The first two weeks of the legislative session are largely ceremonial and informational. On opening day of the second year of the 69th session, we welcomed new state Rep. K.C. Becker, a former Boulder city councilor who replaced Rep. Clair Levy from House District 13.
The next day, we heard from Gov. John Hickenlooper, who delivered an inspiring State of the State address. His central theme was that Colorado remains strong, despite wildfires and floods. Our economy continues to recover under his leadership, and Colorado has now moved from sixth to fifth most business-favorable climate in the United States, and we have a surplus, which results from the economy improving at a faster rate than expected.
The governor intends to further supplement higher education and K-12 as well as backfill infrastructure projects which were delayed because of the recession. As I said last week, I was particularly excited about his promise to extend broadband to areas in my district, such as Silverton, Ouray and Gunnison, which are currently underserved. Having effective broadband for all of Colorado will restore opportunities for our children, businesses and tourist communities. I will support any legislation that advances broadband in Colorado.
The beginning of each session is marked by sunset reviews and “SMART” government reporting from various government agencies. We, on the Agricultural, Livestock and Natural Resources Committee, have already heard from the Department of Natural Resources and members of the water community. We anticipate that this committee will continue to deal with drought, wildfires and water issues throughout the session. I will continue my efforts to protect Western Slope water and to protect our productive agricultural community. In the Judiciary Committee, we have also received SMART Government reports from the Colorado Supreme Court, the attorney general and the Department of Corrections. Our corrections system continues to be a revolving door for many of our paroled inmates, and we must reverse the trend toward recidivism.
The work of the Legislature is a constant educational experience and we are privileged to attend daily receptions. In the last two weeks, I have attended the Colorado Counties Incorporated reception, the Colorado Mining Association reception and the Women’s Bar Association reception for incoming Chief Justice Nancy Rice.
I returned to Durango last weekend to attend the La Plata County Democrats Martin Luther King Jr. fundraiser at Manna Soup Kitchen. I am sponsoring legislation to encourage farmers and ranchers to donate surplus food to those in need, which I think will benefit both producers and the unfortunate.
This week, I was invited to the Colorado Cattleman’s luncheon and had a brief conversation with Bryce Lee and Wayne Buck. Because of scheduling conflicts, I had to leave the luncheon early, but I was still able to attend the National Western Stock Show rodeo on Wednesday night. I am constantly reminded of the significant role that agriculture plays in the 59th District.
I was pleased to learn that beef prices are at an all-time high and that, although herds have been reduced because of the drought, our ranchers are being rewarded adequately for their hard work. The rodeo, as always, is a spectacle which mixes bravery and danger. I was particularly proud to be invited by the Colorado Association of Conservation Districts and sit in the stands with other members of the House and Senate Agricultural Committees. In contrast, I also attended the Denver World Trade Center Legislative Reception, where we were informed of the significant efforts to put Colorado at the forefront of international trade.
In the next few weeks, our legislative efforts will intensify as our committee hearings and floor work in the House begin the process of reviewing legislation that may become law this year. I continue to be committed to bipartisanship and cooperation as my benchmarks. Of the bills I am working on, the great majority involves co-sponsorship with Rep. Don Coram and state Sen. Ellen Roberts, both Republicans. I believe I was elected because I am a centrist who works with both sides of the aisle for the betterment of my entire district.
As always, I am honored to serve as your elected representative in the Capitol and am committed to addressing problems that will move Colorado forward. I will continue to serve on the Agriculture, Livestock and Natural Resources and Judiciary committees. I always enjoy hearing from constituents, so please don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Mike McLachlan represents House District 59 in Colorado’s General Assembly. The district encompasses La Plata, Archuleta, San Juan, Ouray and Hinsdale counties and part of Gunnison County. Call McLachlan at (303) 866-2914 or email mike.mclachlan.house@state.
