DENVER - On May 31, 2024, Governor Polis signed bills into law that will support Colorado families and increase housing options Coloradans can afford. 

The Governor started his day at Denver Kindercare to celebrate the very first graduating class of Universal Preschool Colorado(UPK) and sign HB24-1311 - Family Affordability Tax Credit, sponsored by Representatives Chris deGruy Kennedy and Jenny Willford, and Senators Faith Winter and James Coleman, that supports families and saves Coloradans money. Governor Polis was joined by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, who has led on expanding the federal Child Tax Credit, to help save families money. 

“Colorado families are saving thousands of dollars each year on universal preschool and today I was thrilled to congratulate one of the first graduating preschool classes. Since day one we have set out to make sure Colorado remains one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family. This legislation builds on that work by helping Colorado families keep hard-earned money,” said Governor Polis. 

Next, Governor Polis signed HB24-1312 - State Income Tax Credit for Care Workers, sponsored by Representatives Emily Sirota and Lorena Garcia, and Senators Robert Rodriguez and Jeff Bridges, which provides tax incentives for childcare workers and educators. 

“Supporting those who dedicate their careers to caring for others is an important part of building a stronger Colorado. I am proud to sign this legislation that will help attract and retain this critical part of our workforce, and increase access to care for those in need” said Governor Polis. 

“Colorado continues to lead the nation on affordable, accessible child care,” said Patrick Murray, Vice President of Government Affairs for KinderCare Learning Companies. “The Family Affordability Tax Credit and State Income Tax Credit for Care Workers ensures more Colorado families have greater access to the high-quality care they need and depend on, in addition to financially supporting our state’s wonderful early childhood educators. These investments build off Colorado’s trailblazing efforts to expand universal pre-k, which is already helping thousands of four-year-olds prepare for kindergarten, including the class graduating from KinderCare today.” 

Governor Polis wrapped up his day in Castle Rock, signing HB24-1308 - Effective Implementation of Affordable Housing Programs, sponsored by Representatives Lisa Frizell and William Lindstedt, and Senator Julie Gonzales. This bill builds on the work of the Governor’s Executive Order to help increase the housing supply and cuts through red tape on housing. 

“Today we are breaking down barriers to housing and creating more opportunities for Coloradans to find homes without breaking the bank. This is another part of the incredible progress we have made this year to ensure we create a Colorado where people can afford to live and thrive,” said Governor Polis.