are not admissible as evidence in any subsequent judicial, administrative, or arbitration proceeding arising directly out of the adverse health-care incident;

(d) Are not subject to discovery, subpoena, or other means of legal compulsion for release; and

(e) Shall not be disclosed by any party in any subsequent judicial, administrative, or arbitration proceeding arising directly out of the adverse health-care incident.

(2) Communications, memoranda, work product, documents, and other materials that are otherwise subject to discovery and that were not prepared specifically for use in an open discussion under section 25-51-103 are not confidential.

(3) The limitation on disclosure imposed by this section includes disclosure during any discovery conducted as part of a subsequent adjudicatory proceeding arising directly out of the adverse health-care incident, and a court or other adjudicatory body shall not compel any person who engages in an open discussion under this article 51 to disclose confidential communications or agreements made under section 25-51-103.

(4) This section does not affect any other law, rule, or requirement with respect to confidentiality.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1756, § 1, effective July 1.

25-51-106. Patient safety research and education.

(1) A health-care provider or health facility that participates in open discussions under this article 51 may provide de-identified information about an adverse health-care incident to any patient-safety-centered nonprofit organization for use in patient safety research and education.

(2) Disclosure of de-identified information under subsection (1) of this section:

(a) Does not constitute a waiver of the privilege specified in section 25-51-105 (1)(b); and

(b) Is not a violation of the confidentiality requirements of section 25-51-105 (1)(b).

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-201), ch. 144, p. 1757, § 1, effective July 1.

ARTICLE 52

Maternal Mortality Prevention Act

25-52-101. Short title.

25-52-102. Legislative declaration.

25-52-103. Definitions.

25-52-104. Colorado maternal mortality review committee - creation - members - duties - report to the general assembly - maternal health task force.

25-52-105. Access to health records related to maternal mortalities.

25-52-106. Duty to comply with state and federal laws relating to health information.

25-52-106.5. Perinatal health quality improvement program - perinatal health quality improvement engagement program - perinatal quality collaborative duties - data collection - reporting - legislative declaration - definitions.

25-52-107. Repeal of article - review of functions.

25-52-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 52 is the "Maternal Mortality Prevention Act".

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2138, § 1, effective May 16.

25-52-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) Colorado's maternal mortality rate nearly doubled between 2008 and 2013;

(b) Maternal deaths affect women statewide and are more common among families living in rural areas than in urban centers and disproportionately high among black and African American women compared to white women;

(c) Eighty percent of maternal deaths in Colorado are considered preventable;

(d) To review deaths in the pregnant and postpartum population requires a holistic view of the circumstances surrounding a death. National research indicates that high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease remain two leading causes of maternal deaths nationwide, while in Colorado behavioral health conditions and self-harm now account for the largest share of maternal deaths.

(e) Evidence-based prevention strategies support the review of maternal deaths through state-based maternal mortality reviews in order to identify the systematic changes needed to decrease mortality among the pregnant and postpartum population;

(f) The department has had an active and dedicated committee of volunteer professionals reviewing maternal deaths since 1993; however, the capacity of the committee is limited by a lack of protection, funding, and authority;

(g) There is a need to establish a committee to review deaths among the pregnant and postpartum population and to recommend strategies to prevent these deaths and improve maternal health outcomes in Colorado;

(h) The prevention of deaths among the pregnant and postpartum population is a community responsibility, and professionals from a variety of disciplines have expertise that can promote the safety and well-being of the pregnant and postpartum population;

(i) Comprehensive and multidisciplinary reviews of maternal deaths can lead to a greater understanding of the causes of and methods for preventing these deaths and improve other maternal health outcomes including morbidity;

(j) The protection of the health and welfare of the pregnant and postpartum population in this state is an important goal of the citizens of this state, and the rate of death among the pregnant and postpartum population is a serious public health concern that requires legislative action;

(k) Forty-one states and the District of Columbia currently have statutorily created maternal mortality review committees; and

(l) Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to establish a maternal mortality review committee within the department to review maternal deaths and to recommend strategies for the prevention of maternal mortality.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2138, § 1, effective May 16.

25-52-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 52, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Committee" means the Colorado maternal mortality review committee created in section 25-52-104.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(3) "Designated state perinatal care quality collaborative" or "perinatal quality collaborative" means a statewide nonprofit network of health facilities, clinicians, and public health professionals working to improve the quality of care for mothers and babies through continuous quality improvement.

(4) "Health-care provider" means any person licensed, registered, or certified by the state of Colorado to deliver health-care services, including mental and behavioral health-care services and medical marijuana services.

(4.5) "Health facility" means a health facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1).

(5) "Maternal death" means a death that occurs during pregnancy or up to one year after the end of a pregnancy.

(6) "Maternal mortality" means the incidence of maternal deaths.

(6.5) "Medical assistance program" means the medical assistance program established pursuant to articles 4 to 6 of title 25.5.

(7) (a) "Medical record" means the written or graphic documentation, sound recording, or computer record pertaining to health-care services performed at the direction of a health-care provider on behalf of a patient.

(b) "Medical record" includes:

(I) Diagnostic documentation such as X rays, electrocardiograms, electroencephalograms, and other test results;

(II) Data entered into the electronic prescription drug monitoring program under section 12-280-403;

(III) Data entered into the national violent death reporting system or a successor system; and

(IV) Autopsy reports.

(8) "Pregnancy-related death" means a death caused by issues related to, or aggravated by, a pregnancy or treatment of that pregnancy.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2139, § 1, effective May 16. L. 2021: (3) amended and (4.5) added, (SB 21-194), ch. 434, p. 2869, § 4, effective September 7. L. 2024: (3) amended and (6.5) added, (SB 24-175), ch. 433, p. 3035, § 3, effective June 5.

25-52-104. Colorado maternal mortality review committee - creation - members - duties - report to the general assembly - maternal health task force.

(1) The Colorado maternal mortality review committee is hereby created in the department for the purposes of:

(a) Reviewing specific cases of maternal death that occur in Colorado;

(b) Identifying the causes of maternal mortality; and

(c) Developing recommendations to address preventable maternal deaths, including legislation, policies, rules, training, and best practices that will support the health and safety of the pregnant and postpartum population in Colorado and prevent maternal deaths.

(2) (a) By October 1, 2019, the executive director of the department shall appoint at least eleven members to serve on the committee. The term of appointment is three years; except that the term of the first six members appointed is two years. Members may serve up to three terms. The executive director may fill any vacancies on the committee.

(b) In appointing members to the committee, the executive director shall:

(I) Follow best practices as outlined by the centers for disease control and prevention in the federal department of health and human services;

(II) Ensure that committee members represent diverse communities and a variety of clinical, forensic, and psychosocial specializations and community perspectives, including community-based midwifery; and

(III) Make an effort to include committee members working in and representing communities that are:

(A) Diverse with regard to race, ethnicity, immigration status, English proficiency, income, wealth, and geographic region of the state, including both urban and rural areas; and

(B) Affected by higher rates of maternal mortality and by a lack of access to the full scope of maternity care health services.

(c) The members of the committee who reside more than fifty miles from the location of a committee hearing are entitled to receive the same per diem compensation and reimbursement of expenses as those provided for members of boards and commissions pursuant to section 12-20-103 (6), and for expenses incurred in traveling to and from the meetings of the committee, including any required dependent or attendant travel, food, and lodging. Members of the committee are also entitled to reimbursement for any expenses necessary to support the members' participation at a committee hearing, including any dependent or attendant care.

(3) The committee may form special ad hoc panels to further investigate cases of maternal death resulting from specific causes when the need arises.

(4) The committee shall:

(a) Review each death in Colorado that is a maternal death;

(b) Review medical records and other relevant data related to each maternal death;

(c) Take steps to improve the quality and scope of data obtained through investigations and review of maternal deaths;

(d) Identify the causes of maternal mortality, including any trends and patterns across racial, geographic, and other groups;

(e) Develop recommendations for the prevention of maternal mortality and deliver the recommendations to the department;

(f) Perform any other functions as resources allow to enhance the capability of the state to reduce and prevent maternal mortality; and

(g) Advise the department in the department's work on decreasing maternal mortality.

(5) The department shall:

(a) Compile reports of aggregated, nonindividually identifiable data on a routine basis for distribution in an effort to further study the causes and problems associated with maternal mortality that may be distributed to policymakers, health-care providers, health facilities, behavioral health providers, public health professionals, the health equity commission created in section 25-4-2206, and others necessary to reduce the maternal mortality rate;

(b) Serve as a link with maternal mortality review teams throughout the country and participate in regional or national maternal mortality review team activities;

(c) Incorporate input and feedback from:

(I) Interested and affected stakeholders, with a focus on persons who are pregnant or in the postpartum period and their family members;

(II) Multidisciplinary, nonprofit organizations representing individuals who are pregnant or in the postpartum period, with a focus on individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups;

(III) Multidisciplinary, community-based organizations that provide support or advocacy for individuals who are pregnant or in the postpartum period, with a focus on individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups; and

(IV) The maternal health task force described in subsection (5.3) of this section;

(d) Make recommendations to improve the collection and public reporting of maternal health data from hospitals, health systems, insurers, maternal care providers, pharmacies, local and state law enforcement offices, behavioral health treatment facilities, and substance use disorder treatment facilities, including:

(I) Data on race and ethnicity correlated with conditions and outcomes; disability correlated with conditions and outcomes; uptake of trainings on bias, racism, or discrimination; and incidents of disrespect or mistreatment of a pregnant person; and

(II) Data collected through stories from pregnant and postpartum persons and their family members, with a focus on the experiences of marginalized groups including persons of racial and ethnic minority groups; and

(e) Study the use of research evidence in policies related to the perinatal period in Colorado and, no later than September 1, 2023, report to the senate committee on health and human services and the house of representatives committee on health and insurance, or their successor committees, on the use of research evidence in policies related to the perinatal period in the state, including public and private payment systems and malpractice insurance policies, using the implementation science framework. To fulfill the requirements of this subsection (5)(e), the department may contract with a third party and request information from insurers offering medical malpractice policies in the state regarding the insurer's policies related to labor and delivery services.

(5.3) As part of the federal grant that the department administers through the state maternal health innovation and data capacity program of the health resources and services administration in the federal department of human services, the department has established the maternal health task force, referred to in this subsection (5.3) as the "task force", which is convened by the department and the perinatal quality collaborative. Subject to available grant funding for the task force, the department shall ensure that at least one maternal health advocate representing populations known to have the worst maternal mortality outcomes in Colorado serves on the task force. In addition to other duties, the task force provides input and feedback to the department and to the committee concerning populations known to have the worst maternal mortality outcomes in Colorado and the suspected or known causes of those outcomes.

(5.5) The department may contract with an independent third-party evaluator to:

(a) Study closures, consolidations, and acquisitions related to perinatal health-care practices and facilities and perinatal state-designated health professional shortage areas, as defined in section 25-1.5-402 (11), and assets and deficits related to perinatal health and health-care services across the state, not limited to obstetric providers;

(b) Identify major outcome categories at the clinical, family, community, and provider levels that the department should track over time and identify risks and opportunities related to closures, consolidations, and acquisitions of perinatal health-care practices and facilities;

(c) Explore the effects of practice and facility closures on maternal and infant health outcomes and experiences, to illustrate structural needs around closures, when applicable;

(d) Identify recommendations during practice and facility closures and resultant transfers of care. The department or third-party evaluator may use both primary and secondary data in making the recommendations. The department or third-party evaluator shall use the map created pursuant to subsection (5.5)(f) of this section in developing the recommendations. The recommendations must:

(I) Include solutions at the facility level, the practice level, the workforce level, the community level, and the patient level;

(II) Include minimum requirements for reporting on closures, including metrics on timelines and geographic area, including whether the timeline created in section 25-3-131 is appropriate;

(III) Develop recommendations on primary and secondary data collection related to closures and resultant transfers of care.

