RBC I We at the legislature just passed a historic, balanced, and bipartisan annual state budget. After hours of debate and review alongside my colleagues, the budget we sent to Governor Polis sets rural Colorado up for success. With significant investments towards our ranchers and agricultural industries, water conservation, and education, we passed a budget that enables Northwest Colorado to thrive.
Standing Up for Agriculture
As a rural legislator, I always advocate for conservation and expanding agricultural support. This year was no different. Robust investments in our state’s water plan, agriculture, natural resources, and infrastructure are coming down the pike – all while decreasing costs for people and businesses. Further, as we struggle with the impacts of the voter-imposed introduction of wolves, I am fighting to ensure that our ranchers are adequately equipped to handle their presence. That’s why I partnered with my Republican colleague, Rep. Perry Will, to convince our colleagues through a budget amendment that our ranchers deserve more resources to help protect livestock and receive sufficient compensation for their losses. We passed this amendment which increases funding for Colorado ranchers mitigating the impacts of wolves. I look forward to continue advocating for ranchers and working to strengthen and protect our agricultural industries.
Historic Education Support
When the pandemic slashed our budget, both parties never thought we’d be able to reduce our state’s debt to the public school system, known as the budget stabilization factor (BSF). Yet, we changed that trajectory and created a budget with the largest K-12 education investment in over a decade – eliminating $250 million of the BSF, bringing it to a record low. This means that sustained funds will be distributed to public schools, resulting in our schools having the resources necessary to set our students and teachers up for success.
This year’s budget takes strides in equipping Northwest Colorado with the tools necessary to come out ahead. Our investments in agriculture, conservation, and education will accelerate our region’s progress, and I look forward to bringing your perspective to the decisions being made at the Capitol.
As always, please contact me about this topic or any others. My cell is (970) 846-3054 and my email is [email protected].
Rep. Dylan Roberts serves Eagle and Routt Counties in the Colorado State House and is running for State Senate District 8, comprised of ten counties, including Rio Blanco County
BY DYLAN ROBERTS
Special to the Herald Times
