Economic Outlook for the U.S. and Colorado

The ongoing expansion in the U.S. economy is fueld by consumer contributions.

Colorado voters legalized the use of medical marijuana in 2000 and retail marijuana in 2012 through amendments to the Colorado Constitution. This issue brief provides an overview of current state law and regulations pertaining to medical and retail marijuana, and discusses the role of local...

New Legislator Orientation Phase II: FY 2016-17 State Operating Budget Overview

Colorado’s state court system is comprised of many different courts, including the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals (COA), and district courts. Colorado law also governs county courts and jurisdiction-specific courts in Denver.1 This issue brief describes the qualification requirements and...

This memorandum provides information about the oversight and review of capital projects. It defines capital projects and gives a sequential overview of the capital process, including master and program planning requirements, the initial review of capital requests, the role of the Capital...

The day-to-day expenses of state government are paid through the operating budget in the state's annual budget bill.  Expenses related to new construction, renovation, or maintenance of the state's capital assets are paid through the capital budget.  This issue brief outlines the types of...

Colorado's Adult Protective Services (APS) system, first established in 1983, protects at-risk adults who, because of mental or physical ability, are unable to obtain services or otherwise protect their own health, safety, and welfare. In response to greater awareness of at-risk populations,...

Colorado’s Enterprise Zone Program was created by the General Assembly in 1986. The program provides state income tax credits to business and individuals for investing in economically distressed areas of the state in an effort to encourage economic development.  This issue brief describes the...

Final report of the Capital Development Committee for FY 2015-16.

Tiny houses are increasing in popularity as a housing option across the country. This issue brief provides a general overview of the various legal obstacles sometimes faced by individuals who want to own and live in a tiny house in Colorado. It also provides several examples of local and state...