(e) Identify best practice guidelines during practice and facility closures and resultant transfers of care. The third-party evaluator may use both primary and secondary data in identifying the best practice guidelines. The third-party evaluator shall use the map created pursuant to subsection (5.5)(f) of this section in developing the guidelines. The guidelines must consider the following areas: Risks and opportunities; transfers of care; community notice needs and opportunities; notification to the department; closure timeline; and resources needed by facilities, providers, and families.

(f) Create a health professional shortage area and perinatal health services assets and deficits asset map that identifies by perinatal service area:

(I) Primary health-care providers, including physicians and midwives of all credential types who provide or could be providing perinatal health care;

(II) The type and location of perinatal health care offered by the providers listed pursuant to subsection (5.5)(f)(I) of this section;

(III) Community-based perinatal health-care workers, such as doulas, childbirth educators, and lactation support consultants; and

(IV) Resources such as community advocates, gathering places, and educational hubs;

(g) By July 1, 2026, deliver the best practices and recommendations created pursuant to this subsection (5.5) to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees.

(6) (a) No later than July 1, 2020, and July 1 every three years thereafter through July 1, 2025, and, commencing October 1, 2026, and October 1 every three years thereafter, the department shall submit a report to the house of representatives health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees. The report must include:

(I) In consultation with health equity experts, recommendations to achieve equity in maternal health outcomes in Colorado;

(II) Recommendations to reduce the incidence of preventable maternal mortality and related morbidity;

(III) A prioritization of a limited number of causes of maternal mortality that are identified as having the greatest impact on the pregnant and postpartum population in Colorado and as most preventable;

(IV) In consultation with the designated state perinatal care quality collaborative, recommendations for clinical quality improvement approaches that could reduce the incidence of pregnancy-related deaths or maternal mortality or morbidity in prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal clinical settings and recommendations for how to spread best practices to clinical settings across the state; and

(V) Repealed.

(VI) Certain maternal health outcomes that are identified for populations known to have the worst maternal mortality outcomes in Colorado.

(b) The department shall post the report prepared in accordance with this subsection (6) on its website.

(c) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the reporting required by this subsection (6) continues indefinitely.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2140, § 1, effective May 16. L. 2021: (5), IP(6)(a), (6)(a)(III), and (6)(a)(IV) amended and (6)(a)(V) added, (SB 21-194), ch. 434, p. 2869, § 5, effective September 7. L. 2024: (2)(b)(II) amended and (5.5) added, (HB 24-1262), ch. 393, p. 2712, § 7, effective June 4. L. 2026: (5)(c)(II), (5)(c)(III), and IP(6)(a) amended and (5)(c)(IV), (5.3), and (6)(a)(VI) added, (HB 26-1044), ch. 110, p. 447, § 5, effective May 5.

Editor's note: Subsection (6)(a)(V)(B) provided for the repeal of subsection (6)(a)(V), effective September 1, 2024. (See L. 2021, p. 2869.)

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 24-1262, see section 1 of chapter 393, Session Laws of Colorado 2024.

25-52-105. Access to health records related to maternal mortalities.

(1) (a) Except as otherwise provided by law, the committee may access medical records related to maternal deaths upon request at any time up to seven years after the last treatment of a patient.

(b) A health-care provider or a health-care facility licensed or certified pursuant to article 3 of this title 25 shall provide medical records to the department concerning each maternal mortality for access by the members of the committee.

(c) Upon request of the department, a law enforcement officer shall provide a police report, and a coroner shall provide records of the coroner and medical examiner investigations, that involve a maternal death to the committee.

(d) A health-care provider, pharmacist, health-care facility, law enforcement officer, or coroner is not civilly or criminally liable for the release of medical records when making a good-faith effort to comply with this subsection (1).

(2) (a) The discussions in committee meetings or meetings of an ad hoc panel formed pursuant to section 25-52-104 (3) concerning details of a maternal death that could identify an individual involved are confidential and are not subject to section 24-6-402.

(b) The committee meeting notes, statements, medical records, reports, communications, and memoranda obtained by the committee that contain information that could identify an individual involved in a maternal death are confidential and are not subject to the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.

(c) Members of the committee are not subject to subpoena in any civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding regarding the information presented in or opinions formed as a result of a meeting or communication of the committee; except that this subsection (2)(c) does not prevent a member of the committee from testifying regarding information or opinions obtained independently of the committee or that are public information.

(d) Notes, statements, medical records, reports, communications, and memoranda that are confidential pursuant to subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section are not:

(I) Subject to subpoena, discovery, or introduction into evidence in any civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding, unless the subpoena is directed to a source that is separate and apart from the committee. Nothing in this section limits or restricts the right to discover or use in a civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding notes, statements, medical records, reports, communications, or memoranda that are available from another source separate and apart from the committee and that arise entirely independent of the committee's activities.

(II) Admissible as evidence in any action in any court or before any tribunal, board, agency, or person and shall not be exhibited or disclosed in any way by any person unless the information was obtained from another source that is separate and apart from the committee, except as may be necessary to further the duties of the committee or in response to an alleged violation of a confidentiality agreement pursuant to subsection (2)(e) of this section.

(e) Each committee member shall sign a confidentiality agreement that requires the member's adherence to subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) of this section. A member who knowingly violates the confidentiality agreement commits a petty offense.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2143, § 1, effective May 16. L. 2021: (2)(e) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3240, § 480, effective March 1, 2022.

Cross references: For the penalty for a petty offense, see § 18-1.3-503.

25-52-106. Duty to comply with state and federal laws relating to health information.

The committee and the department shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws and rules relating to the transmission of health information.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2144, § 1, effective May 16.

25-52-106.5. Perinatal health quality improvement program - perinatal health quality improvement engagement program - perinatal quality collaborative duties - data collection - reporting - legislative declaration - definitions.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Disparities in maternal and infant health-care access, delivery, and outcomes in Colorado persist, such that birthing people who are American Indian/Alaska Native are nearly three times more likely to die during pregnancy or within one year postpartum than the overall population of those giving birth in Colorado;

(b) Birthing people who are Black are nearly two times more likely to die during pregnancy or within one year postpartum than the overall population of those giving birth in Colorado;

(c) Birthing people living in frontier counties are more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than those living in urban counties, and people insured through the medical assistance program are more likely to die during pregnancy or within one year postpartum than those with private insurance;

(d) Discrimination contributed to half of all pregnancy-associated deaths in Colorado, and ninety percent of all deaths were deemed preventable by the Colorado maternal mortality review committee;

(e) In 2022, the United States' infant mortality rate increased for the first time in two decades. Infants born to Black and Native American birthing people are two times more likely to die compared with their white and Hispanic counterparts.

(f) The committee and the maternal health task force established by the department recommend statewide, universal participation in quality improvement initiatives led by the perinatal quality collaborative and the adoption of Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health patient safety bundles;

(g) The National Governors Association, through its maternal and infant health initiative, similarly recommends the adoption of patient safety bundles and increased funding for state maternal mortality review committees and perinatal quality collaboratives;

(h) Ninety-six percent of births in Colorado occur in hospitals, and there is a need to provide practical support to hospitals, especially frontier and rural hospitals, for the implementation of clinical quality improvement initiatives; and

(i) Participation in state perinatal quality collaboratives has been shown to improve maternal and infant health outcomes through improved access to, and the timeliness of, treatment and through reduced serious pregnancy complications.

(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Engagement program" means the perinatal health quality improvement engagement program created in subsection (5) of this section.

(b) "Hospital" means a hospital licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 that provides nonemergent perinatal care services.

(c) "Quality improvement program" means the hospital perinatal health quality improvement program created in subsection (4) of this section.

(3) (a) The department shall contract with the perinatal quality collaborative to:

(I) Track statewide implementation of the committee's recommendations to prevent maternal mortality;

(II) Implement hospital quality improvement programs through perinatal care settings to reduce preventable causes of maternal mortality and morbidity; and

(III) Address disparate care of and outcomes among American Indian/Alaska Native and Black birthing populations, birthing people insured through the medical assistance program, and birthing people living in rural and frontier counties.

(b) In implementing hospital quality improvement programs, the perinatal quality collaborative shall provide quality improvement program support that may include:

(I) Clinical quality improvement science education concerning best practices and innovations to support optimal outcomes;

(II) Tailored interventions designed to address the needs of priority populations;

(III) Individualized program implementation guidance and support;

(IV) Data reporting, analysis, and rapid response feedback for assistance in monitoring the sustainability of implemented changes;

(V) Provider training in stigma, bias, and trauma-informed and respectful care; and

(VI) Public recognition as a maternal and infant care quality champion.

(c) The department shall provide vital statistics data to the perinatal quality collaborative for purposes of data analysis and reporting. The perinatal quality collaborative shall develop a data-sharing agreement with the department to identify specific vital statistics data that must be shared. The data-sharing agreement must address the confidentiality of data to ensure that data sharing is protected.

(4) Hospital perinatal health quality improvement program. A hospital shall:

(a) No later than July 1, 2025, and no later than July 1 each year thereafter, submit to the perinatal quality collaborative, either directly or through a statewide association of hospitals, a minimum data set of key drivers of disparities in perinatal health care and health-care outcomes, maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity, and infant health care and health-care outcomes, including:

(I) Cesarean deliveries;

(II) Perinatal hypertension, sepsis, and cardiac conditions;

(III) Maternal and neonatal readmissions and length of stay;

(IV) Unexpected newborn complications;

(V) Perinatal mental health and substance use conditions;

(VI) Obstetric hemorrhage; and

(VII) Preterm birth; and

(b) Beginning December 15, 2025, participate annually in at least one maternal or infant health quality improvement initiative, as determined by the hospital, in collaboration with the perinatal quality collaborative pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, with the goal of:

(I) Promoting evidence-based, culturally relevant, safe, equitable, high-quality care; and

(II) Preventing maternal and infant mortality and severe morbidity.

(5) Perinatal health quality improvement engagement program.

(a) No later than July 1, 2025, the department shall create a perinatal health quality improvement engagement program that provides financial support to hospitals and facilities that provide emergent labor and delivery or perinatal care services that do not have sufficient resources to participate in one or more maternal or infant health quality improvement initiatives pursuant to subsection (4) of this section.

(b) The department shall select hospitals and facilities that provide emergent labor and delivery or perinatal care services to participate in the engagement program and may contract with the perinatal quality collaborative to administer the engagement program. In order to participate in the engagement program, a hospital or facility must commit to work with the perinatal quality collaborative on the maternal or infant health quality improvement initiatives selected by the hospital or facility.

(c) The department shall prioritize financial support for hospitals and facilities that:

(I) Are in rural and frontier areas of the state;

(II) Qualify for disproportionate share payments under the medical assistance program; or

(III) Have lower-acuity maternal or neonatal levels of care designations.

(d) Hospitals and facilities receiving financial support pursuant to the engagement program may use the financial support for quality improvement, including dedicated staff time, training costs, travel, continuing education, and data entry and technical assistance.

