Gov. Polis and legislative leaders this week announced plans for a special legislative session to address COVID-19 relief, which could provide assistance to some small businesses in Colorado.
The call for the special session was announced Thursday, setting a November 3oth start date. A few primary topics have emerged, which closely mirror certain aspects of Gov. Polis’ COVID-19 stimulus plan in his latest budget proposal
- Small business relief
- This includes $105 million for small business relief and assistance, $50 million in sales tax retention for bars and restaurants, and $55 million in direct emergency assistance.
- Housing assistance ($50 million)
- These funds would be focused on the Property Owner Preservation Program and Emergency Housing Assistance Program.
- Support for Child Care providers ($50 million)
- Expanded broadband access for students ($20 million)
Click here for the full details of what’s on the call.
When asked why a special session was needed now rather than waiting for the regular session to commence in January, House Speaker-elect Alec Garnett said that “January will be too late for small businesses,” expressing an urgency to expedite these relief packages. Speaker-elect Garnett also criticized the U.S. Congress for its failure to pass a federal COVID relief bill this fall.
The special session is expected to brief. The Colorado Chamber will continue to provide updates on how potential legislation will impact the business community.
For more details on the governor’s plans for special session, please click here.