Colorado Dems ram abortion, transgender bills through on limited Sunday session debate
The Colorado Democratic House majority made headlines on Sunday as they pushed through a series of controversial gender and abortion bills, sparking outrage from Republican lawmakers who called the move “unprecedented.” Republican House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese expressed concern over the tactics used by the majority, stating that the bills were passed without proper debate on a day typically reserved for family and prayer.
Pugliese highlighted the significance of the bills, which include SB25-183 requiring taxpayers to fund abortion services, HB25-1309 mandating insurers to cover transgender procedures regardless of age, HB25-1312 imposing state-mandated gender policies on schools, and SB25-129 prohibiting cooperation with out-of-state investigations on transgender procedures and abortion services. She emphasized the impact of these laws on parental rights, public safety, and taxpayer dollars, criticizing the lack of discussion and filibuster during the proceedings.
Despite Republican objections, Democratic lawmakers defended their actions, citing the need to address pressing issues and uphold the will of the majority. State House Majority Democrat Leader Monica Duran explained that the bills were thoroughly debated on the floor for over 12 hours, with the minority offering numerous amendments. Duran emphasized the democratic process and the mandate given by the voters, highlighting the importance of passing legislation in the interest of the people.
Other Democrats involved in the passage of the bills viewed them as essential to protecting Colorado from federal policies under the Trump administration. Rep. Karen McCormick, sponsor of SB25-129, emphasized the need to combat external interference and threats to abortion and LGBTQ+ healthcare. Rep. Lorena Garcia, sponsor of SB5-183, echoed these sentiments, stating that the bills aim to expand access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion, in defiance of restrictive federal measures.
The bills will now move to the Democratic-controlled state Senate for further consideration and potential approval. The contentious nature of the legislation reflects the ongoing debate over gender and reproductive rights in Colorado and across the nation. Despite the differing views and heated discussions surrounding these issues, the democratic process continues to shape legislative decisions in the state.
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