(6) Collaboration with the perinatal quality collaborative.

(a) The department shall contract with the perinatal quality collaborative to:

(I) Track statewide implementation of the committee's recommendations, developed pursuant to section 25-52-104, to prevent maternal mortality; and

(II) No later than July 1, 2026, and no later than July 1 each year thereafter, issue a report to the department concerning:

(A) Clinical quality improvement efforts to reduce disparities in perinatal health outcomes and to prevent maternal and infant mortality and morbidity that includes relevant, aggregate hospital maternal and infant health quality metrics and that may be distributed to policymakers, health-care providers, hospitals and other health facilities, public health professionals, and other interested persons to assist the department in promoting data access and facilitating additional efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality and morbidity;

(B) Hospital participation in maternal and infant perinatal quality improvement initiatives pursuant to subsection (4)(b) of this section;

(C) Implementation of the federal health resources and services administration maternal and child health bureau's and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' alliance for innovation on maternal health patient safety bundles and related performance metrics, including the status of addressing drivers of perinatal health disparities and maternal and infant mortality and morbidity as described in subsection (4)(a) of this section; and

(D) Areas of opportunity for ongoing improvement.

(b) In compliance with all applicable state and federal laws relating to the publication of health information and legally binding data use agreements, the perinatal quality collaborative and the department shall make an aggregated and de-identified report prepared pursuant to subsection (6)(a)(II) of this section publicly available on the department's website and on the website of the perinatal quality collaborative.

(c) The perinatal quality collaborative shall consult with a statewide association of hospitals and with diverse hospital leadership to support ongoing hospital engagement in quality improvement and to advise practitioners in clinical settings across the state on the advancement of best practices to reduce maternal and infant mortality and morbidity.

(d) Data submitted pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section is considered confidential and proprietary, contains trade secrets, or is not a public record pursuant to part 2 of article 72 of title 24 and is only reportable in an aggregated and de-identified manner.

Source: L. 2024: Entire section added, (SB 24-175), ch. 433, p. 3035, § 4, effective June 5.

25-52-107. Repeal of article - review of functions.

This article 52 is repealed, effective September 1, 2029. Before the repeal, the functions of the committee are scheduled for review in accordance with section 2-3-1203.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1122), ch. 196, p. 2144, § 1, effective May 16.

ARTICLE 53

Automated External Defibrillators

PART 1
AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS

25-53-101. Definitions.

25-53-102. Placement of automated external defibrillator - donations - acquisitions.

PART 2
SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST MANAGEMENT

25-53-201. Definitions.

25-53-202. Office of cardiac arrest management - creation - duties - appropriation - gifts, grants, and donations - rules.

PART 1

AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS

25-53-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 53, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Automated external defibrillator" or "AED" means an automated external defibrillator approved for sale by the federal food and drug administration.

(2) "Person" means an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, trust, unincorporated organization or other legal entity or organization, or a government or governmental body.

(3) "Public place" means an enclosed indoor or outdoor area capable of holding one hundred or more people and to which the public is invited or in which the public is permitted but does not include a private residence.

(4) "Public school" means a school of a school district, a district charter school, an institute charter school, a facility school, or a school operated by a board of cooperative services.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1183), ch. 251, p. 2429, § 1, effective August 2.

25-53-102. Placement of automated external defibrillator - donations - acquisitions.

(1) Any public school or person who owns, operates, or manages a public place is encouraged to place functional AEDs in sufficient quantities to ensure reasonable availability for use during perceived sudden cardiac arrest emergencies.

(2) Any individual is permitted to retrieve or use an AED.

(3) (a) A public school or public place shall accept a donation of an AED that meets standards established by the federal food and drug administration and is in compliance with the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. A public school or public place shall also accept gifts, grants, and donations, including in-kind donations, designated for obtaining an AED, and for inspection, maintenance, and training in the use of an AED.

(b) If a public place accepts a donated AED pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section but the public place does not want to accept responsibility for AED training or installation or for ensuring the AED is in compliance with the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, the public place is not required to accept the AED unless the donating party agrees to be responsible for AED training, installation, and maintenance. The public place shall decide who will be trained, the frequency of training, and when the AED training and installation will take place. If the donating party has accepted responsibility for the maintenance of the AED but can no longer provide maintenance, the public place may either accept responsibility for the maintenance of the AED or remove the AED from the public place.

(c) A public school that receives a donated AED shall decide who will be trained, the frequency of training, and when the AED training will take place. An AED acquired by a public school must be appropriate for use on children and adults.

(4) On or before September 1, 2019, the department of public health and environment shall award a fifteen-thousand-dollar contract to a nonprofit organization for the purpose of acquiring and distributing AEDs to public places.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (HB 19-1183), ch. 251, p. 2430, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2024: (3)(b) and (3)(c) amended, (SB 24-227), ch. 486, p. 3393, § 1, effective June 7.

PART 2

SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST MANAGEMENT

25-53-201. Definitions.

As used in this part 2:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Office" means the office of cardiac arrest management created in section 25-53-202.

(3) "Public access defibrillator" means an automated external defibrillator approved for sale by the federal food and drug administration and available for use by the general public.

(4) "Sudden cardiac arrest" means the sudden and unexpected cessation of cardiac mechanical activity.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1251), ch. 292, p. 2103, § 1, effective August 10.

25-53-202. Office of cardiac arrest management - creation - duties - appropriation - gifts, grants, and donations - rules.

(1) There is hereby created in the department the office of cardiac arrest management. The purpose of the office is to:

(a) Promote the use of public access defibrillators and the use of registries to let the public know where a public access defibrillator can be found and used when an individual is suffering from sudden cardiac arrest; and

(b) Coordinate the collection of sudden cardiac arrest data from hospitals and emergency medical services.

(2) The office shall:

(a) Coordinate the collection of sudden cardiac arrest data into a data analysis system specified by the department, including outcome data from hospitals that receive cardiac patients transported by emergency medical services;

(b) Implement an outreach campaign to:

(I) Raise awareness regarding sudden cardiac arrest and the skills necessary to save lives, including the importance of compression cardiopulmonary resuscitation;

(II) Raise awareness regarding the use of public access defibrillators;

(III) Demonstrate how to call for help and emergency medical services; and

(IV) Encourage all residents of Colorado to engage in basic life-saving actions;

(c) Maintain a list of training and education programs offered in the state that:

(I) Teach life-saving skills, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of a defibrillator; and

(II) Comply with the guidelines published by the American Heart Association;

(d) Employ a statewide cardiac arrest data coordinator and other personnel as necessary to accomplish the purposes of this section; and

(e) Coordinate the submission of data, including the global positioning system location of public access defibrillators, to an automated external defibrillator registry designated by the department.

(3) The office may:

(a) Acquire, analyze, and oversee cardiac arrest data;

(b) Release reports generated from the data; and

(c) Share the data with:

(I) Emergency medical services providers, dispatch centers, hospitals, and other entities as appropriate to assist with emergency response capabilities;

(II) Appropriate entities as requested for research purposes;

(III) Designated state and national cardiac arrest registries; and

(IV) Designated state and national automated external defibrillator registries.

(4) (a) For state fiscal year 2022-23, and for each state fiscal year thereafter, the general assembly shall appropriate two hundred thousand dollars from the general fund to the department for allocation to the office for the purposes of this section.

(b) The department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, and donations for the purposes of this section.

(5) The state board of health may promulgate rules to implement this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire part added, (HB 22-1251), ch. 292, p. 2103, § 1, effective August 10.

ARTICLE 54

Statewide System for Advance Health-care Directives

25-54-101. Definitions.

25-54-102. Statewide system for advance directives created - rules.

25-54-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 54, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) (a) "Advance health-care directive" means:

(I) A directive concerning medical orders for scope of treatment executed pursuant to article 18.7 of title 15;

(II) A declaration as to medical treatment executed pursuant to section 15-18-104;

(III) A directive relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation executed pursuant to article 18.6 of title 15;

(IV) A medical durable power of attorney executed pursuant to section 15-14-506; or

(V) Any of the advance health-care directives listed in subsections (1)(a)(I) to (1)(a)(IV) of this section that have been properly executed in another state.

(b) A power of attorney form executed pursuant to section 15-14-741 is not an advance health-care directive for the purposes of this article 54.

(2) "Authorized surrogate decision-maker" means a guardian appointed pursuant to article 14 of title 15, an agent appointed pursuant to a medical durable power of attorney, a proxy decision-maker for medical treatment decisions appointed pursuant to article 18.5 of title 15, or a similarly authorized surrogate, as defined by the laws of another state, who is authorized to make medical decisions for an individual who lacks decisional capacity.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created and existing pursuant to section 24-1-119.

(4) "Health information organization network" has the meaning set forth in section 25-3.5-103 (8.6).

(5) "Individual" means the individual whose medical treatment is the subject of the advance health-care directive.

(6) "Qualified provider" means a person or entity that may use or disclose protected health information for treatment purposes in accordance with guidelines under the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-073), ch. 186, p. 2078, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2020: (1)(a)(V) amended, (HB 20-1402), ch. 216, p. 1056, § 61, effective June 30. L. 2026: (4) amended, (HB 26-1069), ch. 303, p. 1737, § 6, effective June 2.

25-54-102. Statewide system for advance directives created - rules.

(1) The department has the following powers and duties with respect to the provision of a statewide electronic system, referred to in this section as the "system", that allows qualified individuals to upload and access advance medical directives:

(a) To ensure that qualified individuals may access the system for treatment purposes that are allowed under the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended;

(b) To contract with one or more health information organization networks for the creation, administration, and maintenance of the system; and

(c) To promulgate rules in accordance with article 4 of title 24 to oversee the provisions of this article 54, including but not limited to rules establishing:

(I) Criteria for qualified individuals to have access to the system and advance medical directives;

(II) Procedures by which a qualified individual may add or remove an advance medical directive to or from the system;

(III) Procedures by which a qualified individual may access and download an advance medical directive from the system; and

(IV) Procedures and safeguards for ensuring the confidentiality and secure storage of the information contained in an advance medical directive that is added to and maintained in the system.

(2) (a) Upon the request of an individual, or authorized surrogate decision-maker, a qualified provider that has an agreement with the health information organization network as required under the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, may upload the individual's advance health-care directive to the system. The advance health-care directive shall only be uploaded to the system by a qualified provider after the individual or authorized surrogate decision-maker has consulted with the qualified provider in person or through telehealth, as defined in section 10-16-123 (4)(e). A qualified provider that uploads an advance health-care directive to the system is not subject to civil or criminal liability or regulatory sanction for action taken in accordance with this subsection (2).

(b) Prior to the upload of an advance health-care directive to the system, the individual, or authorized surrogate decision-maker, shall sign an electronic affidavit in the presence of a qualified provider affirming the advance health-care directive is appropriately executed, current, and accurate. Signing the electronic affidavit revokes any prior advance health-care directives of the same type previously uploaded to the system.

(c) The individual, or authorized surrogate decision-maker, is responsible for ensuring that the advance health-care directive uploaded to the system is appropriately executed, current, and accurate.

(3) Emergency medical service personnel, an individual health-care provider, a health-care facility, or any other person or entity that complies with an advance health- care directive accessed from the system is not subject to civil or criminal liability or regulatory sanction for action taken in accordance with the advance health-care directive, unless the person or entity has actual knowledge of an advance health-care directive properly executed after the date of the advance health-care directive that is uploaded to the system.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-073), ch. 186, p. 2079, § 1, effective August 2. L. 2020: (2)(a) amended, (SB 20-212), ch. 235, p. 1140, § 4, effective July 6.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-212, see section 1 of chapter 235, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

ARTICLE 55

Standardized Screening and Assessment Tool Training

25-55-101. Training on standardized screening tools and standardized assessment tool.

