This week, the Senate passed HB20-1153, the Colorado Partnership For Quality Jobs and Services Act, on third reading. Now more than ever, Colorado state employees are working tirelessly for our state, and they deserve to have the opportunity to advocate for themselves and their families.
The bill provides avenues for state workers to collectively bargain with employers.
“Right now, the unfortunate reality is that 1 in 5 Colorado’s state jobs remain unfilled, forcing state employees to work multiple jobs and unconventional hours,” said bill sponsor Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “With this legislation, workers will have the ability to negotiate and get some well-earned relief — giving them the opportunity to have their voices heard.”
This legislation is crucial to maintaining and supporting Colorado’s essential workforce. Low pay and high turnover rates have led to under-staffing and state employees working multiple jobs — which in turn negatively impacts critical state services and programs. These consequences are particularly detrimental during times of crisis like Colorado has been experiencing during the last several months.
“Now more than ever, our state employees are doing critical work to provide us care and keep us safe,” said Sen. Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood). “As lawmakers, it is our responsibility to support those who support us every single day. This bill helps ensure that state workers have the collective voice and seat at the table that they deserve.”
HB-1153 would allow state employees to collectively bargain on pay, benefits and terms of employment. It would also require the state of Colorado to participate in good faith during the bargaining and partnership processes.
The bill now heads back to the House for final consideration of Senate amendments.
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