25-55-101. Training on standardized screening tools and standardized assessment tool.

Following the selection of the standardized screening tools, as described in section 27-62-103, and subject to available appropriations, the department of public health and environment shall ensure adequate statewide training on the standardized screening tools for primary care providers and other interested health-care professionals who care for children, ensuring that training is offered at no cost to the professional. Training services may be contracted out to a third party.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-195), ch. 190, p. 2101, § 3, effective August 2. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1384), ch. 172, p. 789, § 1, effective June 29.

ARTICLE 56

Nondiscrimination Against Potential Organ Transplant Recipients

25-56-101. Short title.

25-56-102. Legislative declaration.

25-56-103. Definitions.

25-56-104. Prohibition on discrimination for organ transplants based solely on disability - applicability.

25-56-104.5. Prohibition on discrimination for organ transplants based solely on natural medicine consumption - applicability - definitions.

25-56-105. Injunctive and equitable relief - expedited judicial review - limitations.

25-56-106. Enforcement.

25-56-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 56 is "Pruitt's Law".

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 396, § 1, effective May 6.

25-56-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) A mental or physical disability does not diminish a person's right to health care;

(b) The federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, yet many people still experience discrimination in accessing critical health-care services based on their disability;

(c) In other states nationwide, persons with disabilities have been denied life-saving organ transplants based on the assumption that their lives are less worthy, that they are incapable of complying with post-transplant medical requirements, or that they lack adequate support systems to ensure compliance with post-transplant medical requirements; and

(d) Although organ transplant centers must consider medical and psychological criteria when determining whether a patient is suitable to receive an organ transplant, transplant centers that participate in medicare, medicaid, and other federally funded programs are required to use patient selection criteria that result in the fair and nondiscriminatory distribution of organs.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly declares that the life of a person with a disability who needs an organ transplant is as worthy and valuable as the life of a person without a disability who needs the same medical service, and Colorado residents in need of organ transplants are entitled to assurances that they will not encounter discrimination on the basis of a disability.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 396, § 1, effective May 6.

25-56-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 56, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Anatomical gift" means the donation of part of a human body for the purpose of transplantation to another person.

(2) "Auxiliary aids or services" means an aid or service that is used to provide information to an individual with a cognitive, developmental, intellectual, neurological, or physical disability, and is available in a format or manner that allows the individual to better understand the information.

(3) "Covered entity" means a health-care practitioner, as defined in section 12-30-103 (4)(a); a health facility licensed pursuant to section 25-1.5-103; and a correctional facility, as defined in section 24-4.1-302 (1.3).

(4) "Disability" has the same meaning as set forth in the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12102 (1), as amended.

(5) "Organ transplant" means the transplantation or transfusion of an anatomical gift into the body of another person for the purpose of treating or curing a medical condition.

(6) "Qualified recipient" means an individual who has a disability and meets the essential eligibility requirements for the receipt of an anatomical gift with or without any of the following:

(a) Individuals or entities available to support and assist the individual with an anatomical gift or transplantation;

(b) Auxiliary aids or services;

(c) Reasonable modifications to the policies, practices, or procedures of a covered entity, including modifications to allow for:

(I) Communication with one or more individuals or entities available to support or assist with the recipient's care and medication after surgery or transplantation; or

(II) Consideration of support networks available to the individual, including family members, friends, home and community-based services the individual is enrolled in, or any program or source of funding available to the individual when determining whether the individual is able to comply with post-transplant medical requirements.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 397, § 1, effective May 6.

25-56-104. Prohibition on discrimination for organ transplants based solely on disability - applicability.

(1) This article 56 applies to all stages of the organ transplant process.

(2) A covered entity shall not, solely on the basis of an individual's disability:

(a) Consider the individual ineligible to receive an anatomical gift or organ transplant;

(b) Deny medical services or other services related to organ transplantation, including diagnostic services, evaluation, surgery, counseling, and post-operative treatment and services;

(c) Refuse to refer the individual to a transplant center or other related specialist for the purpose of being evaluated for or receiving an organ transplant;

(d) Refuse to place a qualified recipient on an organ transplant waiting list; or

(e) Place a qualified recipient on an organ transplant waiting list at a lower priority position than the position at which the individual would have been placed if the individual did not have a disability.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, a covered entity may take an individual's disability into account when making treatment or coverage recommendations or decisions, solely to the extent that the disability has been found by a physician or surgeon, following an individualized evaluation of the individual, to be medically significant to the provision of the anatomical gift or organ transplant.

(4) If an individual has the necessary support system to assist the individual in complying with post-transplant medical requirements, a covered entity may not consider the individual's inability to independently comply with post-transplant medical requirements to be medically significant for the purposes of subsection (3) of this section.

(5) A covered entity shall:

(a) Make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices, and procedures to allow individuals with disabilities access to transplantation-related services, including diagnostic services, surgery, coverage, post-operative treatment, and counseling, unless the covered entity demonstrates that making such modifications would fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided; and

(b) Take steps reasonable and necessary to ensure that an individual with a disability is not denied medical services or other services related to organ transplantation, including diagnostic services, surgery, post-operative treatment, or counseling, due to the absence of auxiliary aids or services, unless the covered entity demonstrates that taking such steps would fundamentally alter the nature of the medical services or other services related to organ transplantation or would result in an undue burden for the covered entity.

(6) Nothing in this article 56 requires a covered entity to make a referral or recommendation for or perform a medically inappropriate organ transplant.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 398, § 1, effective May 6.

25-56-104.5. Prohibition on discrimination for organ transplants based solely on natural medicine consumption - applicability - definitions.

(1) This article 56 applies to all stages of the organ transplant process.

(2) A covered entity shall not, solely on the basis of a person's consumption of natural medicine or natural medicine product:

(a) Consider the individual ineligible to receive an anatomical gift or organ transplant;

(b) Deny medical services or other services related to organ transplantation, including diagnostic services, evaluation, surgery, counseling, and post-operative treatment and services;

(c) Refuse to refer the individual to a transplant center or other related specialist for the purpose of being evaluated for or receiving an organ transplant;

(d) Refuse to place a qualified recipient on an organ transplant waiting list; or

(e) Place a qualified recipient on an organ transplant waiting list at a lower priority position than the position at which the person would have been placed if the person did not consume natural medicine or natural medicine product.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, a covered entity may take a person's consumption of natural medicine or natural medicine product into account when making treatment or coverage recommendations or decisions, solely to the extent that the natural medicine or natural medicine product consumption has been found by a physician or surgeon, following an individualized evaluation of the person, to be medically significant to the provision of the anatomical gift or organ transplant.

(4) A covered entity shall:

(a) Make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices, and procedures to allow a person who consumes natural medicine or natural medicine product access to transplantation-related services, including diagnostic services, surgery, coverage, post-operative treatment, and counseling, unless the covered entity demonstrates that making such modifications would fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided; and

(b) Take reasonable and necessary steps to ensure that a person's consumption of natural medicine or natural medicine product is not the reason the person is denied medical services or other services related to organ transplantation, including diagnostic services, surgery, post-operative treatment, or counseling, due to the absence of auxiliary aids or services, unless the covered entity demonstrates that taking such steps would fundamentally alter the nature of the medical services or other services related to organ transplantation or would result in an undue burden for the covered entity.

(5) Nothing in this article 56 requires a covered entity to make a referral or recommendation for or perform a medically inappropriate organ transplant.

(6) As used in this section:

(a) "Natural medicine" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-50-103 (13).

(b) "Natural medicine product" has the same meaning as set forth in section 44-50-103 (15).

Source: L. 2023: Entire section added, (SB 23-290), ch. 249, p. 1422, § 40, effective July 1. L. 2024: (6) added, (SB 24-198), ch. 452, p. 3141, § 7, effective June 6.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 12-170-109 (7) as it existed prior to 2023.

25-56-105. Injunctive and equitable relief - expedited judicial review - limitations.

(1) Whenever it appears that a covered entity has violated or is violating any of the provisions of this article 56, the affected individual may commence a civil action for injunctive or equitable relief against the covered entity for purposes of enforcing compliance. The action may be brought in district court for the county where the affected individual resides or resided or the district court for the county where the affected individual was denied the organ transplant or referral.

(2) In an action brought under this article 56, the court must give priority on its docket and expedited review and may grant injunctive or other equitable relief, including:

(a) Requiring auxiliary aids or services to be made available for a qualified recipient;

(b) Requiring the modification of a policy, practice, or procedure of a covered entity; or

(c) Requiring health-care facilities be made readily accessible to and usable by a qualified recipient.

(3) Nothing in this article 56 is intended to limit or replace available remedies under the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, or any other applicable law.

(4) This article 56 does not create a right to compensatory or punitive damages against a covered entity.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 399, § 1, effective May 6.

25-56-106. Enforcement.

(1) An aggrieved person may commence a civil action in the appropriate district court for injunctive or equitable relief against a covered entity for the purpose of enforcing compliance with this article 56. The aggrieved person may commence the civil action in the district court for the county in which the person resides or resided or the district court for the county in which the organ transplant or related treatment or services were denied.

(2) The district court shall give priority and expedited review to the civil action commenced pursuant to this section and may grant injunctive or other equitable relief that:

(a) Requires auxiliary aids or services be made available to the aggrieved person;

(b) Requires the covered entity to modify a policy, practice, or procedure;

(c) Requires a covered entity to make its health-care facility readily accessible to and available to the aggrieved person; and

(d) Is deemed appropriate by the court.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (HB 21-1169), ch. 99, p. 400, § 1, effective May 6.

ARTICLE 57

Donor-conceived Persons and Gamete Agencies, Gamete Banks, and Fertility Clinics

25-57-101. Short title.

25-57-102. Legislative declaration.

25-57-103. Definitions.

25-57-104. Collection of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

25-57-105. Declaration regarding disclosure of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

25-57-106. Disclosure of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

25-57-107. Record keeping - successor record keeper - applicability.

25-57-108. Written materials for recipient parents and gamete donors.

25-57-109. Donor age limits - limits on number of families per donor - restriction on dissemination of gametes - limits on egg-retrieval cycles per ovum donor - rules - applicability.

25-57-110. License required - application - inspection - issuance, denial, suspension, or revocation - fees - civil penalties - rules.

25-57-111. Rule-making authority.

25-57-112. Gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic fund - created - priorities - appropriation.

25-57-113. Reproductive health care - fertility treatment - protections - definitions.

25-57-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 57 is the "Donor-conceived Persons and Families of Donor-conceived Persons Protection Act".

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2003, § 1, effective August 10.

25-57-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Many Coloradans are conceived, or establish their families, through some form of assisted reproduction involving a third-party sperm, egg, or embryo provider, also known as a gamete "donor", whose identity is unknown to the family at the time of donation. The people conceived through assisted reproduction with a donor are referred to in this article 57 as "donor-conceived persons".

(b) The interests of donor-conceived persons must be considered and protected. Information about the personal and family medical history of the gamete donors used in conception can impact medical care for donor-conceived persons and their children, and non-identifying medical information about the gamete donor used in conception must be available to all donor-conceived persons and their parents.

(c) It is important to many, but not all, donor-conceived persons to know the identity of the gamete donor used in their conception. A donor-conceived person must have the ability to access identifying information about the gamete donor used in the donor-conceived person's conception on or after the donor-conceived person reaches eighteen years of age. Some donor-conceived persons are or may be interested in contact with the donor and among persons conceived and families established with the same donor who was unknown to the donor-conceived person's recipient parents at the time of donation. A limit on the number of families per donor per gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic furthers the ability of these donor-conceived persons to establish this contact.

(d) Studies have shown that family secrecy about family formation can negatively affect children and family relationships;

(e) Before using donated gametes, people who are considering using donated gametes to conceive children should have access to more information and resources about donor-conceived persons, including tools and resources for discussing donor conception with their children in ways that are age-appropriate and reflect the interests and lived experience of donor-conceived persons;

(f) Before donating gametes, gamete donors should have access to information and resources about the interests of donor-conceived persons and have clarity about the information that may be shared with recipient parents and donor-conceived persons; and

(g) Most gametes or embryos from donors that are provided to recipients located in Colorado are provided from gamete agencies, gamete banks, or fertility clinics located in other states.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly finds that to protect the health and welfare of donor-conceived persons and their families in Colorado, it is essential to enact the "Donor-conceived Persons and Families of Donor-conceived Persons Protection Act" to regulate the use of donated gametes provided from gamete agencies, gamete banks, or fertility clinics located inside or outside of Colorado to recipients in Colorado.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2003, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (2) amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1389, § 1, effective May 22.

25-57-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 57, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Assisted reproduction" means a method of causing pregnancy other than sexual intercourse. The term includes:

(a) Intrauterine or intracervical insemination;

(b) Donation of gametes or embryos;

(c) In-vitro fertilization and transfer of embryos; and

(d) Intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

(2) "Department" means the Colorado department of public health and environment.

(3) "Donor" means an individual who produces eggs or sperm collected by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic or whose eggs or sperm created an embryo received by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic for use in assisted reproduction by a recipient who is unknown to the donor of the gametes at the time of donation. A donor and a recipient parent or parents are "unknown" to each other if a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic introduced or initiated the match or connection between the donor and recipient parents, and the donor and recipient parent or parents do not mutually exchange identifying information. The term "donor" only applies to the regulation of gamete agencies, gamete banks, or fertility clinics pursuant to this article 57 and does not apply for the purposes of determining parentage.

(4) "Donor-conceived person" means an individual of any age who was born as a result of assisted reproduction using gametes from a donor unknown to the recipient parent or parents at the time of donation.

(5) "Fertility clinic" means an entity or organization located in Colorado that performs assisted reproduction medical procedures and receives donor gametes for a recipient and the recipient and gamete donor are unknown to each other at time of donation.

(6) "Gamete" means unfertilized oocytes or sperm.

(7) "Gamete agency" means an oocyte or sperm donor matching agency that:

(a) Matches gamete donors with recipients; and

(b) Matches the potential recipients and gamete donors who are unknown to each other at the time of the donation; and

(c) (I) Is located within Colorado; or

(II) Is located outside of Colorado and matches intended recipients located in Colorado during the matching process with gamete donors.

(8) "Gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic" means any one of such entities as defined in this section.

(9) "Gamete bank" means an entity or organization that:

(a) Collects gametes from a donor or receives embryos; and

(b) Provides gametes or embryos to a recipient parent or parents or the recipient parent's medical provider when the recipient and donor are unknown to each other at time of donation; and

(c) (I) Is located within Colorado; or

(II) Is located outside of Colorado and provides gametes or embryos to a recipient parent or parents located in Colorado.

(10) "Identifying information" means:

(a) The donor's full name;

(b) The donor's date of birth; and

(c) The donor's permanent and, if different, current address or other contact information at the time of the donation, or, if different, the donor's current address or other contact information or both as retained by the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic.

(11) "Matches" or "matches gametes" means the process of matching a donor with a recipient in Colorado. A "match" is made by a gamete agency, and a match is considered made when an intended recipient parent selects a specific potential donor, or agrees to receive a specific potential donor's gametes, prior to the collection of the gametes.

(12) "Medical history" means information regarding any:

(a) Present physical illness of the donor;

(b) Past illness of the donor; and

(c) Social, genetic, and family medical history pertaining to the donor's health.

(13) "Mental health professional" means a person who is certified or licensed pursuant to article 245 of title 12 or an out-of-state professional who is a licensed psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or professional counselor.

(14) "Recipient" or "recipient parent" means a person who receives donor gametes or embryos as an intended parent from a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic for use in assisted reproduction for the purpose of conceiving a child.

(15) "State board" means the Colorado state board of health.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2004, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (3), (5), (7), (9), and (11) amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1389, § 2, effective May 22.

25-57-104. Collection of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor or matches a donor with a recipient shall collect the donor's identifying information and medical history.

(1.5) (a) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall encourage a donor to inform the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic of significant medical history updates after donation.

(b) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall document a donor's report of any significant medical history updates, and the information shall be retained as part of the records referenced in section 25-57-107.

(c) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall document a donor's report of significant medical history updates after donation.

(2) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that receives gametes or embryos collected by a different gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall collect the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic from which it received the gametes or embryos at the time it receives the gametes or embryos. A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity shall collect and maintain the name, address, telephone number, and email address of that gamete agency.

(3) A fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity is not subject to the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, but shall provide copies of any and all medical and screening records of the donor, including the results of genetic testing, to the gamete agency that matched the donor.

(4) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall disclose the information collected pursuant to subsections (1) to (3) of this section pursuant to the requirements of section 25-57-106.

(5) This section applies only to gametes collected and embryos formed with gametes collected by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic on or after January 1, 2025, for use by a recipient parent or parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2006, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1) amended and (1.5) added, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1588, § 4, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-105. Declaration regarding disclosure of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that matches or collects gametes from a donor who is unknown to the recipient parent or parents at the time of the donation shall:

(a) Provide the donor with information about disclosure of identifying information and medical history in its records;

(b) Obtain a declaration from the donor agreeing to the identity disclosure described in subsection (2) of this section; and

(c) Maintain identifying information and medical history about each donor. The gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that matched or collected the gametes shall maintain records of donor and gamete screening and testing and comply with reporting requirements, in accordance with federal law and applicable laws of this state other than those set forth in this article 57 and consistent with the guidelines of the American Medical Association and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall have each donor sign a declaration, attested by a notarial officer or witnesses, that the donor agrees to the disclosure of the donor's identity to a donor-conceived person conceived with the donor's gametes or embryo formed with the donor's gametes on request of the donor-conceived person after the donor-conceived person is eighteen years of age or older.

(3) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic located in Colorado shall not match or collect gametes from a donor who does not agree to the disclosure of the donor's identity as set forth in subsection (2) of this section.

(4) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic located outside of Colorado shall not match intended recipients located in Colorado with donors, or provide gametes to a recipient parent or parents located in Colorado or to the recipient parent's medical provider located in Colorado, from a donor who does not agree to the disclosure of the donor's identity as set forth in subsection (2) of this section.

(5) A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity is not subject to the requirements of subsection (1) or (2) of this section.

(6) This section applies only to gametes collected and embryos formed with gametes collected by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic on or after January 1, 2025, for use by a recipient parent or parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2007, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (4) amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1390, § 3, effective May 22.

25-57-106. Disclosure of identifying information and medical history - applicability.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, upon the request of a donor-conceived person who is eighteen years of age or older, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that matched or collected the gametes used in the assisted reproduction of the donor-conceived person shall provide the donor-conceived person with the identifying information of the donor who provided the gametes or embryo. A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall not impede or prohibit compliance with this section or communication between:

(a) An adult donor-conceived person and the donor whose gametes were used to conceive the donor-conceived person; or

(b) An adult donor-conceived person and the person's friends, family, or other third parties about the donor whose gametes were used to conceive the donor-conceived person. The donor-conceived person has the right, in accordance with relevant laws, to contact the donor. The donor has a right to respond, engage, or decline contact and communication.

(c) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic is encouraged to provide information to a donor-conceived person regarding the physical and emotional risks associated with publicly releasing a donor's private and sensitive information.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, upon the request of a donor-conceived person who is eighteen years of age or older, or, if the donor-conceived person is a minor, by a parent or guardian of the minor donor-conceived person, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that matched or collected the gametes used in the assisted reproduction, regardless of whether the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic performed the assisted reproduction, shall provide the donor-conceived person, or, if the donor-conceived person is a minor, by a parent or guardian of the minor donor-conceived person, access to any non-identifying medical history of the donor that is maintained by the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic.

(3) Upon the request of a donor-conceived person who is eighteen years of age or older, or, if the donor-conceived person is a minor, a parent or guardian of the minor donor-conceived person:

(a) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that received the gametes or embryo used in the assisted reproduction from another gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall disclose the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic from which it received the gametes or embryo.

(b) A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collected gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity shall disclose the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the gamete agency that matched the donor and the recipient.

(4) A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity is not subject to the requirements of subsection (1) or (2) of this section.

(5) (a) Subsections (1) and (2) of this section apply only to gametes collected and embryos formed with gametes collected by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic on or after January 1, 2025, for use by a recipient parent or parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation.

(b) Subsection (3) of this section applies only to gametes or embryos received by a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic on or after July 1, 2023.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2008, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1) amended, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1589, § 5, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-107. Record keeping - successor record keeper - applicability.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall permanently maintain:

(a) Identifying information and medical history for each donor with which it matches or from which it collects gametes for use by a recipient parent or parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation;

(b) Information about the number of families established with each donor's gametes and the efforts of the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic to obtain that information pursuant to section 25-57-109; and

(c) Records of gamete screening and testing.

(2) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that receives gametes or embryos from another gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall permanently maintain the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic from which it received the gametes or embryos. A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collected gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity shall permanently maintain the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the gamete agency that matched the donor and the recipient.

(3) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall create a plan to permanently maintain the information required by this section, including in the case of dissolution, insolvency, or bankruptcy, and shall make the plan available for inspection upon request by the department.

(4) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, upon dissolution, insolvency, or bankruptcy, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall:

(a) Implement the plan approved by the department pursuant to subsection (3) of this section;

(b) File with the department a statement providing the name and contact information of the successor entity, if any, that will receive and maintain the records described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section; and

(c) Inform by mail and electronic mail sent to the last-known address on file all gamete donors whose gametes were collected, matched, or received by the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic, as well as recipient parents who received gametes or embryos from the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic and reported a pregnancy or live birth, the name and contact information of the successor entity that will receive and maintain the records described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section.

(5) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall comply with reporting requirements about gamete screening and testing in accordance with federal law and applicable laws of this state other than those set forth in this article 57.

(6) A gamete bank or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity is not subject to the requirements of subsection (1) or (3) of this section.

(7) (a) Subsection (2) of this section applies only to gametes or embryos matched or received on or after July 1, 2024.

(b) Subsections (1) and (3) of this section apply only to gametes matched or collected on or after January 1, 2025, for use by a recipient parent or parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2009, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2025: (3), (6), and (7)(b) amended, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1589, § 6, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-108. Written materials for recipient parents and gamete donors.

(1) On or before January 1, 2025, the department shall develop written materials for intended recipient parents and shall post the written materials on its website. The department shall develop the materials in conjunction with licensed mental health professionals who have prior documented experience counseling gamete donors, recipients, and donor-conceived persons, as well as experience and competency in counseling families with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender parents and single parents, along with organizations representing these communities. The materials must include information on the following subjects:

(a) That, in light of studies showing that family secrecy about family formation can negatively affect children and family relationships, telling a donor-conceived child at a young age, in an age-appropriate manner, that the child is donor-conceived is associated with improved family functioning and the well-being of the donor-conceived child;

(b) The ability, and available tools for discussing the ability, that a donor-conceived person will have to learn the identity of the donor of the gametes used in the donor-conceived person's conception and the importance of understanding that many, but not all, donor-conceived persons have a strong desire to know the identity of the donor and of other donor-conceived persons conceived with the same donor's gametes;

(c) The needs and interests of donor-conceived persons;

(d) The limitations of donor screening;

(e) Future implications for the donor-conceived person given that there may be other persons in other families conceived with the same donor's gametes; and

(f) Future implications of receiving medical history updates about the donor or other persons conceived with the same donor's gametes.

(2) On or before January 1, 2025, the department shall develop written materials for gamete donors and the department shall post the written materials on its website. The department shall develop the materials in conjunction with licensed mental health professionals who have prior documented experience counseling gamete donors, recipients, and donor-conceived persons, as well as experience and competency in counseling families with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender parents and single parents, along with organizations representing these communities. The materials must include information on the following subjects:

(a) Understanding the potential emotional and social impacts of donating gametes;

(b) Understanding what information will be disclosed to the recipient parent or parents and donor-conceived persons;

(c) Understanding the potential for the birth of children in multiple families using the donor's gametes; and

(d) Understanding the future potential disclosure of the donor's identifying information to a person conceived with the donor's gametes.

(3) Repealed.

(4) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that either matches donors to or provides gametes or embryos to recipients in Colorado shall:

(a) Prior to an intended recipient matching with or receiving donor gametes, provide written materials to recipients that, at a minimum, cover the topics described in subsection (1) of this section; and

(b) Prior to the donation of gametes by a donor, provide written materials to the donor that, at a minimum, cover the topics described in subsection (2) of this section and discuss these materials with the donor. Donor receipt of the written materials is not in lieu of any mental health evaluations of an unknown ovum donor that are required by the individual practices of a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic.

(5) Gamete agencies, gamete banks, and fertility clinics are not required to use the written materials described in subsection (2) of this section but may use them to meet the requirements of subsection (4) of this section.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2011, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: IP(4) amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1391, § 4, effective May 22. L. 2025: IP(1), IP(2), and IP(4) amended, (3) repealed, and (5) added, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1590, § 7, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-109. Donor age limits - limits on number of families per donor - restriction on dissemination of gametes - limits on egg-retrieval cycles per ovum donor - rules - applicability.

(1) (a) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall make a good faith effort to determine how many families are established with gametes matched or provided by the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic from each donor. Methods of good faith efforts may include, but are not limited to, conducting sufficient record-keeping, requiring recipients, as a condition of receiving donor gametes, to provide information on live births, and requesting information from recipients on live births, and using industry best practices, including methods or processes to account for the number or percentage of live births that are likely not reported, such as the correlation between the number of units of donor gametes sold or released and the resulting live births. A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall not match or provide gametes from a donor to additional families once the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic has record of or should reasonably know that twenty-five families have been established using a single donor's gametes in or outside of Colorado, with no limit on the number of children conceived by each of the families, unless the donor requests, and the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic agrees to, a lower limit on the number of families. This limit does not include any children conceived by the donor as a parent or children conceived with the donor's gametes when the donor is known to the recipient parent or parents at the time of the donation. This limit does not include donations of embryos from one family to another family.

(b) For the purposes of this subsection (1), a family is considered established when a recipient parent or parents conceive a child using gametes from a donor and a live birth results or likely resulted. A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall make reasonable good faith efforts, and document such efforts, to obtain information from a recipient parent about whether and when a live birth has occurred, including requesting such information from a recipient parent or the parent's medical provider using multiple commercially reasonable methods.

(2) On or before January 1, 2025, the state board shall promulgate a rule establishing a limit on the total number of donor retrieval cycles per ovum donor, which must not exceed a lifetime limit of six cycles per ovum donor. In promulgating the rule, the state board shall consult with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and organizations representing the interests of ovum donors. In promulgating the rule, the state board may consider adopting an exception to this limit for prior donors who provide informed consent to undergo additional retrieval cycles for families intending to conceive a child using the same donor used to conceive their other child.

(3) A donor must be at least twenty-one years of age or older at the time of collection of gametes, and a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall verify the age of the donor at the time of the collection of gametes.

(4) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that collects gametes from a donor who was matched with a recipient by a gamete agency that is a separate entity is not subject to the requirements of subsection (1) of this section.

(5) This section applies only to gametes matched or collected on or after January 1, 2025, for use by recipient parents who are unknown to the donor at the time of the donation.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2012, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2025: (1)(a) amended, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1591, § 8, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-110. License required - application - inspection - issuance, denial, suspension, or revocation - fees - civil penalties - rules.

(1) On or after July 1, 2025, a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall not operate as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic in Colorado, or match or provide gametes or embryos to recipients in Colorado, without having first obtained a license from the department. The license is conditioned on compliance with the applicable standards, requirements, and other provisions of this article 57 and its implementing rules.

(2) (a) A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall submit an annual application and fee for a license to operate on the form and in the manner prescribed by the department.

(b) (I) On or before January 1, 2025, the state board shall promulgate rules establishing a schedule of fees of not more than five hundred dollars per year, subject to annual adjustment for inflation, based on the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by all urban consumers, or its applicable predecessor or successor index, to help meet the direct and indirect costs of administration and enforcement of this article 57. A gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that is a nonprofit organization is exempt from such fees.

(II) The department shall assess and collect, from each gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that is applying for licensure pursuant to this section, a fee in accordance with the fee schedule established by the state board pursuant to subsection (2)(b)(I) of this section.

(III) The department shall transmit fees collected pursuant to this section to the state treasurer, who shall credit the money to the gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic fund created in section 25-57-112.

(IV) Fees collected pursuant to this subsection (2) may be used by the department to provide technical assistance and education to the public and to gamete agencies, gamete banks, or fertility clinics related to the provision of and compliance with Colorado law, in addition to regulatory and administrative functions. The department may contract with private entities to assist the department in providing technical assistance and education but not in providing regulatory or administrative functions.

(3) (a) (I) The department shall investigate and review each original application and each renewal application for a license to operate as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic. The department shall require all applicants to submit information in the original and renewal application process to document compliance with licensing requirements. The department shall determine an applicant's compliance with this article 57, and the rules adopted pursuant to this article 57, for the collection and provision of gametes from donors who are unknown to a recipient at the time of the donation before issuing a license.

(II) The gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic shall submit in writing, in a form prescribed by the department, a corrective action plan detailing the measures it will take to correct any violations found by the department as a result of inspections undertaken pursuant to this subsection (3). The department shall conduct a follow-up inspection to ensure implementation of the corrective action plan.

(III) Repealed.

(b) The department shall not retain any identifying information about donors, recipients, or donor-conceived persons, and shall keep confidential all health-care information or documents obtained or viewed during an inspection or investigation of a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section. All records, information, or documents so obtained are exempt from disclosure pursuant to sections 24-72-204 and 25-1-124.

(4) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (5) of this section, the department shall issue or renew a license to operate as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic when it is satisfied that the applicant or licensee is in compliance with the requirements set forth in this article 57 and the rules promulgated pursuant to this article 57. Except for provisional licenses issued in accordance with subsection (5) of this section, a license issued or renewed pursuant to this section expires one year after the date of issuance or renewal. The department shall suspend or revoke a license in accordance with section 24-4-104.

(5) The department may issue a provisional license to operate as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic to an applicant for the purpose of operating as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic for a period of ninety days if the applicant is temporarily unable to conform to all of the standards required pursuant to this article 57. As a condition of obtaining a provisional license, the applicant shall show proof to the department that significant good faith attempts are being made to conform and comply with the applicable standards required pursuant to this article 57. The department may issue a second provisional license, for a like term and fee, to effect compliance. A further provisional license shall not be issued for the current year after the second issuance.

(6) (a) It is a violation of this article 57 for any person, corporation, or other entity to operate as a gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic in Colorado without a valid license or in violation of the terms and conditions of a license. The department may revoke or not renew the license in accordance with the procedures set forth in section 24-4-104 of a licensed gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic that fails to adhere to the terms and conditions of its license and the standards and requirements established by rule pursuant to this article 57.

(b) The department may assess a civil penalty of not more than twenty thousand dollars, adjusted annually for inflation, based on the annual percentage change in the United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer price index for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for all items paid by all urban consumers, or its applicable predecessor or successor index, for each day the person is in violation of this article 57. The assessed penalty accrues from the date the department finds that the person, corporation, or entity is in violation of this article 57. The department shall assess, enforce, and collect the penalty in accordance with article 4 of title 24 and credit the money to the general fund. Enforcement and collection of the penalty occurs following the decision reached in accordance with procedures set forth in section 24-4-105.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2014, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: (1) and (3)(a)(I) amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1391, § 5, effective May 22. L. 2025: (3)(a)(I) amended and (3)(a)(III) repealed, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1591, § 9, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

25-57-111. Rule-making authority.

On or before January 1, 2025, the state board shall promulgate any rules necessary to implement this article 57. In promulgating rules, the state board shall consider and protect the interests of donor-conceived persons and families of donor-conceived persons, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender parents and donor-conceived persons and single parents.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2016, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1391, § 6, effective May 22.

25-57-112. Gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic fund - created - priorities - appropriation.

(1) The gamete agency, gamete bank, or fertility clinic fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money credited to the fund pursuant to section 25-57-110 and any money appropriated to the fund by the general assembly. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly for the direct and indirect costs of the department in performing its duties pursuant to this article 57. At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered money in the fund remains in the fund and is not credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.

(2) The department shall prioritize the use of money in the fund for providing technical and compliance assistance and processing licenses, yet retain adequate resources for enforcement.

(3) Beginning in fiscal year 2025-26, the general assembly shall annually appropriate one hundred twenty-five thousand dollars to the fund.

Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (SB 22-224), ch. 279, p. 2016, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2024: Entire section amended, (SB 24-223), ch. 223, p. 1391, § 7, effective May 22.

25-57-113. Reproductive health care - fertility treatment - protections - definitions.

(1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) "Fertility treatment" means any test, procedure, medication, surgery, or service to diagnose, enhance, or assist an individual's ability to reproduce or achieve pregnancy, including, but not limited to:

(I) In vitro fertilization;

(II) Intrauterine insemination;

(III) Ovulation induction;

(IV) Testicular or ovarian biopsy;

(V) Embryo biopsy;

(VI) Cryopreservation and thawing of gametes and embryos;

(VII) Cryopreservation of testicular and ovarian tissue;

(VIII) Storage, donation, or disposal of gametes, embryos, or reproductive tissue;

(IX) Pre-implantation genetic testing or any other medical screening or evaluation of embryos or gametes; and

(X) Surrogacy.

(b) "Reproductive health care" has the same meaning set forth in section 25-6-402.

(2) Every individual has a right to make autonomous decisions about the individual's own reproductive health, including the right to use or refuse reproductive health care, including the right to use gametes and embryos, destroy gametes and embryos, and including the right to donate gametes and embryos to third parties for procreation or research. This subsection (2) does not prevent or limit the implementation of other provisions of this article 57.

(3) The state and local governments shall not interfere with or restrict a physician or licensed medical provider's ability to provide reproductive health care, as defined in this section.

(4) It is contrary to the public policy of this state to permit an individual to bring a civil or criminal action authorized in another state against an individual in this state for engaging or attempting to engage in the following conduct:

(a) Terminating or seeking to terminate a pregnancy;

(b) Performing or inducing the termination of a pregnancy;

(c) Knowingly engaging in conduct that aids or abets the performance or inducement of the termination of pregnancy;

(d) Providing reproductive health care, as defined in this section; or

(e) Providing fertility treatment, as defined in this section.

Source: L. 2025: Entire section added, (HB 25-1259), ch. 304, p. 1587, § 3, effective May 30.

Cross references: For the short title ("Reducing Barriers to Building Families Act") and the legislative declaration in HB 25-1259, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 304, Session Laws of Colorado 2025.

ANNOTATION

In dissolution proceedings, a couple's cryogenically frozen pre-embryos constitute marital property of a special character. In re Rooks, 2018 CO 85, 429 P.3d 579.

In determining the disposition of pre-embryos, the court should first look to any existing agreement between the parties regarding the disposition of their remaining pre-embryos in the event of divorce. In the absence of any such agreement, the court should balance the parties' interests by considering the following: (1) how the party who wishes to preserve the pre-embryos intends to use them; (2) the demonstrated physical ability or inability of the party seeking to use the pre-embryos for in vitro fertilization (IVF) to have biological children through other means; (3) the parties' original reasons for undertaking IVF; (4) the potential hardship on the party that wishes to avoid becoming a genetic parent, including emotional, financial, or logistical factors; (5) either party's demonstrated bad faith or attempt to use the pre-embryos as unfair leverage in divorce proceedings; and (6) other factors relevant to the parties' specific situation. The court should not consider: (1) the ability of the party seeking to use the pre-embryos to afford a child; (2) standing alone, the number of a party's existing children; and (3) the ability of the party seeking to use the pre-embryos to adopt or otherwise parent non-biological children. In re Rooks, 2018 CO 85, 429 P.3d 579.

District court misapplied Rooks by considering wife's religious beliefs as part of the first Rooks factor. First, contrary to Rooks, the court weighted wife's desire to donate pre-embryos as equivalent to a desire to implant them to become a genetic parent. Second, the court considered wife's subjective beliefs regarding the morality of preserving the pre-embryos. The first Rooks factor simply asks what the party seeking to preserve the pre-embryos intends to do with them. The first factor is not concerned with why the party prefers to preserve the pre-embryos over discarding them. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

A party's desire to implant pre-embryos to achieve genetic parenthood and a party's desire to avoid genetic parenthood likewise are equivalently important. And, because a party's desire to donate pre-embryos is entitled to less weight than a party's desire to implant them, a party's desire to donate must also be entitled to less weight than a party's desire to avoid genetic parenthood. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

Instead of considering wife's religious beliefs as part of the first Rooks factor, which erroneously caused the district court to weigh that factor substantially in wife's favor, the court should have considered wife's beliefs as an additional factor beyond those articulated in Rooks. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

It was proper for the district court to consider wife's religiously grounded beliefs and husband's secularly grounded beliefs as part of the Rooks balancing framework. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

The district court misapplied the second Rooks factor by weighing it slightly in favor of wife when wife wanted to donate rather than implant the pre-embryos. Wife was not a party seeking to implant the disputed pre-embryos, so wife's ability or inability to have biological children through other means is irrelevant for purposes of the second Rooks factor. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

Accordingly, the case does not present the rare circumstance where a party wanting to donate pre-embryos can prevail against a party wanting to avoid procreating. In re Olsen, 2022 COA 66, 518 P.3d 297.

The Rooks framework applies to unmarried couples. Because the Rooks balancing test is founded in constitutionally protected procreational autonomy and is not merely a framework for the equitable division of marital property in a divorce proceeding, the trial court was correct to apply the framework to an unmarried couple who shared jointly created pre-embryos but whose relationship had ended. Elken v. Bain, 2025 COA 83, 581 P.3d 253.

The trial court did not abuse its discretion when it made a case-specific finding that defendant's evidence of extreme hardship, having a genetic child with a person he no longer wanted to have a child with and was no longer in a relationship with, outweighed plaintiff's interest in implanting the pre-embryo and conceiving a genetic child. The trial court heard evidence from both parties that when plaintiff began pursuing IVF, both defendant and plaintiff wanted a family together, which could no longer be achieved after their relationship ended. Therefore, because defendant presented credible evidence that if plaintiff was granted custody of the pre-embryos he would not be able to walk away from their shared child, his desire to avoid shared parenting with plaintiff outweighed plaintiff's desire to become a genetic parent with defendant's shared pre-embryo. Elken v. Bain, 2025 COA 83, 581 P.3d 253.

ARTICLE 58

Patients' Right to Know

25-58-101. Short title.

25-58-102. Legislative declaration.

25-58-103. Definitions.

25-58-104. Department duties - service availability form - public access to information - rules.

25-58-105. Requirements for covered entities - penalty for noncompliance.

25-58-106. Construction.

25-58-107. Severability.

25-58-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 58 is the "Patients' Right to Know Act".

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 663, § 1, effective August 7.

25-58-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The right of every patient to receive basic information necessary to give full and informed consent is a fundamental tenet of good public health policy and has long been the established law of this state;

(b) Every person having ultimate responsibility for decisions respecting the person's own health care also possesses a concomitant right of access to complete information respecting the person's condition and available care;

(c) For nonmedical reasons, some health-care facilities do not provide a full range of health-care services and may prohibit, significantly restrict, or otherwise refuse to provide services such as sterilization, infertility treatments, abortion, end-of-life health-care services, or contraceptive services, including emergency contraception;

(d) Health-care facilities may also deny or selectively restrict care relating to stigmatized populations, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals, for nonmedical reasons even if equivalent procedures are provided for other patients;

(e) Persons seeking health care frequently lack information about which facilities refuse to provide various health-care services for nonmedical reasons and which services they refuse to provide;

(f) Patients are not well positioned to understand what treatment options are available to them when health-care facilities do not disclose which treatment options they refuse to provide for nonmedical reasons;

(g) Consequently, when health-care facilities do not disclose that they restrict or refuse to provide various health-care services for nonmedical reasons, they can deprive patients of a knowledgeable choice as to alternative treatments, which is inconsistent with the underlying principle of informed consent;

(h) Refusal to provide health-care services for nonmedical reasons may:

(I) Have long-term negative consequences, resulting in injury, disability, and death;

(II) Cause trauma to patients;

(III) Impact quality of life; and

(IV) Result in greater health-care expenses for patients and payers; and

(i) Some denials of care violate state and federal law.

(2) Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to help ensure that patients are given full and complete information about the health-care services available to them so that they can make well-informed health-care decisions.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 663, § 1, effective August 7.

25-58-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 58, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Covered entity" means any general hospital, hospital unit as defined in section 25-3-101, community clinic as defined in section 25-3-101, freestanding emergency department as defined in section 25-1.5-114, maternity hospital, or rehabilitation hospital. "Covered entity" does not include a health-care professional or a hospital, community clinic, or other facility owned or operated by the state.

(2) (a) "Denial of care" means any refusal by a covered entity to provide a health-care service, or to provide a referral for a health-care service, for nonmedical reasons.

(b) "Denial of care" includes the following practices, whether based on formal or informal policies or practices, that are not based on generally accepted standards of care:

(I) Selective refusal to provide a health-care service to some, but not all, patients based on a characteristic described in section 24-34-601 (2)(a), objections to a health-care service, or for other nonmedical reasons; and

(II) A significant restriction on the availability of health-care services.

(3) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(4) "End-of-life health-care services" means any medical, surgical, preventive, counseling, or referral services provided to an individual who is near the end of life or who has a terminal illness. "End-of-life health-care services" includes any services provided pursuant to article 48 of this title 25, palliative care, services identified in advance directives, withdrawal of nutrition services, and hospice care.

(5) "Health-care professional" means a person who is licensed, certified, registered, or otherwise authorized or permitted by law to administer health care or dispense medication in the ordinary course of business or practice of a profession.

(6) "Health-care service" means the provision of treatment, care, advice or guidance, or services or supplies, including:

(a) Preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative, maintenance, or palliative care;

(b) Counseling, assessment, procedures, or other services; or

(c) Selling, dispensing, or administering a prescription or nonprescription drug, a device, or equipment.

(7) "LGBTQ health-care services" means any medical, surgical, preventive, counseling, or referral services that are specifically targeted to or that disproportionately affect LGBTQ individuals, including gender-affirming care, HIV-related care, and family-building services.

(8) "Nonmedical reasons" means nonclinical criteria, rules, or policies, whether written or unwritten, that restrict health-care professionals at a covered entity from providing types of care that a health-care professional is authorized under law to provide and that the covered entity is licensed to provide.

(9) "Reproductive health-care services" means any medical, surgical, preventive, counseling, or referral services relating to the human reproductive system, including services relating to contraception, sterilization, pregnancy, and the termination of a pregnancy.

(10) "Service availability form" means the form created by the department pursuant to section 25-58-104 and completed by covered entities.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 664, § 1, effective August 7.

25-58-104. Department duties - service availability form - public access to information - rules.

(1) Not later than August 1, 2024, the department, in consultation with stakeholders, including a statewide hospital association, patient advocacy groups, physicians, and groups representing populations that are frequently subject to denial of care, shall:

(a) Identify reproductive health-care services, LGBTQ health-care services, and end-of-life health-care services that are or may be subject to denial of care in the state; and

(b) (I) Develop a clear and simple service availability form for the purpose of conveying to patients and to the public which of the identified health-care services are and are not generally available or are subject to significant restriction at a covered entity.

(II) The service availability form must include contact information for the covered entity in case a patient has specific questions about services available at the covered entity.

(III) The department shall review and, if appropriate, update the form at least biennially in consultation with stakeholders. The department may develop different versions of the service availability form appropriate for different categories of covered entities.

(2) Beginning on or before October 1, 2024, the department shall maintain on its public-facing website a current list of covered entities and shall provide for public access the service availability form submitted by each covered entity.

(3) The state board of health shall adopt rules to implement this article 58.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 666, § 1, effective August 7.

25-58-105. Requirements for covered entities - penalty for noncompliance.

(1) Not later than sixty days after the department issues or updates the service availability form, each covered entity shall submit a completed service availability form to the department. A covered entity shall also submit an updated service availability form within thirty days after making a change to the availability of a health-care service identified on the service availability form.

(2) Not later than October 1, 2024, each covered entity shall adopt a policy for providing patients with its current service availability form during scheduling for LGBTQ health-care services, reproductive health-care services, or end-of-life health-care services, and at the time privacy requirements specified in the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, are provided to patients prior to the initiation of health-care services, or upon request, and for recording the patient's receipt of the form. The covered entity's policy must also encourage health-care professionals who have privileges with the covered entity to provide the covered entity's service availability form to the patient or the patient's representative prior to any scheduled health-care service at the covered entity.

(3) On and after October 1, 2024, each covered entity shall:

(a) Provide the current service availability form to the patient or the patient's representative during scheduling for LGBTQ health-care services, reproductive health-care services, or end-of-life health-care services and at the time privacy requirements specified in the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", Pub.L. 104-191, as amended, are provided to patients before any health-care service is initiated. If providing the current service availability form is impracticable because of an emergency or other circumstances, the covered entity may delay the provision of the service availability form, as appropriate.

(b) Maintain a record of the patient's or the patient's representative's receipt of the service availability form; and

(c) Provide the current service availability form to any person upon request.

(4) A covered entity that fails to comply with this section is subject to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars for each day that the covered entity is not in compliance with this section.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 667, § 1, effective August 7.

Editor's note: Subsections (3)(a), (3)(b), and (3)(c) were numbered as subsections (3)(a)(I), (3)(a)(II), and (3)(b), respectively, in HB 23-1218 but have been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

25-58-106. Construction.

(1) This article 58 does not:

(a) Permit or authorize denial of care or discrimination in the provision of health-care services; or

(b) Limit any cause of action under state or federal law, or limit any remedy in law or equity, against a covered entity, health-care facility, or health-care professional.

(2) Compliance with this article 58 does not reduce or limit any potential liability for covered entities, health-care facilities, and health-care professionals associated with denial of care or any violations of state or federal law.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 667, § 1, effective August 7.

25-58-107. Severability.

If any provision of this article 58 or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this article 58 that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this article 58 are severable.

Source: L. 2023: Entire article added, (HB 23-1218), ch. 155, p. 668, § 1, effective August 7.

ARTICLE 59

Living Organ Donation

25-59-101. Short title.

25-59-102. Legislative declaration.

25-59-103. Definitions.

25-59-104. Organ donation - benefits and recognition - legislative declaration.

25-59-105. Costs associated with living organ donation.

25-59-106. Organ transplantation - transplant center - required notice to nondirected living organ donors.

25-59-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 59 is the "Comprehensive Assistance, Recognition, and Empowerment (CARE) for Living Organ Donors Act" or "CARE for Living Organ Donors Act".

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2240, § 1, effective June 3.

25-59-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) The extraordinary gift of living organ donation has a transformative impact on a recipient's life, often providing a reprieve from exhaustive medical treatments and significantly improving the quality and length of life of the recipient;

(b) Despite the commendable rise in living organ donations, a critical shortage remains, with countless individuals on transplant waiting lists. This situation can be ameliorated by facilitating the donation process and providing robust support to donors.

(c) Living organ donors willingly accept the personal and medical burdens associated with the organ donation process, including undergoing comprehensive and invasive medical evaluations, facing the inherent risks of surgeries, and enduring the physical and emotional challenges of postoperative recovery;

(d) Living organ donors may be required to make substantial financial sacrifices, including suffering a loss of income during recovery; incurring expenses for travel, accommodations, and child care or elder care during hospitalization or recovery; and facing the potential for long-term financial implications related to medical care;

(e) Notwithstanding the willingness of donors to contribute to the public good, the potential for employment discrimination and retaliation post-donation, including job insecurity, demotions, or unwarranted disciplinary actions, can be a significant deterrent to prospective living organ donors;

(f) There are significant societal benefits to facilitating living organ donation, which not only saves lives but also reduces the overall health-care costs associated with long-term treatments for end-stage organ disease, such as dialysis for kidney failure, that are often more costly and less effective than transplantation;

(g) It is within the power and responsibility of the general assembly to enact measures that alleviate the burdens borne by living organ donors and to ensure that they are not penalized or placed at a disadvantage for their altruistic acts;

(h) By supporting living organ donors, Colorado not only invests in the health and well-being of its citizens but also fosters a culture of generosity and civic responsibility, promoting the welfare of the community at large; and

(i) Colorado's commitment to providing comprehensive support, including employment protections and the removal of financial barriers, in addition to other efforts that recognize a living organ donor's personal and financial sacrifice, empowers more Coloradans to consider the noble act of living organ donation.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that the enactment of the "CARE for Living Organ Donors Act" will address the critical needs of living organ donors, provide necessary protections for living organ donors, remove barriers to living organ donation, and honor those individuals who undertake this generous act of living organ donation that ultimately benefits society by increasing the availability of organs for transplantation and affirming Colorado's commitment to the health and dignity of its residents.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2240, § 1, effective June 3.

25-59-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 59, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Department" means the department of public health and environment.

(2) "Health-care provider" means a hospital or other health facility licensed or certified pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a).

(3) "Health-care services related to living organ donation" means an organ donation recovery operation and all services required before and after the operation.

(4) "Living organ donation" means the donation of an organ by a living organ donor.

(5) "Living organ donor" means a living individual who has donated all or part of an organ.

(6) "Major surgery" means a:

(a) Surgical intervention that penetrates or exposes a body cavity;

(b) Procedure that has the potential for inducing permanent anatomic or physiologic impairment; or

(c) Procedure associated with orthopedics or extensive tissue dissection or transection.

(7) "Nondirected living organ donor" means a living organ donor who does not have an intended recipient of the donated organ at the time of the donation.

(8) "Organ" means all or part of a kidney, a lung, the liver, the pancreas, the intestine, or any other organ that requires major surgery to be donated and that, when donated, may lead to a life-saving organ donation, as determined by the department.

(9) "Organ donation recovery operation" means a procedure to recover an organ from a living organ donor.

(10) "Organ voucher program" means a program, as defined by each organization offering a program, that allows a nondirected living organ donor to designate individuals to be voucher holders who will be prioritized for a viable organ transplant from another nondirected living organ donor if the voucher holder is placed on a transplant waiting list and another voucher holder has not already redeemed a voucher.

(11) "Transplant center" means a health-care provider that performs organ donation recovery operations or transplantation of organs recovered from a living organ donor.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2241, § 1, effective June 3.

25-59-104. Organ donation - benefits and recognition - legislative declaration.

(1) Living organ donors may benefit from the following:

(a) Pursuant to section 8-2-132, a prohibition against an employer intimidating, threatening, coercing, discriminating, or retaliating against or taking an adverse action against an employee who is or becomes a living organ donor;

(b) Pursuant to section 10-1-142, a prohibition against an insurer denying or limiting coverage or increasing premiums for a policy or contract for life insurance, disability income insurance, health insurance, or long-term care insurance due to the status of the person as a living organ donor;

(c) Pursuant to section 10-16-104 (24), mandatory coverage under individual and group health benefit plans for health-care services related to living organ donation;

(d) Pursuant to section 24-11-118, the establishment of the eleventh day of April each year as "Living Organ Donor Recognition Day";

(e) Pursuant to section 25-59-105, a prohibition against a health-care provider billing or charging a living organ donor for any costs associated with providing health-care services related to living organ donation; and

(f) Pursuant to section 25-59-106, a requirement that a transplant center advise a potential nondirected living organ donor, prior to performing an organ donation recovery operation, that an organ voucher program, as defined by each organization offering a program, may be available for the specific organ.

(2) The general assembly finds and declares that none of the benefits described in subsection (1) of this section are valuable consideration, as defined in 42 U.S.C. sec. 274e, as amended.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2243, § 1, effective June 3.

25-59-105. Costs associated with living organ donation.

On and after January 1, 2022, a health-care provider shall not bill or charge a living organ donor for any costs associated with providing health-care services related to living organ donation.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2243, § 1, effective June 3.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1.5-116 (1) as it existed prior to 2024.

25-59-106. Organ transplantation - transplant center - required notice to nondirected living organ donors.

(1) Prior to conducting an organ donation recovery operation on a nondirected living organ donor, a transplant center shall advise the potential donor of the following information:

(a) That the transplant center or another transplant center in Colorado has or may have an organ voucher program; and

(b) That a national-level organ voucher program exists or may exist for the organ being donated.

(2) A transplant center shall also provide to all organ donors and organ recipients information about benefits that may be available to organ donors and organ recipients at each transplant center in Colorado, including through partnering organizations and others. The information provided must include, at a minimum, information about available resources, supportive care and services, legal or other protections, and reimbursement for lost wages, travel, lodging, or dependent care. Transplant centers shall update the information provided at least annually.

(3) At least two times prior to an organ donation, the first of which must be within twenty-four hours after a potential organ donor's initial screening, a transplant center shall provide to the potential organ donor the information required pursuant to subsections (1) and (2) of this section.

Source: L. 2024: Entire article added with relocations, (HB 24-1132), ch. 331, p. 2243, § 1, effective June 3.

ARTICLE 60

Epilepsy-related Mortalities and Awareness

25-60-101. Short title.

25-60-102. Legislative declaration.

25-60-103. Definitions.

25-60-104. Epilepsy-related mortality awareness and training.

25-60-105. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy - identification - death certificates.

25-60-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 60 is "Lincoln's Law".

Source: L. 2026: Entire article added, (SB 26-077), ch. 63, p. 256, § 1, effective August 12.

25-60-102. Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring and unprovoked seizures and affects people of all ages, impacting approximately three million adults and four hundred fifty-six thousand children in the United States;

(b) Thirty percent of people with epilepsy live with uncontrolled seizures;

(c) People with epilepsy have a three times higher risk of early death than the general population, and that risk is increased for those with uncontrolled seizures;

(d) Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy claims the lives of one of every one thousand people living with epilepsy and one of every one hundred fifty people living with epilepsy and uncontrolled seizures;

(e) Annually in the United States, more than six thousand people with epilepsy die from causes like sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, status epilepticus, unintentional injuries, and suicide. This statistic underestimates the number of deaths caused by epilepsy or sudden unexpected death in epilepsy due to poor recognition, incomplete death records, and misattributed causes of mortality.

(f) Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy is the most common cause of premature epilepsy-related mortality;

(g) Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy is the term used when someone with epilepsy dies without warning and no other cause of death can be found;

(h) Risk counseling focused on all causes of epilepsy mortality, including sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, can help mitigate risk and prevent unnecessary deaths. Unfortunately, these services are often unavailable due to a lack of awareness and education and the absence of consistent reimbursement for post-diagnosis education and case management services.

(i) It is the intent of the general assembly to help mitigate risk and prevent unnecessary deaths by increasing awareness and education concerning sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.

Source: L. 2026: Entire article added, (SB 26-077), ch. 63, p. 256, § 1, effective August 12.

25-60-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 60, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Death certification professional" means a coroner, medical examiner, forensic pathologist, or other qualified individual who determines the cause of death and completes the medical certification for a certificate of death in accordance with section 25-2-110.

(2) "Department" means the department of public health and environment created in section 25-1-102 (1).

Source: L. 2026: Entire article added, (SB 26-077), ch. 63, p. 257, § 1, effective August 12.

25-60-104. Epilepsy-related mortality awareness and training.

(1) Beginning July 1, 2027, a death certification professional shall ensure that they are aware of the most recent epilepsy-related death certification recommendations from a nationally recognized and reputable organization associated with their respective medical practice focus or from the National Association of Medical Examiners.

(2) On or before June 1, 2027, the department shall electronically notify all registered medical certifier users of the Colorado vital events system of the requirements of subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2026: Entire article added, (SB 26-077), ch. 63, p. 257, § 1, effective August 12.

25-60-105. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy - identification - death certificates.

(1) If a death certification professional determines that the cause of an individual's death is consistent with known or suspected sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, the death certification professional shall ensure that the individual's death certificate identifies epilepsy as a contributing cause or a suspected cause of death consistent with the most recent epilepsy-related death certification recommendations from a nationally recognized and reputable organization associated with the death certification professional's medical practice focus or from the National Association of Medical Examiners.

(2) The department may provide online guidelines for clinicians and medical certifiers for death certificates regarding epilepsy-related deaths, including sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.

Source: L. 2026: Entire article added, (SB 26-077), ch. 63, p. 258, § 1, effective August 12.